The Golden State Valkyries entered Game 2 of the WNBA Finals with high expectations after a strong regular season, but the Atlanta Dream delivered a dominant performance, winning 97‑71 and taking a 2‑1 series lead. The loss marks the Valkyries’ second straight defeat in the championship series.
Early scoring sets the tone
Atlanta opened the game with a burst of energy. Angel Reese scored the first basket in the paint and went on to finish with 21 points, including a three‑pointer that proved decisive. Reese’s three‑point shot was her only one of the night, but it continued Atlanta’s perfect record when she scores from beyond the arc.
Golden State struggled to find its rhythm early. The Valkyries did not register their first points until the five‑minute mark and fell behind by double digits in the opening quarter. The early deficit proved difficult to overcome.
Janelle Salaün returns to the bench
One bright spot for the Valkyries was the return of Janelle Salaün, the league’s sixth‑player of the year. Salaün, who had been sidelined for much of the playoffs, contributed 13 of the team’s 39 bench points. Her presence helped keep the Valkyries competitive, but the overall effort was not enough to close the gap.
Shooting and turnovers
Golden State shot slightly better than in Game 1, but Atlanta’s shooting was markedly superior. The Dream’s efficiency on offense contrasted sharply with the Valkyries’ turnover problems; Golden State turned the ball over far more frequently than they had all season, hampering any chance of a comeback.
Early in the second half, the Valkyries managed to tie the game briefly, offering a glimpse of a possible rally. However, the tie was short‑lived, and Atlanta quickly re‑established a comfortable lead that continued to widen as the game progressed.
Series outlook
With the series now at 2‑1 in favor of the Dream, the next game will be played in Atlanta on Saturday at 10 a.m. Pacific time. The Valkyries will need to address their turnover issues and find ways to contain Reese’s scoring if they hope to force a decisive Game 4.
Fans of both teams remain hopeful. Valkyries supporters, accustomed to a winning season, are disappointed but still hopeful that the team can rebound. Dream fans, buoyed by Reese’s performance and the team’s overall execution, look forward to extending their lead.
What’s next for the Valkyries?
The Valkyries must rely on their depth and the leadership of veterans like Salaün to spark a turnaround. Adjustments on defense and ball security will be critical as they head back to Atlanta for Game 3.
Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.
