Atlanta Dream Thrash Golden State Valkyries 97-71 to Take 2-1 WNBA Finals Lead

The Atlanta Dream moved ahead in the 2026 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Finals after defeating the Golden State Valkyries 97-71 in Game 3 on Wednesday night.

The Dream produced a commanding performance at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on October 21, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven championship series and moving closer to the franchise’s first WNBA title.

Angel Reese led Atlanta with 21 points and 12 rebounds, recording her third consecutive double-double of the Finals. Her performance followed an outstanding display in Game 2, when she scored 30 points and collected 16 rebounds to help the Dream level the series.

Rhyne Howard added 16 points for Atlanta, while Naz Hillmon contributed 15 as the home side combined effective shooting with strong defensive pressure to overwhelm the Valkyries.

Golden State attempted to recover after the break, briefly drawing level at 49 points early in the third quarter. However, Atlanta responded with an eight-point scoring run, including four points from Reese, to regain control.

The Dream finished the third quarter strongly, scoring 12 of the final 14 points in the period and establishing a lead the Valkyries could not overcome.

Gabby Williams scored 15 points for Golden State, while Tiffany Hayes added 14. However, the Valkyries struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm as Atlanta tightened its defence and extended the advantage in the final quarter.

The victory gave Atlanta consecutive wins after Golden State claimed the opening game 68-64. The Dream responded with a 79-65 victory in Game 2 before delivering their biggest win of the series.

The contest also marked Atlanta’s first home WNBA Finals game in 13 years. A sold-out crowd at State Farm Arena provided a lively atmosphere as the team capitalised on home-court advantage.

The two sides will meet again in Game 4 on Saturday, October 24, with Atlanta seeking another victory to move within one win of the championship. Golden State, meanwhile, must respond to keep the series level and avoid falling further behind.

With Reese continuing her strong Finals run and Atlanta gaining momentum, the Dream will enter the next game with confidence, although the Valkyries still have an opportunity to turn the series around.