Williams drops 23 as Valkyries end Dream’s streak 77-66
Gabby Williams’ 23 points and Kayla Thornton’s five threes lift Golden State past Atlanta, snapping the Dream’s four-game run.
Gabby Williams’ 23 points and Kayla Thornton’s five threes lift Golden State past Atlanta, snapping the Dream’s four-game run.
Gabby Williams poured in 23 points to lead the Golden State Valkyries past the Atlanta Dream 77-66 on Tuesday, ending Atlanta’s four-game winning streak. Williams shot 9-of-14 from the floor while adding six rebounds and three assists, pacing a balanced Valkyries attack that shot 48% overall. Kayla Thornton delivered 17 points on 5-of-9 three-point shooting, including a dagger triple in the third quarter that stretched the lead to double digits.
Thornton’s 17 points were the second-highest total on the night, behind only Williams, and her spacing opened driving lanes for Golden State’s wings. Golden State controlled the defensive glass, outrebounding Atlanta 42-34 and forcing 16 turnovers that produced 18 fast-break points. The Valkyries’ bench outscored Atlanta’s reserves 22-11, with rookie guard Nia Clouden contributing 10 points in 18 minutes off the bench.
Williams’ efficiency from the field and Thornton’s perimeter threat created a two-pronged attack that Atlanta struggled to contain. The Valkyries’ ability to build a double-digit lead and maintain it showcased their resilience, especially after a shaky start to the season. This win not only boosts their confidence but also sends a message to the rest of the league that they are a force to be reckoned with.
The loss serves as a critical moment for the Dream, who had been riding high on their recent success. Coach Tanisha Wright’s comments about needing to match the physicality of their opponents highlight a potential area of concern for Atlanta moving forward. If they can’t adapt their game to handle the pressure, their playoff aspirations could be in jeopardy.
This game also illustrates the shifting dynamics within the WNBA’s Western Conference. The Valkyries, now 8-6, are positioning themselves as serious contenders, while the Dream, despite their recent success, are reminded of the competitive landscape they face. The Valkyries' victory is a testament to their growth and potential, suggesting that they could disrupt the playoff picture if they maintain this momentum.
Moreover, Atlanta's struggle to cope with Golden State's defensive intensity raises questions about their readiness for the rigors of the postseason. The Dream must recalibrate quickly, as their upcoming games will be crucial in determining their playoff seeding. The pressure is on for them to respond and prove they can handle high-stakes situations.
What’s next: The Valkyries (8-6) host the Connecticut Sun on Sunday, while the Dream (7-7) travel to Chicago to face the Sky on Saturday. Read at ESPN
This result shakes the WNBA standings, giving Golden State a confidence boost while reminding Atlanta that the West remains a gauntlet. A four-game win streak ended on the road against a contender, and the Dream now face back-to-back tough tests. For the Valkyries, a signature win against a streaking opponent validates their playoff push and signals that the West is anyone’s to claim.
ESPNespn.com25 Jun, 4:33en
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