The Atlanta Dream made history by securing their first-ever victory in the WNBA Finals, defeating the Golden State Valkyries 79-65 on Monday night. This win tied the series at 1-1.
Angel Reese delivered an outstanding performance. She recorded a double-double with 30 points and 16 rebounds. Her efficiency showed as she made 10 out of 16 field goals, including her only three-pointer, and converted 9 of her 11 free throws. Additionally, Reese contributed three assists, two blocks, and one steal.
Reese broke several records, becoming the youngest player in WNBA Finals history to achieve a 20-point, 10-rebound game and also a 30-point, 15-rebound game, according to StatMuse. Only a few players have reached at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in the WNBA postseason, a list that boasts names like Jonquel Jones, Lisa Leslie, Candace Parker, Breanna Stewart, and A’ja Wilson.
Rhyne Howard, Reese’s teammate, also made her mark by setting a WNBA Finals record for most steals in a game, achieving six in Game 2.
Atlanta’s triumph in Game 2 signifies their first WNBA Finals win after previous attempts in 2010, 2011, and 2013 resulted in sweeps. The series now follows a best-of-seven format, which the NBA also uses. The Dream will return home to potentially take a 2-1 series lead against the Valkyries, who were regarded as slight favorites entering the series.
Reese’s determination was visible throughout Game 2. Her emotional reactions and dynamic play, including vocal interactions with her teammates and opponents, spotlighted her intense gameplay. This performance was a significant response to a narrow loss in Game 1, where Atlanta fell 68-64 to Golden State.
Support from her team played a key role as Reese excelled. Allisha Gray added 18 points and secured five rebounds, while Jordin Canada achieved a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists. Canada narrowly missed a triple-double, finishing only three rebounds shy.
The series will continue in Atlanta for Game 3, scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 8 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena.
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