Atlanta Dream’s Victory and Anthem Controversy in WNBA Finals

San Francisco – In the WNBA Finals, Angel Reese made a significant impact for the Atlanta Dream during Game 2. She recorded 30 points and 16 rebounds, helping her team secure a 79-65 win against the Golden State Valkyries. This victory tied the best-of-seven series at 1-1.

Reese’s performance was historic, as she became the youngest player to achieve 30 points and 15 rebounds in a WNBA postseason game. Her contributions also included three assists, two blocks, and a steal.

Despite the win, both teams faced scrutiny for skipping the national anthem before the game, a move contrary to WNBA rules requiring players, coaches, and trainers to stand during the anthem. This marked a continuing pattern after they stayed off the court during the anthem in Game 1 as well.

The WNBA has not addressed inquiries regarding the teams’ absences from the anthem protocol.

Atlanta finally ended their streak of championship series losses with this win. The Dream previously faced defeats in 2010, 2011, and 2013, and lost Game 1 of the current series.

Angel Reese showcased her offensive skills, delivering eight points in the first quarter and adding seven more in the second. Her first half totaled 15 points, surpassing her Game 1 score.

Though Reese had a brief moment of frustration in the third quarter, stomping her feet after not receiving the ball, she quickly regained focus. She executed a block against Tiffany Hayes and scored against Kiah Stokes, completing a three-point play.

Reese’s competitive drive was evident, as she shouted for the ball after scoring. She recorded nine points in the third quarter, equalizing Golden State’s output for the entire period.

Despite beginning the second half with three fouls, Reese managed to play the entire third quarter without additional penalties. Golden State’s strategy of relying on jump shots failed to capitalize on Reese’s foul situation, leading to no trips to the free-throw line.

Atlanta was perfect from the foul line, going 12-for-12 in the third quarter, furthering their lead to 60-46 as they entered the final quarter.

Reese added six more points in the fourth quarter, including a significant 24-foot three-pointer, extending Atlanta’s lead significantly.

The next game in the series will take place at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena for Game 3.