Golden State wins 64-55 to take 3-2 lead over Atlanta Dream

The WNBA Finals shifted to Atlanta on Tuesday, with the Golden State Valkyries holding a 3-2 advantage after a decisive Game 5 victory at Ballhalla.

Kiah Stokes anchored the defense with three blocks, seven rebounds, and 13 points in the 64-55 win. The 6-foot-3 center shot 5-for-6 from the field, including three three-pointers, to tie her season high for points.

Golden State’s defense dominated the game, holding the Atlanta Dream to its lowest scoring total of the season. Per ESPN Research, the Dream shot 1-of-7 from the field and 0-for-1 from three when Stokes contested the shot. Her three blocks on Monday extend her streak to six consecutive games with at least three blocks, tying Lisa Leslie’s 2003 record for the longest such streak in a single postseason.

Atlanta’s starting forwards struggled to find rhythm. Angel Reese and Naz Hillmon combined for 9 points on 3-of-13 shooting. Reserve guard-forward DeWanna Bonner took only two shots and did not score.

Stokes has won three WNBA titles previously with Las Vegas, but her current performance represents the best of her career this postseason. Her energy and defensive presence have changed the tone of the series since Golden State fell behind 2-1. The Valkyries have reasserted their defensive identity in the last two games, outscoring Atlanta in the fourth quarter of both contests.

The series moves to State Farm Arena in Atlanta for Game 6 on Thursday. The game is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET, a change from the usual afternoon slot to accommodate the venue. Golden State would become the first franchise to clinch a championship on the road in the Bay Area since the team’s move to San Francisco.

Historical data suggests Golden State’s defensive strength is the deciding factor. In the three games this season where both teams were held under 70 points, the Valkyries won. The Dream outrebounded Golden State 44-33 on Monday, but their 29.2% shooting percentage negated the board advantage.

For Atlanta to stay alive, the team needs a resurgence from Reese, who scored 30 points in Game 2 and 21 in Game 3. Her combined 15 points in the last two games has been insufficient. If the Dream can recover their offensive rhythm, their rebounding edge might prove decisive.

If the series goes to a deciding Game 7, Golden State will host the game at Ballhalla on Halloween. The Valkyries enter the final two games with the chance to secure their first championship as an expansion team in its second season.