Stokes and Burton Lead Valkyries to 64-55 Win Over Dream

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 64-55 on Monday night to take a 3-2 series lead in the WNBA Finals. The victory at Chase Center puts Golden State one win away from its first championship in franchise history.

Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton anchored the defensive effort. Stokes recorded 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. Burton matched the scoring with 13 points and eight rebounds while adding four blocked shots. Her four blocks tied a record set by Diana Taurasi in 2009 for the most by a guard in a Finals game.

The defense forced the Dream into trouble. Atlanta committed 17 turnovers, which led to 21 points for Golden State. The Valkyries also held Angel Reese to just seven points. Reese also had 15 rebounds and five assists. She shook her head after whistling for her second offensive foul with 7:43 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Coach Natalie Nakase kept Tiffany Hayes and Kaila Charles in the starting lineup for a second straight game. Hayes, a former Atlanta player who returned from retirement, scored 12 points. The rotation change has contributed to back-to-back wins in the series.

Golden State led 25-22 at halftime. That combined score marked the lowest first half total in WNBA Finals history. The Valkyries pulled away in the second half. Stokes hit a three-pointer with 2:46 left in the third quarter and another with 7:21 remaining in the game.

The crowd at the sellout arena reacted strongly to the performance. Fans chanted for Stokes after the final buzzer. Stokes thanked the crowd from the floor. She said she felt appreciated hearing from the 18,000 fans present.

The Dream will host Game 6 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Thursday. The tip-off is set for 12:30 p.m. EDT. If Atlanta wins, the series moves to a decisive Game 7 at Chase Center on Saturday. If Golden State wins, it claims the title.