Golden State Valkyries take 3‑2 lead in WNBA Finals after Game 5 win over Atlanta

Game 5 gives Golden State a 3‑2 series lead

In San Francisco on Monday night, the Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 64‑55 to take a 3‑2 advantage in the best‑of‑seven WNBA Finals. The victory means the Valkyries only need a win in Game 6 in Atlanta and a Game 7 in San Francisco to secure the league’s first championship in their second season. The Dream were held to 55 points, with Australian guard Izzy Borlase scoring just four points in 16 minutes. Borlase had been a double‑digit scorer in the previous two games but was limited to 0‑of‑6 on field‑goal attempts. Atlanta’s Angel Reese managed seven points and 15 rebounds, while forward Rhyne Howard contributed 20 points. Golden State’s defence was dominant. Centre Kiah Stokes recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks, while former Bendigo Spirit star Veronica Burton posted 13 points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Stokes’ presence inside was highlighted as a key factor in shutting down the Dream’s interior attack.

Background

The WNBA Finals series is a best‑of‑seven contest. Atlanta won Game 1 (68‑64) and Game 3 (97‑71), while Golden State claimed victories in Games 2 (79‑65) and 4 (67‑62). The series was level 2‑2 heading into Game 5, which was played at the Valkyries’ home arena, Chase Center, in San Francisco. The Valkyries’ season has been marked by a strong defensive identity. Their play‑defining rigid defence was evident in Game 5, where they limited the Dream to a single‑digit field‑goal percentage. The team’s veteran experience, particularly from Stokes and Burton, has been cited by commentators as a cornerstone of their success.

Why it matters

The outcome of Game 5 places the Valkyries one win away from a historic first championship. For the Dream, the loss means they must win Game 6 in Atlanta and a decisive Game 7 in San Francisco to claim the title. The series has attracted international viewership, with broadcasts on NBC, USA Network and CNBC in the United States, Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and WNBA League Pass in Australia. The performance of Australian players is also significant. Izzy Borlase, who had been a key contributor in earlier games, was held to a minimal output, while Australian centre Miela Sowah was ineligible for the playoffs due to a development contract.

What happens next

Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday in Atlanta at 12:30 p.m. (USA/CNBC). If the Valkyries win, they will secure the championship. If the Dream win, the series will return to San Francisco for a decisive Game 7 on Saturday, 31 October, at 8 p.m. (USA/CNBC). The outcome of these games will determine the first WNBA champion for the Golden State franchise.