Game 6 result sets up decisive Game 7

Atlanta Dream defeated Golden State Valkyries 80-69 in Game 6 of the WNBA Finals on Thursday, October 29, forcing a Game 7 on Saturday, October 31. The series is now tied at 3-3, with the final game set to take place at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Atlanta's strong first half dominates

Atlanta Dream took a commanding 17-point lead after the first quarter, the largest opening-quarter lead in WNBA Finals history. Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were instrumental, hitting multiple three-pointers and helping the Dream shoot 58.6% overall and 57.1% from three-point range in the first half.

Golden State makes a late push

Despite the early deficit, Golden State Valkyries fought back in the fourth quarter, narrowing the gap to eight points. Gabby Williams led the charge with 26 points, but the Dream maintained control and sealed the win with a crucial three-pointer from Allisha Gray in the final minute.

Atlanta's rebound record highlights performance

Angel Reese recorded 14 rebounds in the game, bringing her total for the series to 78, which is the highest in a single finals series in WNBA history. For Golden State, Gabby Williams was the top scorer with 26 points, though she struggled with her shooting efficiency, making only 8 of 22 shots.

Williams acknowledges team's shortcomings

Gabby Williams, the French captain and Golden State's leading scorer, acknowledged that the team did not perform to its potential. She dismissed the idea that the 12:30 p.m. start time was a factor, stating, "We need to do better." The Valkyries now face a decisive Game 7 to secure the championship.