Valkyries win Game 5 of WNBA finals

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5 of the WNBA finals, taking a 3-2 series lead. The victory moves the Valkyries one win away from their first-ever championship.

Game marked by low-scoring first half

The first half of the game saw the lowest combined score in WNBA finals history, with the Valkyries leading 25-22 at halftime. The Dream struggled to find their offensive rhythm early, limiting scoring opportunities for both teams.

Valkyries' defense dominates Dream

The Valkyries' defense was a key factor in the win, holding the Dream to a meager 29.2% shooting accuracy. Atlanta ended the game with just 55 points, their lowest of the season, and the Valkyries scored 21 points off 17 turnovers.

Key players shine for Valkyries

Kiah Stokes was named the game's MVP, scoring 13 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and blocking 3 shots. Veronica Burton, Tiffany Hayes, and Cecilia Zandalasini also contributed significantly, with each scoring 12 points.

Gabby Williams makes crucial play

Despite a difficult shooting night, Gabby Williams made a crucial play in the fourth quarter, scoring with a foul to give the Valkyries a seven-point lead. She finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals.

French players see limited action

The French players on the Dream, Janelle Salaün and Aminata Gueye, were not part of the team's rotation in Game 5. Both players sat on the bench, with Salaün, who was named sixth best player of the season, receiving no playing time.

Valkyries close to history

The Valkyries, in their second season in the league, are now one game away from making history. Game 6 will be played on Thursday, October 29, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, with a potential Game 7 scheduled for Saturday if needed.