SAN FRANCISCO — The WNBA Finals have arrived. The Golden State Valkyries host the Atlanta Dream on Saturday in Game 1 of the best-of-seven championship series.
Both franchises are chasing their first WNBA title. Atlanta has reached the Finals three times previously, only to be swept in each appearance. Golden State, an expansion team that entered the league in 2025, is making its first Finals appearance in just its second season.
As the No. 2 seed, Golden State will host Games 1, 2, and—if needed—Games 5 and 7 under the 2-2-1-1-1 format. The Valkyries posted the league’s best home record during the regular season at 17-5 at Chase Center and have won six straight home games, including four playoff victories.
The No. 4 seed Atlanta Dream enter the Finals on a 10-game winning streak, having swept their first two playoff opponents after closing the regular season with five straight victories.
Golden State won all three regular-season meetings, but the teams have not faced off since July 4. Both squads have been idle since Oct. 9, when each completed a sweep in the WNBA semifinals.
Can Angel Reese, the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, help Atlanta extend its winning streak, or will Gabby Williams and the Valkyries defend their home court?
ESPN is on-site at Chase Center and will deliver live analysis throughout the game.
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