The WNBA Finals are just around the corner.
On Friday, the Atlanta Dream clinched the first Finals berth by sweeping the New York Liberty. The Dream will enter the championship series on a ten‑game winning streak, with Angel Reese poised to make her debut on the WNBA’s biggest stage.
Now the No. 3 seed Las Vegas Aces host the No. 2 seed Golden State Valkyries at 9:30 p.m. ET in Michelob Ultra Arena. Although the defending champions went 3‑0 against Golden State during the regular season, they dropped two close contests in San Francisco, losing 71‑60 and 83‑81.
ESPN will be courtside for both games, with reporters Michael Voepel, Alexa Philippou, Kendra Andrews and Kareem Copeland delivering live updates.
Jump to: Live updates | Postgame analysis
The Dream secured their victory by excelling in the clutch. After surrendering a 29‑15 run to the Liberty in the third quarter, New York briefly led 71‑66 heading into the final period. Atlanta then shut down the Liberty’s offense, with Jordin Canada delivering a decisive layup with 1:15 left to push the lead to four points. Canada finished with 19 points and 11 assists, marking her fourth playoff points‑assists double‑double and tenth such performance this season. Angel Reese paced Atlanta with a game‑high 22 points, including ten in the opening quarter.
Jonquel Jones led New York with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Breanna Stewart kept the Liberty in contention with timely plays on both ends. However, turnovers, missed shots and defensive lapses ultimately doomed New York, which suffered its first playoff sweep since 2012.
Looking ahead to the Finals, Atlanta’s success came despite limited contributions from leading scorer Allisha Gray, who played just 11 minutes. The Dream have not lost since the FIBA break, compiling a ten‑game winning streak across regular‑season and playoff games. If Gray can return for the championship series, Atlanta’s momentum could prove even stronger.
This marks Atlanta’s first Finals appearance since 2013; the franchise is still seeking its inaugural title.
— Alexa Philippou
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