Gabby Williams scored 26 points and converted four crucial late free throws as the Golden State Valkyries defeated Atlanta 68-64 in the Finals opener at Chase Center. Williams supplied 16 points in the second quarter and was the only Golden State player to reach double figures. Her contribution proved decisive on a difficult shooting night for the Valkyries, who made 32.1 percent of their field-goal attempts and finished seven for 33 from three-point range.
With 1:18 remaining, Williams sank two free throws to move Golden State ahead. Atlanta had several opportunities to respond but could not turn them into a victory. Rhyne Howard missed a three-pointer with 1:09 left, although Angel Reese recovered possession with a steal moments later. Naz Hillmon subsequently missed from beyond the arc. Kiah Stokes missed the first of two free throws with 23.8 seconds remaining, and Allisha Gray missed another three-point attempt with nine seconds left. Williams then made two more free throws with 4.1 seconds on the clock to seal the result.
Afterward, Williams said the team had remained confident it would find a way to win, while supporters chanted her name. The loud home crowd, known as "Ballhalla," provided the hostile atmosphere Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase had requested. Golden State now leads the best-of-seven series 1-0, with Game 2 scheduled for Monday night at Chase Center. The first team to collect four victories will win the championship.
