Golden State moved within a single victory of the WNBA championship on Monday, defeating the Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5 of the finals to take a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The Valkyries leaned on stout interior defence and disruptive perimeter pressure. Kiah Stokes repeatedly rejected shots around the rim while Veronica Burton used quick hands to bother Atlanta ball-handlers and alter attempts, limiting the Dream to 55 points.
The home crowd at the arena, dressed in violet and referred to as “Ballhalla,” provided a raucous backdrop as the Valkyries built and protected their lead. Fans cheered each defensive stop and celebrated when Golden State converted on the other end.
With the series now tilted 3-2, Golden State can clinch the title with one more victory. For a franchise in only its second WNBA season, the Valkyries have advanced rapidly to the brink of a championship, while Atlanta must win consecutive games to retain its hopes of lifting the trophy.