Angel Reese Ready for WNBA Finals Debut Against Valkyries
Angel Reese is set for her first WNBA Finals appearance as the Atlanta Dream prepare to face the Golden State Valkyries.


Reese ready for the finals stage
Angel Reese spent the past year aiming for a trip to the WNBA Finals. Now, she is less than a day away from Game 1 of the championship series between her Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries. In her first year with Atlanta, Reese has put together a career season.
Veterans often warn that the postseason is a completely different challenge. Reese has taken her production to another level during her first playoff run. During media day on Friday, she said that players have to rise in the postseason. Reese noted that the greats are built for this stage, adding that anyone wanting to be considered the best and well respected cannot shy away from the moment.
Playoff numbers and championship background
Her production backs up those words. Through five playoff games, Reese is averaging 18.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 2.0 assists, and 1.6 steals. Both her scoring and block numbers have climbed compared to the regular season, while her outside shooting sits at 38.5% from beyond the arc.
Defense has been Atlanta's biggest strength. Reese serves as the anchor for an Atlanta defense that has performed better than any other unit in the playoffs. Even though this is her first run in the WNBA postseason, she has plenty of experience competing at the highest levels. She won an NCAA title with LSU in 2023 and earned a World Cup gold medal in Berlin with Team USA in September. Reese made it clear that she expects to win wherever she plays, bringing that mentality to the floor regardless of what it takes.
What it means for the next game
Atlanta Dream at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Sat, 17 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 53%, Atlanta Dream win 47%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 78, Atlanta Dream 77. Our safest pick: Dream +9.5.
Atlanta Dream at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Tue, 20 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 48%, Atlanta Dream win 52%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 78, Atlanta Dream 78. Our safest pick: Valkyries +7.5.
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