Dream Look to Bounce Back in Game 6 Against Valkyries

Atlanta seeks to regain composure down 3-2

The Atlanta Dream trail 3-2 in the best of seven WNBA Finals and face a must win Game 6 on Thursday against the Golden State Valkyries. Atlanta hosts the contest at State Farm Arena, needing a victory to extend the series and force a final Game 7 on Halloween in San Francisco.

After dropping the last two games, two time WNBA champion DeWanna Bonner stated that the squad lost its regular energy. She explained that the team has not been smiling or enjoying each other on the floor as they usually do. Bonner noted that losing the joy of the game makes it hard because you end up playing against yourself as well as a strong Golden State team.

Offense stumbles following early dominance

Atlanta entered this championship series on a 10 game winning streak. They dropped Game 1 despite holding the lead for nearly 30 minutes, but responded by winning Games 2 and 3 by a combined 40 points.

The momentum shifted in Games 4 and 5. Atlanta struggled offensively, scoring only 62 and 55 points while turning the ball over 35 times across both losses. The Valkyries took advantage of those mistakes and now need just one more victory to secure the championship. Guard Rhyne Howard stated that Golden State responded when their backs were against the wall, and now Atlanta must do the same.

Team meetings spark confidence before Game 6

The Dream held film sessions and team meetings on Wednesday. Star player Angel Reese mentioned that the roster had uncomfortable conversations about how to improve individually and collectively. She shared that everyone is currently in a great mind space.

Reese was held to single digit scoring in both recent losses, but she remains confident. She expressed an eager desire to get back on the court and give everything she has in Game 6. Bonner agreed that confidence remains high, noting that a win on Thursday resets the series completely. Atlanta would need two straight wins to secure its first ever franchise championship.

What it means for the next game

* Golden State Valkyries at Atlanta Dream (WNBA, Thu, 29 Oct): Atlanta Dream win 59%, Golden State Valkyries win 41%; projected score Atlanta Dream 75, Golden State Valkyries 72. Our safest pick: Valkyries +11.5. * Atlanta Dream at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Sun, 01 Nov): Golden State Valkyries win 46%, Atlanta Dream win 55%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 75, Atlanta Dream 75. Our safest pick: Dream +6.5.