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Ivory CoastValkyries and Dream Meet in Historic WNBA Finals
The Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream both swept their semifinal series to set up a WNBA Finals clash.
Two New Contenders Face Off
The 2026 WNBA Finals will feature two teams chasing their first title. The Golden State Valkyries beat the Las Vegas Aces in overtime on Friday to complete a three game sweep. The Atlanta Dream also swept their semifinal series against the New York Liberty.
Golden State enters the best of seven series as the No. 2 seed in just its second year as an expansion franchise. Atlanta comes in as the No. 4 seed on a franchise record 10 game winning streak. Game 1 starts Saturday in San Francisco.
Defense and Team Depth on Display
Both teams rely heavily on defense. Golden State and Atlanta ranked first and second in defensive efficiency during the regular season. The Dream forced 38 turnovers in the first two games against New York, turning them into 60 points.
Golden State relies on chemistry and depth rather than a single scoring star. Aces coach Becky Hammon noted after Friday's game that the Valkyries share the ball well and play great team ball. Center Kiah Stokes provides defensive force inside, while Atlanta guard Jordin Canada stepped up with 19 points and 11 assists in her team's series clincher.
Coaching Matchup and Recent Form
Golden State swept all three regular season meetings against Atlanta, winning 77-66, 78-75, and 88-83. However, those games happened back in June and July. The Dream have been strong recently, dropping only one game since August 18.
The series also features an interesting coaching battle. Golden State head coach Natalie Nakase and Atlanta head coach Karl Smesko are both in their second seasons in the WNBA. Smesko previously spent 22 seasons at Florida Gulf Coast before taking the Atlanta job.
What it means for the next game
Atlanta Dream at New York Liberty (WNBA, Sun, 11 Oct): New York Liberty win 31%, Atlanta Dream win 69%; projected score New York Liberty 81, Atlanta Dream 85. Our safest pick: Dream +2.5.
Golden State Valkyries at Las Vegas Aces (WNBA, Sun, 11 Oct): Las Vegas Aces win 44%, Golden State Valkyries win 56%; projected score Las Vegas Aces 81, Golden State Valkyries 82. Our safest pick: Valkyries +6.5.
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Predictions for these teams
Best bets
Golden State Valkyries
Las Vegas Aces
Atlanta Dream
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