Gabby Williams Drops 30 as Valkyries Capture First WNBA Title in Game 7 Thriller Over Dream
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — In a historic Halloween night at Ballhalla — affectionately dubbed “Boohalla” by the home crowd — the Golden State Valkyries delivered the ultimate treat to their fans, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in the first Game 7 in WNBA history to claim the 2026 championship. Behind a spectacular 30-point performance from Gabby Williams, the Valkyries, in just their second year of existence, secured their first title and completed a remarkable rise from expansion team to league champion.
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The game was a tense, defensive battle that came down to the final minutes. With the score tied at 53 after Allisha Gray hit a mid-range jumper with just under five minutes remaining, the Valkyries needed someone to step up. That someone was Williams, who calmly sank a free throw a minute and a half later to retake the lead. She then delivered the dagger with 2:14 left, hitting a contested three-pointer as the shot clock expired to put Golden State ahead 60-57. The Dream never recovered. Williams added two free throws with 1:40 remaining, and Kiah Stokes sealed the victory with a late basket. Golden State did not relinquish the lead for the remainder of the contest, holding on for the win.
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The Valkyries’ path to victory was far from smooth. Early in the fourth quarter, Golden State did not make a field goal until three minutes remained in the period, allowing the Dream to go on a 9-0 run and seize momentum. But the Valkyries’ defense tightened, and Williams’ heroics ensured the comeback attempt fell short. The win capped a storybook season for a franchise that has quickly become a force in the WNBA, and it marked a fitting end to a Game 7 that will be remembered for its drama and intensity.
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For Williams, the 30-point outing was a testament to her resilience and clutch gene. Her performance on the biggest stage earned her Finals MVP honors and etched her name in WNBA lore. As confetti rained down in San Francisco, the Valkyries celebrated a championship
Shimanta Das 
