WNBA Finals: Valkyries beat Dream to reach the brink of their first title

What the report says

Golden State moved within one win of its first WNBA title after defeating Atlanta 64-55 in Game 5 of the finals, according to Al Jazeera’s report dated October 27, 2026. Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton led the Valkyries with 13 points each, while Tiffany Hayes and reserve Cecilia Zandalasini added 12 apiece. Stokes and Burton also matched for the team lead with eight rebounds, helping Golden State take a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.

The article says Golden State’s defense was the difference, limiting Atlanta to a season-low scoring total and just 19 made field goals on 65 attempts. Stokes also finished with a game-high four blocks and has recorded at least three blocks in every finals game so far. Atlanta star Angel Reese was held to seven points on 2-of-8 shooting, though she still collected a game-high 15 rebounds. Rhyne Howard led Atlanta with 20 points, and Jordin Canada added 12.

The series now shifts back to Atlanta for Game 6 on Thursday. Al Jazeera noted that the Valkyries are in only their second WNBA season, making their run to the brink of a championship notable. More broadly, the team has emerged as a strong home draw in the arena used by the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, underscoring how quickly the franchise has become a major presence.