Golden State Valkyries beat Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5, one win from WNBA title in second season

The Golden State Valkyries are one win away from a WNBA championship after defeating the Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5 of the finals on Monday night. Kiah Stokes led the Valkyries with 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocked shots, helping Golden State take a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series. The Valkyries, in just their second season, can clinch the title in Game 6. Atlanta's Angel Reese, who had dominant performances in the first two games at Chase Center, was held to seven points, though she grabbed 15 rebounds and dished five assists. Reese expressed frustration after being called for her third offensive foul with 7:43 remaining. The low-scoring affair showcased Golden State's defensive intensity, as they held the Dream to 55 points. With the series shifting back to Atlanta, the Valkyries will look to close out the championship, while the Dream aim to force a decisive Game 7. The Valkyries' rapid rise from expansion team to title contender underscores the franchise's remarkable turnaround.