Valkyries Claim Historic First WNBA Title in Game 7 as Gabby Williams Earns MVP

Key points

Golden State Valkyries defeated Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7 at Chase Center, San Francisco, on October 31, 2026.

Gabby Williams scored 30 points, including 28 in the second half, to win Finals MVP and become the first player since 2007 to score 30+ in a winner-take-all Finals game.

This was the first Game 7 in WNBA history, as the league expanded the finals to a best-of-seven format in 2025.

The Valkyries, a second-year expansion team, became the quickest expansion franchise in North American sports to win a title.

Angel Reese finished with 8 points and 12 rebounds for Atlanta, shooting 3-for-7 from the field in Game 7.

Both teams left the court during the national anthem for all seven games of the series, a protest that continued through the final game.

Background

The 2026 WNBA Finals marked the first time the league used a best-of-seven format, previously a best-of-five. The Valkyries, who began play in 2025, had already made history by reaching the playoffs in their inaugural season. Owner Joe Lacob had guaranteed a championship within the first five years. The series was framed as a clash between a young, defensive-minded expansion team and a veteran Atlanta squad seeking its first title in four attempts. Earlier coverage noted the Valkyries' 32-12 regular season record and their No. 2 seed, while Atlanta had a 16-0 record when Angel Reese made at least one three-pointer.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian emphasized the Valkyries' rapid rise and Williams' second-half surge, highlighting the team's resilience after a 2-1 series deficit. Fox News focused on Angel Reese's struggles, noting her 4th consecutive game with more turnovers than made field goals and her 12-for-45 shooting across the final four games. AP News highlighted Williams' emotional connection to the Bay Area and the historic nature of the Game 7, while also noting the national anthem protest. All outlets agreed on the final score and Williams' MVP performance, but differed in emphasis: The Guardian and AP focused on the Valkyries' triumph, while Fox News centered on Reese's underperformance and the Dream's collapse.

Why it matters

This championship represents a historic milestone for the WNBA, as it was the first Game 7 in the league's history and the first title for a second-year expansion team. It also underscores the growing competitiveness of the league, with two franchises seeking their first title. The national anthem protest, which continued through all seven games, highlights ongoing social issues within the league. The result also impacts future expansion and franchise valuation, as the Valkyries' rapid success may influence future expansion plans and market valuations.

What to watch

The Valkyries will begin their offseason, with potential free agency and draft picks. The Atlanta Dream will evaluate their roster, particularly Angel Reese's role and performance. The WNBA will likely review the national anthem protest and its impact on the league's image. The league may also consider changes to the finals format or other rules based on the Game 7 experience.