Reese Delivers a Historic Night
Atlanta's 79–65 victory on Monday in Game 2 was the franchise's first win in a WNBA Finals, and it leveled the best-of-seven series at one game each. Angel Reese, already known as a defensive force, has expanded her offensive game since joining the league, shooting 62.5% from the floor in Game 2 and adding a three-point shot to her repertoire. At 24, she became the youngest player in league history to post at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in a Finals game.[S1][S2][S3][S4][S5][S6][S8]
Reese was the clearest difference maker in Game 2, outperforming Golden State standout Gabby Williams, who had an uncharacteristically poor shooting night at 20% from the floor. The contrast underlined a simple truth of the series: defense can decide championships, but so can superstar production.[S1][S4][S8]
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Golden State's Adjustments and Home-Court Shift
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase made brilliant halftime adjustments in Game 1 that quieted Reese in the second half, and her Game 3 plan remains to be seen. She has identified two priorities for Golden State: cutting down turnovers, after the Valkyries committed a season-high 18 in Game 2, and raising their effort level.[S1]
Golden State had made Chase Center a fortress this postseason until Game 2, when the Valkyries lost at home for the first time in the playoffs. The advantage now belongs to Atlanta, which hosts the next two games at State Farm Arena, a venue that holds 17,000 fans and where the Dream are 3-0 in the 2026 playoffs. Game 3 is scheduled for tonight at 8 p.m. ET.[S1]
