Options Narrow as WNBA Leadership Somehow Chooses Worst Game 6 Timing

A Thursday Matinee in Atlanta

Atlanta’s arena arrangements have shifted throughout the Finals. Game 6 is set to return to State Farm Arena, where the Hawks also have a game scheduled for October 29. The Hawks agreed to delay their start by an hour so the Dream and Valkyries could play there.

The WNBA Finals game is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET, or 9:30 a.m. PT. Fans have objected to the weekday start, especially because the game could decide the championship.

Celebration Plans Uncertain

ESPN sportswriter Ramona Shelburne said the arena would need to be turned over for the Hawks after the game. She reported discussions about whether there would be enough time for fans to celebrate on the court, and said the celebration might move to a practice court. Former WNBA player and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike responded, “You’re kidding me.” Podcast host and content creator Coach Jackie also criticized the schedule on social media, questioning a possible championship celebration during the workday.

Alternatives Draw Debate

Some fans have suggested moving the game to Gateway Center Arena, the Dream’s current home. It holds about 3,500 people, compared with more than 17,000 at State Farm Arena, which is the Dream’s future home. The argument is that Gateway could allow for a primetime start.

Moving the Hawks game earlier is difficult because Atlanta and the Cleveland Cavaliers are both scheduled to play Wednesday, October 28, before facing each other Thursday. That would leave an unusually short turnaround.

A Broader Scheduling Problem

The possibility of moving the Hawks game to another day has been raised, but it is unclear whether that option was presented or rejected by Hawks and NBA ownership. AP basketball writer Doug Feinberg suggested the Hawks could play at Gateway Center Arena instead.

Former WNBA player and ESPN commentator Rebecca Lobo supported Feinberg’s proposal, saying the positive publicity could outweigh lost ticket revenue for one game. She also said the league needs to address playoff arena availability in the future.