29.2% shooting: WNBA Finals takeaways as Valkyries defend home court, incredible defensive effort moves first league title closer
Defense puts Golden State ahead
Golden State’s 64-55 win gave the Valkyries a 3-2 advantage over Atlanta in the Finals. They can secure the league title with one more victory.
Stokes delivers in Game 5
Kiah Stokes finished with 13 points on five-for-six shooting, including three-for-four from beyond the arc. She added eight rebounds and three blocks in 35 minutes, making her Golden State’s standout player in the game.
The 11th-year center is a three-time WNBA champion and one of the team’s major offseason additions, alongside Gabby Williams. If the Valkyries win the title, Stokes could be a strong candidate for Finals MVP.
Scheduling may affect celebration
A potential trophy presentation after a Thursday title-clinching win may be moved to a practice court, according to comments by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. The arena may need to be prepared for a later game between the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers. Stokes brushed aside concern about the scheduling issue after Game 5. “It don’t matter what time we play,” she said, adding that the team needs “two hoops, 94 feet and each other.”
Key points
- Golden State leads Atlanta 3-2 and is one win from its first WNBA championship.
- The Dream shot a season-low 29.2 percent and scored 55 points.
- Kiah Stokes posted 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks in Game 5.
- A trophy presentation could be moved to a practice court if the Valkyries win Thursday.