In only their second season in existence, the Golden State Valkyries are WNBA champions.
\n\nThe Valkyries won their first title in franchise history on Saturday, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68 to 63 in the first Game 7 in WNBA Finals history.
\n\nGolden State’s quick rise to the top of the sport, coupled with the team’s rabid fanbase, has already made the Valkyries one of the signature franchises in the WNBA.
\n\nIn the team’s inaugural season, Golden State finished 23-21 and bowed out in the first round of the playoffs, the only time an expansion team reached the postseason in its first year in league history.
\n\nPrior to the 2026 season, the Valkyries rebuilt their frontcourt, signing Gabby Williams after she made her first All-Star team, and also adding center Kiah Stokes, previously of the Las Vegas Aces, via free agency.
\n\nWilliams became the team’s leading scorer, while Stokes added a rebounding presence in the middle. Directing the action was fifth-year guard Veronica Burton, who led the team in assists during the regular season.
\n\nThe rebuilt roster allowed head coach Natalie Nakase — a two-time champion as a player and the reigning Coach of the Year — to push the right…
Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/