Angel Reese Leads Atlanta Dream to Historic Victory in WNBA Finals
Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream secured a significant victory against the Golden State Valkyries, winning 79-65 on Monday night. This win tied the WNBA Finals at 1-1, marking a historic moment for the Dream.
Reese delivered a notable performance, achieving a double-double with 30 points and 16 rebounds. She successfully shot 10 of 16 field goals, including a crucial 3-pointer, and made 9 of 11 free throws. Reese’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as she added three assists, two blocks, and a steal to her performance.
Her achievement sets a record; StatMuse notes that she is the youngest player in WNBA Finals history to log a 20-point, 10-rebound game and a 30-point, 15-rebound game. She joins an elite group of players in postseason history, featuring names like Jonquel Jones, Lisa Leslie, Candace Parker, Breanna Stewart, and A’ja Wilson, for recording at least 30 points and 15 rebounds.
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Reese’s teammate Rhyne Howard also made history by setting a WNBA Finals record with six steals in Game 2. Moreover, this win marks the Dream’s first victory in a WNBA Finals game, having previously been swept in the 2010, 2011, and 2013 Finals.
The WNBA adopted a best-of-seven series last year, aligning with the NBA format. The Dream will have the chance to take a 2-1 series lead as they return home. The Valkyries entered the series as slight favorites to win.
Reese’s strong presence was evident throughout the game, with many highlights showcasing her intensity. During the first quarter, she engaged in trash-talk with a Golden State player. Later in the third, her vocal demand for the ball led to a layup and crucial free throw.
Reese’s performance was a bounce-back after a close 68-64 loss in Game 1. Her determination seemed to fuel her performance in Game 2, where she received support from Allisha Gray, who scored 18 points and grabbed five rebounds, as well as Jordin Canada, who achieved a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists. Canada came close to a triple-double, securing seven rebounds.
As the series moves to Atlanta for Game 3 on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 8 p.m. ET, the Dream will host the Valkyries at State Farm Arena.
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