Logistics and Reactions Surrounding WNBA Finals Game 6
The logistics of the WNBA Finals have attracted considerable attention alongside the intense action on the court. Following reports of tense negotiations, the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries prepared for Game 6 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Thursday. The game is set to begin at 12:30 p.m. ET, resulting in a matinee on the East Coast and a morning start for the West Coast.
Several players from the Atlanta Dream downplayed the early start time, concentrating on their performance to keep championship hopes alive and push the series to Game 7. Golden State leads 3-2 in the best-of-seven series after Game 5. The midday tipoff has received mixed reactions, with the Dream organization expressing dissatisfaction with the compromise.
The team’s open letter, released Wednesday, expressed that their concerns about sufficient venue capacity for WNBA Finals games were overlooked. The early afternoon slot wasn’t their desired outcome.
Dream owners Larry and Robyn Gottesdiener, Suzanne Abair, and Renee Montgomery shared that the team had previously flagged potential scheduling conflicts, competing against NBA games at the same venue.
“Two months ago, when the WNBA finalized playoff schedules, we raised concerns about conflicts with NBA games at State Farm Arena,” the letter stated, highlighting that their concerns weren’t addressed adequately.
Historically, State Farm Arena has hosted the Dream’s playoff games this season, home to the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, accommodating around 17,000 fans. The Dream typically plays at Gateway Center Arena, which seats 3,500, but plans to move all home games to State Farm Arena by 2027.
Scheduling changes have also impacted the Hawks, pushing their game against the Rockets to 8:30 p.m., while Thursday’s Hawks-Cavaliers game moves to 8 p.m. after the Dream-Valkyries matchup.
The scheduling issues potentially stemmed from assumptions that Atlanta might not reach the Finals. The team’s letter stated, “Perhaps it was assumed the Dream wouldn’t make it this far… Whatever the reason, we’re here, and our city deserves a chance to support its team.”
Nostalgia for Gateway Center Arena remains, but Dream ownership recognized fans’ desire for a major series on a world-class stage, meaning State Farm Arena.
Game 6, a title could be clinched, scheduled for Thursday afternoon at State Farm Arena.
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne noted scheduling Game 6 on a weekday afternoon as the least unfavorable option. Moving Game 6 to Friday and Game 7 to the following Tuesday, Nov. 3, which coincides with Election Day, was considered. The Warriors, sharing Chase Center with the Valkyries, have games the Sunday and Monday preceding that Tuesday.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged the sellout crowds for previous games and anticipated more fans at Game 6. “We thank the NBA, Dream, Valkyries, Hawks, State Farm Arena, and USA Network for collaboration and flexibility,” Engelbert stated.
Despite logistical challenges, the Dream confirmed a sellout for Game 6 tickets. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens encouraged employers and educators to show leniency to Dream fans on Thursday, whether attending the game or watching via devices. Chantz Martin reports for Fox News Digital.