From EssentiallySports · Nandjee Ranjan · · 1m 10s
She Was Money: Valkyries Star Delivers Game 1 Win
Valkyries star Gabby Williams scored 26 points in Game 1 of 2026 WNBA Finals to secure victory over Dream.
In brief
Valkyries star Gabby Williams scored 26 points in Game 1 of 2026 WNBA Finals to secure victory over Dream. Gabby Williams delivered 26 points and 16 in second quarter to win Game 1 for Valkyries against Dream in 2026 WNBA Finals. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Game 1 Highlights
Poor shooting, high-quality defense and ultra physicality defined Game 1 of 2026 WNBA Finals.
Williams' Game 1 Performance
Williams scored 26 points, 16 in second quarter, and made critical free throws to win game 1.
Linda Cohn's Praise
Former ESPN host Linda Cohn called Williams the toughest player on court in game 1.
“[She was the] toughest player on the court in game 1. 26 points, 16 of those in the second quarter”
Free Throw Heroics
Williams made both free throws with 2 seconds left to secure 68-64 victory over Dream.
“she was money on the line”
Game 1 Turning Point
Dream led 64-61 until 2:16 minutes remaining when Williams made both free throws.
Valkyries' Team Identity
Valkyries prioritized team identity over one star, winning through defense and resilience.
What Happens Next
Valkyries lead 1-0 in seven-game series after Game 1 victory over Dream.
The takeaway
Gabby Williams delivered 26 points and 16 in second quarter to win Game 1 for Valkyries against Dream in 2026 WNBA Finals.
