# Valkyries Push Back on Dream Critics

> Ex-ESPN host Linda Cohn defends Golden State Valkyries' WNBA Finals win against claims it was a fluke.
- Title: Valkyries Push Back on Dream Critics · EssentiallySports
- Summary: Ex-ESPN host Linda Cohn defends Golden State Valkyries' WNBA Finals win against claims it was a fluke. Linda Cohn says Golden State Valkyries' 68-64 win over…
- Keywords: valkyries, atlanta dream, wnba, game 1, linda cohn, gabby williams, kiah stokes, cecia zandalasini, kaila charles, defensive rating, wnba finals, sports
- Source: EssentiallySports — https://essentiallysports.com/wnba-basketball-news-ex-espn-host-pushes-back-on-valkyries-critics-as-controversial-narratives-threaten-to-overshadow-their-win
- Author: Olutayo Inioluwa Emmanuel
- Published: 2026-10-19T13:32:04+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: valkyries, atlanta dream, wnba, game 1, linda cohn, gabby williams, kiah stokes, cecia zandalasini, kaila charles, defensive rating, wnba finals, sports
## Valkyries Win Game 1
The Golden State Valkyries defeated Atlanta Dream 68-64 in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals.
## Critics Focus on Dream's Shooting
Critics highlight Atlanta Dream's poor shooting as the main reason for the Valkyries' victory.
## Linda Cohn Pushes Back
Ex-ESPN host Linda Cohn says the Valkyries' win wasn't accidental despite critics claiming it was a fluke.

> I’m seeing and hearing from fans and on social media: it’s as if the Atlanta Dream are supposed to win this championship, and anything else would be some kind of shocking upset.
## Gabby Williams' Performance
Gabby Williams scored 26 points, including 18 in the second quarter, to lead the Valkyries.
## Valkyries' Defensive Strength
The Valkyries led the WNBA with a 99.3 defensive rating, significantly better than Atlanta Dream's 103.3.
## Game 2 at Chase Center
The Valkyries will play Game 2 at Chase Center to build on their home-court advantage.
## Key takeaway

Linda Cohn says Golden State Valkyries' 68-64 win over Atlanta Dream wasn't accidental despite critics focusing on Dream's poor shooting.