Golden State Valkyries guard Gabby Williams delivered a historic performance in Game 7 of the WNBA Finals, dismantling the Atlanta Dream’s defense with a third-quarter explosion that shifted the momentum entirely. Trailing by six points at halftime after scoring just two points in the first half, Williams responded to coach Nate Mitchell’s advice to remain patient by unleashing a barrage of three-pointers in the third quarter. She poured in 15 points during that period, including three consecutive triples, to overcome a nine-point deficit and give the Valkyries a one-point lead entering the final frame.
Golden State Valkyries star erupts for 30 points to silence Atlanta Dream
Williams finished the decisive contest with a game-high 30 points, four blocks, two steals, and two assists, establishing a new WNBA Finals record for most points in a single half with her 28-point second half. This performance surpassed the previous record of 27 points held by Angel McCoughtry, cementing her status as the league’s premier clutch performer. The surge included an 11-point run in a two-minute span that neutralized Atlanta’s best offensive sequence and forced the Dream into defensive desperation.
The 30-point outburst was a dramatic elevation from Williams’ regular-season average of 14.4 points and 2.2 assists per game, though it aligned with her postseason trajectory where she averaged 20.3 points and 3.4 assists. Owner Joe Lacob had previously declared Williams the best player in the world during the first round, a claim that found validation in this high-stakes environment. In her post-game interview, Williams credited her coach for her composure, stating, “Nat told me to be patient in the first half — it was hard, but I listened, and she was right as always,” highlighting the mental resilience required to secure the championship.
Source: Yahoo Sports
