The Atlanta Dream absolutely steamrolled the Golden State Valkyries in Game 3 of the 2025 WNBA Finals, cruising to a dominant 97-71 victory and taking a crucial 2-1 series lead. That wasn’t just a win, it was a statement. The Dream had control of this game for a staggering 94 percent of the time, leaving no doubt who was dictating the pace and the outcome.
Dream Flexed on Every Play
Atlanta’s dominance was everywhere you looked. Their offensive rating hit a scorching 117.3, and they absolutely owned the fast break, racking up 13 points to Golden State’s measly five. When four of your starters are all in double figures, you know you’re doing something right. Angel Reese was an absolute force, putting up a monster stat line of 21 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and even hitting 2 three-pointers. Rhyne Howard, who had been struggling earlier in the series, brought her offense to the forefront, dropping 16 points, 5 steals, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Naz Hillmon chipped in with 15 points, including 3 three-pointers, and 2 rebounds. The Dream wasted zero time taking control, jumping out to a 9-1 lead early thanks to a heavy dose of Allisha Gray and Reese. Reese even drilled a huge three-pointer to push their lead to double digits, putting them up 23-15 after the first quarter.
Valkyries’ Offense Died a Quiet Death
While Atlanta was firing on all cylinders, Golden State’s offense wasn’t just stalling, it flat-out *died*. They shot a brutal 35 percent from the field for the game. Seriously, 35 percent! Of their starters, only Cecilia Zandalasini managed to hit 50 percent of her shots, finishing with 13 points. Aminata Gueye finally got the Valkyries on the board midway through the opening frame, and Tiffany Hayes tried to light a spark with a 5-0 run, but it just wasn’t enough. Golden State did have their best quarter in the second, with Janelle Salaiün getting hot from deep, hitting three three-pointers and scoring 11 of her 13 points in that period. Gabby Williams also found a rhythm, showing off her three-level scoring, which helped the Valkyries cut the deficit to just six points by halftime. Zandalasini even knocked down two deep shots to start the third as part of an 8-2 Golden State run, but despite these small bursts, the overall picture was clear: the Dream owned this game.
If it wasn’t for a fourth-quarter collapse in Game 1, the Dream could easily be up 3-0 right now and this series would basically be over. But they’re taking absolutely nothing for granted. Head coach Karl Smesko summed it up perfectly after the win: “We’re only halfway home. We have two wins. We need two more.” Atlanta has the momentum, the stars are shining, and they are clearly in control. The Dream know the job isn’t finished, but they’ve got their foot on the gas and are driving hard towards that championship.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Swish Appeal.
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