Golden State Valkyries win WNBA title in second season of franchise

The Golden State Valkyries captured the WNBA championship on Saturday night, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7 of the Finals. The victory marks the first title for the franchise in just its second year of operation. It is the first time an expansion team has reached the playoffs in its inaugural season and won the championship in its second.

Gabby Williams led the team with 30 points, scoring 28 of those in the second half. Her performance earned her the Finals MVP award. Guard Veronica Burton, who was visibly emotional during postgame celebrations, played a key role in the offense. Tiffany Hayes, a 14-year veteran, returned from retirement to join the roster and secured her first career WNBA title. Hayes, 37, stated that the victory demonstrated the value of investing in women's sports.

Owner Joe Lacob expressed surprise at the speed of the franchise's success. He originally promised a championship within five years of the team's creation three years ago. Lacob attributed the win primarily to President Jess Smith, general manager Ohemaa Nyanin, and head coach Natalie Nakase. He stated that he gave credit to hiring those three women, while they executed the strategy that led to the title. Lacob also praised the fan base, noting that every game at Chase Center has been sold out since Day 1. He described the atmosphere, which the team calls Ballhalla, as something that cannot be bought.

Nakase, who led the team to a 6-1 record in the playoffs, took a moment after her interview to shake hands with media members one by one. She said she did not score a single basket in the series but appreciated the support. Nakase described Lacob as obsessive and pushing, noting that he provided all necessary resources. She said that his investment in women's sports produced the result. Guard Kaila Charles, who started after the team trailed 2-1 in the series, said the city accepted the players immediately upon their arrival. She noted that the mutual support between the team and the community helped the players fight through the series.

The Valkyries finished as the second seed in the regular season. They overcame a two-game deficit against the Atlanta Dream, who were led by Angel Reese. The team will hold a victory parade along the San Francisco bayfront on Wednesday afternoon. Lacob said he is planning for a dynasty but expects to wait a few days to focus on that. He stated that he is currently focused on enjoying the moment and said that winning is fun.

Lacob now has a women's team championship to display alongside four NBA titles won by his Golden State Warriors. He met Nakase for a late breakfast in Las Vegas two years ago and identified her as the best choice for the head coach position. The franchise has sold out every home game since its inception, creating a strong local identity. The team will continue to operate out of Chase Center in San Francisco.