WNBA Playoffs: Historic Sweeps Send Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries to the Finals

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A monumental night in the WNBA concluded with two clean sweeps on Friday, establishing a dramatic matchup for the 2026 WNBA Finals. In New York, the Atlanta Dream completed an 85-83 Game 3 victory over the Liberty to punch their first Finals ticket in 13 years. Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, the Golden State Valkyries made women’s basketball history, securing an 87-77 Game 3 road win over the Aces to reach the championship series in just their second year as an expansion franchise.

Here is a detailed breakdown of last night’s series clinchers, how both teams got here, and what lies ahead in the 2026 WNBA Finals.

Atlanta Dream 85, New York Liberty 83 (Dream Sweep 3-0)

The Atlanta Dream held off a fierce fourth-quarter charge by the New York Liberty at Barclays Center, securing an 85-83 win to finish off a 3-0 series sweep.

Atlanta led by as many as 12 points behind an efficient inside-outside attack. Angel Reese led the way for Atlanta with a team-high 22 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks, hitting 2-of-4 from beyond the arc and going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line. Guard Rhyne Howard added 21 points on four three-pointers, while point guard Jordin Canada orchestrated the offense to perfection with 19 points and 11 assists. Veteran DeWanna Bonner anchored the interior with a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double.

New York fought to the wire behind 26 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks from Jonquel Jones, alongside 26 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds from Breanna Stewart. However, the Dream converted 22 of 24 free throws (91.7%) and committed just 7 turnovers to close out the top-seeded Liberty on their home floor.

How Atlanta Got Here: The Dream remain undefeated in the 2026 postseason. After sweeping the Washington Mystics in Round 1, Atlanta systematically dismantled the Liberty in three straight games, earning the franchise’s first Finals berth since 2013.

The Manifestation of Angel Reese

When Atlanta acquired Angel Reese prior to the 2026 season, the move was intended to reshape the franchise’s culture and interior identity. Reese explicitly manifested this exact outcome, stating upon her arrival that she came to Atlanta to transform the team into a championship contender.

Throughout the postseason, Reese has done exactly that. Providing elite offensive rebounding, high-energy defense, and newfound perimeter range, Reese has averaged a postseason double-double while taking pressure off perimeter scorer Rhyne Howard. Her 22-point performance in Game 3 served as the crowning moment of her vision, proving her impact as a culture-setting centerpiece for Atlanta.

Your finals-bound Golden State Valkyries ⚔️ https://t.co/tUh3C6myAo

— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) October 10, 2026

Golden State Valkyries 87, Las Vegas Aces 77 (Valkyries Sweep 3-0)

At Michelob ULTRA Arena, the Golden State Valkyries completed one of the most remarkable postseason runs in league history by sweeping the multi-time champion Las Vegas Aces.

Golden State broke open a tight game in the second half using relentless defensive pressure and balanced scoring. Forward Kayla Thornton led five Valkyries in double figures, scoring 18 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Gabby Williams contributed 16 points and 3 steals, while center Kiah Stokes locked down the paint with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Veteran Tiffany Hayes provided 11 points and 6 rebounds, and Veronica Burton added 8 points and 4 assists.

For Las Vegas, A’ja Wilson posted 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks, while Jackie Young added 18 points and Chelsea Gray chipped in 17 points and 5 assists. However, the Aces were undone by 15 turnovers, which Golden State converted into 17 points.

Year 2 Championship Ascent: Entering the WNBA as an expansion franchise in 2025, Golden State reached the Finals in just their second season of existence. Built through strategic expansion drafting, veteran leadership, and high-intensity defense, the Valkyries have shocked the league by defeating established powerhouses to earn hosting rights for Game 1 of the Finals.

2026 WNBA Finals Preview: Dream vs. Valkyries

The 2026 WNBA Finals begin on Saturday, October 17, at Chase Center in San Francisco.

The Frontcourt War: The battle inside will feature Angel Reese and DeWanna Bonner taking on Kiah Stokes and Kayla Thornton. Rebounding second-chance opportunities will be a defining factor in every game.
Guard Play & Perimeter Control: Jordin Canada and Rhyne Howard give Atlanta elite half-court playmaking and shot creation. Golden State will counter with defensive length in Gabby Williams and Veronica Burton to disrupt Atlanta’s passing lanes.
Rest vs. Momentum: Both teams enter the Finals well-rested following 3-0 sweeps. Atlanta brings an undefeated postseason record, while Golden State relies on the home-court advantage at Chase Center, where they were dominant during the regular season.