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Gabby Williams Propels Valkyries to First WNBA Finals

Her overtime scoring, Bay Area roots plus a three-year signing have reshaped Golden State’s roster and set the stage for the title series.

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An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Natalie Nakase smiling during a press conference in front of a WNBA Playoffs backdrop, Image 2 shows Tyronn Lue speaking at a microphone in front of a blue backdrop with the Intuit Dome logo, Image 3 shows Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase on the sideline during a game against the Las Vegas Aces
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Overview

  • Williams scored eight of her 16 points in overtime to cap an 87-77 semifinal clincher that completed a sweep of the defending Las Vegas Aces and sent the Valkyries to the WNBA Finals, which begin Saturday at Chase Center.
  • The 30-year-old signed a three-year deal with Golden State in April and has emerged as a two-way leader whose clutch play fueled a comeback win over Dallas in the first round and steady postseason scoring.
  • Chase Center sellouts and intense home support have been credited by Williams and teammates with boosting confidence and on-court performance for the second-year franchise.
  • Williams’ long relationship with childhood coach Alfonso Joo has highlighted a local ripple effect as interest in his BullDawgs youth program has grown and he now regularly brings young players to games.
  • The Valkyries pair a defensive identity under coach Natalie Nakase with rising commercial momentum — including more than $100 million in regular-season revenue — positioning the franchise as a new market force to watch in women’s pro basketball.