The Valkyries Defense Takes Over in Win Against the Dream

By: Ashmere Prasad

The Valkyries snap their two-game losing streak in a dominant 77-66, win against the Atlanta Dream, holding them to season-low in scoring. The Dream were on a four-game winning streak heading into this matchup. Golden State was 47% from the arc and had seven blocks.

“I think it was really on us,” Angel Reese said post game. “We didn’t shoot the ball well. Defensively we gave them too many open three’s every single time. It starts with our first five we have to be a lot better.”

Laeticia Amihere has had an increase in playing time lately, especially during Golden State’s four games in seven days sprint. Amihere played five minutes in the second quarter and made a major impact. She had two blocks, held the Dream to four points in the paint and was +13 by the half.

“LA comes with a different bounce,” Natalie Nakase said. “That rim protection is pretty lethal. Her quick bounce she just does an amazing job and with authority.”

The fans were thrilled when LA’s name was called and roared when she blocked Allisha Gray and Angel Reese’s shot attempts in the second.

Gabby Williams led all players with 23 points, which felt low since the offense was funneled through her the entire first half. It’s her career-high fifth 20-point game this season. (Valkyries PR)

If there was a moment the Dream felt they cut the lead, Kayla Thornton, or Ceci Zandalasini would hit a clutch three to maintain that cushion. When Thornton gets hot from the arc the Valkyries add another layer to their offensive attack. A couple quick passes, and KT is wide open in the corner waiting to sink a three.

“Number one, KT is maintaining space.” Nakase said. “It takes a lot of discipline to maintain space, but more importantly, her teammates are finding her and trusting her at the right time. Kasib [Powell] did a great job drawing a couple of sets for her to get some shots, so a combination of her teammates trusting her, and her maintaining space and confidence.”

Atlanta Dream head coach Karl Smesko gave the Valkyries their flowers postgame saying they shot the ball well, especially the three’s. “Sometimes we weren’t even really helping we were just watching. Then they’d skip it out to the shooters. That’s the kind of stuff we can’t give up.

Although the Valkyries shot well from the arc, the Dream had 42 points in the paint and 12 offensive rebounds. Those two stats are the main focal points for Golden State when they face Atlanta again on Friday evening. It’ll be a test for both teams to see how they modify their game plan in pursuit of a different result (for the Dream at least).