Angel Reese delivered a stellar performance in Game 2 of the WNBA Finals, helping the Atlanta Dream secure a 79-65 win over the Golden State Valkyries on Monday night at Chase Center. This result evened the best-of-seven series at 1-1.
Reese scored 30 points and collected 16 rebounds, adding three assists, two blocks, and a steal. She made history as the youngest player to record 30 points and 15 rebounds in a WNBA postseason game.
The Dream’s triumph in Game 2 marked a significant milestone, ending a winless streak in their previous Finals appearances in 2010, 2011, and 2013. They had also lost the opening game of this series, but Reese’s exceptional performance ended that unfortunate streak.
“Angel Reese became the youngest player to record 30 points and 15 rebounds in a WNBA postseason game.”
The game was not without controversy, as both teams chose to remain off the court during the national anthem. The WNBA’s rulebook requires players, coaches, and trainers to line up during the anthem, but the league has not commented on this situation.
Once the game started, Reese quickly became a critical asset for Atlanta’s offense. She scored 15 points in the first half, surpassing her total from Game 1. Her determined play continued into the third quarter despite a brief emotional outburst when she didn’t receive the ball. However, Reese redeemed herself with a key defensive block and a crucial and-one play.
Reese avoided foul trouble in the second half, playing the entire third quarter without picking up her fourth foul. The Dream capitalized on Golden State’s reluctance to attack the paint, maintaining their lead.
Atlanta held a 60-46 advantage entering the final quarter. Reese’s contribution extended the lead and sealed the victory with a long-range three-pointer in the closing minutes.
The series will head to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena for Game 3 on Wednesday.
This article was compiled by Dan Zaksheske, a reporter at OutKick.