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‘She’s Gonna Have To Show Up’ — WNBA Legend Sheryl Swoopes Urges Valkyries Forward To Shoot More in Finals Clash vs. Angel Reese, Dream

The Golden State Valkyries, just two seasons into their WNBA existence, are making an immediate impact by reaching the Finals in their rookie campaign. Facing the seasoned Atlanta Dream—who have dominated the Eastern Conference with a 30-14 record and remain undefeated in the playoffs—this series promises to be a clash of experience and youth.

The Dream, led by head coach Karl Smesko, are chasing their first championship, while the Valkyries, under Natalie Nakase, are looking to build on their rapid rise. Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes weighed in on the matchup, singling out Valkyries forward Janelle Salaün, who struggled in the second round against the Las Vegas Aces, averaging just 2.3 points per game over three contests.

Swoopes emphasized Salaün’s need to step up in the Finals, where the Dream’s defensive intensity—ranked fourth in points allowed this season—will test every player’s ability to perform under pressure. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s Angel Reese, Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, and Jordin Canada will look to maintain their postseason momentum as the series kicks off.

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