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Ex-ESPN Host Pushes Back on Valkyries Critics as Controversial Narratives Threaten to Overshadow Their Win

The Golden State Valkyries secured a hard-fought 68–64 victory in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, but the narrative surrounding their win has sparked debate. While much of the focus has been on the Atlanta Dream’s struggles from the field, former ESPN host Linda Cohn challenged the assumption that the Dream were the clear favorites.

She highlighted that Golden State’s path to the championship was far from accidental, pointing out that the Valkyries overcame their own shooting woes—including a dismal 32% field-goal percentage and just seven three-point makes—to claim the win. Gabby Williams led the charge with a standout 26 points, anchoring Golden State’s offense in a physically grueling contest where neither team managed to clear 33% shooting efficiency.

Beyond Williams, only Kiah Stokes (9 points) and Cecilia Zandalasini (8 points) reached double figures, yet the Valkyries’ defensive grit and clutch free throws—including two by Williams with 1:18 left—sealed the victory. Kaila Charles also made an impact with 10 rebounds and two steals, underscoring Golden State’s depth and resilience in a series where execution will ultimately decide the outcome.

Critics have fixated on Atlanta’s missed opportunities, but Cohn argued the conversation should also acknowledge Golden State’s ability to win despite their own offensive misfires. The game’s back-and-forth nature and late finish reflected the high stakes, with the Valkyries’ ability to capitalize on key moments proving decisive.

As the series unfolds, the focus must shift from Atlanta’s struggles to how Golden State sustains this momentum—especially if they can improve their shooting while maintaining their defensive intensity.

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