Angel Reese doesn’t give props to Valkyries defense after WNBA Finals Game 1 showdown

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Angel Reese didn’t want to give the Valkyries credit after Game 1 of the WNBA Finals.

“I don’t think they really did anything,” Reese said on her limited shot attempts in the second half.

“I wasn’t aggressive enough with the ball. I’m definitely going to do a better job of that next game,” she added.

Angel Reese on if the Valkyries did anything to limit her shot attempts in the 2nd half:

"I don't think they really did anything … I wasn't aggressive enough." pic.twitter.com/bE83DogyvN

— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) October 17, 2026

While Reese was still productive in Game 1, posting 14 points, 12 rebounds, two steals and a block across 35 minutes, Golden State shut down the Dream center in the second half. Reese was 0-for-3 with three turnovers and five fouls after halftime.

Atlanta managed just eight points in the fourth quarter, largely contributing to the Valkyries’ comeback after a slow start to the matchup.

The Valkyries have built their team on a defense-first mindset, which has helped the team reach the WNBA Finals in its second season of existence.

Reese, who was ranked the top player in the Finals by ESPN, will get another chance to dominate in all four quarters in Game 2 against Golden State on Monday.

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