The WNBA Finals are set, and the Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream are proving there’s a different path to winning a championship than we’ve seen in previous seasons. Chantel and Sabreena break down the playoff runs that brought these two teams to the Finals, from Atlanta’s sweep of the New York Liberty to Golden State’s stunning upset of the defending champions Las Vegas Aces.

Plus, what did the Liberty’s Big Three reveal with their reactions to questions about their coach? How will the Aces approach roster construction this offseason? And why is searching the globe for talent worth it?

They also discuss Atlanta’s venue controversy, Allisha Gray’s injury status and what it could mean for the Dream’s championship hopes, plus how the Valkyries are changing the timeline for success in the WNBA.

REFERENCES:

Atlanta Dream headed to first WNBA Finals since 2013, eliminate New York Liberty by Annie Costabile and Chantel Jennings

Angel Reese is WNBA’s last young star standing — just as she manifested by Chantel Jennings

Welcome to a new era of the WNBA, courtesy of Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream by Brian Hamilton

Valkyries defense shifted into high gear to sweep the Aces, advance to WNBA Finals by Marcus Thompson II

WNBA Finals predictions: Valkyries or Dream? Our experts make their picks by Annie Costabile, Chantel Jennings, Brian Hamilton and Marcus Thompson II

After playoff elimination, Liberty players’ silence on coach Chris DeMarco speaks volumes by Annie Costabile

WNBA Finals questions: Do Valkyries or Dream have the defensive edge? Will Gray be back? by Chantel Jennings

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