'Ballhalla' isn't just a loyal fan base; it's a religion. The Golden State Valkyries have thrived on the Chase Center's raucous atmosphere and have used it as a platform to decimate their opponents. This psychological advantage was Golden State's greatest weapon in the WNBA Finals -- until Angel Reese arrived. 30 points and 16 rebounds later, the 'Bayou Barbie' almost single-handedly destroyed a narrative that the Atlanta Dream had no chance of winning in such a chaotic coliseum.
When the Valkyries have home-court advantage, there is a sense of invincibility in the air. Golden State won all five of its home playoff games, including back-to-back victories over A'ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces. In fact, the franchise only lost five games at the Chase Center all season. The team and its supporters embrace a siege mentality whenever an opponent steps into their building.
Often, the travelling team has lost the game before stepping onto the court. There is an acceptance that when momentum swings in Golden State's direction, 'Ballhalla' is ready to raise the roof. Natalie Nakase knew this heading into the Finals, asking her loyal fan base to act as the sixth player on the court.
It takes a one-of-a-kind star to thrive in a high-pressure environment like the Chase Center, and that's exactly what Angel Reese is.
Angel Reese has established the Dream as championship favourites
Regardless of what experts and analysts might say, the Dream are now in pole position to clinch a championship -- even with the series tied 1-1. A victory on the road could be the defining factor in Atlanta's title hopes. Angel Reese has proven this roster has nothing to fear, and the psychological advantage their opponents held means nothing.
Around five minutes into the game, Reese felt the full force of the 'Ballhalla' after seeing her shot swatted away by the menacing Kiah Stokes. The crowd erupted. Momentum and destiny felt on the Valkyries' side. The 24-year-old could have cracked under the pressure, but she stood firm and became the catalyst for Atlanta's victory.
Reese put on a dominant display, recording a sensational 30 points, 16 rebounds, 1 steal, and 2 blocks, while shooting 62.5% from the floor. Every time the Valkyries built momentum and the arena's volume increased, the LSU legend hushed the crowd with a big play.
Angel Reese is already making a compelling case for the 2027 MVP award with elite performances like this. Most importantly, she has proven that the Atlanta Dream have nothing to fear when they step in front of 'Ballhalla'. The Golden State Valkyries are no longer invincible at the Chase Center, and that will go a long way in deciding who wins the WNBA Finals.
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