The franchise captured its first championship on Saturday, edging the Atlanta Dream, 68-63, in a decisive Game 7. Following the victory, Bayless took to X, formerly Twitter to congratulate the newly crowned champions and Gabby Williams.
“Congrats to Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries for winning the WNBA championship in only their second year!” Bayless wrote.
Williams gave the Valkyries the offensive spark they desperately needed. She struggled to find her rhythm before halftime, managing only two points. However, the second half told a different story. The forward exploded for 28 points after the break and closed the night with 30.
Her final stat line included three rebounds, two assists, four blocks and two steals. She also went 10-of-23 from the field, knocked down four 3-pointers and converted all six free throws. Her second-half scoring output established a new WNBA postseason record, as no player had previously scored more than 30 points in a Finals Game 7.
The performance earned Williams Finals MVP recognition and capped a memorable postseason. She had already established herself as Golden State's leading scorer throughout the series, averaging 17.8 points before the deciding contest.
Her contribution went beyond scoring. Williams also played a major role in the defensive effort that kept Atlanta from completing its comeback.
For a young franchise still building its identity, the championship represents a major milestone. Williams' arrival from Seattle helped turn that ambition into reality, while Bayless' message captured the significance of Golden State winning a title just two seasons into its existence.