Story perspectives

Atlanta Dream Moves WNBA Finals Games 3, 4 to State Farm

By Drooid · Oct 17, 2026, 4:22 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Atlanta Dream Hosts Finals

The Atlanta Dream will host Games 3 and 4 of the WNBA Finals at State Farm Arena.
The games move from the 3,500-seat Gateway Center Arena to the 17,004-seat State Farm Arena.
Game 3 is set for October 21 and Game 4 for October 24, with tickets ranging from under $100 to $600.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the larger arena expands capacity and creates an extraordinary atmosphere.

Summary

Nakase Emphasizes Culture

Owner Joe Lacob modeled the Valkyries after his Warriors and hired GM Ohemaa Nyanin for roster building.
Natalie Nakase, former Las Vegas Aces assistant, became the Valkyries’ head coach and stressed culture and problem-solving.
The Valkyries recorded the league’s best defense, allowing the fewest points per game in 2026.
Fans built a “Boohalla” Halloween display in San Francisco’s Inner Richmond, showing community enthusiasm for the Finals.

History

Historical Context

Since the WNBA’s 1997 launch with eight franchises and the Houston Comets’ first championship, the league has pursued larger venues and local fan culture. Expansion added the Golden State Valkyries in 2025 and grew to 15 teams by 2026, while 2024 saw average attendance rise to 9,807 per game, underscoring the impact of arena upgrades and community engagement.

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Atlanta Dream Hosts Finals

The Atlanta Dream will host Games 3 and 4 of the WNBA Finals at State Farm Arena.
The games move from the 3,500-seat Gateway Center Arena to the 17,004-seat State Farm Arena.
Game 3 is set for October 21 and Game 4 for October 24, with tickets ranging from under $100 to $600.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the larger arena expands capacity and creates an extraordinary atmosphere.

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