Steph Curry gasps for air celebrating Valkyries’ historic WNBA Finals victory
Golden State finally has another basketball champion, and Curry couldn't contain his excitement
S teph Curry looked like he had been waiting a long time for this moment. The Golden State Valkyries delivered a historic championship for the franchise and the Bay Area, where fans had been desperate to celebrate another title.
The Warriors' recent decline has drawn plenty of criticism, with some questioning whether Golden State is doing enough to build a championship contender around Curry before his career comes to an end . Others believe the franchise should let him go so he can pursue another title elsewhere, arguing that the Warriors may no longer be in a position to give him what he needs.
The Bay Area finds an unexpected path to glory
The wait for another championship had become frustrating for Golden State fans, but the possibility of the women's team delivering that moment was not something many had expected so soon . The Valkyries had only been around for two seasons, making a title seem unlikely by the numbers, but they proved otherwise. Curry nearly ran out of breath celebrating their victory over the Atlanta Dream.
The Golden State Valkyries went from an expansion team still establishing its identity to WNBA champions in just two seasons , becoming the fastest expansion team in major North American professional sports to win a championship after defeating Atlanta 68-63 in Game 7 of the Finals. Gabby Williams led the way with a career-defining 30-point performance, securing the franchise's first championship.
Curry never stopped showing his support
The championship also answered questions about whether the young franchise had enough star power to compete at the highest level. Curry believed in the team throughout the season, making appearances at several games to show his support and lift the players' spirits when things were not going their way.
That support carried into a seven-game series and ultimately the franchise's first title. For a team that was still facing doubts about its talent and ability to compete just a year ago, the championship was a definitive response.
The Valkyries have now given the Bay Area another reason to celebrate , and perhaps their success can bring some hope to the Warriors as well. At least Curry's reaction suggests he is enjoying the moment.
