Angel Reese Admits to Costly Mistakes in WNBA Finals Game 4: ‘A Performance to Forget’

Angel Reese Reflects on Shooting Struggles After Game 4 Loss

Following two dominant showings in Games 2 and 3, Atlanta Dream standout Angel Reese faced an unusually challenging night against Golden State. Reese took full responsibility for her offensive execution after the Dream fell 67-62, a defeat that evened the WNBA Finals at 2-2 and denied Atlanta the chance to push the series to the brink of a championship.

Reese was limited to eight points and nine rebounds, finding it difficult to establish her typical rhythm in the paint. Addressing reporters following the contest, Reese analyzed her misses near the rim and conceded that impatience affected her scoring touch. “I think I rushed a lot of my shots and I didn’t take my time and finish around the basket like I’ve been doing in the last three games. It happens,” she said at the press conference, looking visibly frustrated.

Golden State’s Defensive Adjustments Disrupt Atlanta’s Rhythm

The Valkyries engineered a defensive turnaround by adjusting their starting lineup and committing extra personnel toward neutralizing Reese. Golden State regularly sent multiple defenders to cut off her driving and positioning angles, holding her scoreless through the opening quarter. Reese went just 2-for-12 from the field on the night, struggling with early foul trouble and ball security after recording three fouls and five turnovers by halftime.

Atlanta’s broader offensive miscues further compounded their early deficit. Golden State capitalized heavily on the turnover disparity during the first half, forcing 16 Atlanta giveaways while surrendering only four of their own. That defensive discipline allowed the Valkyries to establish a commanding 16-point advantage heading into the locker room at the break.

Second-Half Comeback Falls Short as Series Ties at 2-2

The Dream mounted a concerted rally over the final two quarters to trim the margin, but they were ultimately unable to overcome the early damage. Rhyne Howard spearheaded Atlanta’s second-half push, finishing with a team-high 19 points. Backcourt teammates Isobel Borlase and Jordin Canada contributed 10 points each to keep the Dream within striking distance until the final possessions.

Golden State held firm thanks to balanced contributions across its roster. Gabby Williams paced the Valkyries with 17 points, supported by 13 points apiece from Tiffany Hayes and Veronica Burton. On the glass, Kiah Stokes dominated the interior by collecting 16 rebounds, ensuring Golden State closed out the 67-62 victory.

Why This Matters

The Game 4 result reshapes the championship landscape, turning the WNBA Finals into a high-stakes, best-of-three sprint. Golden State’s defensive schematic tweaks successfully slowed Atlanta’s primary frontcourt weapon, demonstrating a tactical blueprint that the Dream coaching staff must now solve. With momentum hanging in the balance, the series shifts back to San Francisco for Game 5 on Monday, Oct. 26, scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Angel Reese perform in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals?

Angel Reese scored eight points and collected nine rebounds while shooting 2-for-12 from the field. She went scoreless in the first quarter and accumulated three personal fouls alongside five turnovers in the first half.

Who were the top individual performers for both teams?

For the Atlanta Dream, Rhyne Howard led the scoring with 19 points, while Isobel Borlase and Jordin Canada each chipped in 10 points. For Golden State, Gabby Williams tallied a team-best 17 points, Tiffany Hayes and Veronica Burton scored 13 points each, and Kiah Stokes grabbed 16 rebounds.

When and where is Game 5 of the WNBA Finals taking place?

Game 5 is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 26, at 8 p.m. ET, taking place in San Francisco.