The Atlanta Dream have reached the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013. The team is eager to capture its first championship. Key player Angel Reese is stepping into her first postseason during her third career year, attracting significant attention.
The Dream’s previous Finals appearances featured Angel McCoughtry. Despite competing in three Finals with Atlanta, McCoughtry did not clinch a title. As the Dream prepare to face the Golden State Valkyries in the 2026 WNBA Finals, McCoughtry offered advice for the current players.
“I would tell all the girls ‘Enjoy this moment,'” McCoughtry shared on Yahoo! Sports Daily.
She reflected on her experiences, having reached the Finals four times — three with Atlanta and once with Las Vegas. McCoughtry emphasized the importance of savoring the experience rather than solely focusing on winning.
“I felt like I was so tunnel visioned, that I was so focused on ‘Let’s win a championship, let’s win a championship’ that I didn’t enjoy the atmosphere, the energy around me. You don’t know when you’re going to go back,” McCoughtry reflected. “Only one team is going to win. No matter what happens, enjoy the atmosphere, enjoy the fans, enjoy the camaraderie, enjoy the sisterhood of all of this.”
Her advice underscores that reaching the Finals is never certain. Atlanta’s team might not see another Finals for many years, potentially long after current players have retired. The players are encouraged to make the most of this opportunity regardless of the outcome.
The WNBA Finals are set to begin on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
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