The lead-up is underway

WNBA team news:

How the Dream and the Valkyries broke the mold to reach the Finals.

Atlanta and Allisha Gray are optimistic she'll be available for game 1.

The Dream went from forced sale to the Finals.

Golden State was overlooked, and now head to the Finals.

The matchup will be a defensive masterclass.

The Wings are pleased but not satisfied at the season. What will it take to win a title?

WNBA player news:

Gabby Williams always did what teams needed. Golden State needed her to be a star.

Aliyah Boston underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair the lateral meniscus in her right knee.

WNBA coach and GM news:

Karl Smesko's leap from college to the pros has paid off.

Natalie Nakase's high-energy, hands-on coaching style has propelled her team to the playoffs.

The Valkyries' GM is relishing the Finals run with her handpicked roster.

The Dream's GM never doubted the team's potential.

LaToya Sanders won a WNBA title as a player, and now strives for one as an assistant coach.

College coach news:

Columbia suspended coach Megan Griffith for the first three games of the season after a review of her coaching behavior.