Angel Reese powers Dream past Valkyries to take 2-1 WNBA Finals lead

Angel Reese delivered another big night on the sport's biggest stage, posting 21 points and 12 rebounds as the Atlanta Dream demolished the Golden State Valkyries 97-71 in Game 3 on Wednesday. The double-double gives Atlanta a 2-1 lead in the WNBA Finals.

The Dream were never really threatened in front of 17,099 fans. They controlled the game and pulled away for a 26-point win that tilted the series firmly in their favor.

Reese had plenty of help. Rhyne Howard added 16 points and Naz Hillmon chipped in 15, giving Atlanta the balanced scoring that Golden State struggled to match.

The series is also drawing huge attention off the court. The Finals opener pulled in a record 2.1 million TV viewers, a sign of how far the league's popularity has climbed.

The Valkyries now have to regroup quickly. Atlanta hosts Game 4 on Saturday with a chance to tighten its grip on the title race.