Kaila Charles was Golden State’s X-factor off the bench in its Game 1 win over Atlanta, finishing with 7 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and a block. Charles played a big role in keeping Atlanta from pulling away whenever the Dream threatened to take control of the game. In the third quarter, with Atlanta on an 11-2 run, Charles came up with a steal that led to a Laeticia Amihere basket before knocking down a three-pointer on the following possession to put an end to the run. She continued to make timely plays in the fourth quarter, finding Tiffany Hayes for a crucial three-pointer and making two big defensive plays on consecutive possessions. First, she stole the ball from Rhyne Howard and turned it into a layup on the other end. Then, she blocked Howard’s layup attempt to force another empty possession for Atlanta. Charles may not have led Golden State in scoring, but her impact went well beyond her seven points. ✨

Laeticia Amihere coming into the Finals: 0 PTS in 6 minutes vs Dallas 5 DNP's Amihere tonight in Game 1: 5 PTS, 5 REB, 1 STL, 1 BLK, +9 in 14 minutes