Dream's USA connection
FIBA says Atlanta are returning to the WNBA Finals after 13 years. Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard helped the United States win the world title in Germany and now form an important scoring partnership for the Dream.
Reese led the USA in blocks at that tournament and ranked second in steals and third in rebounds. She also earned WNBA Defensive Player of the Year honours. FIBA's preview credits Reese and Howard with a combined scoring contribution of more than 40 points per game for Atlanta, a description of their form rather than a prediction of the series result.
International depth on both sides
Golden State's French contingent includes Gabby Williams, Janelle Salaun and Aminata Gueye. Williams was the World Cup's Best Defensive Player and an All-Star Five selection. Salaun offers scoring, while Gueye provides interior strength off the bench.
The Valkyries also have Italy's Cecilia Zandalasini. Atlanta can call on Australia's Isobel Borlase and Mali's Sika Kone, both prominent in Berlin. The forthcoming contest is for the WNBA championship. FIBA's World Cup comparison is a framing device, and the accompanying USA trophy photograph is an archive image, not evidence that either club has already won.