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Atlanta Dream face arena issues ahead of WNBA Finals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 13, 2026, 6:10 AM

Last updated Oct 13, 2026

Atlanta Dream face arena issues ahead of WNBA Finals

Summary

The Atlanta Dream are set to play in the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013, but the excitement has been marred by venue concerns. The team is likely to hold Finals games at Gateway Center Arena, which holds just 3,500 fans, drawing criticism about its adequacy for a championship event. ESPN's Linda Cohn labeled the situation a “sad” commentary on the WNBA's growth, emphasizing the embarrassment of using such a small arena despite the team’s historic run. The Dream had hoped to utilize State Farm Arena, which has a capacity of over 17,000, but scheduling conflicts due to prior events and NBA games have complicated those plans. A definitive venue has yet to be confirmed as the Finals approach.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Dream’s first Finals appearance since 2013
•Gateway Center Arena likely for Finals games
•Cohn calls potential 3,500-seat venue embarrassing
•State Farm Arena unavailable due to scheduling conflicts
•Criticism emerging from fans about venue choice

Latest Updates

6:10 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Either Way the League Loses’ — ESPN Legend Laments ‘Sad’ State of WNBA Finals As Arena Controversy Overshadows Angel Reese, Dream

What they're saying

"
The Atlanta Dream are heading to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013, but their historic run has been overshadowed by a major arena problem. ESPN legend Linda Cohn has called the situation a “sad” reflection of the league, as questions grow about why Angel Reese and her teammates may have to play championship games in a venue with just 3,500 seats.
— Yahoo Sports

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Atlanta Hawks Atlanta Dream Golden State Valkyries New York Liberty WNBA Basketball