Charles Barkley Names Gabby Williams WNBA's Top Star
The NBA analyst identifies the Golden State Valkyries forward as a crucial, underrated player during the WNBA Finals.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Basketball
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Charles Barkley has highlighted Gabby Williams as the most overlooked star in the WNBA. Williams has been a central figure for the Golden State Valkyries, who are currently locked in a 3-3 series tie against the Atlanta Dream.
Why it matters
Barkley's public endorsement draws attention to the impact Williams has had on the Valkyries playoff run. Her role as both a defensive anchor and floor leader has been vital to the team's ability to force a deciding Game 7.
Williams averaged 17.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over the first six Finals games, including a 26-point performance in Game 1. She was also the runner-up for the 2026 Defensive Player of the Year award.
The players
Charles Barkley
He is a former professional basketball player turned analyst who frequently comments on league developments.
Gabby Williams
She is a professional basketball player who served as an All-Star starter for the Golden State Valkyries during the 2026 season.
Golden State Valkyries
This is a professional basketball franchise based in San Francisco that plays its home games at the Chase Center.
The details
Since signing with the Valkyries in April 2026, Williams has stabilized the team through her emotional and defensive leadership. The squad relied on her production and recent coaching adjustments to secure back-to-back victories in Games 4 and 5.
Timeline
Gabby Williams signed a multi-year contract with the Golden State Valkyries in April 2026.
Charles Barkley made his comments regarding the player on October 28, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The Valkyries and Atlanta Dream are currently tied 3-3 in the 2026 WNBA Finals, marking a critical juncture for the franchise. This series will conclude with a deciding Game 7 held at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
With the series tied at 3-3, the outcome of Game 7 will determine the 2026 WNBA champion. Williams' offensive consistency and defensive output will be the primary metrics for the Valkyries' chances of securing the title on their home floor.
The takeaway
Gabby Williams has proven her value as an elite competitor by elevating her scoring output during the high-pressure environment of the Finals. Her versatile play style offers a blueprint for how defensive-minded players can become primary offensive options in a championship series.
What happens next
The Golden State Valkyries will face the Atlanta Dream in the decisive Game 7 of the WNBA Finals at the Chase Center.
Further reading
For more on the current championship series, see Basketball.
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