Atlanta Dream owners criticize venue scheduling for WNBA Finals Game 6
The Atlanta Dream ownership expressed frustration in an open letter over the early afternoon scheduling of Game 6 at State Farm Arena, saying their venue concerns were not adequately addressed.
The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries will play Game 6 of the WNBA Finals on Thursday at State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta, with a tip-off scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Eastern time. The early start time, which creates a matinee on the East Coast and a breakfast-time kickoff on the West Coast, follows a series of venue adjustments made throughout the playoffs.
In an open letter released Wednesday, Dream owners Larry and Robyn Gottesdiener, Suzanne Abair and former player Renee Montgomery said they had raised concerns about potential scheduling conflicts with NBA games at State Farm Arena two months before the playoffs began, but felt those concerns were not given sufficient attention. "Two months ago, when the WNBA finalized playoff dates and times, we raised concerns that the W Finals schedule conflicted with NBA games at State Farm Arena," the letter read. "As we moved through the playoffs, we reiterated those concerns. Our concerns did not receive the attention, nor the urgency that they deserved."
The Dream’s primary home court, Gateway Center Arena, seats about 3,500 fans, while State Farm Arena can accommodate roughly 17,000. The team announced plans to move all home games to State Farm Arena starting in 2027, citing a desire for a larger venue for the championship series.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised the sellout crowds for Games 3 and 4 at State Farm Arena and welcomed the opportunity for more fans to attend Game 6. > "The sellout crowds and extraordinary atmosphere at State Farm Arena for Games 3 and 4 were a tremendous success, and we’re excited to give thousands more fans the opportunity to experience Game 6 with a championship on the line," Engelbert said.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens asked local employers and schools to be flexible for fans attending the game. > "Whether they’re at the game or catching a few moments on their devices, please allow them to be excited for our home team," he wrote.
Despite the logistical challenges, the Dream confirmed that tickets for Game 6 have sold out.