Atlanta must win Game 6 at home to keep its championship hopes alive, but a reported injury concern has added another layer of uncertainty ahead of Thursday’s matchup. The Dream trail the Golden State Valkyries 3-2 in the WNBA Finals after a 64-55 loss in Game 5, and they now face elimination with a spot in a winner-take-all Game 7 on the line.
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The developing situation centers on reserve guard Te-Hina Paopao. According to a recent social media update from Underdog WNBA, Paopao has been listed as questionable for Thursday’s game because of a leg issue, leaving her availability in doubt as Atlanta prepares for its biggest game of the season.
“Te-Hina Paopao (leg) listed questionable for Thursday.”
No additional details have been provided regarding the nature of the injury, its severity, or a recovery timeline. As a result, Paopao’s status remains uncertain heading into Game 6.
What Te-Hina Paopao’s Status Could Mean for the Atlanta Dream
According to her official WNBA player profile, Paopao averaged 3.7 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game during the regular season. While she has primarily served in a reserve role, her availability gives Atlanta another backcourt option off the bench.
Paopao’s role in the Finals has been limited. She appeared in Games 3 and 5 and was listed as DNP-Coach’s Decision in Game 4. Official WNBA box scores show she played 3:06 in Game 5, finishing 0-for-1 from the field without recording a point, rebound, or assist.
If Paopao is unavailable, Atlanta would have one fewer guard option available off the bench. The Dream also have Shatori Walker-Kimbrough and Isobel Borlase on the roster, although neither has been identified as a direct replacement for her role.
Atlanta’s broader offensive issues may be an even bigger concern heading into Thursday. In Game 5, the Dream managed just three field goals in the second quarter and went more than five minutes in the fourth quarter without a made basket, according to the team’s official recap.
The Dream finished the game shooting 29.2% from the field and 23.1% from beyond the arc while committing 15 turnovers. Golden State converted those mistakes into 21 points, underscoring the need for cleaner execution in Game 6.
Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, at 12:30 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The Valkyries can clinch the WNBA championship with a win, while the Dream must protect home court to force a decisive Game 7.
For now, Atlanta’s focus remains on extending the series, while Paopao’s availability remains one of the questions still awaiting a clearer answer before tipoff.