Kiah Stokes, once waived by Liberty, becomes WNBA Finals’ unlikely hero

by Newsman October 27, 2026, 8:21 am 313 Views

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Golden State Valkyries center Kiah Stokes (41) celebrates with guard Tiffany Hayes (15), forward Cecilia Zandalasini (24), forward Gabby Williams (1) and guard Veronica Burton (22) after the team's victory over the Atlanta Dream in Game 5 of the WNBA basketball finals in San Francisco, Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. — Valkyries center Kiah Stokes (middle) celebrates with Tiffany Hayes (15), Cecilia Zandalasini (24), Gabby Williams (1) and Veronica Burton (22) after the victory over the Dream in Game 5 of the WNBA Finals Oct. 26, 2026. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle via AP

Kiah Stokes stayed on the court with a Gatorade towel draped over her shoulder and a camera pointed in her face.

Consider the post-game interview her reward after having such a meaningful impact on the Valkyries’ 64-55 victory against the Atlanta Dream that put Golden State up 3-2 in the WNBA Finals.

A cheer broke out from among the moat of lavender surrounding Stokes. At first, it was hard to make out. But the chants gradually picked up steam as more voices joined in. Eventually it became undeniable.

“M-V-P! M-V-P! M-V-P!”