Steve Kerr takes jab at WNBA Finals’ unusual Game 6 start time

The Golden State Valkyries got a massive 64-55 Game 5 victory over the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Finals. Valkyries center Kiah Stokes was a game-changer. She dropped 13 points, hit multiple three-pointers, and had three blocks.

The Finals now shift to Atlanta, and that's where the drama starts.

Game 6 is set for Thursday at 12:30 p.m, ET at State Farm Arena. Yes, you read that right. The Atlanta Hawks play that night at 8:00 p.m, ET in the same arena, so Game 6 of the WNBA Finals will be a matinee. You can catch it on USA Network and stream it on Peacock. Here's what Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said about the early start time.

What was Steve Kerr's sly comment about the early start time?

Steve Kerr has been very supportive of the Valkyries and has been a fixture at their games. The Warriors and Valkyries share the same owner and play in the same building. He was asked about Game 6 of the WNBA Finals, which starts at 9:30 a.m, PT. He said with a slight smile, "It's better than, you know, having it at the YMCA that night in front of 75 people."

The Dream played 16 regular-season home games at the Gateway Center Arena, but it has a capacity of only 3,500. The Valkyries play at the Chase Center, which seats just over 18,000. Kerr was probably taking a shot at the possibility of the Dream having to play in front of so few fans.

Why the Hawks and Dream couldn't switch game times will be a big question. It's probably due to broadcast obligations and various reasons. It's just plain embarrassing that this scenario wasn't planned for or prepared for. There's no reason a potential WNBA Finals clinching game should be tipping off while people in San Francisco are having breakfast or gabbing over their morning coffee.