Michael Jordan had two words for Gabby Williams after Valkyries championship: ‘Stay hungry’

After Williams powered Golden State to its first WNBA title and earned Finals MVP, Jordan sent the newly crowned champion a message of encouragement.

Gabby Williams revealed Monday that Jordan congratulated her after the Golden State Valkyries secured the championship and encouraged her to “stay hungry.” The message came after a standout Finals performance that helped establish Williams as one of the defining players of the championship run, according to  Bleacher Report.

Williams, who joined the Valkyries ahead of the 2026 season, played a major role in the team’s title-winning campaign. She scored 30 points in Game 7 against the Atlanta Dream, helping Golden State close out the series and secure the franchise’s first WNBA championship. Her performance earned her the Finals Most Valuable Player award.

The championship marked a historic achievement for the Valkyries, who reached the top of the league in only their second season. Jordan’s message added another memorable moment to Williams’ championship celebration. The six-time NBA champion and widely regarded basketball great offered the newly crowned Finals MVP a brief but meaningful reminder to keep pushing after reaching the top.

Williams’ achievement highlights the growing depth of talent and competition in the WNBA. Her Finals performance also puts a spotlight on the players shaping the league’s next chapter, as the Valkyries begin their reign as champions. For Williams, receiving encouragement from Jordan is a notable recognition of a season that ended with both a championship and individual Finals honors.