Golden State Valkyries Make History with Playoff Triumph

The Golden State Valkyries’ second season has marked a historic achievement, both on and off the court. As a WNBA expansion franchise, they received the highest league valuation from Forbes right before the start of the WNBA’s 30th season.

In 2025, the Valkyries became the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their inaugural season. They sold out every regular-season home game, setting a league attendance record by averaging over 18,000 fans per game. Continuing their debut success, they overcame the Dallas Wings in Game 3 to secure their first playoff series victory.

The team’s remarkable achievement is a testament to their dedication and strategy, proving that new franchises can compete at the highest level right from the start.

Gabby Williams, a forward for the Valkyries, played a pivotal role in the win by scoring 19 points during the crucial Game 3. The Valkyries, facing a 16-point deficit, rallied to defeat Dallas 77-73 in a dramatic showdown.

The game’s turning point came with just 13.1 seconds remaining. Golden State held a one-point lead when Williams leaped back inbounds to secure her missed shot, following a call initially favoring Dallas. Coach Natalie Nakase successfully challenged the call, allowing the Valkyries to maintain possession.

Seconds from victory, Nakase showed immense passion by falling to her knees, needing assistance to stand before being escorted off the court after the final buzzer.

For Dallas, Arike Ogunbowale impressed with a challenging jumper, adding to her tally of 30 points following an excellent 45-point performance in a prior overtime win. Meanwhile, Valkyries’ guard Veronica Burton contributed significantly with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.

Golden State’s playoff journey continues as they advance to the semifinals to face the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces. Tiffany Hayes provided crucial support off the bench with 18 points, including a tying 3-pointer, and Kiah Stokes excelled with 13 rebounds.

Dallas’ Paige Bueckers recorded 17 points despite a challenging shooting night. Her perfect free throw record was a highlight, though she struggled from the field with just 3 out of 14.

Before the game, Coach Nakase inspired the Valkyries, urging the team to play the best four quarters of their lives. The Valkyries will host the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of the semifinals, while Atlanta Dream takes on New York Liberty in the other semifinal matchup.