The Golden State Valkyries have highlighted their second season with groundbreaking achievements both on and off the court. As the WNBA kicked off its 30th season, the Valkyries received the league’s highest valuation from Forbes, marking a significant recognition for the expansion franchise.
In 2025, the Valkyries made history by becoming the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in its inaugural season. The team also achieved sold-out home games throughout the regular season and set an attendance record by drawing over 18,000 fans per game. On Friday night, the Valkyries built on their debut success by securing their first playoff series win, overcoming the Dallas Wings in Game 3.
In a dramatic, winner-take-all Game 3, Valkyries’ forward Gabby Williams led the charge with 19 points as Golden State rallied from a 16-point deficit to claim a 77-73 victory.
Key moments unfolded in the final seconds as Williams regained control of her missed shot, a play initially awarded to Dallas. Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase successfully challenged the call, securing an important possession for the team. Despite a tense moment when Nakase fell to her knees, she celebrated with the team at the final buzzer.
Dallas’ Arike Ogunbowale delivered a strong 30-point performance, following a prior 45-point game. She briefly gave Dallas a lead with an off-balance jumper late in the game.
Williams scored the bulk of her points after halftime, while Veronica Burton contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. Burton’s key layup and Williams’ crucial 3-pointers propelled the Valkyries into the semifinals against defending champions Las Vegas Aces.
Off the bench, Tiffany Hayes scored 18 points. Kaila Charles added a tying 3-pointer, and Kiah Stokes captured 13 rebounds. Despite Paige Bueckers’ 17 points and perfect free-throw shooting for Dallas, her shooting percentage faltered.
Before the game, coach Nakase inspired her team to deliver their best performance, emphasizing the need for a complete effort throughout the match.
The Valkyries will face the Las Vegas Aces in Sunday’s Game 1 of the semifinals, while the Atlanta Dream will host the New York Liberty in the other semifinal pairing.
Chantz Martin, a sports writer for Fox News Digital, contributed to this report.
Soccer Goalkeeper Danny Moscoso Shines as Football Kicker for South Elgin 
Mason Auslander’s Drive Leads to Success in Varsity Football 
Northwestern Opens New Ryan Field with Stunning Victory 
Jack Murphy’s Impactful Return Powers Lincoln-Way East to Victory 
San Francisco 49ers Begin Strong NFL Season Amid Owner’s Suspension 
Quentin Burrell’s Journey at Mount Carmel