Dominance Unleashed: Valkyries' Unyielding Spirit Prevails
Burton and Williams Lead the Charge with Explosive Scoring
Veronica Burton and Gabby Williams delivered outstanding performances, each contributing 25 points, as the Golden State Valkyries overcame the Phoenix Mercury with a final score of 87-81 in a Commissioner's Cup matchup held in San Francisco. Burton also showcased her playmaking abilities with eight assists.
Valkyries Maintain Composure Against Mercury's Resurgence
Despite seeing their significant 17-point halftime advantage shrink to a single point, the Valkyries, bolstered by Kayla Thornton's 12 points and Janelle Salaun's 11, regrouped in the decisive moments of the game. Their ability to withstand the Mercury's comeback effort allowed them to end a two-game losing streak.
Thomas' Second-Half Heroics for Phoenix
Alyssa Thomas fueled the Mercury's comeback attempt, scoring 20 of her 22 points in the second half. Thomas, who returned after missing the previous game due to a calf injury, also tallied nine assists and eight rebounds for her team, which saw its two-game winning streak snapped on the third leg of a four-game road trip. Monique Akoa Makani also had a season-high with 19 points.
Crucial Plays Secure Golden State's Win
The Mercury narrowed the gap to 76-75 following a three-pointer from Akoa Makani with just over three minutes left. However, Williams responded with a critical three-point play, extending the Valkyries' lead to 84-78 in the final minutes. Although Thomas countered with her own three-point play, Williams' defensive play, intercepting a pass and sinking a free throw, sealed the victory for Golden State, with Thornton adding two more free throws to ice the game.
Three-Point Prowess Defines Valkyries' Offense
The Valkyries showcased their sharpshooting from beyond the arc, converting 10 of 29 (34.5%) three-point attempts, including an impressive 6 of 12 in the first half to establish their commanding 49-32 lead. Golden State continues to lead the WNBA in three-pointers per game and three-point shooting percentage, with Williams hitting three, and Burton, Thornton, and Salaun each contributing two. Burton also excelled at the free-throw line, making 9 of 11 attempts.
Early Season Series Dominance for Golden State
This victory marks the Valkyries' second win over the Mercury this season, having previously secured a 95-79 home triumph in May.
Momentum Swings in the Opening Quarter
Phoenix initially took a 16-10 lead with a 13-0 run, highlighted by Akoa Makani's six points and Thomas' four assists. However, the Valkyries quickly countered with a 12-2 run of their own, taking a 22-18 advantage.
Valkyries Extend Lead with Strong Second Quarter Finish
Golden State concluded the second quarter with an 18-5 surge, culminating in their largest lead of the game at 49-32 by halftime. Burton was instrumental during this period, scoring 10 points as the Valkyries outscored Phoenix 27-14. Tensions flared during this half-ending stretch, resulting in technical fouls for Thomas and her Mercury teammate Kahleah Copper.
Mercury's Third Quarter Push Falls Short
The Mercury mounted a significant comeback in the third quarter, outscoring the Valkyries 29-17, with Thomas contributing 13 points during this run. Despite their efforts, Golden State maintained a 66-61 lead heading into the final period.
