Story perspectives

Valkyries Edge Storm 76-72; Hayes Hits 5,000-Point Milestone

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Valkyries beat Seattle Storm 76-72 on Friday night, coach Nakase said fourth-quarter defense, not shooting, secured the win despite a 1-for-16 final-period shooting.
Tiffany Hayes became the 21st WNBA player with 5,000 points, 900 assists and 300 steals, adding decisive free throws.
Janelle Salaun scored 22 points, including five three-pointers, for the Valkyries.
Natisha Hiedeman recorded a career-high 26 points on five three-pointers, extending Seattle’s losing streak to eight games.

History

Historical Context

Since the NBA-backed launch on June 21 1997 with eight teams and the Houston Comets’ first championship led by Cynthia Cooper, the WNBA has steadily expanded—adding two teams in 1998, two in 1999, and announcing the Golden State Valkyries in October 2023 as its first expansion since 2008, slated for a 2025 debut. The Valkyries’ win underscores the league’s continued growth.

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Story summary

Valkyries beat Seattle Storm 76-72 on Friday night, coach Nakase said fourth-quarter defense, not shooting, secured the win despite a 1-for-16 final-period shooting.
Tiffany Hayes became the 21st WNBA player with 5,000 points, 900 assists and 300 steals, adding decisive free throws.
Janelle Salaun scored 22 points, including five three-pointers, for the Valkyries.
Natisha Hiedeman recorded a career-high 26 points on five three-pointers, extending Seattle’s losing streak to eight games.

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