Full Breakdown
Valkyries' Defense Lifts Them to Third in WNBA Power Rankings
7/1/2026, 4:36:53 AM
Valkyries' Defensive Surge Secures Third Place
The Golden State Valkyries rose to third in the latest WNBA power rankings, thanks to a 102.2 defensive rating that is second in the league. In the past week they held the New York Liberty to 67 points and the Atlanta Dream to 66, far below each team’s season scoring average.
Data & Statistics
The Valkyries’ 102.2 rating ranks second. CBS lists a home rating of 98.8 and 108.3 away. The Las Vegas Aces have the weakest defense at 107.3. The Los Angeles Sparks sit at a league-worst 114.5 after allowing over 110 points. Mabrey’s 53-point, nine-three night for Toronto and Wilson’s 30 points with 15 rebounds for the Aces highlight scoring.
Official Statements & Responses
Aces coach Becky Hammon said the win felt unsatisfying because the team allowed the opponent to score, stressing defensive stops. Liberty star Breanna Stewart criticized her team’s lack of heart after the loss to Golden State. Dream forward Allisha Gray called early-season setbacks valuable learning before the playoffs.
Criticism & Opposition
The Sparks’ defense, called “sloppy,” has yielded over 110 points and lost guard Kelsey Plum to injury. The Aces, despite offensive firepower, face criticism for a defensive rating of 107.3, the weakest among winning teams. Los Angeles coach Lynne Roberts is rumored to be on the hot seat.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sports Illustrated lists the Valkyries’ rating at 102.2, while CBS reports 98.8 at home and 108.3 on the road. The Sparks’ defense is called “sloppy” by SI but given a 114.5 rating by CBS.
Why It Matters: Playoff Implications
Teams with top defenses, such as the Valkyries and Lynx, are poised for deep playoff runs, while clubs with poor defensive metrics risk early exits. Coaching stability for the Sparks and Aces may hinge on defensive improvement.
What’s Next
The Valkyries host the Dallas Wings to protect home defense. The Sparks travel to Chicago to face the Sky without Kelsey Plum, and the Aces head to Minnesota for a road test against the Lynx. Coaching decisions for Los Angeles and Las Vegas are expected to intensify as the season ends.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We outscored somebody, that's not the way I want to win games,” — Becky Hammon, Head Coach, Las Vegas Aces
- “You can't play with heart and play with effort just when things are going good,” — Breanna Stewart, New York Liberty
- “It’s still early in the season, so these are the types of things you want to experience early so you can learn from it, so when it gets to playoff time, it’s not too late,” — Allisha Gray, Atlanta Dream
- “Golden State Valkyries Previous ranking: 6 Defense wins championships.” — (Unattributed)
