Full Breakdown
Valkyries Extend Winning Streak, Defeat Sky in Dominant Victory
8/13/2026, 11:33:06 AM
Core Game Summary
On Wednesday night at Chase Center, the Golden State Valkyries routed the Chicago Sky 91-71, marking their fifth consecutive win. Bench veteran Tiffany Hayes delivered a season-high 22 points, adding six rebounds and five assists, while Veronica Burton contributed 13 points and six rebounds. Despite missing starting center Kiah Stokes (concussion protocol) and Janelle Salaun (right-knee soreness), the Valkyries held a 43-40 halftime lead and stretched it in the third quarter.
Background & Context
The Valkyries entered their second WNBA season as the league’s first expansion team to reach the postseason in 2025. They have already surpassed last year’s win total, improving to a 24-9 record and sitting second in the league. Injuries have forced a reshuffle of the frontcourt, with Laeticia Amihere making her first start and Ashten Prechtel receiving significant minutes.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Valkyries 91, Sky 71
- Valkyries’ record: 24-9 (14-2 in the last 16 games)
- Franchise-record 16 steals, matching a team high for the season
- Hayes: 22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists
- Cardoso (Chicago) 20 points, 6 rebounds
- Valkyries out-scored the Sky in the paint (42 points) and on fast breaks (15 points)
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Nakase highlighted the team’s improved communication and role clarity, noting that the bench’s contributions have been essential amid the injuries. Hayes emphasized the squad’s “principles” and the importance of supporting each other on the court, while veteran Gabby Williams praised Hayes’s consistent attitude and leadership.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think our communication has really stepped up,” — Tiffany Hayes
- “She’s a great human, and what I love about her is she’s the same person every day,” — Gabby Williams
- “I think we were really just honed into like who we are, what our role is, and where we come in and help out the best,” — Tiffany Hayes
Why It Matters
The victory keeps the Valkyries within striking distance of the league-best Minnesota Lynx and solidifies their playoff positioning as the regular season winds down. Maintaining momentum despite key absences demonstrates the depth that propelled the franchise to a historic inaugural postseason run.
What’s Next
The Valkyries will host the Dallas Wings later this month before facing the Lynx twice in the final stretch, with both matchups slated for August. Securing additional wins could allow Golden State to overtake the Lynx’s league-leading record.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No substantive discrepancies were identified among the sources regarding the game’s outcome, player statistics, or injury status.
