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Valkyries Clinch Playoff Berth With 78-70 Win

8/19/2026

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Summary

Valkyries Clinch Playoffs

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Dallas Wings 78-70 on Monday, clinching a playoff berth.
The win raised the Valkyries to a 25-9 record, second in the 2026 standings.
The franchise became the first expansion team and fourth to make the playoffs in its first two seasons.
Gabby Williams scored 23 points with seven rebounds as coach Natalie Nakase praised the defense that limited Paige Bueckers to two first-half points.

Summary

Wings Injured

Injuries to Azzi Fudd (out since Aug. 5) and Jessica Shepard (ankle) have left the Wings 1-5 without Fudd this season.
Shepard returned against the Valkyries, scoring four points on 1-of-4 shooting in 26 minutes.
Without Fudd, three-point shooting and rim efficiency fell to 29.7% (from 35.5%) and 60.5% (from 70.2%), respectively.
Dallas leads the Portland Fire by 4.5 games for the final playoff spot and starts a six-game homestand Thursday.

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Valkyries Clinch Playoffs

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Dallas Wings 78-70 on Monday, clinching a playoff berth.
The win raised the Valkyries to a 25-9 record, second in the 2026 standings.
The franchise became the first expansion team and fourth to make the playoffs in its first two seasons.
Gabby Williams scored 23 points with seven rebounds as coach Natalie Nakase praised the defense that limited Paige Bueckers to two first-half points.

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