Full Breakdown
Valkyries Rally from 16-Point Deficit to Secure First-Ever Playoff Series Win
By Drooid · · How we work
Background & Context
The Golden State Valkyries entered their second WNBA season after becoming the league’s first expansion franchise to reach the playoffs in 2025. Their rapid rise included record attendance and a top-tier valuation from Forbes. In the 2026 first-round series against the Dallas Wings, the Valkyries trailed by 16 points early in the third quarter before mounting a decisive comeback that clinched the series 2-1.
Key Figures
- Natalie Nakase – Valkyries head coach, who challenged the pivotal replay review.
- Gabby Williams – Forward, scored 19 points, including the go-ahead jumper with 1:17 left.
- Veronica Burton – Forward, posted 16 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.
- Arike Ogunbowale – Wings guard, tallied 30 points in the deciding game after a 45-point effort in Game 2.
- Becky Hammon – Las Vegas Aces head coach, providing perspective on the upcoming semifinals.
Timeline
- Game 3 – Friday night: Valkyries down 53-37 early in the third quarter (16-point deficit).
- Mid-third quarter: Burton’s layup narrows the gap to 61-59.
- Late third: Williams hits two three-pointers, keeping Golden State within striking distance.
- Final minute: Williams secures her own missed inbound, a play overturned after Nakase’s challenge, and then nails a 17-footer with 1:17 remaining to give a one-point lead.
- Final seconds: Williams adds four free throws, sealing a 77-73 victory and the series win.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Golden State Valkyries 77, Dallas Wings 73.
- Gabby Williams: 19 points (all but two after halftime).
- Veronica Burton: 16 points, 10 rebounds, six assists.
- Kaila Charles: 10 points, including a tying three-pointer with 6:51 left.
- Kiah Stokes: 13 rebounds, league-low 75 points allowed per game in the regular season.
- Arike Ogunbowale: 30 points, following a playoff-record 45-point performance in Game 2.
- The Valkyries became the second-seeded team to win a playoff series in franchise history.
Why It Matters
The victory marks the Valkyries’ first playoff-series win and advances them to the semifinals against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces. Their comeback demonstrates the depth and resilience that propelled the expansion team from inaugural-season playoff entry to a legitimate contender in just two years.
Official Statements & Responses
She also warned that “it’s not going to get easier with either team that we face.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “We got one at home, and we got to bring our best,” — Natalie Nakase, valkyries coach
- “I know she was heartbroken; she couldn’t get out there and physically get it done,” — Becky Hammon, aces head coach
- “It’s not going to get easier with either team that we face,” — Becky Hammon, aces head coach
- “If I want to continue to be the best and be on the best team and play with the best players, I’ve got to hold my end of the stick,” — A’ja Wilson
What’s Next
The Valkyries will host the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of the semifinals at Chase Center on Sunday, with the winner advancing to the WNBA Finals. The Aces, having rested after their first-round victory, aim to defend their championship title.