Golden State Valkyries Advance to WNBA Finals After Overtime Win Over Aces

Valkyries Clinch WNBA Finals Berth with Overtime Triumph

The Golden State Valkyries made WNBA history by becoming the quickest expansion team to secure a spot in the league’s Finals. On Friday night, they swept the defending champion Las Vegas Aces 87-77 in overtime in Game 3 of the semifinal series. The dramatic victory took place in Las Vegas and marks a significant achievement for the Valkyries, who are only in their second season.

Key Performers Propel Golden State

Kayla Thornton led the Valkyries with 18 points. Gabby Williams provided a strong contribution with 16 points, including eight during the crucial overtime period. Former Las Vegas Aces players Kiah Stokes and Tiffany Hayes also made an impact, each scoring 11 points. In addition, Stokes grabbed 10 rebounds, helping Golden State establish a strong presence on the boards.

Las Vegas Aces’ Effort Falls Short

The Las Vegas Aces, seeded third after winning three of the past four WNBA championships, came up short despite a notable performance from A’ja Wilson. Wilson, who was honored before the game for winning her fifth MVP, scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. She joined DeWanna Bonner as the only players in postseason history with 1,300 points and 600 rebounds. Jackie Young added 18 points and Chelsea Gray finished with 17 for the Aces.

Game Highlights and Turning Points

Golden State’s 17-point run during the game pushed them ahead 53-47, limiting the Aces to just seven points in the quarter. The Aces, however, managed to rally and were ahead by six points late before the Valkyries mounted a comeback. Gabby Williams stole the ball from Wilson, and Kayla Thornton converted a transition layup to tie the score at 69-69 with under two minutes remaining. Veronica Burton then put Golden State ahead with a short floater, but Chelsea Gray assisted Jackie Young to tie the game again, forcing overtime.

Dominant Overtime Secures Victory

In overtime, the Valkyries took control, outscoring the Aces 16-6. Williams’s performance in the extra period proved decisive, helping Golden State close out the sweep. With this win, the Valkyries not only advanced to the WNBA Finals but also secured home-court advantage.

WNBA Finals Matchup Set

The Valkyries, seeded second, will host No. 4 seed Atlanta Dream in the upcoming WNBA Finals, starting October 17. The Dream advanced after sweeping New York earlier the same night. With both the Valkyries and Dream winning their respective semifinal series 3-0, teams holding a 2-0 lead in WNBA playoff history now have an undefeated 22-0 record.

Source: kron4.com.