In a decisive first‑round playoff matchup on Sunday night, the second‑seeded Golden State Valkyries surged ahead of the Dallas Wings, posting a 104‑80 win that gave them a 1‑0 series lead. The Valkyries’ offense clicked early, outscoring Dallas 37‑11 in the second quarter and establishing a 58‑31 advantage at halftime.
Key performances
Cecilia Zandalasini was the night’s top scorer, pouring in 22 points on 7‑for‑11 shooting, including four three‑pointers. She was ably supported by Gabby Williams, who added 20 points, and veteran forward Tiffany Hayes, who contributed 21 points off the bench. Veronica Burton added a solid 10 points for the Valkyries.
For the Wings, freshman phenom Paige Bueckers put up a valiant 21 points, shooting an efficient 9‑for‑10 from the field and grabbing six rebounds. Despite her effort, Dallas struggled to find rhythm beyond Bueckers, managing only six makes from beyond the arc.
Coaching insights
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase praised the team’s defensive intensity, saying, “When we’re awake we’re ferocious on defense.” She also highlighted the passionate home‑court atmosphere, noting that the upcoming “Ballhalla” environment at Chase Center will be a crucial factor if the series extends to a third game.
Dallas coach emphasized the need for better support around Bueckers, acknowledging that the Wings’ shooting woes—just six of 20 from three‑point range—limited their ability to stay competitive.
Series outlook
Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday in Dallas, giving the Wings a chance to rebound on their home floor. If the series reaches a decisive Game 3, it will return to Chase Center on Friday, where the Valkyries will enjoy a sell‑out crowd dressed in violet, ready to back their team.
The Valkyries entered the postseason after a remarkable inaugural season, becoming the first expansion franchise to reach the playoffs in 2025. They finished the regular season with a 7‑1 record, winning seven of eight games and sweeping the Wings in all four regular‑season meetings this year.
Historical note
This victory also marked Golden State’s first true home playoff game, following a narrow loss to the Minnesota Lynx at San Jose’s SAP Center the previous season. The team’s rapid ascent underscores the growing popularity of women’s basketball on the West Coast and in the broader national market.
Both teams will look to adjust strategies as the series progresses, but the Valkyries’ dominant start gives them a clear advantage heading into the next matchup.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
