Golden State Valkyries dethrone Las Vegas, head to WNBA Finals
San Francisco Chronicle • • sports
Key Points:
- The Golden State Valkyries secured a sweep against the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces with an 87-77 overtime victory in Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals, advancing to the Finals in just their second season.
- Key players for the Valkyries included Kayla Thornton with 18 points, Gabby Williams with 16 points, and Kiah Stokes with a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds, while the Aces' A’ja Wilson led with 21 points.
- The Valkyries' depth and defensive strength were pivotal, as their bench outscored the Aces' reserves 27-13, and they outscored Las Vegas 16-6 in overtime, capitalizing on the fatigue of the Aces' starters.
- The Finals will begin next Saturday at Chase Center, with the Valkyries facing the Atlanta Dream, who eliminated New York earlier in the day.
- Head coach Natalie Nakase praised her team's collective fight and depth, emphasizing their "Strength in Numbers" approach and the high level of effort sustained throughout the game.
