Golden State Valkyries clinch historic playoff berth
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The Valkyries celebrate Thursday at Chase Center after securing a playoff spot. Photo: Noah Graham / NBAE via Getty Images
The Golden State Valkyries are officially the first WNBA expansion franchise to make the playoffs in an inaugural season.
Why it matters: The team has defied the odds to make history again and again this year, and the fans are here for it. With sellout crowds at all 21 home games, Golden State is looking to build on momentum and go far in the playoffs.
Driving the news: The Valkyries clinched their playoff spot Thursday night after defeating the Dallas Wings 84–80 at Chase Center.
- Despite a strong performance by No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers, the Valkyries bounced back from trailing in the first two quarters, with forward Janelle Salaün sinking three-pointers and point guard Veronica Burton scoring seven clutch points in the game's last 30 seconds.
- Guard Carla Leite also came off the bench to secure 15 points for the team.
- It was the Valkyries' fifth consecutive win and followed victories over the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever. Their 23–18 record puts them at No. 6 in the league.
What they're saying: "It's a testament to all of the work that we put in," Burton said at a post-game presser. "Obviously, there is a long road ahead of us, but [we're] able to sit and enjoy it."
- "I told the girls, we intentionally picked you guys for this reason. To do things for the first," head coach Natalie Nakase noted, referring to the team's historic accomplishments.
- "I think a lot of people didn't believe in us. But it fires us up," forward Salaün added. "It's better to start as an underdog and just prove to everyone."
Between the lines: Expansion teams usually take a while to find their footing, so the consensus was that the Valkyries would struggle in their first season.
- Despite losing some star players to injuries, the team didn't buckle under new configurations and slowly built a reputation as aggressive players who protect the paint.
What's next: The first round of the playoffs begins Sept. 14. The Valkyries are expected to host their first home playoff game at SAP Center on either Sept. 16 or 17 because of a scheduling conflict at Chase Center.
- Golden State hosts its regular-season finale at 5:30pm Saturday against the Minnesota Lynx, the league's top team, at Chase Center.