Golden State Valkyries Make History in Their Inaugural Season!
The Golden State Valkyries have made history in the WNBA, becoming the first expansion team to qualify for the playoffs in their debut season. The achievement was realized after defeating the Dallas Wings with a score of 84-80 at the Chase Center.The encounter was full of emotions, with Veronica Burton facing Paige Bueckers, the number one pick of the 2025 draft, in the final seconds. Burton, with a bold play, achieved a crucial basket that extended the Valkyries’ lead.“Many people didn’t believe in us, and that ignites us,” declared Janelle Salaun. “It’s a good thing. It’s better to start as the underdogs and prove it to everyone. I know the girls on this team have always been in this position. We are used to it and we did it as a group.”
Janelle Salaun
Burton finished with 15 points and five assists, while Salaun led the team with 19 points. Carla Leite contributed 15 points and an impressive net rating of +28. After the final whistle, the players celebrated with commemorative shirts and shared the joy with the fans, who remained in the stands.“I don’t even know what I was feeling… I was just trying to score at the crucial moment,” Burton said. “I wasn’t looking for the foul, I just wanted to finish. It was a great help that everyone instilled confidence in me.”
Veronica Burton
Since their arrival, the Valkyries have defied expectations, building their path with determination and unity. The team, made up of experienced players and young prospects, has shown that they are ready to write their own history. They have broken records, including being the first team in the history of women’s sports to surpass 15,000 season ticket deposits and lead the league in attendance, with all 22 home games sold out.“We’re not done yet,” Nakase stated. “We have to stay present. If you want to keep moving forward, let’s stay focused.”
Natalie Nakase
Due to a scheduling conflict, the first home playoff game will be played at SAP Center in San Jose. Despite this, the team is confident in the support of its fans.“This is incredible,” Burton commented. “It’s a testament to the work we’ve done, to the confidence the coaching staff has had in us. We are enjoying it. There’s still a long way to go, but we are enjoying the moment.”
Veronica Burton
The Valkyries’ position in the standings and their opponent in the first round of the playoffs are yet to be determined. They are currently in sixth place, one game behind the New York Liberty. The end of the regular season promises to be exciting.“We have faith that our fans will continue to support us. Wherever we play, we will bring our basketball. We are excited to compete,” Burton assured.
Veronica Burton
