The Golden State Valkyries have made an unforgettable entrance into the WNBA. In their very first season, the franchise set a remarkable precedent for future expansion teams, demonstrating that with strong management, smart draft selections, and flawless execution, it is possible to build a highly competitive squad from day one.
Golden State’s postseason debut pitted them against one of the league’s toughest opponents, the Minnesota Lynx, a battle that unfolded as many predicted. Ultimately, the more experienced Lynx eliminated the Valkyries, but not without a fierce fight that pushed the series to its limit. Minnesota, considered the favorite to capture the 2025 championship, had to dig deep to prevail, particularly in the second game of the series.
So close, yet so far in game three
The second matchup, played on Wednesday, September 17, at the SAP Center in San Jose, was an emotional roller coaster. The Valkyries went toe-to-toe with Minnesota, showing resilience and determination throughout the night.
Heading into the decisive fourth quarter, Golden State held a commanding 14-point lead and appeared poised to force a deciding game. However, a combination of mounting pressure, lack of playoff experience, and the Lynx’s elite play ultimately turned the tide. In the closing minutes, Minnesota staged a dramatic comeback, erasing the deficit and narrowly escaping with a 75-74 victory.
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The heartbreaking loss underscored the razor-thin margins that separate contenders from champions. To beat the league’s best, every play must be executed with precision and absolute focus. For Golden State, the lesson was clear: they were tantalizingly close but fell just short of perfection in crucial moments.
The atmosphere inside the SAP Center was electric, with a sellout crowd of 18,543 fans roaring in support. Their unwavering energy symbolized a deep connection between the Bay Area community and this new franchise, laying the foundation for a promising future.
A heartfelt message from Veronica Burton
Guard Veronica Burton delivered a stellar performance with 13 points and nine assists, nearly guiding her team to victory. After the game, she took a moment to express her gratitude to the Valkyries’ passionate supporters.
The way they ride for us, no matter what the outcome is from the very first preseason game. Like it has been a dream come true for all of us before every game, after every game,” Burton said.
She added, “It’s just, you want to give it your all for them because just the love they have for us and the commitment they have to us. For this to be a sellout, it was incredible. Honestly, like it’s so hard to put into words, but we genuinely do appreciate every single one of our fans. Every person that has come out to support us, everyone that watches us on TV. We feel it. We appreciate it. And I hope we made you guys proud, and just can’t wait to continue to grow with that.
With a dream debut season behind them, the Valkyries now look to rest, recover, and prepare for what promises to be an even more exciting 2026 campaign.
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