GAME 3 Elimination: Golden State Valkyries vs Dallas Wings.
SAN FRANCISCO- The Valkyries put on an outstanding comeback performance from a 16-point deficit to defeat and eliminate the Dallas Wings from playoffs. With a final score of 77-73, the game was full of ups and downs with the Wings leading all four quarters and the Valkyries playing catch-up till the 40-minute mark. The Valkyries came out of a defensive lapse in the first half and relied on hustle and high-pressure shots to fuel their momentum down the stretch. Overall, the Valkyries shot 31% 3PT and 35% FG with 20 second-chance points and 31 points off the bench.
STANDOUT PLAYERS- Veronica Burton and Gabby Williams
Veronica Burton emptied the tank last night, bringing all the energy on defense and offense. In addition to finishing with a double-double (16 PTS and 10 rebounds), Burton made momentum-changing plays, diving for loose balls and taking a tough charge on Ogunbowale, getting her in foul trouble during crucial minutes of the game. Alongside Burton, Gabby Williams fired up in the second half, making high-pressure shots in crunch time to close out the game for the Valkyries. Williams finished with 19 PTS (3-6 3PT, 6-17 FG), 4 rebounds, and 2 steals. In the final seconds of the game, the Valkyries successfully challenged an out of bounds call to gain the last possession, credited to William’s tactical rebound and just being at the right place at the right time. William’s final dagger to finish the Wings were her clutch free throws to make it a two possession game with no time left for the Wings to advance. Another noteworthy player who changed the momentum of the game was Tiffany Hayes with 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 steal.
NEXT UP- The Valkyries will face the Las Vegas Aces at home on Sunday, October 4th at 1 PM PT.