Valkyries Hold Off Spirited Mercury Comeback, 87–81

WNBA · June 9, 2026 · Golden State

Photo by Vaughn Mendoza

It wasn't clean, but it was enough. The Golden State Valkyries fended off a determined Phoenix Mercury comeback to win 87–81 at home, with Gabby Williams and Veronica Burton delivering the performances that made it stick.

Golden State built their lead the same way they have all season — a commanding second quarter, outscoring Phoenix 27–14 to push their advantage to as many as 18 points. But the Mercury refused to fold. Phoenix erupted for 29 points in the third quarter, cutting the deficit and forcing the Valkyries to hold on for dear life in the fourth. They did, outscoring Phoenix 21–20 down the stretch to seal it.

Williams was the offensive engine, finishing with a game-high 25 points on 47.4% shooting, hitting three of six from deep and attacking the paint relentlessly. Burton matched her step for step with 25 points of her own, drawing a game-high 8 fouls and converting 9-of-11 free throws to go with 8 assists. The two-headed attack gave Phoenix no clean answer all night.

Golden State's free throw line was ultimately the difference. The Valkyries converted 23-of-28 at the stripe — 10 more made free throws than Phoenix — and turned 16 Mercury turnovers into 17 points. Phoenix's Alyssa Thomas was brilliant in a losing effort with 22 points and 9 assists, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Valkyries' composure when it mattered most.

By Margaret Anuran