The Golden State Valkyries have reached the WNBA Finals for the first time, completing a three-game semifinal sweep of the defending champion Las Vegas Aces with an 87-77 overtime victory in Game 3 on Friday. The result sends Golden State to the championship series in only its second season.
Las Vegas led by nine points at halftime, but Golden State changed the game with a 17-0 run in the third quarter. The Aces battled back, and the teams finished regulation tied at 71. The Valkyries then outscored Las Vegas 16-6 in overtime, making all eight of their free throws in the extra period.
Kayla Thornton led Golden State with 18 points, while Gabby Williams scored 16 and hit a crucial jumper late in overtime. Kiah Stokes contributed 11 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks as the Valkyries' defense helped seal the series.
Golden State will face the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Finals, with Game 1 scheduled for October 17. The Valkyries have home-court advantage, and both teams will be competing for their first WNBA championship.
Reporting sources: Sport | The Guardian, “Golden State Valkyries vanquish Las Vegas Aces to reach WNBA finals in second season” · CBS Sports Headlines, “Golden State Valkyries reach WNBA Finals: How second-year franchise made unprecedented run”.