💜⚔️ The Golden State Valkyries keep making history. On Sunday night at Chase Center in San Francisco, rookie center Iliana Rupert erupted for a career-high 21 points, splashing in five triples as the Valkyries knocked off the Indiana Fever 75–63. The win moves Golden State (21–18) one step closer to clinching a WNBA playoff berth in their inaugural season.
🔥 Rupert’s Breakout Game
The French center was unstoppable from deep, anchoring a Valkyries offense that went nuclear from the arc:
- Rupert: 21 PTS | 5 3PM | 7–12 FG
- Valkyries: 12-for-19 (63%) from three, including a franchise-record 7-for-8 in the first quarter
Rupert’s hot hand gave Golden State an early 25–14 lead, and they never looked back.
Burton the Engine
While Rupert lit up the scoreboard, Veronica Burton controlled the game’s rhythm, dishing out 13 assists and breaking down Indiana’s defense possession after possession. Burton’s playmaking has fueled the Valks’ playoff charge all summer.
Balanced Support
- Janelle Salaün: 10 PTS, hustle plays on both ends
- Kate Martin: 10 PTS, steady scoring off the ball
- Golden State’s defense: held Indiana to just 5-for-15 shooting in the fourth quarter
Playoff Picture
The Valkyries’ win trims their magic number to 3 with five games to go. Golden State now sits 2.5 games ahead of Los Angeles and remains locked in a tight race with Indiana (21–19) and Seattle (22–19) for seeding.
A Strange Start, A Strong Finish
The game began with a bizarre 20-minute delay due to shot clock malfunctions. With temporary clocks set on the baseline, Golden State responded with four straight 3s — setting the tone for the night.
By the fourth quarter, Indiana had clawed within 55–50, but the Valkyries answered with another barrage, hitting 8 of 12 from deep in the final frame to seal the win.
Up Next
The Valkyries return home to face the New York Liberty in another high-stakes matchup. Chase Center will be rocking again as Golden State looks to tighten its grip on a historic postseason berth.
💜⚔️ From expansion to contention, Valhalla believes.
