The Golden State Valkyries are back in San Jose for a historic moment — their first-ever home playoff game at SAP Center. After a groundbreaking inaugural season, the Valks are ready to defend home court against the Minnesota Lynx on Wednesday night at 10:00 p.m. ET. The Bay Area crowd is expected to be electric, giving the Valkyries the energy boost they need with their season on the line. This pivotal Golden State Valkyries playoff game marks a significant milestone.
Short-Handed but Never Broken
Unfortunately, the Valkyries will be without two of their key stars: Tiffany Hayes and Kayla Thornton. Their absence is keenly felt, especially during this crucial Golden State Valkyries playoff game.
- Tiffany Hayes, a former WNBA All-Star, has missed the last nine games with a knee injury. She averaged 11.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists this season, shooting an impressive 41.8% from the field, 40.6% from three, and 80% from the line. Her veteran scoring and leadership would have been huge for Golden State in the postseason.
- Kayla Thornton, who earned her first career All-Star nod this season, had season-ending knee surgery in July. In just 22 games, she was a force, averaging 14.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Her defensive versatility and toughness are irreplaceable, and fans can only imagine how much more dominant this team could have been if she stayed healthy.
Even without Hayes and Thornton, the Valkyries’ depth, coaching, and relentless hustle carried them all year long through games like the Golden State Valkyries playoff game.
Historic Season, Historic Night
From day one, Golden State has defied the odds. Despite injuries, this team broke records, built a massive Bay Area fanbase, and proved that San Jose is a true WNBA city. Wednesday’s Game 2 is more than just a playoff matchup — it’s a celebration of everything this team and its fans have built together in year one.
For Valkyries fans in San Jose, the Bay Area, and across California, this game is about pride, resilience, and writing another chapter in history. The Valkyries aren’t just fighting for a playoff win — they’re fighting for the foundation of a dynasty in the Golden State Valkyries playoff game.
What to Expect vs. the Lynx
The Minnesota Lynx are a battle-tested opponent, but the home-court advantage at SAP Center could be the X-factor. Expect Golden State to lean on their fast-paced style, defensive grit, and passionate fan support to level the series.
If the Valkyries can lock in, execute, and channel the energy of their roaring home crowd, Wednesday night could end with their first-ever WNBA playoff victory.
