The Golden State Valkyries wrapped up their inaugural WNBA regular season on Thursday night in Minneapolis with a 72–53 loss to the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx. This officially locked them in as the No. 8 seed in the 2025 WNBA Playoffs.
It wasn’t the ending fans in violet and gold dreamed of. However, make no mistake: this expansion squad has already made history. At 23–21, Golden State becomes the first WNBA expansion franchise to reach the playoffs in its debut season. This feat was fueled by resilience, grit, and the loudest fanbase in the league.
Lynx Hold Serve, Valkyries Look Ahead
Minnesota (28–12), led by superstar Napheesa Collier’s 19 points, showed why they’re title favorites. The Lynx smothered Golden State’s offense by holding the Valks to 28.8% shooting and forcing 21 turnovers. The Valkyries, who started 0-for-17 from deep, clawed back behind Iliana Rupert’s back-to-back threes. This trimmed the deficit to four heading into the fourth quarter. But the Lynx responded with a 12-0 run to slam the door.
Key Notes for Golden State
- Veronica Burton, Kaila Charles, and Iliana Rupert each scored 8 points.
- Tiffany Hayes’ status remains in question as she rehabs a knee injury.
- Rupert left late with an ankle tweak. However, Head Coach Natalie Nakase emphasized postgame that the playoff stage is the real test.
“This group has fought through everything — injuries, lineup changes, the weight of being an expansion team. We’re in the playoffs, and now it’s about taking our shot against the best.” – Coach Nakase
What’s Next
The WNBA Playoffs are here, and the Valkyries remain in the Midwest for a first-round clash against the No. 1 seed Lynx. Game 1 tips off Sunday, Sept. 14 at Target Center. The series then shifts back to the Bay for a historic home playoff game at SAP Center in San Jose.
