Golden State Valkyries overcome 16-point deficit to defeat Dallas Wings and advance to WNBA semifinals

<p>The Golden State Valkyries have achieved notable success in their second season, including recognition from Forbes as the WNBA’s highest-valued expansion franchise. The team reached the playoffs in its inaugural season in 2025, becoming the first expansion franchise in league history to do so. They also sold out every regular season home game, averaging over 18,000 fans per game, setting a league attendance record.</p><p>On Friday night, the Valkyries secured their first playoff series victory in franchise history by defeating the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of the series, overcoming a 16-point deficit. Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 19 points.</p><p>The decisive moment of the game occurred with 13.1 seconds left, as Williams managed to secure her own missed shot after a call was initially ruled in favor of Dallas. Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase successfully challenged the call, which helped maintain their one-point lead.</p><p>After the game, Nakase required assistance to leave the court following her team's celebration. Arike Ogunbowale of the Wings scored 30 points, contributing significantly to her team's performance, including a previous 45-point game in an overtime win.</p><p>Williams scored most of her points after halftime, while Veronica Burton added 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. The Valkyries will now face the defending WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals.</p><p>Tiffany Hayes contributed 18 points off the bench, and Kiah Stokes recorded 13 rebounds for Dallas. Paige Bueckers scored 17 points but had a shooting performance of 3 for 14, making all 10 of her free throws.</p><p>Before the game, Nakase emphasized the importance of a complete performance, stating, "We made a promise to ourselves we are going to play the best four quarters of our lives." The Valkyries are set to host the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday for Game 1 of the semifinals, while the Atlanta Dream will host the New York Liberty in the other semifinal matchup.</p><p><i>The Associated Press contributed to this report.</i></p>