Golden State Erases 16-Point Deficit to Advance in WNBA Playoffs

A Historic Comeback

The Golden State Valkyries are moving on to the WNBA semifinals after a stunning comeback. Golden State overcame a 16-point deficit to beat the Dallas Wings 77-73 on Friday night in a deciding Game 3. Last year, the Valkyries became the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in its inaugural season. Now, they have won a playoff series for the first time.

The second-seeded Valkyries struggled early in the third quarter. They missed nine straight shots, allowing Dallas to use a 9-0 run to take a 53-37 lead.

But Golden State fought back. Gabby Williams scored 19 points, with 17 of those points coming after halftime. She hit a go-ahead jumper with 1:17 remaining to put the Valkyries in front. Veronica Burton also had a huge game, finishing with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. Tiffany Hayes added 18 points off the bench to help fuel the rally.

Late Drama Seals the Win

The final seconds of the game were filled with tension. With 13.1 seconds left and Golden State leading by one, Williams jumped back inbounds to grab her own missed shot. The play was originally ruled Dallas' ball.

Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase successfully challenged the call, securing possession for her team. Nakase was so overwhelmed during the game that she fell to her knees on the sideline. She eventually walked off the court holding her face as her team celebrated.

Before the game, Nakase said her team promised to "play the best four quarters of our lives." They needed every bit of that effort to overcome Dallas star Arike Ogunbowale. Ogunbowale scored 30 points, while teammate Paige Bueckers added 17 points on 3-for-14 shooting.

What it means for the next game

Las Vegas Aces at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Sun, 04 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 46%, Las Vegas Aces win 54%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 81, Las Vegas Aces 81. Our safest pick: Valkyries +8.5.

Las Vegas Aces at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Thu, 08 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 54%, Las Vegas Aces win 46%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 83, Las Vegas Aces 81. Our safest pick: Valkyries +5.5.