Golden State Valkyries Soar to Victory Against Las Vegas Aces
The newly minted WNBA expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries, showcased their potential in an electrifying game against the Las Vegas Aces, marking an impressive end to their four-game losing streak. With a decisive score of 95-68 on Saturday, the Valkyries not only secured a much-needed victory but also established a franchise record for points in a game.
Standout Performances
Leading the charge for Golden State was Kayla Thornton, who delivered an outstanding performance with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Thornton’s dynamic play was complemented by a robust showing from Veronica Burton and Monique Billings, both of whom achieved double-doubles of their own. Burton not only scored 14 points but also dished out a career-high 12 assists, pairing her effort with 7 rebounds. Meanwhile, Billings contributed 14 points and secured 11 boards, along with impressive defensive stats, including 2 steals and 2 blocks.
Cecilia Zandalasini also made headlines with a career-best 18 points, while former Aces player Kate Martin added a solid 12 points, further fueling the Valkyries’ offensive onslaught. The collective effort from this roster illustrated a team chemistry that has been building throughout the season.
Taking Control of the Game
The Valkyries wasted no time asserting control over the game. After establishing momentum late in the first quarter, they never looked back. Thornton initiated the surge by assisting Martin for a go-ahead layup, then followed it up with a three-pointer that extended their lead to double digits. By the end of a blistering second quarter, which saw the team score an astonishing 34 points, the Valkyries had built an imposing 49-28 lead heading into halftime. Martin’s buzzer-beater three encapsulated the first half’s excitement and set the tone for the remainder of the game.
Aces Struggle to Find Their Rhythm
On the flip side, the Las Vegas Aces faced significant challenges in their offensive execution. Their shooting woes were evident, as they managed only 29% from the field in the first half, culminating in a dismal overall shooting percentage of 36%. The Aces’ struggles extended to beyond the arc, where they netted just 6 of 25 attempts.
Despite these setbacks, A’ja Wilson continued to be a cornerstone for the Aces, leading the team with 17 points. Chelsea Gray contributed 16 points, and rookie Aaliyah Nye was a bright spot off the bench, scoring a season-high 13 points, including three three-pointers. However, these individual efforts were not enough to overcome the Valkyries’ comprehensive team performance.
Coach’s Post-Game Reflections
In the wake of the defeat, Aces head coach Becky Hammon didn’t mince words during her post-game reflections. She expressed her frustrations candidly, stating, “It was a good old-fashioned a** whooping, and there’s no other way to do it. This is just really one of the worst games I’ve seen from us.” Her remarks underscore the importance of accountability and the need for the team to regroup as they look forward to future matchups.
Looking Ahead
The Aces now turn their attention to a crucial upcoming game against the LA Sparks, set to take place in the familiar surroundings of the Michelob Ultra Arena. This matchup presents an immediate opportunity for the Aces to rebound and regain their footing in the competitive landscape of the WNBA.
Stay Updated
As the WNBA season progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups. Be sure to stay tuned to Vegas Sports Today for ongoing coverage of the Las Vegas Aces and their journey throughout the season.