The Golden State Valkyries secured their place in the WNBA Finals by sweeping the Las Vegas Aces in a closely contested series, concluding with an 87-77 overtime victory on Friday night. This achievement marks a rapid ascent for Golden State, which in just its second season became the fastest expansion franchise to reach the finals, following last season’s milestone as the first expansion team to make the playoffs.
Kayla Thornton led the Valkyries with 18 points, contributing significantly to the team’s balanced defensive effort that helped contain the defending champions. The Valkyries, seeded second, will now host the No. 4 Atlanta Dream in the finals beginning October 17. Earlier Friday, the Dream completed a sweep of the New York Liberty, continuing the postseason trend that teams holding a 2-0 series lead have a perfect 22-0 record in advancing.
This elimination marked the first time a Las Vegas Aces team coached by Becky Hammon has been swept in the playoffs. The last time the franchise experienced a series sweep was during the 2020 WNBA Finals under coach Bill Laimbeer, when they were defeated by Seattle.
The Valkyries’ victory carried a distinct Las Vegas connection. Natalie Nakase, formerly an assistant coach for the Aces, now leads Golden State as head coach. Nakase, alongside former Las Vegas players Kiah Stokes and Tiffany Hayes, played key roles in the Valkyries’ win, each scoring 11 points. Stokes also contributed with 10 rebounds.
Ahead of the game, Nakase acknowledged the personal significance of facing her former team. “I actually tried to walk through the tunnel with my head down because there are so many people I consider family,” she said, expressing respect for Hammon, who hired her and welcomed her into the WNBA coaching ranks.
Golden State’s familiarity with the Aces’ personnel and systems appeared to be an advantage. With this milestone, the Valkyries have solidified themselves as a formidable contender poised to challenge Atlanta for the championship in the upcoming WNBA Finals.