San Francisco, CA – In a historic night for the WNBA’s newest franchise, the Valkyries notched their first-ever win with a thrilling 78-72 victory, overcoming adversity and a second-half deficit to cement their place in league history.
Veronica Burton delivered a breakout performance, setting career highs with 22 points and nine rebounds. Her defining moment came just before halftime when she drained a 38-foot buzzer beater. “Just looking for my shot,” Burton said. “That shot was a little lucky, …but to see that go in, just helped me to see a few more go in.”
The game took a tense turn late in the second quarter when starting guard Tiffany Hayes exited with a nose injury after taking a hard foul from Shakira Austin. Hayes did not return, and her absence was deeply felt as the Valkyries struggled to keep pace heading into the third quarter.
Washington’s Brittney Sykes was electric, pouring in 30 points and sinking two clutch free throws with 1:58 remaining to briefly give the Mystics the lead. But the Valkyries responded with poise, knocking down all the big shots in the final minutes—despite the loss of Hayes—to seize control and close out the game.
Trailing by seven midway through the third, the Valkyries responded with resilience, closing on a 12-4 run to snatch a one-point lead heading into the fourth. Their grit and defensive intensity ignited the crowd and shifted momentum.
Valkyries – Photo by Trisha Victorio / fi360 News
Despite missing a key veteran, the Valkyries leaned on teamwork and emerging stars to battle through adversity. The win not only marks a historic milestone but showcases the potential and depth of a promising young team. As the franchise celebrates its first victory, the foundation is clearly set for a competitive future.
Reflecting on the win, Burton added, “I think these are the moments you don’t really forget… just the emotions behind it, the feeling, and just embracing this moment.”
