The Golden State Valkyries have reached the WNBA semi-finals for the first time after overturning a 16-point deficit to beat the Dallas Wings 77-73 in a decisive Game 3 at Chase Center.
Gabby Williams led the comeback with 19 points, scoring 17 after half-time, while Tiffany Hayes added 18. Veronica Burton contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds and six assists as the Valkyries secured the first play-off series victory in franchise history.
Dallas appeared in control after opening up a sizeable second-half advantage, but Golden State gradually fought its way back into the contest. The Valkyries levelled the game at 65-65 midway through the final quarter before taking the lead through Burton in transition.
The Wings threatened to pull away again behind Arike Ogunbowale, who had scored a WNBA play-off record 45 points in Game 2. But consecutive baskets from Williams restored Golden State’s advantage, before she converted four important free throws in the closing stages.
The Valkyries outscored Dallas 23-14 in the fourth quarter and were backed by a sell-out crowd of 18,064 at Chase Center. Kiah Stokes added 13 rebounds and three blocks, while Golden State’s bench outscored the Wings’ reserves 31-8.
Golden State will now host the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of the semi-finals on Sunday. The best-of-five series begins at Chase Center, with the Aces entering as the defending champions.
