Valkyries Take 2-0 Series Lead 83-81 | Semifinal Game 2 vs. Las Vegas Aces | October 7, 2026

The Golden State Valkyries built a 17 point second half lead and needed every bit of it to survive a furious comeback from the Las Vegas Aces, holding on for an 83 81 win in Game 2 of the WNBA semifinals. The victory gives Golden State a 2 0 series lead and puts the franchise one win away from the Finals in just its second season.

Golden State led the entire way until Chelsea Gray hit a corner three to make it 74 74 with 2:10 left, and A'ja Wilson briefly gave Las Vegas its only lead with a layup. Then Gabby Williams, who finished with 20 points, answered with a midrange jumper to tie the game, and Veronica Burton drained a deep three from the wing with 41.5 seconds left to put the Valkyries ahead for good. Burton scored only eight points on the night, but her shot was the biggest of the game. Tiffany Hayes led Golden State with 21 points off the bench, while Wilson paced the Aces with 24.

The finish was just as wild. Kayla Thornton knocked down two free throws to restore a three point lead, and after Las Vegas fought for the final rebound, Kiah Stokes blocked Gray's shot with three seconds left. Burton secured the loose ball and dribbled out the clock as Ballhalla erupted. Head Coach Natalie Nakase said the staff has decided to foul when leading by three late, trusting the team's free throw shooters and managing timeouts and substitutions with composure.

The series resumes Friday night at 6:30 p.m. in Las Vegas.

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Game Recap | Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, Tiffany Hayes | Las Vegas Aces | 2026