Gabby Williams’ 25-point performance powered the Golden State Valkyries to a crucial 71-60 victory over the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of their WNBA semi-final series, turning the Sellout crowd at Chase Center into a sea of violet as the Valkyries seized early control of the best-of-five contest.
Williams Steals the Show in Victory
Playing before an electric home crowd chanting her name, Williams delivered a masterclass in efficiency, scoring 18 of her 25 points in the first half on 6-of-10 shooting. Her three-pointer with 5:43 remaining in the opening half broke a tie and gave Golden State their first lead of the game, 32-23. The Valkyries’ defence held strong throughout, limiting Las Vegas to just 33.9% shooting while posting a respectable 37.7% themselves.
Supporting cast member Aminata Gueye provided a spark off the bench, contributing nine points in over 12 minutes after signing with the team following her FIBA World Cup stint with Williams and Janelle Salaun. Salaun’s arrival was met with a rousing ovation when she checked onto the court with 2:25 left in the first quarter, having been named WNBA sixth man of the year earlier that day.
Injury Concerns for Aces Heading into Game 2
Las Vegas suffered a significant blow when guard Jewell Loyd left the contest in the third quarter with a left leg injury. The team confirmed she was undergoing evaluation, casting doubt over her availability for the crucial Game 2 showdown. A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 24 points in defeat, while Chelsea Gray added 16. The loss marks a challenging start for Las Vegas, who must now navigate potential roster questions without their star guard.
Coach Nakase’s Return Adds Momentum
Meanwhile, Golden State head coach Natalie Nakase made a triumphant return to the sideline after receiving medical attention following their first-round clincher against Dallas. Nakase collapsed on the bench with 1:40 remaining in that 77-73 victory and was subsequently examined by a doctor during the team’s day off. Her presence and leadership will be vital as the Valkyries look to maintain their home court advantage.
Dream’s Veteran Addition Proves Difference-Maker
Across the league, the Atlanta Dream discovered exactly what their playoff run needed in 39-year-old forward DeWanna Bonner. With leading scorer Allisha Gray nursing a left hand injury, Bonner stepped up spectacularly, recording 23 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals in 32 minutes-plus. Her clutch shooting in the fourth quarter – including a key three-pointer that restored Atlanta’s double-digit lead – helped the Dream secure a 92-82 win over the New York Liberty.
“I’m still learning a lot,” Bonner admitted. “My head is always spinning, because I’m learning new people, learning the plays, learning the city, but they just made it easy.” The veteran’s experience proved invaluable as she guarded multiple positions and made winning plays when it mattered most. Dream coach Karl Smesko praised her ability to adapt: “She guarded people that were MVPs in this league. She moved positions in this game when she hasn’t even been practising really in that position.”
Why it Matters
The Valkyries’ triumph represents more than just an early series lead – it validates their rapid ascent in just their second WNBA season and demonstrates their ability to perform under playoff pressure at home. Meanwhile, the Aces face a critical juncture with Loyd’s injury status uncertain, potentially reshaping their championship defence before it even truly begins. In Atlanta, Bonner’s transformation from bench player to series hero exemplifies how strategic late-season acquisitions can redefine a team’s entire playoff trajectory, proving that experience and adaptability often trump raw star power when championships are on the line.
