Golden State Valkyries Edge Washington Mystics in Nail-Biting First Franchise Win

On May 21, 2025, the Golden State Valkyries made history by securing their first-ever WNBA victory in a thrilling 76-74 showdown against the Washington Mystics at Chase Center in San Francisco. The game, marked by intense back-and-forth action and a standout performance by guard Veronica Burton, captivated fans and showcased the potential of the league’s newest expansion team. However, the night was also marred by a concerning injury to Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes, raising questions about the team’s depth moving forward. This electrifying matchup highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams and set the stage for an exciting WNBA season.

A Historic Night for the Valkyries

The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest franchise, entered the game with high expectations but no wins under their belt. Facing a Washington Mystics team boasting the league’s second-highest offensive rating and averaging 92 points per game, the Valkyries were underdogs in their home debut. Yet, they rose to the challenge, delivering a performance that had fans on the edge of their seats.

The game was a close contest from the start, with both teams trading leads throughout. By the end of the first half, the Mystics held a slight 25-19 edge, but the Valkyries stayed within striking distance. The turning point came in the fourth quarter, where Veronica Burton took over, scoring 14 of her game-high 22 points, including a clutch jumper that sealed the 76-74 victory. Burton’s stat line was impressive: 22 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and two steals, proving she could be a cornerstone for the young franchise.

The final two minutes were described by the WNBA’s official account as “pure cinema,” with Burton’s late-game heroics stealing the show. Her ability to deliver under pressure not only secured the win but also marked a significant moment for the Valkyries, who celebrated their first triumph in front of an energized home crowd.

Injury Scare Overshadows Victory

While the Valkyries celebrated their historic win, the game was not without its challenges. Late in the second quarter, guard Tiffany Hayes suffered a frightening injury after taking an accidental arm to the face from Mystics forward Shakira Austin. Hayes, a key player for Golden State, went down and remained on the court for several minutes, causing concern among players, coaches, and fans. She was eventually helped off the court and did not return to the game.

According to reports, Hayes gave a thumbs-up to the crowd as she left, signaling she was alert, but the team has yet to release an official update on her condition. The incident added tension to an already intense game, with Austin receiving her third technical foul in two games for the contact. Fans and analysts alike are now waiting to see how the Valkyries will adjust if Hayes, a veteran presence, is sidelined for future games.

Mystics’ Strong Start Falls Short

The Washington Mystics came into the game with momentum, aiming for a 3-0 start to the season. Bolstered by their high-powered offense, led by players like Brittney Sykes and recent draft picks Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and Georgia Amoore, the Mystics were favored to dominate. Their roster, which includes rising star Shakira Austin and veteran Stefanie Dolson, has been praised for its depth and versatility, earning high marks in the 2025 WNBA Draft evaluations.

Despite their offensive prowess, the Mystics struggled defensively, allowing 87.5 points per game on average. This vulnerability was evident as the Valkyries capitalized on fast-paced plays and efficient shooting, particularly in the fourth quarter. Julie Vanloo, a former Mystic now playing for the Valkyries, also made her presence felt against her old team, contributing 14 points, including four three-pointers, and adding four rebounds.

The Mystics’ loss highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in closing out tight games. While their offense remained strong, their inability to contain Burton in the final minutes proved costly. Still, with their talented roster and early-season success, the Mystics remain a formidable team in the Eastern Conference.

The Valkyries’ Promising Start

For the Golden State Valkyries, this win was more than just a number in the standings—it was a statement. As an expansion team, the Valkyries faced skepticism about their ability to compete with established franchises. Their draft selections, including Justė Jocytė in the first round and Shyanne Sellers in the third, were seen as long-term investments rather than immediate impact players. However, the team’s performance against the Mystics showed they could compete now.

Sellers, who was expected to be drafted earlier by the Mystics but landed with the Valkyries as the 17th pick, added depth to the roster. Her recent engagement announcement added a personal layer of celebration to her professional milestone, making her a fan favorite. Meanwhile, the team’s fast-paced style, ranking among the top five in the league, helped compensate for their lack of a go-to scorer, as noted by analysts on X.

The Valkyries’ success in this game suggests they could surprise opponents this season. While their draft class received mixed reviews, with some analysts questioning how their players will mesh, the team’s grit and determination were undeniable in this matchup.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Valkyries’ victory sets the tone for their inaugural season, giving them momentum as they build chemistry and establish their identity. Coach Natalie Nakase will likely focus on maintaining the team’s high-energy style while addressing concerns about depth, especially if Hayes’ injury requires extended recovery time. The team’s next challenge will be to replicate this performance against other Western Conference rivals, such as the Dallas Wings or Seattle Storm.

For the Mystics, the loss is a minor setback in an otherwise strong start. With three top-six draft picks in 2025, including Iriafen, a standout forward from USC, the team is in rebuilding mode but well-positioned for success. Coach Eric Thibault will likely emphasize defensive adjustments to prevent late-game collapses, as seen in this matchup. The Mystics’ upcoming games against teams like the Connecticut Sun will test their ability to bounce back.

A New Chapter in WNBA History

The Mystics vs. Valkyries game was more than just a regular-season matchup—it was a glimpse into the WNBA’s evolving landscape. The Valkyries’ historic win, coupled with the Mystics’ continued growth, highlights the league’s depth and competitiveness. Fans on X buzzed with excitement, with posts praising Burton’s clutch performance and expressing hope for Hayes’ recovery. The WNBA’s official account captured the sentiment perfectly, calling the game a “nail-biter” that showcased the league’s rising stars.

This game also underscored the importance of expansion teams like the Valkyries, who bring new energy to the WNBA. As the league continues to grow, moments like these remind fans why women’s basketball is thriving. The Valkyries’ first win is a milestone that will be remembered as the start of something special, while the Mystics’ resilience ensures they’ll remain a team to watch.

As both teams move forward, the focus will be on building on this game’s lessons. For the Valkyries, it’s about proving they belong among the league’s elite. For the Mystics, it’s about refining their game to reclaim their winning streak. One thing is certain: this thrilling matchup has set the stage for an exciting 2025 WNBA season.

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