Quick Read
- The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 82-73.
- Carla Leite scored 19 points, while Janelle Salaün added 18 and 7 rebounds.
- The Valkyries had their best shooting game of the season, hitting 41.5% from the field.
- After a 20-point lead, the Valkyries held off a late Sparks comeback.
- Golden State’s next game is against the New York Liberty on Tuesday.
Golden State Valkyries Secure Crucial Win Over Sparks
The Golden State Valkyries found their offensive rhythm on Friday night, defeating the Los Angeles Sparks 82-73 at the Crypto.com Arena. This victory marked a significant improvement for the Valkyries, who had struggled in their earlier games this season. The team showcased their best shooting performance yet, connecting on 41.5% of their field goals and 31% from beyond the arc.
Key Performances Propel Valkyries to Victory
Carla Leite and Janelle Salaün were instrumental in the Valkyries’ win. Leite led the team with 19 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting, while Salaün contributed 18 points and seven rebounds in just her second WNBA game. Salaün, a French international, scored 13 of her 18 points in the first half, setting the tone for the team’s offensive surge.
“We had a 20-point lead, but of course they were going to come back,” Salaün noted after the game. “I think we were expecting them to have a run, but we stayed composed and showed we can close out games.”
Strong Start Sets the Tone
The Valkyries trailed by two points after the first quarter but erupted in the second with an 18-0 run. Temi Fágbénlé capped the scoring spree with a mid-range jumper, giving Golden State a comfortable lead. Kate Martin added to the momentum, sinking a three-pointer from the top of the key to push the lead to 17 points. By halftime, the Valkyries were ahead 49-35, having shot 50% from the field in the first half.
Overcoming a Late Surge from the Sparks
Golden State extended their lead to 20 points late in the third quarter, thanks to a clutch three-pointer from Leite. However, the Sparks mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to just five points. Despite the pressure, the Valkyries remained composed and made critical plays down the stretch to secure the win.
Los Angeles’ Dearica Hamby was a standout performer for the Sparks, posting an impressive 25 points and 16 rebounds. However, Sparks guard Kelsey Plum, who had scored 37 points in their previous meeting, was limited to 16 points on 6-of-18 shooting.
Looking Ahead
With this win, the Valkyries improve their record and gain momentum heading into their next game against the New York Liberty on Tuesday. The team will aim to build on their improved shooting and strong defensive efforts as they continue their road trip.
The Valkyries’ victory over the Sparks demonstrates their potential to compete at a high level this season. With emerging stars like Leite and Salaün, the team looks poised for further success.
Source: Eastbaytimes, Hindustantimes