The Golden State Valkyries travel to Crypto.com Arena to face the Los Angeles Sparks in their first-ever WNBA road game. The Valkyries are coming off their first franchise victory, while the Sparks are looking to bounce back after two straight losses.
Game Overview
- Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM PT
- Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
- Broadcast: ION, WNBA League Pass
- Series Status: Sparks won the first matchup 84-67
Team Breakdown
Los Angeles Sparks (1-2, 1-2 Western Conference)
- Last Game: 89-86 loss vs. Phoenix Mercury
- Key Players:
- Kelsey Plum – Averaging 26.7 PPG, including a 37-point explosion against Golden State in the season opener.
- Azura Stevens – Coming off a 23-point, 17-rebound performance vs. Phoenix.
- Dearica Hamby – A versatile forward averaging 15.3 PPG and 8.0 RPG.
Golden State Valkyries (1-1, 0-1 Western Conference)
- Last Game: 76-74 win vs. Washington Mystics
- Key Players:
- Tiffany Hayes – Led the team with 19 points in the opener, but suffered a nose injury in the last game. Her status is uncertain.
- Janelle Salaun – Made her WNBA debut with 10 points, four rebounds, and a steal vs. Washington.
- Kayla Thornton – A defensive anchor who will be tasked with slowing down Plum.
Key Matchups & Storylines
1. Sparks’ Offensive Firepower vs. Valkyries’ Defense
Los Angeles has been one of the highest-scoring teams, averaging 87.3 PPG, while Golden State has struggled defensively, allowing 84 points in their opener.
2. Plum’s Scoring vs. Valkyries’ Adjustments
Plum torched Golden State for 37 points in their first meeting. Can the Valkyries adjust their defensive schemes to contain her this time?
3. Valkyries’ Road Test
This marks Golden State’s first-ever road game. How will they handle the pressure of playing in a hostile environment?
4. Sparks’ Injury Concerns
Los Angeles is missing Rickea Jackson (concussion), Cameron Brink (ACL recovery), and Rae Burrell (knee). Can their depth hold up against Golden State’s aggressive play?
Prediction & X-Factors
- Likely Outcome: Sparks are favored due to their offensive firepower and home-court advantage.
- X-Factors:
- Hayes’ availability – If she plays, Golden State’s offense will be more dynamic.
- Stevens’ rebounding dominance – Can she control the paint again?
- Valkyries’ defensive adjustments – If they contain Plum, they could pull off an upset.
GAME ODDS
Golden State Valkyries 160
Los Angeles Sparks – 11
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 22, 2025
