WNBA Game Preview: Chicago Sky (4-10) vs. Golden State Valkyries (7-7)

Match Significance

This Sky vs Valkyries WNBA 2025 matchup features two teams trending in different directions. The expansion Valkyries have already matched the win total of the 2008 Dream (the last expansion team to remain active) and are pushing for a .500 record. Meanwhile, Chicago is looking to build momentum after snapping a three-game skid with a win over the Sparks.

Golden State Valkyries – Team Overview

Record: 7-7 (5-3 home)

Last Game: Lost 81-78 vs New York Liberty

Head Coach: Natalie Nakase

Key Players: Kayla Thornton, Kate Martin, Temi Fagbenle

Strengths

Top-five defense in the WNBA (77.4 points allowed per game)

Kayla Thornton is averaging 14.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.7 SPG

Kate Martin is emerging as a clutch scorer (21 points vs Liberty)

Concerns

Inconsistent late-game execution

Shooting just 39.8% from the field as a team

Still adjusting to roster changes after EuroBasket departures

Path to Victory

Golden State must continue to pressure the perimeter, limit Angel Reese’s second-chance points, and get scoring from Thornton and Martin. If Fagbenle is fully reintegrated, her interior presence could be a difference-maker.

Chicago Sky – Team Overview

Record: 4-10 (2-6 away)

Last Game: Won 97-86 vs Los Angeles Sparks

Head Coach: Teresa Weatherspoon

Key Players: Angel Reese, Ariel Atkins, Hailey Van Lith

Strengths

Angel Reese leads the WNBA in rebounding (11.9 RPG) and double-doubles

Team ranks 6th in assists per game (19.8 APG)

Shot 53.5% from the field in their last win

Concerns

Kamilla Cardoso (12.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG) is out for national team duty

Defensive struggles: allowing 85.8 PPG over last 10 games

Inconsistent perimeter shooting (30.4% from three)

Path to Victory

Chicago must dominate the glass, push the pace, and get efficient scoring from Reese and Atkins. Van Lith’s playmaking will be crucial in Cardoso’s absence.

Head-to-Head & Trends

First-ever meeting between the Sky and Valkyries

Recent Form:

Valkyries: 5-5 in last 10

Sky: 4-6 in last 10

Betting Line: Golden State -3.5 Over/Under: 158.5 (projected)

Tactical Insight & Prediction

Expect a physical battle in the paint between Reese and Fagbenle, with both teams looking to control tempo. Golden State’s defense and home-court edge give them the upper hand, but if Reese dominates the boards and Atkins gets hot, Chicago could steal one.