WNBA Game Preview: Golden State Valkyries (14-13) vs. Las Vegas Aces (14-14)

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Game Details

Matchup: Golden State Valkyries (14-13) vs Las Vegas Aces (14-14)

Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM ET

Venue: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas, NV

Broadcast: CBS Sports Network, KPIX+ (Bay Area), WNBA League Pass

Game Storylines

Aces Seek Redemption After Historic Loss

The Las Vegas Aces are reeling after suffering the worst home loss in WNBA history, a 111–58 blowout against the Minnesota Lynx. Coach Becky Hammon called the performance “Grade F,” and the team will need a quick turnaround to avoid back-to-back collapses. A’ja Wilson, who leads the team with 21.6 PPG, 9.0 RPG, and 2.3 BPG, will be key to restoring order. The Aces are 8-8 in Western Conference play and have split their season series with Golden State so far.

Valkyries Riding Three-Game Win Streak

The Golden State Valkyries are surging, winning three straight games and posting a 3-1 mark on their current five-game road trip. Despite missing Kayla Thornton (knee) and Monique Billings (ankle), the Valkyries have leaned on Veronica Burton and Iliana Rupert, who combined for 32 points in Friday’s win over Chicago. Golden State leads the Western Conference in rebounds per game (36.2) and averages 9.5 made 3-pointers per game, a key edge over Las Vegas.

Key Stats Comparison

CategoryValkyriesAces
Record14-1314-14
Points Per Game76.682.8
FG%40.1%43.4%
Rebounds/Game36.232.9
3PT Made/Game9.58.1
Top ScorerVeronica Burton (10.9)A’ja Wilson (21.6)
InjuriesThornton, Billings (OUT)Parker-Tyus (OUT)

Projected Starting Lineups

Golden State Valkyries

G: Veronica Burton

G: Tiffany Hayes

F: Cecilia Zandalasini (Q)

F: Iliana Rupert

C: Natasha Mack

Las Vegas Aces

G: Jewell Loyd

G: Jackie Young

F: Alysha Clark

F: A’ja Wilson

C: Kiah Stokes

GAME ODDS

Golden State Valkyries                  156.5

Las Vegas Aces                                  – 4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, August 2, 2025

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WNBA Editor
Profile: A dedicated WNBA analyst with a deep understanding of the league’s tactical evolution, player‑development pathways, and expanding cultural impact. This columnist provides comprehensive coverage that blends advanced metrics, film study, and league‑wide context to highlight the storylines shaping modern professional women’s basketball. Background: With extensive experience covering the WNBA and women’s basketball at multiple levels, the columnist has contributed to national sports outlets and digital platforms, offering perspective on coaching trends, roster construction, and organizational strategy. A background in sports journalism and analytics supports a disciplined approach to evaluating performance, interpreting data, and tracking team progression throughout the season. Signature Coverage Areas: Game previews and matchup analysis Film‑based breakdowns of offensive and defensive systems Player evaluation, draft analysis, and free‑agency movement Team‑building strategy, salary‑cap dynamics, and front‑office trends Historical context, league milestones, and postseason features Style & Approach: The writing emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and accessibility — translating complex schemes and statistical models into insights that resonate with both long‑time WNBA fans and new followers of the league. Each column reflects a commitment to balanced reporting, thoughtful evaluation, and a deep appreciation for the WNBA’s growth, competitiveness, and influence on the broader basketball landscape.