Game Overview
This game marks the first-ever meeting between the WNBA’s newest expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries, and the defending champions, the New York Liberty. The Liberty have started the season strong, averaging 93.7 points per game, while the Valkyries are coming off an 82-73 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks.
Team Comparisons
Category | Golden State Valkyries | New York Liberty |
Record | 2-1 | 3-0 |
Points Per Game | 78.3 | 93.7 |
Points Allowed | 81.2 | 88.5 |
Field Goal % | 42.1% | 47.3% |
Three-Point % | 32.7% | 39.2% |
Free Throw % | 81.4% | 84.8% |
The Liberty have been dominant offensively, averaging 93.7 points per game, while Golden State has relied on defensive intensity, leading the league in steals per game (10.3).
Key Players to Watch
Golden State Valkyries
Kayla Thornton (F) – 14.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG.
Temi Fagbenle (C) – 12.8 PPG, 8.1 RPG.
Veronica Burton (G) – 3.0 SPG, defensive anchor.
New York Liberty
Breanna Stewart (F) – 25.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG.
Sabrina Ionescu (G) – 18.5 PPG, 6.2 APG.
Jonquel Jones (C) – 17.0 PPG, 10.0 RPG.
Matchup Breakdown
Liberty’s Offense vs. Valkyries’ Defense – New York has averaged 93.7 points per game, while Golden State’s defense has forced 10.3 steals per game.
Three-Point Shooting – Both teams have solid perimeter threats, with New York shooting 39.2% from deep compared to Golden State’s 32.7%.
Turnovers & Efficiency – The Valkyries must limit mistakes, as New York has forced an average of 7.9 steals per game.
GAME ODDS
Golden State Valkyries 168
New York Liberty – 15
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, May 26, 2025