Golden State Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings Match Series Analysis: 2025 WNBA Season

The Golden State Valkyries and Dallas Wings engaged in a four-game series during the 2025 WNBA regular season, marked by competitive battles that highlighted emerging talents and veteran resilience amid the Valkyries’ inaugural campaign. This article delivers a thorough examination of the encounters, emphasizing player statistics, game recaps, and comparative insights, drawn from authoritative sources including ESPN, WNBA.com, CBSSports.com, and Her Hoop Stats. The analyzed contests span June 17, July 25, August 24, and September 4, 2025, representing the complete series per official records. Below, we dissect each game, incorporating detailed stats, pivotal sequences, and contextual elements.

Game Highlights

• Sport: Basketball
• League: WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association)
• Matchup: Golden State Valkyries vs Dallas Wings Match Player Stats
• Games Covered:
  • Game 1: June 17, 2025
  • Game 2: July 25, 2025
  • Game 3: August 24, 2025
  • Game 4: September 4, 2025
• Series Result: Valkyries won the series 3–1

Series Overview: Golden State Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings, 2025 WNBA Season

The Golden State Valkyries and Dallas Wings collided four times in the 2025 WNBA season, with Golden State securing a 3-1 series victory: June 17 (DAL 80-71), July 25 (GSV 86-76), August 24 (GSV 90-81), and September 4 (GSV 84-80). The series illuminated Golden State’s balanced scoring and defensive tenacity, spearheaded by Veronica Burton’s playmaking, against Dallas’ explosive offense driven by Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. Below is a recap of the results:

• Game 1 (June 17, 2025): Dallas Wings 80, Golden State Valkyries 71
• Game 2 (July 25, 2025): Golden State Valkyries 86, Dallas Wings 76
• Game 3 (August 24, 2025): Golden State Valkyries 90, Dallas Wings 81
• Game 4 (September 4, 2025): Golden State Valkyries 84, Dallas Wings 80

The Valkyries claimed the series 3-1, excelling in rebounding (39.3 average) and assists (20.5 average), while Dallas showcased perimeter prowess but faltered in closing quarters.

Game 1: Dallas Wings 80, Golden State Valkyries 71 (June 17, 2025)

Game Summary

The Dallas Wings improved to 2-11 with an 80-71 home victory over the Golden State Valkyries on June 17, 2025, at College Park Center. Paige Bueckers’ 20 points and Arike Ogunbowale’s all-around 19 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals fueled a 23-16 first-quarter surge, while Monique Billings’ 18 points and 8 rebounds paced Golden State in defeat. Dallas shot 39.2% from the field, capitalizing on 12 steals for 20 points off turnovers.

Key Player Stats: Golden State Valkyries

• Kayla Thornton (F #5): 35 MIN, 5-11 FG (45.5%), 2-6 3PT (33.3%), 5-6 FT (83.3%), 0 OREB, 5 DREB, 5 REB, 0 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 4 TO, 3 PF, -3 +/-, 17 PTS. Thornton’s perimeter shooting kept Golden State competitive early.
• Stephanie Talbot (F #7): 21 MIN, 0-3 FG (0.0%), 0-2 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 2 DREB, 2 REB, 4 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 2 PF, +6 +/-, 0 PTS. Talbot facilitated but struggled offensively.
• Monique Billings (F #25): 34 MIN, 7-13 FG (53.8%), 2-3 3PT (66.7%), 2-6 FT (33.3%), 1 OREB, 7 DREB, 8 REB, 0 AST, 1 STL, 2 BLK, 1 TO, 1 PF, -7 +/-, 18 PTS. Billings dominated the glass with a near double-double.
• Veronica Burton (G #22): 27 MIN, 1-8 FG (12.5%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 1-2 FT (50.0%), 0 OREB, 3 DREB, 3 REB, 5 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 5 PF, 0 +/-, 4 PTS. Burton’s assists sparked transitions, but shooting woes limited scoring.
• Carla Leite (G #0): 27 MIN, 2-6 FG (33.3%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 4-4 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 2 DREB, 2 REB, 4 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 3 TO, 4 PF, +2 +/-, 8 PTS. Leite was flawless at the line.
• Laeticia Amihere (F #3, Reserve): 24 MIN, 6-7 FG (85.7%), 0-0 3PT, 2-3 FT (66.7%), 3 OREB, 3 DREB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 4 PF, -17 +/-, 14 PTS. Amihere’s efficiency off the bench provided a spark.
• Tiffany Hayes (G #15, Reserve): 22 MIN, 3-10 FG (30.0%), 2-4 3PT (50.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 0 PF, -19 +/-, 10 PTS. Hayes contributed from deep.
• Kate Martin (G #20, Reserve): 8 MIN, 0-1 FG (0.0%), 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 0 DREB, 0 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 0 PF, -7 +/-, 0 PTS. Limited impact.
  Inactives: Aerial Powers (#23), Kaitlyn Chen (#2) (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 24-59 FG (40.7%), 7-20 3PT (35.0%), 16-23 FT (69.6%), 5 OREB, 23 DREB, 28 REB, 17 AST, 5 STL, 6 BLK, 16 TO, 19 PF, 71 PTS. Golden State’s blocks disrupted Dallas inside, but 16 turnovers yielded 20 opponent points.

Key Player Stats: Dallas Wings

• Myisha Hines-Allen (F #2): 28 MIN, 4-6 FG (66.7%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 1-3 FT (33.3%), 2 OREB, 4 DREB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 2 BLK, 2 TO, 1 PF, -1 +/-, 9 PTS. Hines-Allen controlled the boards.
• NaLyssa Smith (F #1): 17 MIN, 3-6 FG (50.0%), 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 2 OREB, 8 DREB, 10 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, -9 +/-, 6 PTS. Smith’s double-double anchored the frontcourt.
• Arike Ogunbowale (G #24): 36 MIN, 7-19 FG (36.8%), 3-8 3PT (37.5%), 2-2 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 4 DREB, 5 REB, 6 AST, 3 STL, 1 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, +6 +/-, 19 PTS. Ogunbowale’s steals and assists powered the win.
• Paige Bueckers (G #5): 39 MIN, 9-18 FG (50.0%), 0-5 3PT (0.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 4 DREB, 4 REB, 2 AST, 4 STL, 2 BLK, 3 TO, 3 PF, +11 +/-, 20 PTS. Bueckers dominated with steals and efficiency.
• Aziaha James (G #10): 17 MIN, 1-6 FG (16.7%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 3 DREB, 3 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -12 +/-, 3 PTS. James struggled from the field.
• Li Yueru (C #28, Reserve): 13 MIN, 1-3 FG (33.3%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, +9 +/-, 2 PTS. Yueru added size off the bench.
• Kaila Charles (G #3, Reserve): 24 MIN, 2-6 FG (33.3%), 1-2 3PT (50.0%), 5-6 FT (83.3%), 4 OREB, 1 DREB, 5 REB, 4 AST, 3 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 4 PF, +21 +/-, 10 PTS. Charles’ steals and FTs were crucial.
• DiJonai Carrington (G #21, Reserve): 22 MIN, 1-9 FG (11.1%), 1-5 3PT (20.0%), 5-6 FT (83.3%), 3 OREB, 1 DREB, 4 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 2 PF, +16 +/-, 8 PTS. Carrington hustled on both ends.
• JJ Quinerly (#11, Reserve): 4 MIN, 1-1 FG (100%), 1-1 3PT (100%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 0 DREB, 0 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 1 PF, +4 +/-, 3 PTS. Efficient in limited time.
  Inactives: Haley Jones (#30) (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 29-74 FG (39.2%), 7-27 3PT (25.9%), 15-19 FT (78.9%), 13 OREB, 26 DREB, 39 REB, 23 AST, 12 STL, 6 BLK, 11 TO, 20 PF, 80 PTS. Dallas’ 12 steals generated 20 fast-break points.

Critical Moments

• First Quarter (DAL 23, GSV 16): Ogunbowale’s 3-pointer and Bueckers’ layup built a 7-point lead.
• Second Quarter (DAL 39, GSV 36): Amihere’s 6-7 FG efficiency narrowed the gap, but Charles’ steals kept Dallas ahead.
• Third Quarter (DAL 58, GSV 57): Billings’ 8 points tied it briefly, but Bueckers’ 7 points in the frame extended the edge.
• Fourth Quarter (DAL 80, GSV 71): Ogunbowale’s late steal and layup sealed it, while Golden State’s 14 points couldn’t overcome 5 turnovers.

Game 2: Golden State Valkyries 86, Dallas Wings 76 (July 25, 2025)

Game Summary

The Golden State Valkyries evened the series at 1-1 with an 86-76 road win over the Dallas Wings on July 25, 2025, at College Park Center. Tiffany Hayes’ 17 points led a third-quarter explosion (33-24), overcoming Paige Bueckers’ 17 points for Dallas. Golden State shot 42.2% from the field, dominating rebounds (39-29).

Key Player Stats: Golden State Valkyries

• Cecilia Zandalasini (G #24): 30 MIN, 3-7 FG (42.9%), 2-4 3PT (50.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 3 DREB, 3 REB, 4 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 3 PF, +16 +/-, 10 PTS. Zandalasini’s threes opened the scoring.
• Janelle Salaun (F #13): 34 MIN, 6-14 FG (42.9%), 3-8 3PT (37.5%), 1-1 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 7 DREB, 7 REB, 3 AST, 3 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 0 PF, +17 +/-, 16 PTS. Salaun’s steals fueled transitions.
• Temi Fagbenle (C #14): 25 MIN, 5-9 FG (55.6%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 1-1 FT (100%), 2 OREB, 6 DREB, 8 REB, 1 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 1 PF, +9 +/-, 11 PTS. Fagbenle owned the paint.
• Tiffany Hayes (G #15): 31 MIN, 5-8 FG (62.5%), 2-4 3PT (50.0%), 5-6 FT (83.3%), 0 OREB, 3 DREB, 3 REB, 5 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 5 PF, +14 +/-, 17 PTS. Hayes’ third-quarter surge was pivotal.
• Veronica Burton (G #22): 31 MIN, 0-7 FG (0.0%), 0-5 3PT (0.0%), 5-6 FT (83.3%), 3 OREB, 6 DREB, 9 REB, 3 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, -1 +/-, 5 PTS. Burton grabbed 9 boards despite shooting slump.
• Laeticia Amihere (F #3, Reserve): 13 MIN, 1-6 FG (16.7%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 0 PF, -10 +/-, 4 PTS.
• Iliana Rupert (C #12, Reserve): 15 MIN, 3-7 FG (42.9%), 2-4 3PT (50.0%), 1-1 FT (100%), 3 OREB, 2 DREB, 5 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, +1 +/-, 9 PTS. Rupert’s threes stretched the defense.
• Kaitlyn Chen (G #2, Reserve): 4 MIN, 0-0 FG, 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 0 DREB, 0 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, -2 +/-, 0 PTS.
  Inactives: Carla Leite (#0), Kate Martin (#20) (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 27-64 FG (42.2%), 10-26 3PT (38.5%), 12-19 FT (63.2%), 7 OREB, 22 DREB, 29 REB, 19 AST, 11 STL, 2 BLK, 13 TO, 24 PF, 86 PTS. Valkyries’ 11 steals led to 15 fast-break points.

Key Player Stats: Dallas Wings

• Li Yueru (C #28): 13 MIN, 1-4 FG (25.0%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 1-2 FT (50.0%), 0 OREB, 2 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -2 +/-, 4 PTS. Yueru shot from deep unusually.
• Luisa Geiselsoder (C #18): 30 MIN, 4-7 FG (57.1%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 8 DREB, 9 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, -5 +/-, 9 PTS. Geiselsoder rebounded strongly.
• Arike Ogunbowale (G #24): 34 MIN, 5-9 FG (55.6%), 3-4 3PT (75.0%), 3-3 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 5 PF, +3 +/-, 16 PTS. Ogunbowale’s threes kept Dallas in it.
• Paige Bueckers (G #5): 37 MIN, 7-15 FG (46.7%), 2-5 3PT (40.0%), 1-1 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 6 AST, 4 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 4 PF, -14 +/-, 17 PTS. Bueckers’ assists and steals shone.
• JJ Quinerly (G #11): 24 MIN, 1-6 FG (16.7%), 1-2 3PT (50.0%), 0-2 FT (0.0%), 3 OREB, 2 DREB, 5 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 4 TO, 2 PF, 0 +/-, 3 PTS. Quinerly hustled on boards.
• DiJonai Carrington (G #21, Reserve): 15 MIN, 1-6 FG (16.7%), 0-2 3PT (0.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 3 DREB, 4 REB, 1 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 4 PF, -7 +/-, 4 PTS.
• Aziaha James (G #10, Reserve): 19 MIN, 5-9 FG (55.6%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 2-4 FT (50.0%), 2 OREB, 1 DREB, 3 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, -12 +/-, 13 PTS. James scored efficiently.
• Haley Jones (F #30, Reserve): 28 MIN, 3-8 FG (37.5%), 1-1 3PT (100%), 3-5 FT (60.0%), 0 OREB, 4 DREB, 4 REB, 3 AST, 2 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 3 PF, -13 +/-, 10 PTS. Jones facilitated well.
  Inactives: Teaira McCowan (#15), Grace Berger (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 27-64 FG (42.2%), 10-26 3PT (38.5%), 12-19 FT (63.2%), 7 OREB, 22 DREB, 29 REB, 19 AST, 11 STL, 2 BLK, 13 TO, 24 PF, 76 PTS. Wings’ 11 steals weren’t enough against Golden State’s rebounding.

Critical Moments

• First Quarter (GSV 10, DAL 21): Hayes’ 5 points kept it close, but Ogunbowale’s 8 led Dallas.
• Second Quarter (GSV 30, DAL 36): Salaun’s 6 points narrowed it, but Bueckers’ layups extended the lead.
• Third Quarter (GSV 63, DAL 59): Valkyries outscored 33-24, with Fagbenle’s 8 and Hayes’ 7 turning the tide.
• Fourth Quarter (GSV 86, DAL 76): Burton’s assists and Amihere’s 4 points sealed the comeback.

Game 3: Golden State Valkyries 90, Dallas Wings 81 (August 24, 2025)

Game Summary

The Golden State Valkyries took a 2-1 series lead with a 90-81 road win over the Dallas Wings on August 24, 2025, at College Park Center. Veronica Burton erupted for 25 points and 13 assists, while Maddy Siegrist led Dallas with 16 points in their fifth straight loss. Golden State snapped a three-game skid, shooting 45.2% from the field and dominating assists (24-21).

Key Player Stats: Golden State Valkyries

• Janelle Salaun (F #13): 25 MIN, 3-8 FG (37.5%), 1-3 3PT (33.3%), 2-2 FT (100%), 2 OREB, 7 DREB, 9 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, +12 +/-, 9 PTS. Salaun rebounded effectively.
• Temi Fagbenle (C #14): 36 MIN, 3-5 FG (60.0%), 1-3 3PT (33.3%), 2-2 FT (100%), 3 OREB, 6 DREB, 9 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 1 BLK, 4 TO, 3 PF, +11 +/-, 9 PTS. Fagbenle’s boards were key.
• Iliana Rupert (C #12): 36 MIN, 5-12 FG (41.7%), 5-9 3PT (55.6%), 2-2 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 6 DREB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 3 PF, +17 +/-, 17 PTS. Rupert’s career-high 5 threes ignited the offense.
• Kaila Charles (G #6): 34 MIN, 5-10 FG (50.0%), 2-5 3PT (40.0%), 4-4 FT (100%), 2 OREB, 4 DREB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 3 PF, +17 +/-, 16 PTS. Charles matched her career-best scoring.
• Veronica Burton (G #22): 39 MIN, 7-17 FG (41.2%), 3-10 3PT (30.0%), 8-8 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 4 DREB, 5 REB, 13 AST, 0 STL, 4 BLK, 3 TO, 3 PF, +13 +/-, 25 PTS. Burton’s career-high 25 points and 13 assists, plus 4 blocks, defined the win.
• Laeticia Amihere (F #3, Reserve): 7 MIN, 0-0 FG, 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 0 DREB, 0 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, -8 +/-, 0 PTS. Defensive specialist.
• Kate Martin (G #20, Reserve): 17 MIN, 4-8 FG (50.0%), 4-7 3PT (57.1%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 4 DREB, 5 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 1 PF, -6 +/-, 12 PTS. Martin’s 4 threes provided spacing.
• Kaitlyn Chen (G #2, Reserve): 5 MIN, 1-2 FG (50.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, -11 +/-, 2 PTS.
  Inactives: Kayla Thornton (#5), Cecilia Zandalasini (#24) (Right Knee Injury, Left Calf).
  Team Stats: 28-62 FG (45.2%), 16-38 3PT (42.1%), 18-18 FT (100%), 9 OREB, 32 DREB, 41 REB, 24 AST, 2 STL, 7 BLK, 12 TO, 14 PF, 90 PTS. Valkyries’ 92.8% FT and 25 points off turnovers were decisive.

Key Player Stats: Dallas Wings

• Maddy Siegrist (F #20): 36 MIN, 5-12 FG (41.7%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 5-5 FT (100%), 3 OREB, 2 DREB, 5 REB, 1 AST, 3 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -8 +/-, 16 PTS. Siegrist led scoring.
• Luisa Geiselsoder (C #18): 19 MIN, 1-5 FG (20.0%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 4 DREB, 4 REB, 0 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 1 PF, -6 +/-, 3 PTS.
• Grace Berger (G #9): 27 MIN, 4-9 FG (44.4%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 2-3 FT (66.7%), 1 OREB, 2 DREB, 3 REB, 4 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, -10 +/-, 11 PTS. Berger dished assists.
• Paige Bueckers (G #5): 34 MIN, 3-12 FG (25.0%), 1-3 3PT (33.3%), 2-2 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 0 DREB, 1 REB, 9 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 5 PF, -17 +/-, 9 PTS. Bueckers’ career-high 9 assists couldn’t overcome shooting.
• Haley Jones (G #30): 18 MIN, 6-9 FG (66.7%), 2-3 3PT (66.7%), 1-4 FT (25.0%), 1 OREB, 2 DREB, 3 REB, 1 AST, 1 STL, 2 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -11 +/-, 15 PTS. Jones was efficient.
• Myisha Hines-Allen (F #2, Reserve): 29 MIN, 7-14 FG (50.0%), 1-4 3PT (25.0%), 0-0 FT, 4 OREB, 4 DREB, 8 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 4 PF, -2 +/-, 15 PTS. Hines-Allen grabbed 8 boards.
• Amy Okonkwo (F #0, Reserve): 17 MIN, 5-8 FG (62.5%), 2-3 3PT (66.7%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 2 DREB, 3 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, +7 +/-, 12 PTS. Okonkwo’s career-high 12 points off the bench.
• Diamond Miller (G #1, Reserve): 11 MIN, 0-2 FG (0.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 3 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, +11 +/-, 0 PTS.
• Aziaha James (G #10, Reserve): 9 MIN, 0-4 FG (0.0%), 0-2 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, -9 +/-, 0 PTS.
  Inactives: NaLyssa Smith (#1), DiJonai Carrington (#21) (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 31-75 FG (41.3%), 9-28 3PT (32.1%), 10-14 FT (71.4%), 12 OREB, 18 DREB, 30 REB, 21 AST, 8 STL, 5 BLK, 3 TO, 17 PF, 81 PTS. Wings’ low turnovers limited Golden State’s fast breaks.

Critical Moments

• First Quarter (GSV 23, DAL 12): Burton’s 8 points and 3 assists built a 11-point lead.
• Second Quarter (GSV 34, DAL 38): Dallas rallied with Bueckers’ 6 points, taking a 4-point halftime lead.
• Third Quarter (GSV 60, DAL 55): Rupert’s 5 threes (17 points) flipped momentum.
• Fourth Quarter (GSV 90, DAL 81): Burton’s 25 total points, including 8 in the frame, sealed it despite Siegrist’s 16.

Game 4: Golden State Valkyries 84, Dallas Wings 80 (September 4, 2025)

Game Summary

The Golden State Valkyries clinched the series 3-1 with an 84-80 home victory over the Dallas Wings on September 4, 2025, at Chase Center. Janelle Salaun (19 points), Veronica Burton (15 points, high assists), and Carla Leite (15 points) combined for 49, edging Paige Bueckers’ 27 points and Myisha Hines-Allen’s 11 rebounds for Dallas. Golden State shot 44.6% from the field, winning the rebound battle 38-31.

Key Player Stats: Golden State Valkyries

• Janelle Salaun (F #13): 37 MIN, 6-10 FG (60.0%), 3-4 3PT (75.0%), 4-5 FT (80.0%), 0 OREB, 6 DREB, 6 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, -2 +/-, 19 PTS. Salaun’s threes were clutch.
• Temi Fagbenle (C #14): 12 MIN, 2-5 FG (40.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 1-1 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -6 +/-, 5 PTS. Limited minutes but efficient.
• Iliana Rupert (C #12): 30 MIN, 4-10 FG (40.0%), 2-4 3PT (50.0%), 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 0 DREB, 1 REB, 4 AST, 1 STL, 3 BLK, 1 TO, 1 PF, -10 +/-, 10 PTS. Rupert’s 3 blocks protected the rim.
• Kaila Charles (G #6): 19 MIN, 0-3 FG (0.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 2 OREB, 5 DREB, 7 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, -9 +/-, 0 PTS. Charles rebounded despite no points.
• Veronica Burton (G #22): 24 MIN, 5-10 FG (50.0%), 0-3 3PT (0.0%), 5-5 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 2 DREB, 3 REB, 5 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, -13 +/-, 15 PTS. Burton’s assists (25 series-high) orchestrated the win.
• Monique Billings (F #25, Reserve): 23 MIN, 4-10 FG (40.0%), 0-0 3PT, 3-4 FT (75.0%), 1 OREB, 6 DREB, 7 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 3 BLK, 3 TO, 2 PF, +17 +/-, 11 PTS. Billings’ double-double sealed it.
• Laeticia Amihere (F #3, Reserve): 10 MIN, 0-0 FG, 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 2 OREB, 3 DREB, 5 REB, 0 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 2 PF, +8 +/-, 0 PTS.
• Kate Martin (G #20, Reserve): 20 MIN, 2-6 FG (33.3%), 2-6 3PT (33.3%), 3-3 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 3 DREB, 4 REB, 1 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 1 PF, +11 +/-, 9 PTS. Martin’s threes provided spacing.
• Kaitlyn Chen (G #2, Reserve): 2 MIN, 0-3 FG (0.0%), 0-0 3PT, 0-0 FT, 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, -4 +/-, 0 PTS.
• Carla Leite (G #0, Reserve): 22 MIN, 6-8 FG (75.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 3-5 FT (60.0%), 1 OREB, 1 DREB, 2 REB, 5 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 3 TO, 2 PF, +28 +/-, 15 PTS. Leite’s efficiency and +28 +/- stood out.
• Elizabeth Kitley (#33, Reserve): DNP-Coach’s Decision.
  Inactives: Not specified.
  Team Stats: 29-65 FG (44.6%), 7-20 3PT (35.0%), 19-23 FT (92.6%), 10 OREB, 28 DREB, 38 REB, 22 AST, 5 STL, 7 BLK, 15 TO, 16 PF, 84 PTS. Valkyries’ 92.6% FT clinched the close contest.

Key Player Stats: Dallas Wings

• Myisha Hines-Allen (F #2): 37 MIN, 4-9 FG (44.4%), 0-3 3PT (0.0%), 4-6 FT (66.7%), 5 OREB, 6 DREB, 11 REB, 4 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 4 TO, 2 PF, +5 +/-, 12 PTS. Hines-Allen’s 11 rebounds were a bright spot.
• Maddy Siegrist (F #20): 34 MIN, 6-16 FG (37.5%), 3-8 3PT (37.5%), 1-4 FT (25.0%), 0 OREB, 1 DREB, 1 REB, 1 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, +8 +/-, 16 PTS. Siegrist scored despite inefficiency.
• Grace Berger (G #9): 29 MIN, 0-4 FG (0.0%), 0-2 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 2 OREB, 4 DREB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 2 BLK, 0 TO, 4 PF, -2 +/-, 0 PTS. Berger defended well.
• Paige Bueckers (G #5): 34 MIN, 11-20 FG (55.0%), 0-3 3PT (0.0%), 5-5 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 4 DREB, 4 REB, 6 AST, 4 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 3 PF, +5 +/-, 27 PTS. Bueckers’ 27 points nearly forced OT.
• Haley Jones (G #30): 34 MIN, 7-10 FG (70.0%), 1-3 3PT (33.3%), 3-3 FT (100%), 1 OREB, 4 DREB, 5 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL, 3 BLK, 3 TO, 2 PF, +4 +/-, 18 PTS. Jones’ triple (18 PTS, 5 REB, 7 AST) was stellar.
• Amy Okonkwo (F #0, Reserve): 11 MIN, 0-3 FG (0.0%), 0-2 3PT (0.0%), 2-2 FT (100%), 0 OREB, 2 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 1 PF, -10 +/-, 2 PTS.
• Diamond Miller (G #1, Reserve): 8 MIN, 0-2 FG (0.0%), 0-1 3PT (0.0%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 2 DREB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, -14 +/-, 0 PTS.
• Aziaha James (G #10, Reserve): 13 MIN, 2-7 FG (28.6%), 1-3 3PT (33.3%), 0-0 FT, 0 OREB, 0 DREB, 0 REB, 1 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 3 PF, -16 +/-, 5 PTS.
  Inactives: Ajae Petty, Christyn Williams (#31) (Coach’s Decision).
  Team Stats: 30-71 FG (42.3%), 5-25 3PT (20.0%), 15-20 FT (75.0%), 8 OREB, 23 DREB, 31 REB, 21 AST, 11 STL, 5 BLK, 9 TO, 17 PF, 80 PTS. Wings’ 11 steals forced 15 turnovers, but shooting limited them.

Critical Moments

• First Quarter (GSV 21, DAL 20): Salaun’s 6 points edged Golden State ahead.
• Second Quarter (GSV 32, DAL 41): Bueckers’ 10 points gave Dallas a 9-point halftime lead.
• Third Quarter (GSV 58, DAL 62): Burton’s 8 points and assists kept it close.
• Fourth Quarter (GSV 84, DAL 80): Leite’s 15 points and Burton’s 25 total propelled the rally.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Across four games, Golden State won 3-1, averaging 82.8 points to Dallas’ 79.3, with a rebounding edge (34.5-32.8) and assists (20.5-21.0). Valkyries shot 43.1% FG vs. Dallas’ 40.8%, and excelled in FT (79.9% vs. 71.8%). Dallas led in steals (10.5-7.3) but committed more turnovers (9.0 vs. 14.0), yielding 18.5 fast-break points to Golden State’s 15.3. Paige Bueckers averaged 21.0 points, while Veronica Burton’s 25-point, 13-assist Game 3 epitomized Valkyries’ balance.

Series Standouts

Golden State Valkyries

• Veronica Burton: Averaged 15.3 points, 8.5 assists; exploded for 25 points, 13 assists, 4 blocks in Game 3.
• Monique Billings: 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds; double-double threat in Game 1.
• Janelle Salaun: 15.5 points in Games 2-4; consistent scoring.

Dallas Wings

• Paige Bueckers: Series-high 21.0 points, including 27 in Game 4; rookie leader.
• Arike Ogunbowale: 17.5 points, 4.5 assists; 19 points, 6 assists, 3 steals in Game 1.
• Maddy Siegrist: 16.0 points in final two; perimeter volume.

Team Performance Context

Golden State Valkyries (23-18, 14-7 Home by September): Finished strong with a 3-1 series win, securing playoff positioning; balanced attack (92.8% FT in Game 4) and Burton’s emergence (8.5 AST average) bode well for postseason.

Dallas Wings (9-33, 5-15 Home by September): Struggled late (fifth straight loss in Game 3), but Bueckers’ rookie impact (21.0 PPG) offers hope; defense (10.5 steals) needs to curb turnovers for 2026.

Injury and Roster Notes

• Golden State Valkyries: Cecilia Zandalasini (right knee injury, DNP Game 3); no other majors.
• Dallas Wings: JJ Quinerly (knee), Li Yueru (knee), Arike Ogunbowale (knee, DNP Game 3); rotations adjusted accordingly.

Conclusion

The Golden State Valkyries swept the late series momentum with a 3-1 triumph over the Dallas Wings in 2025, prevailing 86-76 on July 25, 90-81 on August 24, and 84-80 on September 4 after an 80-71 loss on June 17. Veronica Burton’s all-around brilliance (25 points, 13 assists in Game 3) and Janelle Salaun’s scoring (19 in Game 4) outshone Dallas’ Paige Bueckers (27 in Game 4) and Arike Ogunbowale (19 in Game 1), underscoring Golden State’s playoff readiness against Dallas’ rebuilding grit. The series previewed Valkyries’ depth for the postseason and Wings’ rookie promise. For comprehensive recaps, consult ESPN, WNBA.com, or CBSSports.com.

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