The Golden State Valkyries nearly pulled off a comeback win at home, but the New York Liberty stayed composed in the final minute to secure a narrow 87-84 victory. Sabrina Ionescu led the way with 26 points, including the game-winning three-pointer with just 8.3 seconds left on the clock.
Liberty center Jonquel Jones added 17 points and 10 rebounds, providing a steady presence in the paint throughout the night. Breanna Stewart chipped in 14 points and played a key defensive role, helping to slow down Golden State’s interior scoring in the second half.
The Valkyries were paced by rookie phenom Aaliyah Gayles, who finished with 21 points and 7 assists. Jewell Loyd added 19 points, but struggled with efficiency in the fourth quarter as New York’s defense tightened.
A back-and-forth third quarter saw both teams exchange leads multiple times, with neither able to gain separation. The game remained tied at 76 with two minutes to play before Ionescu’s shot-making tilted the momentum.
Golden State had a chance to tie the game on the final possession, but Loyd’s contested three-pointer at the buzzer fell short. The Valkyries drop to 7-6 on the season, while the Liberty improve to 12-3.
The two teams could meet again in the postseason if their current form holds, and this contest offered a preview of the intensity and star power that such a matchup would bring.
