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Valkyries vs Wings opened the 2026 WNBA playoffs with a stunning offensive display, as the Golden State Valkyries defeated the Dallas Wings 104-80 in Game 1 of their best-of-three first-round series Sunday in San Francisco.
The result gave Golden State its highest-scoring game in franchise history and tied the team’s record for made 3-pointers. The Valkyries connected on 18 shots from beyond the arc, overwhelming Dallas with pace, spacing and relentless ball movement.
Valkyries vs Wings: Golden State Delivers a Historic Shooting Performance
Golden State’s attack reached another level during a remarkable second quarter. The Valkyries outscored the Wings 37-11 in the period, including a decisive 20-3 run over the final four minutes.
That surge transformed a competitive game into a one-sided playoff statement. Dallas struggled to contain Golden State’s perimeter movement, while the Valkyries repeatedly found open looks in transition and half-court sets.
“A 37-point quarter is insane work,” Dallas guard Paige Bueckers said after the game. “They got whatever they wanted.”
Six Valkyries Players Make Multiple 3-Pointers
Golden State made WNBA history by becoming the first team to have six players hit multiple 3-pointers in a game. Cecilia Zandalasini led all scorers with 22 points after making four shots from long range.
- Cecilia Zandalasini: 22 points and four 3-pointers
- Tiffany Hayes: 21 points and three 3-pointers
- Gabby Williams: 20 points and two 3-pointers
- Kayla Thornton: Two made 3-pointers
- Kaitlyn Chen: Two made 3-pointers
- Veronica Burton: Two made 3-pointers
The 18 made 3-pointers were also the second-most by a team in a WNBA playoff game. Only the Las Vegas Aces, who made 23 in Game 2 of the 2022 semifinals, have recorded more in postseason history.
Defense and Discipline Powered the Valkyries’ Breakout Win
Although the shooting numbers stood out, Golden State coach Natalie Nakase credited the team’s defensive effort for creating the offensive rhythm. The Valkyries forced Dallas into difficult possessions, secured stops and immediately pushed the ball up the floor.
Gabby Williams said the team played with more patience and made better decisions about which opportunities to attack. Instead of rushing into crowded lanes, Golden State moved the ball until the right shot appeared.
“We’re just getting stops and running and trying to tire them out,” Williams said.
The Valkyries also made 12 contested 3-pointers, the second-most by any team over the past five postseasons. Their ability to convert challenging attempts made it difficult for Dallas to recover, even when the Wings managed to contest the shots.
Paige Bueckers Shines Despite Dallas Defeat
Bueckers provided one of the few bright spots for Dallas. The rookie guard scored 21 points on 9-of-10 shooting, becoming the first player in WNBA history to shoot at least 90% while scoring 20 or more points in a playoff debut.
Despite her efficient performance, Bueckers acknowledged that the Wings’ defensive execution fell well short of the required playoff standard. Dallas had emphasized limiting turnovers and defending the 3-point line, but Golden State repeatedly broke through that plan.
Bueckers said the Wings have a “nasty habit” of allowing offensive struggles to affect their defense. She described that issue as “unacceptable” in the playoffs and urged Dallas to match the Valkyries’ intensity in the next game.
What Comes Next in the Valkyries vs Wings Series?
Golden State now leads the first-round series 1-0 and can advance with another victory. Dallas must respond quickly in the next matchup or see its season come to an end.
The Wings will need to limit Golden State’s transition chances, defend the perimeter with greater discipline and prevent another explosive scoring run. The Valkyries, meanwhile, will look to maintain their defensive pressure and continue sharing the ball at an efficient rate.
Game 1 established a clear tone: Golden State’s defense can trigger its offense, and its depth gives Dallas difficult decisions across the floor. The next contest will reveal whether the Valkyries’ historic shooting night was a breakthrough or the beginning of a deeper playoff run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the Valkyries vs Wings playoff game?
The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Dallas Wings 104-80 in Game 1 of their best-of-three first-round series.
How many 3-pointers did the Valkyries make?
Golden State made 18 3-pointers, tying its franchise record and recording the second-most 3-pointers in a WNBA playoff game.
Who led the Valkyries in scoring?
Cecilia Zandalasini led all scorers with 22 points. Tiffany Hayes added 21, while Gabby Williams finished with 20.
How did Paige Bueckers perform?
Paige Bueckers scored 21 points on 9-of-10 shooting in her playoff debut, setting a WNBA record for efficiency among players scoring at least 20 points in a postseason debut.
