The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 84-78 behind an efficient performance from Cecilia Zandalasini and balanced scoring throughout the lineup.
Zandalasini led Golden State with 15 points and seven rebounds, shooting 5-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range. She also added two assists and a steal without committing a turnover.
Tiffany Hayes provided 14 points, three rebounds and two assists off the bench, while Kayla Thornton and Gabby Williams each scored 11 points. Thornton also grabbed seven rebounds.
Veronica Burton finished with seven points, seven assists and three steals, while Kiah Stokes contributed five points, seven rebounds and three assists.
Golden State also received useful production from its reserves. Janelle Salaün scored eight points, Kaitlyn Chen added six, and Kaila Charles finished with five points, four rebounds and three assists.
Los Angeles was led by Nneka Ogwumike, who scored 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Erica Wheeler added 15 points and four assists, while Dearica Hamby contributed 12 points.
Kiana Williams scored 10 points off the bench, Ariel Atkins and Rae Burrell each finished with nine, and Cameron Brink added seven points, seven rebounds, two steals and one block.
The Sparks kept the game competitive, but Golden State received scoring contributions throughout its rotation. Zandalasini’s flawless five three-pointers provided the biggest perimeter spark.
With its balanced attack and Zandalasini leading the way, Golden State closed out the 84-78 victory.
