The Golden State Valkyries rolled past the Dallas Wings 94-76 behind an outstanding performance from Veronica Burton and another balanced effort throughout the lineup.
Burton led Golden State with 22 points, seven assists and four rebounds, shooting 8-for-13 from the field and a perfect 3-for-3 at the free-throw line. She also finished without a turnover.
The performance marked Burton’s second straight game with at least 10 points, five assists and zero turnovers, the first time in her career she has put together back-to-back games with that combination.
Gabby Williams added 19 points, four assists and one steal, also finishing without a turnover. Williams scored 12 points in the first half, including 10 in the second quarter, helping Golden State create separation before halftime.
Kayla Thornton recorded her 11th career double-double with 11 points and a team-high 10 rebounds. She also reached the 2,500-career-point milestone.
Kiah Stokes contributed seven points, seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Kaila Charles added nine points, four rebounds and a team-high three steals. Laeticia Amihere recorded a team-high three blocks.
Golden State controlled the interior early, outscoring Dallas 20-8 in the paint in the first half. The Valkyries shot 11-for-18 from the field in that area while Dallas went 5-for-16. Golden State also held a 25-16 rebounding advantage at halftime, with Thornton collecting seven boards before the break.
The Valkyries’ ball movement was another major difference. Golden State finished with a franchise-record 27 assists, continuing to generate clean looks through spacing and unselfish play.
Head coach Natalie Nakase credited Burton’s consistency and preparation after the game.
“Consistency, that’s huge growth for her. Number one, she’s the ultimate pro on how she approaches it.”
Dallas was led by Paige Bueckers, who finished with 17 points on 6-for-12 shooting. Aziaha James added 13 points and four rebounds, while Alanna Smith contributed 11 points and six rebounds.
Jessica Shepard grabbed 11 rebounds to go with six points, while Li Yueru added seven points off the bench. Arike Ogunbowale was held to five points on 2-for-10 shooting.
Golden State’s defense helped set the tone throughout the night. The Valkyries held Dallas to a season-low 33.9 percent shooting from the field, according to the supplied team notes.
The win also continued Golden State’s strong road form. The Valkyries have now won six of their last seven road gamesand improved to 22 wins on the season, leaving them one victory away from matching last year’s win total.
With Burton controlling the offense, Williams providing another efficient scoring option and Thornton delivering on both ends, Golden State pulled away for a convincing 18-point victory.
