A'ja Wilson Schools Aces to Victory over Valkyries 78-72

SAN FRANCISCO — While many believe Napheesa Collier has emerged as the WNBA’s top player, A’ja Wilson made it clear she may not be ready to relinquish her crown just yet.

On a night when the Valkyries celebrated Back to School Night, it was A’ja Wilson handing out the lessons, leading the Las Vegas Aces to a 78-72 win over the upstart Golden State Valkyries before another capacity crowd at Chase Center. The game marked the Valkyries’ 13th straight sellout, drawing 18,064 spirited fans.

The Cal Berkeley band set the tone early with a stirring rendition of the national anthem and fans received back-to-school backpacks upon entry.

When the basketball tipped off, the Valkyries faced one of the WNBA’s most decorated stars, A’ja Wilson and she lived up to her reputation. Wilson delivered a commanding 27-point performance, going 8-for-11 from the field and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line.

She also swatted away two shots in the first quarter, reaching 500 career blocks and becoming just the 10th player in league history to hit that milestone.

While Golden State’s defense held the Aces to just 18.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc, their lowest allowed all season, Wilson’s steady scoring and timely baskets were the difference.

The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with Las Vegas holding a slim 43-38 lead at the break.

Tiffany Hayes, returning to the starting lineup, anchored Golden State’s offense with 14 points and nine rebounds while hitting 85.7 percent of her free throws.

Janelle Salaün continued her consistent scoring, recording her 10th double-digit outing of the year with 13 points and perfection from the charity stripe at 5-for-5.

Off the bench, Carla Leite and Kaila Charles, who both exude youthful, collegiate energy, each chipped in 11 points, with Charles impressing by shooting an efficient 80 percent from the field.

The night's in-game entertainment was particularly vibrant, with an added academic flair. Charmin Smith, head coach of the Cal Bears women’s basketball team, fired up the crowd by tossing t-shirts into the stands.

The Violet Vibes dance team brought the house down with an energetic performance, starting with Michael Jackson’s “ABC” and followed by a show-stopping number to Britney Spears’ “Hit Me Baby One More Time” that earned a thunderous ovation.

Sadly, enthusiasm alone could not put the Valkyries over the top. In the third quarter, the game began to tilt in the Aces’ favor. A 13-4 run to close the period gave Las Vegas a 64-54 lead, capped by Dana Evans extending the margin to double digits with a late jumper.

Still, the Valkyries showed their signature resilience by opening the fourth quarter on a charge, holding Las Vegas scoreless for nearly four minutes and cutting the deficit to just three at 66-63.

The momentum, however, did not last. Jewell Loyd knocked down a dagger three-pointer to spark a 5-0 Aces run. With 34.9 seconds remaining, Wilson iced the game from the free-throw line.

Despite the loss, the Valkyries’ commitment on defense was evident. Head coach Natalie Nakase praised the team’s execution in their zone scheme, noting, “I thought overall the zone actually was really successful,” even as she acknowledged moments where discipline slipped.

She also highlighted the positive impact of Kaila Charles, who has quickly adapted to the team’s system, “She’s out there kind of with passion, but she’s smiling too, so she fits right in with our group.”

Salaün, reflecting on the night, admitted the offense never fully clicked. “We couldn’t find each other, and also our shots were not falling. Just the offense wasn’t flowing tonight,” she said, adding that defensive consistency and rebounding were key areas for improvement. She stressed the need to sustain their intensity for a full 40 minutes, not just in stretches.

The Valkyries’ free-throw shooting was a bright spot, starting 17-for-17 and finishing 18-for-19 for an impressive 94.7 percent.

But in other statistical areas, the team struggled. Their nine assists marked a season low, a reflection of the offensive challenges Salaün mentioned.

Nights like this, even in defeat, showcase more than just a basketball game. They highlight a growing culture, one where entertainment, energy, and resilience coexist. From the Cal band’s anthem to the Violet Vibes’ show-stopping moves, to the determined play on the court, Golden State once again proved they are creating unforgettable experiences at Ballhalla.

While A’ja Wilson may have schooled them this time, the Valkyries’ spirit suggests they’ll be ready for the next lesson, and perhaps, to return the favor.

UP NEXT

• Golden State hosts the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday, August 9 during SLAM Night at 5:30 p.m. PT on KPIX+, 95.7 The Game, and the Audacy App.
• For tickets, news, and more team updates, visit valkyries.wnba.com.