Valkyries Stage Comeback In First-Ever Preseason Win

The Golden State Valkyries earned their first-ever franchise victory on Sunday night, overcoming a 15-point second-half deficit to defeat the Phoenix Mercury, 85–78, in a thrilling preseason matchup at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. The win marked a significant milestone for the WNBA’s newest team, showcasing both their depth and potential just days before their regular-season debut.

Despite trailing 44–29 midway through the third quarter, the Valkyries mounted a decisive comeback fueled by their bench unit. Golden State outscored Phoenix 28–13 in the third quarter alone, closing the gap and tying the game at 57 heading into the final period. Much of the rally was driven by undrafted training camp invitee Mamignan Touré, who delivered a standout performance with a game-high 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including four three-pointers. Touré’s energy and shot-making helped swing the game’s momentum and gave the Valkyries the spark they needed to close strong.

Rookie Carla Leite added 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting in just under 14 minutes of play, continuing to impress as a dynamic scoring option off the bench. Veteran point guard Julie Vanloo contributed six assists while making all four of her free-throw attempts. Another key reserve, Kayla Thornton, chipped in 12 points, five rebounds, and four steals, playing a crucial role on both ends of the floor.

While the bench led the charge, Golden State’s starting lineup struggled offensively, combining to shoot just 9-for-39 from the field. Tiffany Hayes had a particularly rough night, going 1-for-11 from the floor. Despite her shooting woes, Hayes remained aggressive, finishing with eight points and five rebounds.

After the game, she emphasized the importance of team chemistry and the learning curve they face: “We’re a whole new group, a whole new team and we’re still learning each other as well as learning plays and learning our tendencies,” Hayes said. “We’re playing an experienced group on the other side… but at the end of the day, we can come together, fix that in practice, and do the little things to make sure those mistakes don’t happen again.”

On the defensive end, the Valkyries were equally impressive, forcing 20 turnovers and limiting Phoenix’s offensive flow in the second half. Monique Billings anchored the defense with seven rebounds, and the team’s perimeter pressure disrupted the Mercury’s rhythm, particularly in the final quarter.

Phoenix was led by Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, who scored 15 points each, but the Mercury faltered once Golden State seized control of the game late in the third quarter. Unable to regain momentum, Phoenix was held to just 21 points in the final 15 minutes.

Now 1–1 in the preseason, the Valkyries will return to San Francisco for their much-anticipated regular-season debut on Friday, May 16, when they host the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center. Fans in attendance will receive a commemorative Valkyries Inaugural Season t-shirt to mark the historic occasion, which represents the beginning of a new era in Bay Area basketball.

The Valkyries’ comeback win not only solidifies their place in league history as a competitive expansion team but also underscores the impact of strong bench play, collective defense, and the promise of a roster still finding its identity. As the team prepares for its official debut, Sunday’s win stands as a symbol of resilience, growth, and the exciting potential of what lies ahead.

For tickets, news, and more team updates, visit valkyries.wnba.com.