The Valkyries Just Swept the Defending Champions. Golden State's Rise Is No Longer a Surprise.

LAS VEGAS — The Golden State Valkyries are going to the WNBA Finals in their second season of existence.

And they earned their opportunity by eliminating the defending champions.

Golden State defeated Las Vegas 87–77 in overtime Friday, completing a three-game semifinal sweep of the Aces.

The decisive game required a response to an early deficit.

Las Vegas forced overtime and gave Golden State a difficult challenge on the road.

The Valkyries responded by dominating the extra period 16–6.

That ten-point difference became the final margin.

Kayla Thornton scored 18 points for Golden State, while Gabby Williams added 16.

Kiah Stokes contributed 11 points and ten rebounds, giving the Valkyries important production on both ends of the court.

Golden State's depth proved particularly valuable.

The Aces had relied heavily on their leading players throughout the series, including A'ja Wilson.

The Valkyries found contributions across their rotation.

That balance had already been evident in Game 2.

Veronica Burton delivered a decisive late three-pointer in Golden State's 83–81 victory, helping the Valkyries survive a Las Vegas comeback and take a 2–0 series lead.

Friday's overtime performance finished the job.

The result represents one of the more remarkable developments in this year's WNBA postseason.

Golden State entered the league in 2025.

Less than two years later, the franchise is competing for a championship.

The Valkyries will face the Atlanta Dream in the Finals, with Game 1 scheduled for October 17 at Chase Center.

The matchup will guarantee a first-time WNBA champion.

For Golden State, the opportunity is the result of a roster that has demonstrated defensive discipline, scoring balance and composure in important moments.

For the rest of the league, the Valkyries have sent a clear message.

Expansion doesn't have to mean years of irrelevance.

Golden State has built a team capable of competing with the league's best.

Now the franchise has an opportunity to win its first title.