NFL
By: Ashmere Prasad
The Valkyries built their first two seasons defying expectations. In year one, they were the first expansion team to advance to the playoffs. Year two they signed All-Star defender, Gabby Williams, who made her goals of success loud and clear, “I came here to win, I’ve been very clear about that from the beginning.”
After their 78-70 victory against the Wings on Monday night the Valkyries clinched a spot in the playoffs for the second straight year.
It’s no secret the energy is different this time around. The addition of Williams has improved and changed the defense – as expected – and the chemistry between her and Veronica Burton is unmatched. They’ve held on to the two seed for a few weeks now, something some would have never considered.
The Valkyries superpower is their depth, and it has played in their favor during this six-game winning streak. The bench production has taken over as of late. They currently average 15.8 minutes per game (1st in WNBA), 36.1 PPG (1st), and 7.9 APG (1st).
Tiffany Hayes has been the veteran energizer bunny as of late. Hayes hit a buzzer-beater three-pointer from the logo at the end of the first quarter that had everyone on their feet, including Stephen Curry. That shot is well known at Chase Center and was much needed for Golden State to gain momentum.
Williams shared she knew the team would advance to the playoffs, that is why she joined them in the offseason. The way the team has overcome tough matchups and the joy they are playing with is what has surprised her.
“I’m excited for how we’ve done it, I knew we were going to do it since I got here. I didn’t expect us to do it this way, having so much fun. Every game I go into I have zero doubt because I know some way we’re going to figure it out, we’re going to stay together. I think that’s what I didn’t expect to be so great…To live it every day has been amazing.”
10 games remain in the regular season. Two of those are against the Minnesota Lynx, the only team GSV has not defeated. The last time these two teams played it was mid-June. Napheesa Collier was still on the injury list, and Courtney Williams called the fans bullies. The Valkyries third quarter mistakes and fourth quarter shooting slump cost them in the end.
Wednesday night the number one and number two seeds will face-off in Ballhalla, things will get scrappy. The fans were already on a different level against the Wings and expect no different against the Lynx. The Valkyries Achilles heel is starting slow – something they have acknowledged. Natalie Nakase has repeatedly said she wants a full 40 minutes where everyone empties the tank. This matchup will require Golden State to do just that.
