Valkyries Fall Short by One in Nail-Biter Against Mercury
The Golden State Valkyries delivered a gritty, high energy performance in front of yet another sold out crowd at Chase Center, but ultimately came up just short in a 78–77 loss to the Phoenix Mercury on Monday night. With 18,064 fans in the building the team’s 11th consecutive home sellout Golden State fought down to the wire before a late free throw decided the outcome.
Billings Leads the Charge Off the Bench
Monique Billings brought relentless energy, pacing the Valkyries with a +21 on the night highest on the team finishing with 9 points, 9 rebounds, and key rim protection that kept the Mercury offense in check. Head coach Natalie Nakase praised Billings’ “effort, rim protection, and tenacity,” crediting her as a driving force on both ends of the floor.
Sharp Shooting from Burton and Hayes
Veronica Burton delivered another strong performance, scoring 17 points on 50% shooting (5-10), dishing out 6 assists, and remaining perfect at the line (3-3). She knocked down four triples and scored 8 of her points in a crucial third-quarter run that kept the Valkyries within striking distance.
Tiffany Hayes was electric from beyond the arc, going 4-5 (80%) and finishing with 15 points and 4 assists. Over her last two games, Hayes is now shooting 66.7% (8-12) from deep.
Salaün Closes with Confidence
Janelle Salaün provided a late spark, scoring the Valkyries final eight points, including a clutch three and a tough midrange jumper in crunch time. Despite not playing much earlier in the game, Salaün stepped into the moment when her number was called.
“I kind of looked around who wants it?” said Coach Nakase. “She gave me the look, and I trusted her. And she delivered.”
By the Numbers
The Valkyries shot a season-best 42.4% from three (14-33), their fifth straight game with double digit threes.
Golden State tied a season low with just 9 turnovers.
The bench combined for 27 points, with strong contributions from Billings, Cecilia Zandalasini (+14), and Carla Leite (+5).
Despite being outrebounded 35–26, the Valkyries kept the game close through smart execution and shot making.
Voices from the Locker Room
Veronica Burton: “It’s frustrating we had it. We executed late, got the looks we wanted. But games aren’t won in the last 10 seconds; they’re won over four quarters. We’ve got to clean up the little things.”
Tiffany Hayes on honoring pioneers of the game: “It was special. They laid the foundation for us to be here, and we got to hear their stories today. One day, that’ll be us.”
Up Next
The Valkyries close out the first half of the season on Wednesday, July 16, with a midday matchup against the Seattle Storm. Tip-off is at 12 p.m. on KPIX+, KMAX, and the Audacy App.
