Season Overview: Valkyries Rise and Lynx Domination
The Golden State Valkyries entered the 2025 WNBA season as an expansion team and surprised many by clinching a playoff berth. Minnesota Lynx, by contrast, came in with high expectations and delivered, finishing the regular season atop the standings. The clash between Valkyries vs Lynx represents not just a playoff matchup but a meeting of momentum and legacy.
Napheesa Collier has been instrumental for the Lynx, both offensively and defensively. Her consistency sets a high bar for players like Kayla McBride and Alanna Smith. On the Valkyries side, Cecilia Zandalasini, Kate Martin, and Veronica Burton showed flashes of brilliance, despite the injury setbacks involving Kayla Thornton and Tiffany Hayes.
Game Breakdown: What Happened When They Faced Off
Regular Season Meetings
The Lynx swept their regular season series against the Valkyries, including a dominant 101-72 win, showing depth and experience. The Valkyries had strong individual performances from Burton, Zandalasini, Salaün, Rupert and Fagbenle, but struggled to contain Minnesota’s balanced attack.
Playoff Showdown
Game 1 in the first round underlined the Lynx’s strength. They outscored the Valkyries in every quarter after a solid start by Golden State. Game 2 brought Valkyries heartbreak: leading by double digits, they fell just short in the final seconds. The loss ended their debut playoff run but the season they built, the fan support, and the coaching by Natalie Nakase look like foundation for next year.
Players to Watch
- Napheesa Collier - Elite scoring and rebounding for the Lynx. Frequently delivers in crucial moments.
- Kayla McBride - Veteran shooter who can stretch defenses.
- Cecilia Zandalasini - Valkyries’ go-to for off-balance shots and clutch attempts.
- Kate Martin, Alanna Smith, Veronica Burton - Role players stepping up; their performances often swing momentum.
Injuries, Coaching, Edge Factors
Tiffany Hayes and Kayla Thornton are out for the Valkyries during the playoffs, affecting their scoring depth. Coach Natalie Nakase’s recognition as 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year signals how well the Valkyries adapted. Her game plans often forced Minnesota to work harder, though Lynx’s experience and star depth gave them the final edge.
Where to Watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx
If you want to catch the game live, the main options include ESPN or the official WNBA app for many viewers. For viewers in the Bay Area, local broadcasts like KPIX+ or Sacramento-area channels (e.g. KMAX) also carry the games.
Streaming platforms are often used depending on region: WNBA’s own streaming service, perhaps ESPN+ or platform-specific services. Always check local listings.
Today 18 September 2025: Latest Developments
Valkyries’ historic debut season has just ended following a narrow 75-74 loss to the Lynx in Game 2 of their first round playoff series. Natalie Nakase has been awarded 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year, recognizing her role in guiding an expansion team to the postseason. The Lynx move on, while Golden State begins offseason planning focused on roster depth and health.
FAQs
What are the Valkyries?
The Golden State Valkyries are a WNBA expansion team that began playing in 2025. They quickly made history by qualifying for the playoffs in their first season.
What is the Valkyries vs Lynx score history?
In the 2025 regular season the Lynx won all their meetings against the Valkyries. In playoffs, the Lynx defeated GSV in Game 2 to eliminate them. Scores include a 101-72 blowout in Game 1.
Who are Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride?
Napheesa Collier is a star forward for the Minnesota Lynx, known for her scoring and rebounds. Kayla McBride is a veteran guard who gives steady shooting threats for the Lynx. Both are key players in this matchup.
What happened to Cecilia Zandalasini in the playoffs?
Zandalasini nearly hit a game-winner in Game 2. She leads several scoring bursts for the Valkyries but came up just short at the buzzer in the loss.
Where can fans watch Valkyries games?
Fans can watch on ESPN, WNBA’s app or regional channels in the Bay Area (e.g. KPIX+, KMAX). Availability depends on region and streaming rights.
What is the status of Valkyries’ injured players?
Tiffany Hayes and Kayla Thornton are out. Other players like Zandalasini are recovering. The injury list shaped the Valkyries’ depth in the playoff run.
When was the Valkyries’ Coach of the Year announced?
Natalie Nakase was named WNBA Coach of the Year for 2025 following the regular season.
Conclusion
The Golden State Valkyries’ first season wraps up with pride despite the playoff exit. While the Minnesota Lynx carried forward to win the series, the Valkyries showed promise across depth, coaching, and fan base. If you want to stay updated on player transfers, future schedules, or breaking WNBA news, keep an eye on official team sites and trusted sports outlets. Learn more about WNBA standings, upcoming season outlook, and in-depth player profiles.
