Valkyries Clinch Playoff Spot, Beat Sparks Before Sellout

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 72-59, moving ahead in the Western Conference and securing the eighth and final playoff spot. Veronica Burton led with 16 points, while Cecilia Zandalasini scored 14 in the first half, including 4-of-5 from three-point range. Golden State capitalized on a weak second quarter from the Sparks, built an early lead, and maintained control with a strong fourth quarter. The Valkyries' defense held the Sparks to 32.8% shooting and limited Kelsey Plum to just four points. The win snapped the Sparks’ three-game winning streak and gave Golden State a 3-1 advantage in the regular-season series. The game was played in front of a sellout crowd, underscoring the stakes and playoff implications for both teams.