Minnesota Lynx vs. Golden State Valkyries: A Tale of Two Halves
Introduction
On June 1, 2025, the Minnesota Lynx faced off against the Golden State Valkyries at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This WNBA Commissioner's Cup game showcased a battle between the seasoned Lynx and the expansion Valkyries. Despite a strong first half by the Valkyries, the Lynx's experience and resilience led them to an 86–75 victory, maintaining their unbeaten streak.
First Half: Valkyries' Promising Start
The Valkyries entered the game with determination, leading 52–51 at halftime. Rookie Kate Martin energized the team with 14 points in the second quarter, while Veronica Burton contributed a team-high 21 points overall. Golden State's aggressive play and sharp shooting kept them ahead, signaling their potential despite being newcomers to the league.
Second Half: Lynx's Dominant Response
The Lynx, led by Napheesa Collier's 24 points and 11 rebounds, shifted momentum in the third quarter, outscoring the Valkyries 17–8. Courtney Williams added 20 points, and Kayla McBride contributed 16, showcasing the team's depth and experience. Minnesota's defense tightened, limiting Golden State's scoring opportunities and securing their seventh consecutive win.
Game Statistics
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Lynx | 27 | 24 | 17 | 18 | 86 |
| Golden State Valkyries | 23 | 29 | 8 | 15 | 75 |
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Napheesa Collier | Minnesota Lynx | 24 | 11 | 4 |
| Courtney Williams | Minnesota Lynx | 20 | 5 | 5 |
| Veronica Burton | Golden State Valkyries | 21 | 5 | 3 |
| Kate Martin | Golden State Valkyries | 14 | 3 | 2 |
Key Takeaways
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Lynx's Experience: Minnesota's seasoned players capitalized on the Valkyries' second-half struggles, demonstrating the importance of experience in high-pressure situations.
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Valkyries' Potential: Despite the loss, Golden State's strong first half highlighted their potential and growth as a new franchise.
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Defensive Adjustments: The Lynx's defensive strategy in the second half effectively neutralized the Valkyries' offense, showcasing their adaptability.
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Commissioner's Cup Impact: This victory marked the Lynx's first win in the Commissioner's Cup, adding momentum to their season.
Conclusion
The matchup between the Minnesota Lynx and the Golden State Valkyries was a testament to the competitive spirit of the WNBA. While the Valkyries showcased their potential in the first half, the Lynx's experience and strategic adjustments secured their victory. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on this game—Minnesota aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak, and Golden State striving to translate their promising performances into consistent wins.
