The Golden State Valkyries are one win way to eliminate the defending champs and to reach the WNBA Finals after edging out the Las Vegas Aces 83-81 in Game 2 of their Semifinals series. Playing in front of a energetic home crowd, the expansion Valkyries controlled much of the contest before fending off a fierce second-half comeback by the defending champions.

Tiffany Hayes spearheaded the Valkyries’ attack ff the bench with 21 points, while Gabby Williams added 20 points, five rebounds, and crucial late-game playmaking. Golden State built a substantial early margin behind balanced scoring and perimeter efficiency from Kayla Thornton, who chipped in 16 points. Las Vegas rallied late to erase a double-digit deficit, driven by interior pressure and clutch shot-making. However, with the game tied in the final minute, Veronica Burton sank a clutch three-pointer with 41 seconds left off a setup from Williams to give Golden State a decisive edge. The Aces had one final chance to respond, but their last-second attempt fell short.

VB LETS IT FLY FOR THE LATE LEAD 😤😤😤 https://t.co/kxIDTiCUe4

— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) October 8, 2026

Full Game highlights;

With a commanding 2-0 advantage in the best-of-five series, Golden State now travels to Las Vegas for Game 3, putting the Aces on the brink of elimination.