The Golden State Valkyries opened their 2026 WNBA season at home on May 14 with a hard-fought 69–63 loss to the experienced Chicago Sky. Despite a spirited defensive effort in the second half, the Valkyries could not overcome an early 14-point deficit, falling short in front of a sellout crowd at Chase Center.

Match Overview

Playing their first regular-season home game after an expansion draft and free agency buildup, the Valkyries struggled offensively in the first quarter, managing just 12 points. The Sky capitalised with a balanced attack, shooting 52% from the field in the opening period and building a 26–12 lead by the end of the first. Golden State chipped away in the second, closing the gap to 38–30 at halftime behind aggressive drives from guard Jordin Canada and rookie forward Cameron Brink.

Key Moments

• Third-quarter surge: The Valkyries opened the third quarter on a 10–2 run, cutting the lead to 48–47 with 4:12 left in the period. Chicago called a timeout and responded with back-to-back three-pointers from Kahleah Copper.
• Defensive stand: Golden State forced seven turnovers in the third quarter, converting them into 11 points, but their own shooting woes (3-of-14 from deep in the second half) prevented them from taking the lead.
• Clutch free throws: Chicago’s Marina Mabrey sank four free throws in the final 35 seconds after the Valkyries had pulled within 65–63, sealing the road win.

Tactical Story

Golden State head coach Natalie Nakase opted for a switching defence that disrupted Chicago’s rhythm in the second and third quarters, but the Sky’s veteran frontcourt of Elizabeth Williams and Alanna Smith exploited mismatches in the paint, combining for 28 points and 14 rebounds. The Valkyries’ offence too often settled for contested mid-range jumpers rather than attacking the rim; they attempted only 10 free throws compared to Chicago’s 22. Turnovers were another differentiator – Golden State committed 17, leading to 20 Chicago points.

Standout Players

• Kahleah Copper (Chicago): The Sky small forward led all scorers with 22 points on 8-of-15 shooting, adding six rebounds and three steals. Her scoring bursts in the first and fourth quarters were decisive.
• Jordin Canada (Golden State): The point guard finished with 16 points, seven assists, and four steals, repeatedly breaking Chicago’s press and creating transition opportunities for her teammates.
• Cameron Brink (Golden State): The rookie made an impact in her first regular-season game, posting 10 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks, showing the two-way potential that made her the No. 2 pick in the 2025 draft.

Season and Table Impact

The loss drops the Valkyries to 0–1 in their inaugural season, while the Sky improve to 1–0. Both teams are early in the WNBA standings, but the result gives Chicago momentum heading into a three-game homestand. For Golden State, the narrow defeat – coupled with their strong defensive stretches – suggests they will be competitive in the middle of the pack, though offensive consistency remains a priority. The Valkyries travel to Las Vegas to face the Aces on May 17.