Valkyries Edge Mercury in Hard-Fought WNBA Showdown

June 10, 2026 – Golden State Valkyries 87, Phoenix Mercury 81 – In a tightly contested battle at the Chase Center, the Golden State Valkyries secured a crucial 87-81 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday night. The win moved the Valkyries above .500 and showcased their depth against one of the league’s most experienced rosters.

The game was a back-and-forth affair for three quarters, with neither team able to build a lead larger than six points. However, Golden State’s defensive pressure in the final period forced three critical turnovers from Phoenix, allowing the home side to pull away in the final two minutes.

Key Moments Down the Stretch

• Third-quarter flurry: Trailing by four with 3:30 left in the third, the Valkyries went on a 10-2 run capped by a step-back three from guard Jordin Canada to take a 64-60 lead into the fourth.
• Defensive stand: With the score tied at 79 with 2:15 remaining, Golden State forced a shot-clock violation on Phoenix, then converted a fast-break layup through Stefanie Dolson to regain the lead for good.
• Free-throw composure: The Valkyries went 6-for-6 from the line in the final 45 seconds, sealing the outcome and improving their home record to 7-3.

Standout Performances

Golden State was led by Jordin Canada, who finished with 22 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals. Her playmaking in the pick-and-roll was instrumental in breaking down Phoenix’s switching defense. Center Stefanie Dolson added 16 points and 10 rebounds for her third double-double of the season, while forward Alissa Pili chipped in 14 points off the bench, providing a spark with her energy on both ends.

For the Mercury, Diana Taurasi (in what may be her final season) poured in 25 points on 9-of-18 shooting, including five three-pointers. Brittney Griner contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds despite facing constant double-teams. However, Phoenix’s bench was outscored 25-9, a gap that proved decisive in the final result.

What It Means for the Standings

The victory lifted the Valkyries to a 13-11 record, keeping them firmly in the playoff picture in the WNBA’s competitive Western Conference. Phoenix fell to 11-13, dropping to seventh place. With the All-Star break approaching, both teams are desperate for wins, making every possession count.

Golden State’s ability to close out a tight game against a veteran-laden Mercury squad signals growth for a team still building its identity. Next up, the Valkyries head on a three-game road trip starting Friday against the Indiana Fever, while Phoenix returns home to face the Las Vegas Aces.