Empire State Review Contributor 
LOS ANGELES — The Golden State Valkyries triumphed over the Los Angeles Sparks in a nail-biting WNBA Commissioner’s Cup showdown on June 9, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena, marking another milestone in the debut season of the league’s newest franchise. The Valkyries secured the win in the final minutes, showcasing their poise under pressure and asserting themselves as a competitive force in the Western Conference.
A Tight Contest From Start to Finish
The game remained close throughout, with neither team able to pull away by more than single digits. The first half saw both sides trading baskets, with the Sparks capitalizing on transition opportunities and the Valkyries leaning on their half-court execution. By halftime, the Valkyries led by just three points, thanks in part to efficient perimeter shooting and tight defensive rotations.
In the third quarter, the Sparks surged behind the aggressive play of their backcourt, briefly taking a five-point lead. However, Golden State responded with a late-quarter run led by their star forward, whose scoring and rebounding kept them within striking distance. Entering the fourth quarter, the game was tied—setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Valkyries’ Late Game Heroics
The final minutes saw the Valkyries display composure and tactical discipline. With under two minutes remaining, rookie point guard Aaliyah James hit a go-ahead three-pointer to give Golden State a two-point lead. A key defensive stop on the next possession, followed by free throws from veteran guard Chelsea Gray, helped seal the 82–78 victory.
“We stayed locked in and trusted each other,” James said postgame. “It’s a huge win for us, especially against a team like LA.”
Standout Performances
For the Valkyries, Chelsea Gray led all scorers with 21 points and added six assists, demonstrating veteran leadership. Aaliyah James chipped in with 17 points, including three clutch triples. The Sparks were paced by Nneka Ogwumike, who posted 18 points and eight rebounds, while Lexie Brown added 16 points and four assists in a strong backcourt showing.
The game was a testament to the competitive parity in the WNBA this season. The Valkyries, an expansion team making their inaugural appearance in 2025, have quickly proven they can contend with established franchises. Their victory over the Sparks not only earns them Commissioner’s Cup points but also builds momentum as they seek to secure a playoff spot in their first year.
Broader Implications for the League
The WNBA’s Commissioner’s Cup, now in its fourth season, continues to serve as a high-stakes competition embedded within the regular season. Designed to add midseason excitement and enhance rivalries, the Cup has gained traction with players and fans alike. Games like this showcase the intensity and high skill level present across the league.
The matchup also highlighted the league’s continued expansion and increasing fan engagement. With the Valkyries based in the San Francisco Bay Area, the WNBA now covers a broader swath of the West Coast, creating new regional rivalries and expanding its market footprint.
The Valkyries’ performance so far in 2025 has captured the attention of analysts, with several noting their balanced roster and strong coaching as key factors in their early success. Meanwhile, the Sparks are still in the mix in the West but will look to rebound quickly from this narrow defeat as they aim to stay competitive in the playoff race.
