The Golden State Valkyries reached the WNBA Finals on their second year as an expansion franchise

The Golden State Valkyries reached the WNBA Finals on their second year as an expansion franchise, defeating the defending champion Las Vegas Aces 87-77 in overtime during Game 3, Sky Sport reported.

Golden State Overcomes Double-Digit Deficit in Las Vegas

The defending champions seized early control of the elimination game, pushing their lead to as many as 11 points in the first half. Las Vegas, winners of three of the previous four WNBA titles, looked poised to force a Game 4 before the visitors shifted momentum after halftime. Golden State dominated the third quarter by a 17-7 margin to erase the deficit and turn the contest into a tight, possession-by-possession battle down the stretch.

With regulation expiring, Las Vegas guard Chelsea Gray missed a potential game-winning shot on the baseline, sending the elimination match into an extra five-minute period. The overtime session belonged entirely to the expansion side, as guard Gabby Williams scored eight of her 16 total points to seal the 87-77 victory and secure the franchise’s first-ever trip to the finals.

Zandalasini Secures Second Career Finals Appearance

Forward Cecilia Zandalasini contributed seven points, three rebounds, and three assists in just over 25 minutes of floor time for the Valkyries. Though she struggled from the field with a 2-of-9 shooting night—including 1-of-3 from beyond the arc—her veteran presence anchored the perimeter rotation under head coach Natalie Nakase.

The milestone marks the second WNBA Finals appearance of Zandalasini’s career. She previously reached the championship stage in 2017 as a rookie reserve with the Minnesota Lynx, capturing a title in limited minutes. Nine years later, she returns to the finals as an established starter for a second-year franchise.

Aces Abdicate Crown as Valkyries Meet Atlanta Dream

Meanwhile, the Valkyries advance to face the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Finals.

Atlanta earned their own championship berth by sweeping the New York Liberty 3-0 in their respective series. Because of regular-season seeding and playoff outcomes, home-court advantage for the best-of-seven finals series belongs to Golden State.

WNBA Finals Open Saturday on Sky Sport

The WNBA Finals series opens on Saturday, October 17, with tip-off scheduled for 21.30 local venue time. Live coverage of the series is broadcast across Sky Sport channels and streaming on NOW, with replays scheduled throughout the following day on Sky Sport Basket.