In a thrilling WNBA debut that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Golden State Valkyries clinched their first-ever franchise victory with a heart-stopping 76-74 win against the Washington Mystics. Guard Veronica Burton emerged as the game’s hero, delivering a clutch performance that will be remembered in Bay Area sports history.

Burton’s standout moment came with critical 3-pointers in the game’s final minutes, finishing with an impressive stat line of 22 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Her Stephen Curry-like long-range shot at the halftime buzzer gave the Valkyries a slim 31-30 lead, setting the tone for an electrifying second half.

The home crowd at Chase Center, including Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski, erupted with joy as the Valkyries secured their maiden victory. Teammate Kayla Thornton contributed significantly with 18 points, including a crucial four-point play that helped seal the win.

The game wasn’t without drama. The Valkyries faced a setback when guard Tiffany Hayes was helped off the court after taking a hit to the face in the second quarter. Despite this challenge, the team demonstrated resilience and teamwork.

Rookie Janelle Salaun made her mark in her WNBA debut, scoring 10 points and grabbing a key rebound. Her first 3-pointer came after the team’s initial 17 missed attempts, showcasing the team’s determination to break through.

While the Valkyries struggled from long range, shooting just 7 of 37, their clutch performance in the final minutes proved decisive. The win was a testament to the team’s fighting spirit and potential in their inaugural season.

The Valkyries will look to build on this momentum as they begin their first three-game road trip, facing the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday. For Bay Area sports fans, this victory represents more than just a win, it’s the birth of a new basketball legacy.