The hottest team in the WNBA returns to the floor Monday night as the Golden State Valkyries host the Washington Mystics at Chase Center in San Francisco. Tipoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET as Golden State looks to extend its franchise-record nine-game winning streak and complete a three-game sweep of Washington in just over two weeks.
Golden State enters the matchup with a 19-7 record, tied among the league’s top teams, while Washington sits at 12-12 and looks to climb back above the .500 mark. The Valkyries have already defeated the Mystics twice this month, earning a 62-49 road victory on July 6 before holding off Washington 74-69 at home on Saturday. The franchise is also a perfect 6-0 all-time against the Mystics.
Valkyries Riding Historic Momentum
Golden State has emerged as one of the WNBA’s premier defensive teams. The Valkyries lead the league in scoring defense, allowing just 75.8 points per game, and have held opponents under 70 points nine times this season. During their current nine-game winning streak, opponents are averaging just 69.2 points while shooting under 40 percent from the field.
The Valkyries are also unbeaten in July (6-0) and have won four consecutive home games. Another victory Monday would give Golden State its 10th straight win, the longest winning streak in the WNBA this season, while also marking the team’s fifth consecutive home victory.
Players to Watch
Gabby Williams continues to lead Golden State’s offense, averaging a career-high 15.1 points per game while earning her first WNBA All-Star starting selection. She scored 18 points in Saturday’s victory over Washington, knocking down two clutch three-pointers in the fourth quarter.
Veronica Burton continues to orchestrate the Valkyries’ offense, averaging 11.9 points and a team-high 5.5 assists per game. Burton posted a double-double with 11 points and 11 assists in the previous meeting, and Golden State is a perfect 12-0 this season when she records six or more assists.
Veteran forward Kayla Thornton leads the team with 5.1 rebounds per game, while center Kiah Stokes ranks second in the WNBA with 1.8 blocks per game, anchoring one of the league’s stingiest defenses.
Washington will again look to center Shakira Austin, who finished with 18 points and a career-high 16 rebounds in Saturday’s loss. Sonia Citron added 12 points, while the Mystics continue to rely on their rebounding advantage as they search for a breakthrough against Golden State.
Keys to the Game
Washington’s ability to control the boards and create second-chance opportunities could determine whether it can snap Golden State’s winning streak. The Mystics have consistently been one of the league’s best rebounding teams but will need a more efficient offensive performance after being held to 69 points on Saturday.
For Golden State, the formula has remained consistent throughout the season: elite defense, efficient three-point shooting, and balanced scoring. The Valkyries lead the WNBA in made three-pointers per game and continue to receive league-leading production from one of the deepest benches in the league.
A victory would give the Valkyries their 20th win of the season and further solidify their place among the WNBA’s elite as they continue one of the league’s most impressive stretches of basketball.
Game Information
Matchup: Washington Mystics (12-12) at Golden State Valkyries (19-7)
Date: Monday, July 20
Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
Location: Chase Center (San Francisco, California)
TV: KPIX / KOVR
Radio: 95.7 The Game
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