The Golden State Valkyries head to the nation’s capital on Wednesday night to face the Washington Mystics in a matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. The Valkyries have been one of the more intriguing expansion squads, mixing high-octane scoring from their backcourt with flashes of promising defense. The Mystics, meanwhile, have battled through injuries and inconsistency but enter as a slight 1.5-point home favorite, looking to take advantage of familiar surroundings and steady veteran leadership.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Point Guard – Jackie Young has been the floor general for Golden State, blending scoring and playmaking while setting the pace in transition. She’ll be challenged by Natasha Cloud, Washington’s steady veteran, who thrives in getting her teammates involved and limiting turnovers.
Shooting Guard – Chelsea Gray’s leadership and big-game shot-making have been vital for the Valkyries, especially in crunch time. Brittney Sykes will be tasked with defending her, bringing elite perimeter defense and the ability to generate offense off steals.
Small Forward – Allisha Gray gives Golden State size and scoring on the wing, with the ability to post up smaller defenders. The Mystics counter with Ariel Atkins, a two-way threat who can hit from deep and lock down key matchups.
Power Forward – Emma Cannon has emerged as a consistent interior presence for the Valkyries, but she’ll be up against Myisha Hines-Allen, whose versatility allows her to score inside, rebound aggressively, and defend multiple positions.
Center – Golden State’s rim protection will lean on Teaira McCowan, a dominant rebounder who can alter shots in the paint. Washington’s Shakira Austin provides a more mobile interior game, using her athleticism to defend pick-and-rolls and run the floor in transition.
Game Outlook
The Mystics’ success often hinges on their defense and ability to turn stops into points, while the Valkyries thrive when they can push the pace and create open looks early in the shot clock. Expect a clash of styles—Golden State looking to open the floor and attack from multiple angles, Washington aiming to slow things down and grind it out in the half-court.
Best Bets
- Golden State Valkyries +1.5 – The Valkyries’ balanced scoring and size advantage inside could give them the edge in a tight game.
- Under 148.5 Total Points – Both teams have shown the ability to slow the game to a crawl, especially in the fourth quarter.
- Jackie Young Over Points – Her aggressive scoring mindset should lead to a high-usage night against the Mystics’ perimeter defense.
Final Score Prediction
Golden State Valkyries 74 – Washington Mystics 71
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