Golden State Valkyrie forward Cecilia Zandalasini (24) holds the ball above her head against the Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron (22) at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sat Jul 18, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Michael Roberson

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.– Another sold out Chase Center crowd witnessed the Golden State Valkyries (19-7) put a spell on the Washington Mystics (12-12) 74-69 Saturday night, and extend their winning streak (9) in the City by the Bay. 

Golden State started the contest off converting the first basket, to lead 2-0 immediately.  Washington managed to come right back and take the lead themselves, previewing a back and forth battle between the two squads. There were ten lead changes and seven ties overall.

In the initial quarter, the Mystics actually held an eight point lead, and managed to keep it at five by quarter’s end, 18-13.  There were multiple lead changes during the first ten minutes too and one tie.  However, the Capital City visitors were able to temporarily stave off the home team.

In the second quarter the Valkyries were able to complete a 17-point turnaround by leading as many as nine points during the second stanza.  They regained the lead around the 5:00 mark, and managed to keep it at recess.  At the midway point of the game, the Valkyries were in possession of a five point lead, 33-28.

No players from either team were able to achieve the double-digit scoring plateau after 20 minutes of WNBA action.  However, there was balanced scoring on both sides and the teams were fighting for the lead.  Golden State was halfway to extending their impressive winning streak, with game momentum in their favor.

In the second half, the Valkyries converted two free throws, to extend their halftime lead to seven.  However, the Mystics used their sorcery to actually overcome and place themselves in front by five at the end of the third ten-minute block, 57-52.  At that point, the raucous home fans were in a roar to will their team to victory.

In the final quadrant Golden State fought back from being six points down, to leading by seven, and desperately trying to hold on to their precious lead.  Despite Washington’s valiant efforts, the Valkyries were able to utilize their shield and win their ninth straight game, with one more before the All-Star break.  After the 40-minute war, Golden State was on top by five points, 74-69.

The Valkyries presented three ballers with 10+ points.  Gabby Williams led the way with 18 points and five assists, while Veronica Burton had a double-double, consisting of 11 points, 11 assists, and grabbed five rebounds.  Kayla Thornton added her 11 points to the team’s efforts.

The Mystics had two players with double-figures.  Shakira Austin  scored a game high 18 points and snagged an equally game high 16 rebounds.  Sonia Citron chipped in 12 points for her team.

Both teams will be right back at it versus each other, Monday July 20, at Chase Center at 7 PM PT on KOVR/KPIX.