Valkyries Defeat Aces 71-60 in WNBA Showdown
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 4:00 PM ET · Chase Center
Golden State Valkyries 71, Las Vegas Aces 60, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Las Vegas Aces vs Golden State Valkyries?
Golden State Valkyries beat Las Vegas Aces 71-60 at Chase Center on October 4, 2026.
Who was favored in Las Vegas Aces vs Golden State Valkyries?
Golden State Valkyries were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -115 (about 53% implied). The favorite won.
In a compelling matchup at the Chase Center, the Golden State Valkyries secured a decisive 71-60 victory over the Las Vegas Aces. This win marks a significant moment for the Valkyries, who have struggled against the Aces in previous encounters, losing all three meetings in the current season prior to this game. The Valkyries now improve their record to 33-12, while the Aces fall to 31-14.
The game was characterized by strong defensive play from the Valkyries, who held the Aces to just 60 points, significantly below their average scoring of 96.8 over their last ten games. The Valkyries' recent form has seen them win eight of their last ten, with an average of 84.5 points scored and 74.2 points allowed during this stretch. Their home record is particularly impressive, boasting a perfect 4-0 in their last four home games.
The Aces, on the other hand, came into this game with a record of 9-1 in their last ten outings, having averaged 96.8 points scored and 81.1 points allowed. Despite their strong performance leading up to this game, they struggled to find their rhythm against the Valkyries' defense. The Aces have performed well at home with a 6-0 record, but their away performance has been more mixed, with a 3-1 record in their last four away games.
In terms of injuries, both teams faced challenges. The Valkyries were without Iliana Rupert, who was out for non-injury-related reasons. The Aces were significantly impacted by injuries, missing key players Jewell Loyd, Stephanie Talbot, Dana Evans, and NaLyssa Smith, all of whom were out due to various leg and knee issues. This absence of talent undoubtedly affected the Aces' performance on the court.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, had the Valkyries as 1.5-point favorites, indicating a closely contested matchup. The total points line was set at 159.5, reflecting expectations for a competitive scoring battle. However, the Valkyries exceeded expectations with their defensive prowess, limiting the Aces to just 60 points.
Throughout the game, the Valkyries showcased their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they outscored the Aces 18-10. Key moments included free throws from Chelsea Gray and A'ja Wilson, as well as driving layups from Kayla Thornton and Kaitlyn Chen, which helped the Valkyries maintain their lead.
The Aces' struggles were evident, particularly in their inability to convert scoring chances and respond to the Valkyries' defensive pressure. Kalani Brown managed to score a two-point shot late in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough to close the gap.
As the game concluded, the Valkyries' victory not only boosts their confidence but also serves as a turning point in their series against the Aces, who had previously dominated their matchups. With this win, the Valkyries demonstrated their potential as strong contenders in the league, while the Aces will need to regroup and address their injury concerns moving forward.
What we said beforehand
The upcoming WNBA matchup between the Golden State Valkyries and the Las Vegas Aces at Chase Center promises to be an intriguing contest, particularly as the Aces have dominated the series, winning all three previous meetings this season. The Valkyries, with a home record of 32-12, will be looking to break this trend and secure a critical victory against the Aces, who hold a 31-13 record.
In their last five games, the Golden State Valkyries have shown a mixed bag of results. They started with a loss to the Portland Fire, 90-82 in overtime, but bounced back with a narrow win against the Los Angeles Sparks, 76-75. Following that, they secured a convincing victory over the Dallas Wings, winning 104-80. However, they faced another setback against the Wings, losing 108-100 in overtime before finally defeating them again, 77-73. Over these games, the Valkyries have averaged 77.2 points scored per game while allowing 81.6 points.
The Las Vegas Aces, on the other hand, have been in strong form recently, winning four of their last five games. They achieved victories over the Los Angeles Sparks (89-79), Phoenix Mercury (100-82), and Indiana Fever (102-85), with their only loss coming against the Fever, 99-89. The Aces have averaged 96.8 points scored per game during this stretch, while allowing 81.1 points.
When it comes to home versus away performance, the Valkyries have been solid at home, boasting an 8-2 record in their last ten games, with an average of 84.5 points scored and 74.2 points allowed. In contrast, the Aces have excelled on the road, holding a 9-1 record in their last ten away games, scoring an average of 96.8 points while allowing 81.1 points.
The injury report reveals that the Valkyries will be without Iliana Rupert, who is out not due to injury but for personal reasons. The Aces have several key players sidelined, including Stephanie Talbot (leg), Dana Evans (knee), and NaLyssa Smith (leg), which could significantly impact their performance.
The betting market has the Golden State Valkyries as slight favorites with a spread of -1.5, according to DraftKings. The total points line is set at 158.5, with odds of -115 for the over and -105 for the under. The moneyline has the Valkyries at -115 and the Aces at -105, indicating a closely contested matchup.
In terms of previous meetings, the Valkyries have struggled against the Aces, with a record of 1-6 in their last seven encounters. The last three games this season ended with scores of 73-92, 79-84, and 81-91, all in favor of the Aces. This historical context adds pressure on the Valkyries to turn the tide.
As the game approaches, viewers should watch for the performance of key players. Gabby Williams leads the Valkyries with an average of 14.4 points per game, while Veronica Burton contributes 5.7 assists, and Kiah Stokes grabs 5.8 rebounds. For the Aces, A'ja Wilson is a standout with an impressive average of 26.2 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, while Jackie Young dishes out 6.8 assists.
The matchup on October 4th at 20:00 UTC will not only be a test of skill and strategy but also a pivotal moment for both teams as they look to solidify their positions in the league.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | GS -1.5 | 159.5 o -108 / u -112 | Las Vegas Aces -105 · Golden State Valkyries -115 |
Injury report
- Iliana RupertOutNot Injury RelatedGolden State Valkyries
- Jewell LoydOutLegLas Vegas Aces
- Stephanie TalbotOutLegLas Vegas Aces
- Dana EvansOutKneeLas Vegas Aces
- NaLyssa SmithOutLegLas Vegas Aces
Leaders
- PointsGabby Williams25Golden State Valkyries
- AssistsGabby Williams5Golden State Valkyries
- ReboundsKiah Stokes14Golden State Valkyries
- PointsA'ja Wilson24Las Vegas Aces
- AssistsJackie Young5Las Vegas Aces
- ReboundsBrianna Turner7Las Vegas Aces
Recent form
Golden State Valkyries
Last 10: 8-2Streak W184.5 scored · 74.2 allowed per game4-0 at home
- W77-73vs Dallas WingsOct 3
- L100-108at Dallas WingsOct 1
- W104-80vs Dallas WingsSep 28
- W76-75at Los Angeles SparksSep 25
- L82-90at Portland FireSep 23
- W70-57vs Seattle StormSep 20
- W82-66vs Portland FireSep 19
- W86-69at Portland FireAug 30
- W79-60at New York LibertyAug 28
- W89-64at Connecticut SunAug 26
Las Vegas Aces
Last 10: 9-1Streak W196.8 scored · 81.1 allowed per game3-1 away
- W94-83vs Indiana FeverOct 2
- L89-99at Indiana FeverSep 29
- W102-85vs Indiana FeverSep 27
- W100-82at Phoenix MercurySep 25
- W89-79vs Los Angeles SparksSep 23
- W98-77vs Seattle StormSep 21
- W114-77at Seattle StormSep 18
- W93-73vs Toronto TempoAug 29
- W88-78at Toronto TempoAug 23
- W101-78vs Connecticut SunAug 21
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | - | 11 | W1 | .750 | 33 |
| Golden State | 1 | 12 | W1 | .727 | 32 |
| Las Vegas | 2 | 13 | W7 | .705 | 31 |
| Dallas | 6 | 17 | W1 | .614 | 27 |
| Portland | 16 | 27 | W1 | .386 | 17 |
| Los Angeles | 17 | 28 | L2 | .364 | 16 |
| Phoenix | 17 | 28 | L1 | .364 | 16 |
| Seattle | 25 | 36 | L5 | .182 | 8 |
Box score
| Stat | Las Vegas Aces | Golden State Valkyries |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 21-62 | 26-69 |
| Field goal % | 34 | 38 |
| Three-pointers | 7-21 | 7-24 |
| Three-point % | 33 | 29 |
| Free throws | 11-15 | 12-16 |
| Free throw % | 73 | 75 |
| Rebounds | 25 | 52 |
| Offensive rebounds | 2 | 17 |
| Defensive rebounds | 23 | 35 |
| Assists | 12 | 13 |
| Steals | 9 | 5 |
| Blocks | 3 | 6 |
| Turnovers | 6 | 13 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 11 | 11 |
| Fast-break points | 3 | 8 |
| Points in the paint | 18 | 34 |
| Fouls | 13 | 15 |
| Largest lead | 3 | 13 |
| Lead changes | 7 | 7 |
| Time in front | 12 | 81 |
How the scoring went
- 2nd Quarter28-34Jackie Young makes 24-foot three point jumper (Brianna Turner assists)
- 2nd Quarter29-34A'ja Wilson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Quarter31-34A'ja Wilson makes 11-foot turnaround jump shot
- 3rd Quarter31-36Cecilia Zandalasini makes 17-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter34-36Chelsea Gray makes 26-foot three point jumper (Brianna Turner assists)
- 3rd Quarter34-39Cecilia Zandalasini makes 27-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter34-41Kaitlyn Chen makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter37-41Chelsea Gray makes 25-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter37-42Kaitlyn Chen makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter37-43Kaitlyn Chen makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter37-45Kayla Thornton makes running layup (Gabby Williams assists)
- 3rd Quarter39-45A'ja Wilson makes 11-foot turnaround jump shot (Chelsea Gray assists)
- 3rd Quarter40-45A'ja Wilson makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter40-47Aminata Gueye makes 1-foot layup (Gabby Williams assists)
- 3rd Quarter40-49Gabby Williams makes 18-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter41-49A'ja Wilson makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter42-49A'ja Wilson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter42-51Aminata Gueye makes 8-foot layup (Gabby Williams assists)
- 3rd Quarter42-52Aminata Gueye makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter43-52Chelsea Gray makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter44-52Chelsea Gray makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter46-52Chelsea Gray makes 10-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter46-54Aminata Gueye makes 3-foot layup (Kaitlyn Chen assists)
- 3rd Quarter46-56Kaila Charles makes two point shot
- 3rd Quarter48-56Mai Yamamoto makes driving layup (Chelsea Gray assists)
- 4th Quarter48-58Tiffany Hayes makes 10-foot driving floating jump shot (Aminata Gueye assists)
- 4th Quarter50-58A'ja Wilson makes 10-foot jumper (Jackie Young assists)
- 4th Quarter53-58Jackie Young makes 27-foot three point jumper (Mai Yamamoto assists)
- 4th Quarter53-59Tiffany Hayes makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter53-62Gabby Williams makes 27-foot three point step back jumpshot (Kaila Charles assists)
- 4th Quarter53-64Kaitlyn Chen makes 6-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter55-64Jackie Young makes 3-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter56-64Chelsea Gray makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter56-65Kayla Thornton makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter57-65A'ja Wilson makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter58-65A'ja Wilson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter58-67Kayla Thornton makes running layup (Gabby Williams assists)
- 4th Quarter58-69Gabby Williams makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter58-71Kaitlyn Chen makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter60-71Kalani Brown makes two point shot
Win probability
Above the line favours Golden State Valkyries, below favours Las Vegas Aces.
Venue
- Chase CenterSan Francisco, CA
- Attendance18064
- OfficialsMarcy Williams, Randy Richardson, Amy Bonner, Agon Abazi
Elsewhere
- 2026 WNBA playoffs: Results, takeaways from semifinal Game 1s
- Valkyries take Game 1 over the Aces
- WNBA playoffs 2026: Schedule, scores for every game
- Atlanta Dream vs. New York Liberty - Game Highlights
- Canada's big day, team defense carries Dream to 92-82 win over Liberty in WNBA semifinals
- Dream All-Star Allisha Gray exits Game 1 with hand injury
- Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase adjusting routine after collapse
- Valkyries' Janelle Salaun unanimous Sixth Player of the Year
WNBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- Las Vegas Aces at Golden State Valkyries — WNBA: result pendingOct 14, 2026
- Golden State Valkyries at Las Vegas Aces — WNBA: result pendingOct 11, 2026
- Valkyries Edge Aces in Overtime ThrillerOct 9, 2026
- Valkyries Edge Aces in Thrilling WNBA ShowdownOct 7, 2026
- Aces Dominate Valkyries in WNBA ShowdownJun 21, 2026