Gabby Williams enters the series after averaging 19.0 points per game against the Las Vegas Aces during the regular season, a stretch where she notably set a new career-high point total. The Valkyries now look to shift the momentum after dropping all three of their regular-season meetings against the Aces during the first half of the year.
This series is pivotal for both franchises as they battle for a spot in the next round of the postseason. The competition intensifies under the weight of injury concerns, as the Las Vegas Aces face challenges with pacing following Jewell Loyd's injury sustained during Game 1. For the Valkyries, the stakes are elevated as they leverage their home court to counteract their previous losing record against this opponent.
According to the official Golden State Valkyries team report, the five-game series kicks off with two consecutive matchups held at Ballhalla. This scheduling provides the Valkyries with a crucial home-court advantage as they attempt to break their winless streak against the Aces. The WNBA Showtime crew notes that internal tactical adjustments will be essential for the Aces to navigate the remainder of the series while managing Loyd’s health status.
The series officially opened on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 1 p.m. at the Chase Center, marking the start of the postseason clash between the two teams.