Golden State Valkyries Dominate New York Liberty in Season Opener, Spoiling Satou Sabally's Debut The Golden State Valkyries delivered a commanding performance in their Thursday night matchup against the New York Liberty, securing an 87-70 victory that overshadowed Satou Sabally’s season debut. Gabby Williams led the way for Golden State, scoring 16 points to anchor a balanced offensive attack. The Valkyries, who entered the game with a 3-1 record, extended their dominance by outscoring the Liberty 18-9 in the first six minutes and maintaining a comfortable lead throughout the contest. New York, which had averaged a league-leading 100 points in its first four games of the season, struggled to find rhythm against Golden State’s disciplined defense. The Liberty’s offense, which had previously showcased explosive scoring, was held to just 24 points from beyond the arc, with the team shooting 6 for 24 on three-point attempts. Golden State’s depth proved decisive, as five players finished with double-figure scoring contributions, showcasing the team’s ability to distribute the ball effectively. Sabally, a high-profile free agent signed by the Liberty in the offseason, made her debut in the game but was limited to five points in nearly 16 1/2 minutes. The 27-year-old forward, who had previously suffered a concussion during Game 3 of the WNBA Finals last season, started the game and received a warm ovation from the crowd upon her introduction. However, her impact was muted, as the Liberty’s offense continued to grapple with inconsistencies. New York’s struggles were compounded by the absence of key players, including starters Sabrina Ionescu (foot injury) and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (personal reasons).#breanna_stewart #satou_sabally #new_york_liberty #golden_state_valkyries #gabby_williams
Valkyries blow out Liberty, 87-70, in Satou Sabally's New York debut The Golden State Valkyries defeated the New York Liberty 87-70 in Thursday’s game at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, marking Satou Sabally’s debut with her new team. Sabally, who missed all of the 2026 Unrivaled season after sustaining a concussion during Game 3 of the 2025 WNBA Finals against the Las Vegas Aces, played 16 minutes in her first game since October 2025. She recorded five points, four rebounds, and two assists. The Liberty, meanwhile, struggled in the first quarter, trailing 25-15, with most of their scoring coming from Pauline Astier (seven points) and Breanna Stewart (four points). Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 16 points, shooting 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Veronica Burton and Kaila Charles each added 13 points, with Burton contributing four rebounds and seven assists, including three 3-pointers. Charles tallied seven rebounds. The Valkyries extended their season record to 3-1 and improved their road record to 2-0. Sabally’s 3-pointer in the third quarter cut the Valkyries’ lead to 42-37, but Golden State quickly reestablished a double-digit advantage, and New York could not close the gap. Stewart finished with a game-high 18 points and nine rebounds for the Liberty, while Jonquel Jones added 16 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. The Liberty fell to 3-2. Both Sabally and Sabrina Ionescu, who missed the game due to a left foot injury sustained during the preseason, were game-time decisions. Ionescu remains sidelined, while Sabally continues to recover from a cyst and regain her conditioning. Sabally’s performance in her debut highlighted her previous contributions. Last season with the Phoenix Mercury, she averaged 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.#satou_sabally #new_york_liberty #golden_state_valkyries #brooklyns_barclays_center #pauline_astier
WNBA’s Offseason Intensifies as Free Agency Unfolds The WNBA’s free agency period has entered its fourth day, with significant movements shaping the league’s landscape. Free agent forward Satou Sabally confirmed she is not returning to the Phoenix Mercury after a single season with the franchise, leaving her future uncertain. Meanwhile, Nneka Ogwumike’s tenure with the Seattle Storm has concluded after two seasons, marking the end of a transformative chapter for the team. Ogwumike, a 10-time All-Star, revitalized the Storm, leading them to playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025 despite a first-round exit in the latter. Her departure follows the firing of head coach Noelle Quinn after the 2025 season. The Las Vegas Aces have solidified their roster by re-signing defending champion Kierstan Bell, who averaged 4.2 points and 1.8 rebounds in 35 games last season. Bell expressed excitement about returning to the team, emphasizing her commitment to the franchise’s success. Meanwhile, Aces superstar A’ja Wilson has confirmed her intent to stay in Las Vegas, with reports indicating she will re-sign on a $1.4 million supermax contract. Wilson’s decision underscores her role in the Aces’ recent dynasty, including their 2025 championship run. Other notable signings include free agent guard Breanna Stewart, who has chosen to remain with the New York Liberty, and Jackie Young, who is expected to return to the Aces on a one-year $1.19 million deal. Young’s return is critical to the Aces’ continued dominance, as she played a pivotal role in their 2025 championship series against the Phoenix Mercury. Trade activity has also intensified. The Dallas Wings traded forward Diamond Miller to the Connecticut Sun in exchange for center/forward Rayah Marshall.#las_vegas_aces #nneka_ogwumike #wnba #satou_sabally #seattle_storm
