Golden State Valkyries Reach WNBA Semifinals After Historic Playoff Comeback

• by Shimanta Das
• October 4, 2026

The Golden State Valkyries are headed to the WNBA semifinals for the first time in franchise history, completing a dramatic playoff comeback with a 78-77 victory over the Dallas Wings in Game 3 on October 2, 2026. The win capped a series in which the Valkyries overcame a nine-point first-quarter deficit and a red-hot Arike Ogunbowale, who finished the first half with a game-high 17 points in 18 minutes. With 1 second remaining and Golden State holding a one-point lead, the Valkyries locked in on defense to seal the historic win.nnWhile the final moments drew the spotlight, the victory was a complete team effort. Tiffany “Tip” Hayes scored 18 points and Kaila Charles added 10 points and six rebounds, both proving essential to the comeback. “Kai being on the floor tonight was really, really important,” Hayes said of Charles. “She’s been doing it all season, but especially in this playoff series, her plays aren’t loud, but they’re so, so important, and they’re definitely not taken for granted.” Charles’s steady presence and timely contributions exemplified the Valkyries’ balanced attack.nnHead coach Natalie Nakase, seen directing the team during the regular season matchup against the Connecticut Sun on August 26, 2026, at Mohegan Sun Arena, has instilled a resilient mindset in her squad. The Valkyries began Game 3 with the same focus they showed in Game 2: stopping Ogunbowale. Although Ogunbowale and the Wings led by as many as nine in the first quarter, Golden State’s defense forced Dallas to need a second wind to maintain its advantage. Ogunbowale remained in the zone, but the Valkyries’ collective effort wore her down.nnA key factor in the series has been the second unit’s energy, shot creation, and extra-effort plays, which have significantly boosted the team throughout. That depth, combined with clutch performances from Hayes and Charles, propelled Golden State to the semifinals. The Valkyries’ historic run continues, and their ability to execute under pressure has them poised for even greater heights