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2d ago

Valkyries Rout Sun 97-70 as Rookie Jocytė Debuts and Zandalasini Returns

The win showcases Golden State's defensive depth and pushes the expansion team to 4-2 as Connecticut's injury-plagued road trip worsens its early-season slide.

Golden State Valkyries guard Kaitlyn Chen, who had 10 points off the bench, heads upcourt after a basket during Monday’s game against the Connecticut Sun at Chase Center.
Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams (1) reacts after hitting a 3-pointer against Connecticut Sun guard Kennedy Burke (25) in the first quarter at Chase Center on Monday.
Connecticut Sun forward Aneesah Morrow, center, battles with two Valkyries players for control of the ball during the first quarter at Chase Center on Monday.
Golden State Valkyries forward Laeticia Amihere blocks a shot by Connecticut Sun center Olivia Nelson-Ododa (10) in the first quarter at Chase Center on Monday.

Overview

  • Golden State defeated the Connecticut Sun 97-70 Monday at Chase Center, turning a 47-30 halftime lead into a 29-point margin by the third quarter.
  • Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 15 points while Kaila Charles and Veronica Burton supplied balanced scoring and playmaking for the home team.
  • Rookie Justė Jocytė made her WNBA debut late in the game and scored five points, and Cecilia Zandalasini returned from a four-game concussion absence to provide rotation minutes.
  • Connecticut continued to struggle on the five-game Western road trip with Brittney Griner sidelined by a rib injury and Olivia Nelson-Ododa limited by a minutes restriction after an ankle issue.
  • The victory moved Golden State to 4-2 and reinforced its defensive identity, while the Sun fell to 1-7 and face questions about health and frontcourt depth as the trip concludes in Portland.