Kayla Thornton lifts Valkyries past Aces in WNBA Semifinals - Game 3; GS wins series 3-0

Valkyries finish the job

Kayla Thornton scored 18 points, and the Golden State Valkyries defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-77 in overtime Friday in WNBA Semifinals - Game 3. GS wins series 3-0. The result clinched the series for Golden State and eliminated Las Vegas.

A game of swings

The Aces, playing at home at Michelob ULTRA Arena, led 19-16 after the opening quarter and extended the advantage to 45-36 by halftime. A'ja Wilson led Las Vegas with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Chelsea Gray had five assists.

Golden State changed the game's direction in the third quarter. The Valkyries outscored the Aces 17-7 in the period, moving in front 53-52 entering the fourth. The teams traded the lead in the final quarter, and Jackie Young's basket brought Las Vegas level at 71-71 to send the game to overtime.

Overtime decides it

The Valkyries took control in the extra period, outscoring the Aces 16-6. Tiffany Hayes opened the overtime scoring with a driving layup, and Golden State built its lead from there. Hayes finished with four assists, while Kiah Stokes had 10 rebounds.

Gabby Williams added two baskets and four free throws during the extra period. Dana Evans scored for Las Vegas, but Golden State continued to add points at the line before Thornton made two free throws to complete the 87-77 result.

Records

The game was played Friday, October 9, 2026, at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, before an attendance of 10,218. The Golden State Valkyries moved to 32-12, while the Las Vegas Aces fell to 31-13.

Sources

ESPN