Reigning Champs, Who?

W, 66-58

Another night in Ballhalla, another home team win! We are careful not to jinx anything here, but the Valks are playing with a determination to make it out of the regular season and into the post-season, and they have said as much in talking to the media.

The Valks got out to a strong lead against the Liberty on Tuesday night, winning the first half 40-26, thanks to hot shooting in the second quarter. Temi Fagbenle poured in 16 points on 7-10 shooting, Kate Martin continued to find her rhythm, shooting 3-6 from behind the arc for 11 points, and Janelle Salaün and Kaila Charles were right behind her with 10 points each.

We saw the return of Mo Billings, who made an immediate impact in the game on both sides of the floor upon her return in the first half. She gets after the boards and plays so hard! Ballhalla roared with applause when she subbed in, and it was just further evidence of how much this team means to this fanbase, in such a short time. It is really so cool to see, and we hope that the upcoming expansion teams in Portland and Toronto are able to harness a similar energy.

But it must be said, not only are the Golden State fans die-hard supporters of the violet and black, but also they possess a deep appreciation for, and knowledge of, the game itself. In her post-game presser, Temi said that we are perhaps too "friendly" of a fan base, and should not be cheering for the pre-game introductions of players like Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones. We'll have to agree to disagree there :)

This game was another example of the Valks' successful playbook - we pack the paint like no other on defense. If teams can't hit from behind the arc, it is very difficult to beat us. Indeed, the Liberty shot just 26% from the arc and never seemed to get in a rhythm offensively. Now, perhaps this was, in part, due to Sabrina Ionescu's absence, but it is also a testament to the heart of this team and their defensive mindset.

Up next - the penultimate home game of the regular season against the Dallas Wings. A win secures the Valks' playoff spot. And that's all I'll say for now!