Washington Mystics vs Golden State Valkyries Preview

Mystics  vs Valkyries

When: Thursday, July 31st, at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Carefirst Arena, Washington, D.C.

TV: League Pass | Monumental Sports Network | Amazon Prime

Injury

Mystics: Georgia Amoore (Out for the Season/ACL), Sika Kone (Out/ Partial Suspension- Afrobasket Play), Aaliyah Edwards (Game Time Decision/ Wrist)

Valkyries: Cecilia Zandalasini (Out/ Left Foot), Monique Billings (Out/ Left Ankle), Kayla Thornton (NWT/ Right Knee)

Keep An Eye on: 

Valkyries Defense: Washington must be cautious yet bring both physical and mental toughness to withstand the Valkyries’ ferocious defense. Golden State enters the matchup ranked third in points allowed (78.5), fourth in defensive rating (101.9), and third in rebounds per game (36.3), making them one of the stingiest and most aggressive defensive units in the league. For the Mystics to succeed, they’ll need to value possessions, stay composed under pressure, and battle on the boards to limit second-chance opportunities—any lapses in focus will be quickly exploited by a disciplined and relentless Valkyries squad.

Defending the Three: The Washington Mystics will need to lock in defensively beyond the arc as they prepare to face the Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA's top team in three-point attempts, averaging just over 30 per game. This matchup pits strength against strength, with Washington leading the league in three-point defense, holding opponents to a stingy 30.4 percent from deep. The Mystics’ ability to close out effectively, rotate with urgency, and communicate on the perimeter will be tested against a Valkyries squad that thrives on spacing and volume shooting. With both teams excelling in these areas, this battle of contrasting styles could very well come down to which side bends—or breaks—first.