Gabby Williams powers Valkyries into first WNBA semi-final

Gabby Williams helped the Golden State Valkyries make history as they fought back from 16 points behind to reach their first WNBA semi-final.

The publicly out LGBTQ+ basketball star scored 19 points in a 77–73 victory over the Dallas Wings, securing a place among the final four teams chasing the championship.

The deciding third game took place at Chase Center in San Francisco on Friday 2 October. Golden State won the opening-round series 2–1, earning their first playoff series victory in only their second season in the Women’s National Basketball Association.

Williams delivered when her team needed her most, scoring 17 of her 19 points after half-time. Her jump shot with one minute and 17 seconds remaining put Golden State ahead during a tense finish.

Dallas had led 53–37 in the third quarter, leaving the home side with a substantial gap to close. Golden State reduced that deficit to five points before the final quarter and completed the comeback to keep their championship hopes alive.

Tiffany Hayes contributed 18 points, while Veronica Burton added 16 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. Dallas’s Arike Ogunbowale finished with 30 points, but the Wings could not hold off the home team’s late charge.

For Williams, the achievement follows her selection for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, which brings together leading players from across the league. She was among the publicly out LGBTQ+ athletes taking part in this year’s showcase.

When do the Valkyries play next?

Golden State host defending champions the Las Vegas Aces in the opening semi-final game on Sunday 4 October. Play begins at 1pm Pacific time, 4pm Eastern time and 9pm UK time at Chase Center.

The semi-final is a best-of-five series, meaning the first team to win three games advances to the championship finals. Golden State will also host Game 2 on Wednesday 7 October before the series moves to Las Vegas.

The Aces won all three regular-season meetings between the teams, giving Williams and her teammates another significant challenge. Las Vegas are led by A’ja Wilson, who finished the regular season as the league’s leading scorer.

US viewers can watch Sunday’s opener on NBC and Peacock. A UK broadcaster for this specific fixture has not been verified.

Where to follow:

Follow Gabby Williams on Instagram at @gabbywilliams. Keep up with the Golden State Valkyries at @valkyries.