Kayla Thornton & Valkyries Overtime Win vs Sparks
- LOS ANGELES — The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 89-81 in overtime Monday, fueled by double-double performances from Kayla Thornton and Temi Fagbenle.
- Thornton sealed the victory with a clutch 3-pointer with 38.6 seconds remaining in overtime, capping off her 18-point, 11-rebound night.
- The Sparks, now 3-7, were led by Kelsey Plum's game-high 24 points and seven assists.Plum nearly ended the game in regulation, but her floater at the buzzer fell...
Kayla Thornton’s clutch performance propelled the Golden State Valkyries to an 89-81 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Sparks, improving their record to 2-2. Thornton’s double-double, marked by 18 points and 11 rebounds, was pivotal, particularly her late-game 3-pointer that sealed the win. Valkyries’ Temi Fagbenle also shone, contributing a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds, highlighting the team’s dominance on the boards and defensive intensity. The Sparks, despite Kelsey Plum’s valiant effort of 24 points, struggled in overtime. Discover how the Valkyries’ balanced attack, including contributions from Janelle Salaun and Carla Leite, secured this thrilling win. For these details and more,look to News Directory 3. discover what’s next …
Golden State Valkyries Outlast Los Angeles Sparks in Overtime, 89-81
Updated June 10, 2025
LOS ANGELES — The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 89-81 in overtime Monday, fueled by double-double performances from Kayla Thornton and Temi Fagbenle. The Commissioner’s Cup contest saw Golden State improve to 2-2, while Los Angeles fell to 1-2.
Thornton sealed the victory with a clutch 3-pointer with 38.6 seconds remaining in overtime, capping off her 18-point, 11-rebound night. Fagbenle contributed 14 points and a game-high 13 rebounds, along with four steals and four blocks, showcasing the team’s defensive prowess and ability to control the glass. Janelle Salaun led the Valkyries with 21 points, providing a crucial offensive spark.
The Sparks, now 3-7, were led by Kelsey Plum’s game-high 24 points and seven assists.Plum nearly ended the game in regulation, but her floater at the buzzer fell short, allowing Thornton to grab the rebound and force overtime. Dearica Hamby added 20 points and nine rebounds for Los Angeles, but the Sparks struggled to find the basket in the extra period, managing only one field goal.
Five Golden State players scored in double figures, highlighting their balanced attack.Carla Leite scored 15 points off the bench,while Monique Billings added 10. Veronica Burton chipped in with nine points, including seven from the free-throw line. Burton’s early overtime field goal gave the Valkyries a lead they would not relinquish. The Valkyries’ defense also stifled Azura Stevens, limiting her to six points on 1-of-7 shooting.