Salaun’s 5 Threes Power Golden State Valkyries Past Seattle Storm in Season Opener.

SEATTLE — Janelle Salaun delivered a standout performance Friday night, scoring 20 points and matching a career high with five 3-pointers to lead the Golden State Valkyries to a 91–80 victory over the Seattle Storm in the season opener for both teams. Veronica Burton added 16 points, while Kaitlyn Chen came alive after halftime, scoring all 14 of her points in the second half. Kayla Thornton contributed 13 as Golden State built a steady advantage, leading 49–41 at the break and extending it to 69–53 entering the fourth quarter. The Valkyries showcased their perimeter shooting, with seven players connecting from beyond the arc and the team finishing 15-of-37 from 3-point range. In her return to Seattle, Gabby Williams—a key offseason addition for Golden State—posted seven points, six rebounds, and four assists against her former team, where she played from 2022 to 2025. Seattle was led by Dominique Malonga, who scored 21 points. Zia Cooke added 15 off the bench, while Jade Melbourne finished with 13. Rookie Flau’jae Johnson, the No. 8 overall pick in the draft, contributed 12 points but struggled with efficiency, shooting 3-for-12 from the field. The Storm are expected to be without starting center Ezi Magbegor for six to eight weeks due to a right foot injury, a significant early-season setback. Golden State also dealt with injuries during the game. Tiffany Hayes exited in the first quarter with a left pinky injury, and Cecilia Zandalasini left in the second quarter with a jaw injury. Neither player returned.

Up next, the Valkyries will host Phoenix in their home opener on Sunday, while the Storm head to Connecticut for their next matchup.