Sunday afternoon Western Conference WNBA action, and we will see the Golden State Valkyries tangle with the Las Vegas Aces at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Paradise, Nevada. Golden State comes in off a tough 81-75 home loss to Minnesota to fall to 10-6 on the year. Las Vegas is now 11-4 on the year after an 86-76 road win over Phoenix. The Aces have taken the first two meetings this year. Continue reading to see my Valkyries vs Aces prediction.
Valkyries vs Aces: Prediction, Preview, Latest Odds For June 21
Current Odds
Las Vegas -3.5; Over/Under 167.5
Golden State Valkyries Team Notes
Golden State enters this matchup after a tough home loss to Minnesota, a game where their offense never fully settled. Cecilia Zandalasini led the way with 23 points, while Janelle Salaün added 15 on high‑volume shooting. Gabby Williams finished with 15 points and eight rebounds, but the Valkyries shot only 35% from the field and 30% from three. Their spacing created looks, but efficiency slipped in key stretches. Golden State averages 84.4 points per game and shoots 36.4% from deep, but it must rediscover rhythm quickly against a strong Las Vegas defense.
Defensively, Golden State held Minnesota to 40% shooting but struggled with fouls and late‑clock breakdowns. The team allows only 78.6 points per game, one of the league’s best marks, and opponents shoot just 42% overall. Their perimeter defense has been solid, limiting teams to 37% from three. Kayla Thornton and Williams provide physical wing coverage, while Kiah Stokes anchors the interior. Golden State’s rebounding sits at 34.1 boards per game, but it must finish possessions cleanly to avoid giving Las Vegas extra chances.
Offensively, the Valkyries rely on spacing and perimeter volume. Williams leads the team at 16.3 points per game, while Burton and Salaün both average double figures. The Valkyries’ three‑point shooting has been a major strength, and their bench has delivered timely scoring during their best stretches. Golden State shoots 77.3 percent from the line and generates strong shot volume. Its challenge is avoiding long droughts, especially against a Las Vegas team that punishes turnovers and pushes pace after misses.
For the Valkyries to compete, they must hit threes at a high rate and avoid the stagnant possessions that hurt them against the Lynx. Their defense must also limit the Aces’ interior scoring, which has overwhelmed most opponents. Rebounding will be critical, as the Aces thrive on second‑chance opportunities. Golden State has the shooting to stay close, but it must dictate tempo early and avoid foul trouble. If the Valkyries maintain spacing and protect the ball, they can push the Aces deeper into a competitive game.
Las Vegas Aces Team Notes
Las Vegas enters this matchup after a road win over Phoenix, a strong response after their surprising 30‑point loss to Dallas. A’ja Wilson dominated with 33 points and 10 rebounds, while NaLyssa Smith added 21 on 8‑of‑10 shooting. Jackie Young scored 20 with four 3-pointers, and Chelsea Gray delivered nine assists despite a cold shooting night. The Aces shot 46% from the field and controlled the fourth quarter with physical drives and steady execution. Their offense continues to rank among the league’s best at 89.9 points per game.
Defensively, Las Vegas held Phoenix to 47% shooting and forced 20 turnovers. The Aces allow just 86.5 points per game and hold opponents to 43.4% shooting. Their perimeter defense has been strong, limiting teams to 37.1% from deep. Wilson anchors the interior, while Young and Gray pressure ball handlers. The Aces also rebound well, averaging 36.4 boards per game. Their ability to control the paint and limit second‑chance scoring has been a major factor in their success.
Offensively, Las Vegas features one of the most dangerous scoring trios in the league. Wilson leads the WNBA at 26.1 points per game, while Young adds 15.1 with strong perimeter volume. Smith has been a major boost, shooting 69.2% from the field and providing efficient interior scoring. The Aces shoot 48% overall and 36.2% from three, both elite marks. Their ball movement remains excellent, averaging 23.5 assists per game. When they control pace, their offense becomes extremely difficult to slow.
For Las Vegas to take the season series, it must pressure Golden State’s shooters and avoid giving up clean catch‑and‑shoot looks. The Aces’ offense should generate consistent interior touches, but they must also protect the ball against a Valkyries defense that thrives on deflections. Rebounding will be key, especially against a team that shoots a high volume of threes. If the Aces dictate tempo and maintain defensive discipline, they are positioned to extend their winning streak in this matchup.
Valkyries vs Aces Predictions
Las Vegas should control this matchup with pace and pressure, especially after stabilizing on the road. The team’s offense has been sharp at home, and they usually dictate tempo early. The Valkyries can score, but their efficiency dips when they chase from behind. The Aces’ ability to string together long scoring runs gives them a clear edge in this spot. With momentum back on their side, Las Vegas looks positioned to cover the number.
The scoring environment also leans toward a higher total. Both teams push the ball, and each relies heavily on perimeter volume. Golden State’s shooters rarely stay cold for long, and their spacing tends to create quick possessions. Las Vegas plays faster at home, and their transition game often forces opponents into an up‑tempo rhythm. That combination usually produces extended scoring bursts on both ends.
This matchup sets up well for a game played in the mid‑170s. Las Vegas should generate steady offense, while Golden State has enough perimeter firepower to keep pace. The Aces’ home floor typically boosts efficiency, and both teams have shown they can score in waves. With pace likely elevated throughout, the Over remains the stronger total play.
Final Predictions: Las Vegas -3.5 & Over 167.5
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