The Golden State Valkyries will make their WNBA debut on Friday, May 16, 2025, hosting the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center in San Francisco. Their inaugural game, airing nationally on ION at 10 PM ET, marks a significant milestone for the league’s newest franchise. The Sparks, aiming to reestablish themselves as contenders, bring a roster infused with veteran talent and promising newcomers. Here, we break down Sparks vs Valkyries and make our pick for the contest.
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Sparks vs Valkyries Game Preview
Los Angeles enters the season with renewed vigor, highlighted by the acquisition of Kelsey Plum, who delivered 11 points and five assists in a recent 83–82 preseason victory over the Valkyries. Plum’s integration into the Sparks’ backcourt, alongside seasoned players like Odyssey Sims and Dearica Hamby, positions Los Angeles as a team with a balanced mix of experience and skill. Hamby, in particular, is coming off a season where she averaged 17.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, underscoring her pivotal role in the team’s dynamics.
On the other side, the Golden State Valkyries, under the guidance of head coach Natalie Nakase, are embarking on their first WNBA season. Their preseason concluded with an 84–79 win over the Phoenix Mercury, showcasing the depth and potential of their bench. Notably, Migna Touré led the charge with 19 points, while Carla Leite added 11 points, demonstrating the team’s promising talent pool. However, the starting lineup faced challenges, combining for a 9-for-39 shooting performance, indicating areas needing improvement as the regular season commences.
The Valkyries’ roster blends seasoned WNBA veterans like Tiffany Hayes and Monique Billings with emerging international talents. Hayes is expected to be a primary offensive contributor, while Billings’ prowess on the boards will be crucial for the team’s interior defense. The team’s defense will be tested right away against the Sparks’ offensive threats.
Betting Insights
- Point Spread: Los Angeles Sparks -6.5
- Over/Under: 160.5 points
- Moneyline: Sparks -325, Valkyries +220
According to Sportzino, the Sparks are the favorites going into their season opener. For bettors, the Sparks’ established roster and offensive potential will be appealing. However, the Valkyries’ potential to cover the spread shouldn’t be underestimated, especially considering their bench’s ability to impact the game’s momentum. The over/under line suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, but with Golden State’s defensive focus and potential early-season offensive adjustments, the under might be a more favorable bet.
Player prop bets offer intriguing opportunities. Tiffany Hayes, as Golden State’s anticipated offensive leader, could surpass her projected points total, especially if the starters find their rhythm. Conversely, Kelsey Plum’s integration into the Sparks’ system might result in varied scoring outputs, making her point total bets more unpredictable.
Sparks vs Valkyries Prediction
Considering the Sparks’ roster changes and the absence of the injured Cameron Brink, Los Angeles might struggle to cover the spread even if they secure a victory. The Sparks’ blend of veteran leadership and offensive capabilities gives them an edge. However, Golden State’s bench strength and defensive emphasis could keep the game competitive, potentially allowing them to cover the spread.
Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Sparks 78, Golden State Valkyries 75
Best Bets:
- Under 160.5 total points
- Golden State Valkyries +6.5
As the Valkyries embark on their WNBA journey, this matchup offers a glimpse into their potential and the challenges ahead. Bettors should monitor how quickly Golden State’s starters adapt to the league’s pace and how the Sparks leverage their experience to capitalize on any early-season vulnerabilities.
