Valkyries Run Past Fire Behind Thornton's Double-Double, 95-77

The Golden State Valkyries seized control early and never looked back, downing the Portland Fire 95-77. Kayla Thornton powered the home side with 19 points and eight rebounds, while Janelle Salaun added 18 in the wire-to-wire victory.

The decisive moment

Golden State set the tone before the game ever tightened. The Valkyries grabbed the lead for good in the first quarter with 5:01 on the clock and steadily pulled away, building a cushion the Fire could never seriously threaten on the way to a 95-77 result.

By the numbers

Final: Golden State 95, Portland 77 (18-point margin)
Kayla Thornton (GS): 19 PTS, 8 REB
Janelle Salaun (GS): 18 PTS, 4 REB, 1 AST
Megan Gustafson (POR): 13 PTS, 8 REB, 2 AST
Emily Engstler (POR): 12 PTS, 8 REB, 1 AST

Thornton's all-around line anchored a balanced Golden State attack, and Salaun's scoring punch ensured the hosts had a reliable second option whenever Portland made a push.

What it means

The Valkyries banked a comfortable home win during the 2026 WNBA Regular Season, the kind of controlled performance that builds confidence and standing as the schedule rolls on. Portland, meanwhile, leaned on Gustafson and Engstler inside but lacked the perimeter answers to close an early gap. The Fire will look to tighten their starts after surrendering control so quickly.

What to watch next

Golden State will aim to carry its early-game intensity into its next matchup, while Portland searches for a faster, sharper opening stretch to avoid playing from behind again.