What happened

Cecilia Zandalasini scored 22 points to lead the Golden State Valkyries in Game 1 of the Round 1 series, delivering the headline performance in a 1-0 start to the 2026 WNBA Playoffs. Tiffany Hayes added 21 points and Gabby Williams scored 20 points, with the trio combining for 63 points to power Golden State to early series control. The three-pronged output set the standard for the Valkyries' postseason opening.

Zandalasini led all Golden State scorers in Game 1, converting from the field and from three-point range to pace the attack. Hayes followed closely with 21 points, while Williams rounded out the trio with 20 points to ensure three Valkyries reached the 20-point mark. Together, the balance kept Golden State on the front foot as it secured the series opener.

Why it matters

Golden State opened the 2026 WNBA Playoffs by seizing early series control with a 1-0 Round 1 lead. Securing Game 1 establishes momentum at the most important stage of the season, when every possession carries postseason weight. For the Valkyries, the fast start provides a clear platform heading into Game 2 with the series advantage in hand.

Spreading 63 points across three players reduces reliance on a single scorer as the series advances. Zandalasini's 22 points, Hayes' 21 points and Williams' 20 points illustrate a shared offensive burden rather than a one-player effort. That balance gives Golden State greater flexibility in responding to defensive adjustments over the course of a playoff series.

By the numbers

Zandalasini finished with 22 points on 7-of-11 shooting from the field, including 4-of-5 from three-point range in 16 minutes. The 16-minute outing underscores the efficiency of the performance, with four three-pointers leading Golden State's perimeter production. Her shooting line anchored a night in which the Valkyries' leaders delivered from distance and inside the arc.

Hayes added 21 points with 3 three-pointers, pairing her perimeter shooting with Zandalasini's 4-of-5 night from deep. Williams contributed 20 points to bring the trio's combined total to 63 points in Game 1. The three 20-point performances together defined Golden State's scoring output in the Round 1 opener.

What to watch next

The series continues with Game 2 with Golden State holding the lead. The Valkyries will look to carry the momentum of a 63-point trio performance into the next matchup. Maintaining the production of Zandalasini, Hayes and Williams will be central to protecting the 1-0 advantage.