What happened: Zandalasini closed the first half with a midrange jumper through contact for an and-1. She shot 6-for-9 from the field with three 3-pointers in the half. Game 1 between Golden State and Dallas resumed for the second half on USA Network.
Why it matters: The first-half output doubled the 8.8-point season average of Cecilia Zandalasini. That production set the early scoring pace for Golden State in a Game 1. It also forces Dallas to adjust its second-half defensive matchups.
By the numbers: 17 PTS (team-high, 1H), 6-9 FGM (66.7%), 3 3PM; 2026 season avg 8.8 PPG
What to watch: Watch whether Dallas changes coverage on Zandalasini to open the second half and whether her shooting rate holds.