Fans have had a lot of fun with the 2025 WNBA season, but the matchups between the Golden State Valkyries, the league’s ambitious new expansion team, and the New York Liberty, one of the WNBA’s established giants, stand out the most. Their head-to-head matches have shown that the Valkyries are quickly becoming a stronger competitor and that they have different levels of experience.
Here is a full timeline of their meetings, best performances, and a look ahead at the games that could change the playoff picture.
Timeline of Meetings
May 27, 2025 – Barclays Center, Brooklyn
Outcome: Liberty 95, Valkyries 67
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The Liberty took control right away, going up 27–10 in the first quarter.
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Breanna Stewart scored 24 points, and Jonquel Jones had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds.
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The Valkyries, who were still getting used to their first season, had a hard time keeping up with New York’s depth and teamwork.
May 29, 2025 – Barclays Center, Brooklyn
Outcome: Liberty 82, Valkyries 77
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Only two days later, the Valkyries were back and stronger, making the Liberty fight much harder.
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The five-point difference showed that Golden State was a strong team that wouldn’t give up.
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This game was the first time the Valkyries showed they could quickly learn from their mistakes and move on.
June 25, 2025 – Chase Center, San Francisco
Outcome: Liberty 81, Valkyries 78
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The first meeting in the Bay Area was a real nail-biter.
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Kate Martin scored 21 points, and Veronica Burton gave out 10 assists.
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There were a lot of lead changes in the fourth quarter, and the game came down to the wire.
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Even though they lost by only three points, the Valkyries earned respect for how hard they played at home.
September 2, 2025 – Chase Center, San Francisco
Status: Coming Up
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This is the last time these two teams will play each other in the regular season.
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The Valkyries will try to finally beat New York, since the outcome of the game will affect the playoffs.
Main Ideas and Highlights
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Early Liberty Control: New York showed its pedigree with easy wins in May, thanks to the star power of Stewart and Jones.
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Closing the Gap: The Valkyries quickly closed the gap, going from losing by 28 points to just 3 points in a month.
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New Leaders: Kate Martin and Veronica Burton have become key players, giving Golden State a strong base of talent.
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Home Court Momentum: The Valkyries have one of the most exciting atmospheres in the league at Chase Center, making their games a cultural event in the Bay Area.
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Playoff Stakes: The Valkyries are trying to make history by becoming the first WNBA expansion team to make the playoffs in their first season, with only a few weeks left in the season.
Table of Matchups
| Date | Location | Result / Status | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 27, 2025 | Barclays Center, Brooklyn | Liberty 95–67 | Stewart 24 pts, Jones 13 pts & 10 rebounds |
| May 29, 2025 | Barclays Center, Brooklyn | Liberty 82–77 | Valkyries come back late, but lose by 5 |
| June 25, 2025 | Chase Center, San Francisco | Liberty 81–78 | Martin 21 pts, Burton 10 assists |
| September 2, 2025 | Chase Center, San Francisco | Upcoming | The two rivals will face off in the finale |
Games to Watch Soon
The Valkyries’ schedule for September is very important for both their chances of making the playoffs and their reputation in the WNBA.
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September 2, 2025 – vs. New York Liberty
Their last game against New York could be very important for their playoff seed and momentum. -
September 4, 2025 – vs. Dallas Wings
A fight with another team that is also trying to make the playoffs. After playing the Liberty, this game will test Golden State’s strength. -
September 6, 2025 – vs. Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx are still a tough opponent, and this game will be another chance for Golden State to show they belong in the playoffs. -
Possible Playoff Series (TBD)
The Bay Area could host playoff basketball if the Valkyries win enough games. However, logistical issues with the Chase Center’s availability (because of the Laver Cup tennis event later in September) may force a move, which is an interesting subplot to keep an eye on.
The Bigger Picture: Tradition and Growth
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For New York: The Liberty have to meet high expectations. Even though they are talented, they haven’t been consistent, and fans want results that are worthy of a championship-caliber roster.
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For Golden State: Every game is a challenge and a step forward. The Valkyries are the newest team in the WNBA, and they’re not just learning the ropes; they’re threatening to shake up the playoff standings.
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For the League: This new rivalry shows how the WNBA is growing, bringing together tradition and change, the East Coast and the West Coast, experience and ambition.
Final Thoughts
The rivalry between the Golden State Valkyries and the New York Liberty is becoming one of the most important parts of the 2025 WNBA season. Each game, whether it was a blowout or a nail-biter, told a story of growth, strength, and the clash between established power and new ambition.
As the Valkyries get ready for their last regular-season game against New York, which could also be their first-ever playoff game, one thing is clear: this rivalry is just getting started. The Liberty are still the best team, but the Valkyries are showing that they can compete with the best.
In the next few weeks, we’ll find out if Golden State can turn close calls into wins that go down in history. It promises fans unforgettable basketball and the start of a rivalry that could shape the league for years to come.
