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Valkyries first WNBA expansion team to clinch playoffs in inaugural season
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- Valkyries first WNBA expansion team to clinch playoffs in inaugural season
The Golden State Valkyries became the first WNBA expansion franchise to make the playoffs in their first season, clinching their bid with an 84-80 victory over the Dallas Wings at Chase Center.
"This is awesome, honestly," Veronica Burton said. "It's a testament to all of the work that we put in, a testament to the belief that our coaching staff had in us.
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"To do it with the group that we did, we're just enjoying it, soaking it in. Obviously, there is a long road ahead of us, but (we're) able to sit and enjoy it."
Burton finished with 15 points on 5-of-10 shooting and five assists. Forward Janelle Salaun led Golden State with 19 points. Carla Leite scored 15 on 6-of-8 shooting.
Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase made it clear while making the playoffs is nice, there is more to do.
"We're not done yet. Maybe after the season, after this is all done, I'll reflect," she said. "I've got to stay present. I've got to stay where my feet are ... and I think that's why we've been able to do what we do, because we stay present. I don't really allow them to celebrate. They can obviously enjoy this, but I also keep them humble. Y'all want to continue to make strides? Then let's stay focused."
Golden State has three regular-season games remaining – two against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx – with each having a ramifications on the playoff seedings. With three regular-season games left, the Valkyries are 23-18 and sit in sixth place in the WNBA standings.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Golden State Valkyries reach WNBA playoffs in first season
