Veronica Burton Shines in Valkyries’ Historic First Win with Career-High 22 Points

A Historic Night for the Golden State Valkyries

In a moment that sent waves of excitement through the basketball world, Veronica Burton led the Golden State Valkyries to their first-ever win as a WNBA expansion franchise on May 21, 2025. Scoring a career-high 22 points, Burton became the hero of the night, especially with her clutch 3-pointers in the final minutes to secure a nail-biting 76-74 victory over the Washington Mystics. This milestone win at Chase Center isn’t just a game result; it’s the start of a new chapter for a team and a player proving they belong on the big stage. Why is this trending now? Because everyone loves an underdog story, and Burton’s performance is pure inspiration.

Who Is Veronica Burton?

Before becoming the talk of the town, Veronica Burton was already a standout talent. She recently joined the Valkyries after dominating overseas, winning the 2025 Italian League title and earning Finals MVP honors with Beretta Famila Schio. Her arrival to the Golden State franchise—affiliated with the NBA’s Golden State Warriors—brought high expectations, but also the pressure of a debut season. After the team’s loss in their opening game, Burton’s leadership and skill were put to the test, and she didn’t disappoint. Learn more about her journey in the official Valkyries Gameday Recap.

The Game That Made History: May 21, 2025

Let’s break down the timeline of this unforgettable night. On May 21, 2025, Burton delivered a performance for the ages, scoring 22 points and sinking two game-changing 3-pointers in the final 1:38 minutes. Her shots turned the tide when it mattered most, sealing the 76-74 win. Meanwhile, teammate Kayla Thornton added a crucial four-point play in the last minute, finishing with 18 points to support the effort. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing—Tiffany Hayes, another key guard, left the game after taking an elbow to the face, adding tension to an already intense match. This injury scare reminded everyone just how much was on the line for this young team.

Moments of Magic and Emotion

One of the game’s defining moments came just before halftime when Burton hit a long-range 3-pointer that echoed the style of Stephen Curry, giving the Valkyries a slim 31-30 lead. As noted by AP Sports Writer Janie McCauley,

“Burton made a long-range 3-pointer reminiscent of Stephen Curry just before halftime, giving Golden State a slim 31-30 lead at the break.”

Read the full game coverage on AP News. The sellout crowd at Chase Center erupted, and the energy carried through to the streamers that fell in celebration at the game’s end. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement of resilience and heart.

Behind the Scenes: Postgame Reflections

After the game, Burton and Thornton shared their thoughts in a heartfelt press conference. While the exact words aren’t quoted here, their emotions were palpable as they reflected on the significance of this first victory for the franchise. You can watch their full reactions in the official postgame press conference video. The buzz around Burton transitioning from an Italian League MVP to a WNBA clutch performer has fans and analysts alike in awe. Could this be the start of something legendary for both her and the Valkyries?

Relive the Highlights

Want to see Burton’s incredible 22-point performance for yourself? Check out the official highlights below from the Valkyries’ YouTube channel. From her jaw-dropping 3-pointers to the team’s celebration, it’s a must-watch for any basketball fan.

Conclusion

✔️ Veronica Burton’s career-high 22 points marked the Valkyries’ historic first win, a moment etched in WNBA history.
✔️ This victory is more than just a game; it’s a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the rise of a new powerhouse in women’s basketball.