The Golden State Valkyries beat the Los Angeles Sparks 72–59 at San Francisco’s Chase Center on Saturday, clinching the season series and overtaking their Pacific rivals for the eighth and final WNBA playoff spot. Coach Natalie Nakase had labeled the matchup a “must-win,” and her team responded behind strong outings from Cecilia Zandalasini and Veronica Burton. The duo paced a balanced Valkyries attack that kept Los Angeles at arm’s length after halftime. The contest also marked an emotional return for Sparks guard Julie Vanloo, who spent the first half of the season with the Valkyries before a sudden move last month. Vanloo said the game was an important step in processing her unexpected departure. Saturday’s result gives Golden State the head-to-head tiebreaker over Los Angeles as the regular season enters its final stretch.