Golden State Uses Strong Second Half and Defensive Pressure to Secure Victory Over Toronto The Golden State Valkyries bounced back with a strong second-half performance on Sunday night, defeating the Toronto Tempo 96-79 behind a breakout performance from Janelle Salaun. Salaun came off the bench and scored 24 points, while Veronica Burton added 17 points and six assists as Golden State used its defensive intensity late in the game to pull away. The victory ended a two-game losing streak for the Valkyries after the team previously won nine consecutive games. Salaun Provides Instant Impact Off the Bench Salaun was the difference-maker for Golden State, providing efficient scoring throughout the night. She finished 9-of-15 from the field and connected on four three-pointers, giving the Valkyries a major offensive boost. Her biggest moment came late in the third quarter when she hit a three-pointer with 1:30 remaining, putting Golden State ahead 66-59. The performance nearly matched her career-high of 26 points, which she recorded earlier in the season against Toronto. Valkyries Pull Away With Defensive Pressure Golden State built an early advantage before Toronto fought back.https://www.torontobasketballstore.com/collections/mariella-fasoula-jersey The Valkyries started strongly, shooting 50% from the field in the first quarter and making five of eight three-point attempts to take a 25-20 lead. The lead expanded in the second quarter when Cecilia Zandalasini hit a three-pointer to put Golden State ahead 44-31. However, Toronto responded with a 12-0 run to close the half, cutting the deficit to just one point at 44-43. Golden State regained control after halftime and relied on its defense to create separation. Veronica Burton played a key role during the closing stretch, converting a three-point play with 6:55 remaining before forcing a steal that led to another Salaun three-point play. Those plays helped extend the Valkyries’ advantage to 80-68 and ended Toronto’s comeback hopes. Toronto Tempo Fight Despite Missing Leading Scorer The Tempo entered the matchup without leading scorer Marina Mabrey, who missed the game because of a neck injury. Nyara Sabally stepped up for Toronto, recording 19 points and eight rebounds. However, the loss extended Toronto’s struggles, as the expansion team dropped its sixth straight game and its 10th loss in the last 11 games. Toronto showed resilience after falling behind early but struggled to maintain offensive consistency against Golden State’s defense. Kiah Stokes Anchors Valkyries Defense Golden State also received an important defensive contribution from Kiah Stokes. Stokes made an immediate impact by blocking Toronto’s first shot attempt, grabbing two quick rebounds, and finishing with: 8 points11 rebounds4 blocks Her interior defense helped the Valkyries control the paint and limit Toronto’s second-chance opportunities. Key TakeawaysSalaun Continues Development Janelle Salaun’s offensive production off the bench gave Golden State another scoring option and showed the depth of the Valkyries’ roster. Golden State’s Defense Makes Difference After allowing Toronto to erase a double-digit lead before halftime, the Valkyries responded with stronger defensive execution in the second half. Tempo Need More Offensive Support With Marina Mabrey unavailable, Toronto relied heavily on other players to create scoring opportunities. The team will need more consistency as the season continues. Final Score Golden State Valkyries 96, Toronto Tempo 79