Last updated Jun 5, 1:43pm ET

Tip-off is set for 10:00 p.m. ET at Footprint Center in Phoenix as the expansion Golden State Valkyries visit the Phoenix Mercury. The Mercury are off to a strong start behind Satou Sabally’s MVP-caliber form, while the Valkyries continue building chemistry during their inaugural season.

  • Phoenix is 4–1 at home and has won three of its last four games, led by elite forward play and strong interior defense.
  • Golden State has dropped three straight, struggling to generate consistent offense (74.0 PPG, last in WNBA).
  • This will be the first regular-season matchup between the teams. The Valkyries beat the Mercury by five in a preseason tune-up.

Golden State Valkyries Player Prop Pick: Kayla Thornton

The Valkyries are still finding their identity in their debut season. While the team has struggled offensively, they’ve shown encouraging signs with their rebounding (36.0 RPG) and effort on the defensive glass.

Kayla Thornton has emerged as a steady scoring option, and rookie guard Charisma Osborne has brought energy to the backcourt. However, shot creation and perimeter shooting remain inconsistent. For Golden State to compete in Phoenix, they’ll need to push tempo and improve ball movement while limiting turnovers and second-chance points.

  • Primary Option: Thornton is Golden State’s leading scorer and has taken double-digit field goal attempts in 5 of 6 games.
  • Consistency: She’s averaging 13.2 PPG and plays over 32 minutes a night.
  • Opportunity vs. Phoenix: With the Mercury focusing on paint protection, Thornton’s mid-range game and off-ball cuts could yield high-percentage looks.
Pick
Kayla Thornton Over 12.5 Points (-110)
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50% up to $1000

Phoenix Mercury Player Prop Pick: Satou Sabally

The Mercury are quietly emerging as a threat in the Western Conference behind the elite two-way play of Satou Sabally, who leads the team in both scoring and rebounding. Phoenix plays a disciplined style focused on attacking inside, getting to the line, and defending the paint.

Their veteran presence and home-court dominance have them sitting comfortably above .500, and their defensive efficiency has allowed them to control the pace in most contests. With Natasha Cloud stabilizing the backcourt, Phoenix has the depth and leadership to wear down opponents over four quarters.

  • MVP-Level Run: Sabally is averaging 20.5 PPG, with three 25+ point performances already.
  • High Usage: She leads the team in shot attempts (16.8 per game) and gets to the free throw line over six times per contest.
  • Mismatch City: Golden State lacks a true defensive forward to match Sabally’s length and agility.
Pick
Satou Sabally Over 24.5 Points (-110)
New Player Bonus
50% up to $1000
Kervin Coleman
Kervin Coleman

Sports Analyst

Kervin is a Kean University graduate with a bachelor`s degree in Communications Journalism. He also played collegiate football there, as a team captain and starting Outside Linebacker. I think he knows what he\'s talking about. Make sure to tune in to see what comes next!

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