Sun vs Valkyries predictions
Connecticut Sun fans, it’s been a tough stretch lately, no sugarcoating it—a five-game skid is never easy on the players or their supporters. Even so, Tina Charles remains a consistent bright spot, and if there’s one thing the Sun can count on, it’s her ability to pour in points from just about anywhere on the court. I’m expecting her to once again lead the team’s offense, likely landing somewhere in the high teens for scoring and continuing to be a tough matchup in the paint. With Marina Mabrey’s status up in the air due to her knee, the backcourt playmaking might sag a bit, though if she suits up, look for her to try and keep that ball moving, with her averages suggesting good things—assuming her mobility holds up. Don’t sleep on Olivia Nelson-Ododa on the glass either; with her recent rebounding performances, she could notch another solid night cleaning up around the rim, especially if the Sun’s shooting woes persist.
On the flip side, Golden State Valkyries have found their rhythm at Chase Center and look ready to take full advantage of home court. Kayla Thornton is quietly putting together a really strong campaign, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding—those are the kind of dependable numbers that make you believe she’ll be heavily involved again, perhaps threatening a double-double if the tempo is high. Veronica Burton can flat-out create looks, and her ability to orchestrate the offense has been a difference-maker, so if anyone’s piling up assists in this game, my money’s on her. The Valkyries’ balanced production at home, combined with Thornton’s inside-out skillset and Burton’s steady hand, bodes well for fans hoping to see Golden State put together a complete game on both ends.
So who takes this one? Given Connecticut’s recent slide and the uncertainty around Mabrey’s health, this has all the makings of another long night for the Sun, especially against a Valkyries squad that tends to show up big time in front of their own fans. Unless Charles gets red-hot and the Sun suddenly find their rhythm from downtown, I’m leaning toward Golden State coming out on top. Home-court advantage and a few high-impact players trending upward could be the difference, making the Valkyries the likely pick to walk away with the win. What do you think—could tonight mark the end of Connecticut’s slump, or will Golden State’s roll continue?
