Kaitlyn Chen's Third-Quarter Outburst Fuels Valkyries' Eighth Straight Win

Indianapolis, USA — Ekhbary News Agency

Reserve guard Kaitlyn Chen delivered a pivotal performance, scoring 12 of her 14 points in the third quarter, propelling the Golden State Valkyries to an 88-75 victory over the Indiana Fever on Wednesday night in Indianapolis. This win marks the Valkyries' eighth consecutive triumph, solidifying their impressive 18-7 season record. The Fever, now 14-10, struggled to contain Golden State's offensive depth and efficiency.

Chen's Third-Quarter Surge Ignites Valkyries

Chen, who typically averages 7.2 points, entered the game and dramatically shifted momentum with her scoring outburst. She contributed 10 points as Golden State seized 12 of the final 16 points in the third period. Her crucial three-point play in the closing seconds established a 58-51 lead for the Valkyries heading into the final quarter. This unexpected burst of scoring proved decisive, turning a tight contest into a comfortable advantage. The team's ability to find such contributions from its bench players is, as it happens, a hallmark of their current winning streak.

Golden State Maintains Dominance on the Road

The Valkyries extended their advantage early in the fourth quarter, with Janelle Salaun hitting a three-pointer and Chen following with a driving layup, pushing the lead to 63-51. Despite a late surge from the Fever, highlighted by Kelsey Mitchell's two three-pointers, Golden State maintained control, securing a comfortable win and completing a 5-0 road stretch. Gabby Williams added 16 points, while Tiffany Hayes and Salaun contributed 13 and 12 points respectively, showcasing the team's formidable depth. Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 20 points, Aliyah Boston had 15, and Caitlin Clark added 13, though she appeared hampered after drawing contact in the second quarter. The Valkyries' 52% shooting efficiency contrasted sharply with the Fever's 40% and their 16 turnovers, key factors in the outcome.