Expect fireworks and loud uproar in the PHX Arena, Phoenix, as number three and number five teams on the 2025 Western conference division rankings lock horns on Thursday. Despite both teams losing to Minnesota Lynx in their respective last matches, can Golden State Valkyries break their losing streak since last three games and clinch a victory? Or will Phoenix take the win?

While Valkyries head coach, Natalie Nakase has been optimistic regarding her team’s performances so far, the Golden State have been receiving unexpected support and love from fans as they swarm in thousands to cheer the newly expanded team in the league. The arenas had a footfall around 18,000 spectators so far, reminding the league of Atlanta Dream’s welcome in 2008.

Despite losing to the Lynx, the international roster has so much to offer to the league and the fans. They have established their strong footing in the regular season and are here to stay.

This game is a big moment for the Valkyries, who are 2–4 and working to climb the Western Conference standings. A win against the 5–3 Mercury could help them close the gap on teams like the fourth-placed Seattle Storm, and shift their season’s momentum. ESPN’s June 3, 2025 power rankings praised their surprising depth and upward trajectory, a promising sign for a team still finding its footing in its debut year.

However, the team missed guard, Tiffany Hayes in the previous match. Hayes has averaged 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists for the Valkyries so far. But can she make a comeback on Thursday? Let us dive into Golden State Valkyries’ injury report, starting five predictions and understand the playing status of the athlete.

Injury Report: Golden State Valkyries vs Phoenix Mercury

According to official ESPN website, athlete Tiffany Hayes is classified under a game-time decision (GTD) or a day-to-day status. “Hayes (face) is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against the Mercury, Meghan L. Hall of USA Today reports,” the website stated. The proficient guard suffered a facial injury during the Valkyries games against the Washington Mystics and her playing status will be determined only a few hours before the match begins. 

Hayes’ head collided with Mystics athlete, Shakira Austen during the second quarter of the match on May 22, 2025. Austen’s arm landed on Hayes’ nose, leading her to collapse on the floor. And while a medical team immediately tended to her wounds, Hayes failed to return to the game.

The Valkyries HC praised Tiffany for handling the injury and said, ” I think we’re just going to wait to see how she feels but I walked in the locker room and she was the first one to open her arms and give me a big hug.” Despite the guard’s questionable status, athlete Julie Vanloo stepped up and filled her spot.

On the other hand, five active players of Phoenix Mercury, including Kahleah Copper, Alyssa Thomas, Natasha Mack, Sami Whitcomb, and now Megan McConnell have been sidelined from Thursday’s match owing to severe injuries. While Copper is recuperating after undergoing a successful left knee arthroscopic surgery in May 2025, Thomas suffered a calf injury.

Thomas has been a key contributor for the Mercury during the 2025 regular season so far. She averaged 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 8 assists this year before her journey came to a halt. Additionally, a lower back injury will prevent 6-foot-4 center Natasha Mack from playing against the Valkyries whereas Sami Whitcomb’s status is questionable after she suffered a right foot injury.

Moreover, the website announced the absence of rookie Megan McConnell, who will also remain absent from the match against Valkyies after facing a severe knee injury. “The Mercury announced Thursday that McConnell (knee) is slated to miss approximately 3-4 weeks, Desert Wave Media reports,” the website announced a few hours before the game.

With several key players sidelined during the regular season, the Mercury signed athlete Haley Jones under the league’s emergency hardship exception contract. Jones made her debut with the team on Sunday and contributed 2 points and 4 assists in an 85–80 win over the Los Angeles Sparks.

Projected Starters: Golden State Valkyries vs Phoenix Mercury

Here is a starting 5 prediction for both teams ahead of Thursday’s tip off:

Golden State Valkyries

• Kayla Thornton
• Veronica Burton
• Temi Fagbenle
• Janalle Salaun
• Monique Billings

Phoenix Mercury

• Monique Akoa Makani
• Kitija Laksa
• Lexi Held
• Kathryrn Westbeld
• Satou Sabally

Match Predictions: Golden State Valkyries vs Phoenix Mercury

The Valkyries have been relying heavily on players Kayla Thornton and rookie Jannelle Salaun to set the tempo for the roster and lead the team as Veronica Burton takes hold of the dimes department. With the return of Temi and Billings on the hardwood after early season injuries, the Valkyries are an unstoppable force on the hardwood. Besides, with five of Phoenix’s players sitting on the bench, Valkyries have an upper hand during the Thursday’s showdown.

However, the points table narrate a different tale altogether. The Mercury has a slight edge over the Valkyries, with a total of 77.9 points, 32.6 rebounds, and 19.6 assists so far. On the other hand, the debut team boasts of 74 points, 36.2 rebounds, and 16.5 assists.

And with a home advantage and a stronger defence with 4.1 blocks and 9.6 steals this season, can Mercury snatch the victory and continue to rise on the rankings? With players like Satau Sabally and Monique Akoa Makani in the roster, it is going to be a tough fight for the Valkyries.