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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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The Golden State Valkyries are looking to make some noise in the postseason following their historic WNBA feat.
Led by star player Veronica Burton, they became the first-ever WNBA expansion team to clinch a spot in the playoffs.
As of this writing, it's unclear who Burton and the Valkyries will play. They could take the No. 5 spot within the standings, but have some tough opponents on the way.
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They've defeated some of the league's best this season, including the Las Vegas Aces, New York Liberty, and Indiana Fever, who are all playoff-bound. But can the Valkyries continue their winning ways in the postseason?
Read more: WNBA Star Paige Bueckers Makes History With Recent Honor
Their star player seemingly made the team's intentions clear for the playoffs during her recent remarks about the Valkyries' historic feat.
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Following a devastating season-ending injury to Kayla Thornton, Burton continued to help the Valkyries win games. She currently leads the team in scoring with 12 points per game. She also leads her squad with 5.9 assists, 0.6 blocks, and a steal per game.
While appearing on In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams, she shared her thoughts about making history and the upcoming playoffs.
"A lot of mixed feelings. It is a big accomplishment and just something that we're really proud of. As a team, this was one of our goals," Burton told Williams.
She referred to the "ups and downs" of the past season, including "different injuries, roster swaps, and lineup changes" that affected the team.
"To be here, it's one that we don't take for granted and we're grateful for, but we also know that's one stop along the way, and we're hoping to make a run," Burton said.
With eight teams to compete in the postseason, ESPN recently ranked the Valkyries at No. 5 in their power rankings. That's up one spot from their previous ranking.
The outlet indicates that Burton could pick up the WNBA Most Improved Player Award for her contributions, while Natalie Nakase could claim Coach of the Year.
Golden State closes its regular season schedule with away games at the Seattle Storm and Minnesota Lynx. The Valkyries have a chance to move up to the No. 5 spot in the playoff standings.
The Storm are still fighting to get the final playoff spot, with the Los Angeles Sparks also trying to clinch it. That gives Seattle an incentive to win all of its remaining games.
As mentioned, the Valkyries lost Thornton to a season-ending injury. They were hopeful Tiffany Hayes would return this week after a knee injury.
Should she not be back for the playoffs, Golden State will continue to rely on the talents of Burton, Janelle Salaun, recent signing Elizabeth Kitley, and others to contend with the top WNBA teams.
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For more on the Golden State Valkyries and WNBA, head to Newsweek Sports.
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