PREVIEW: The Golden State Valkyries and Seattle Storm are set to clash in an intriguing mid-season matchup at Climate Pledge Arena, with both teams looking to secure crucial positioning in the tight WNBA standings. Currently, the Storm sit comfortably in fourth place with a 13-9 record, while the Valkyries occupy the final playoff spot at eighth with a 10-11 record. The Storm will rely on veteran leadership from Skylar Diggins, who averages 17.9 points and 5.3 assists per game, and Nneka Ogwumike, contributing 16.9 points and 7.7 rebounds, alongside Gabby Williams' consistent 13.6 points per game. This will be the third meeting between the teams this season, with the Valkyries winning the previous two encounters, though both teams enter the game after suffering recent losses. Golden State has been led by Kayla Thornton's impressive 14.5 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, though recent performances have seen rookies like Janelle Salaun, Veronica Burton, and Monique Billings stepping up during her slight dip in form. The Valkyries boast a formidable defense, ranking fourth in defensive rating and holding opponents to the fewest points in the paint at just 28.8 per game. The teams showcase contrasting playing styles, with the Storm preferring to control game tempo through aggressive interior plays and solid defense, while the Valkyries focus on fast-paced attacks and frequent perimeter shooting . With both teams fighting for playoff positioning, this matchup promises to be a strategic and intense battle that could have significant implications for the postseason landscape.