Why the Valkyries’ X-Factor in the Playoff Push Has Been Cecilia Zandalasini The Golden State Valkyries have experienced many firsts this season, but one name has unquestionably emerged as the driving force behind their postseason run: Cecilia Zandalasini.
Since Kayla Thornton’s season-ending knee injury disrupted the team’s rotation, the Italian forward—who is renowned for her fluid shooting stroke and high basketball IQ—has been nothing short of indispensable. A young expansion squad might have been shaken by the loss of a seasoned leader, but Zandalasini took it as an opportunity to step up, and she did so in spectacular fashion.
She has been shooting three-pointers at a nearly 53% rate and scoring more than 16 points per game on average over the last few weeks. It’s not just the numbers, though. When she scores, that is Zandalasini has consistently managed to keep the Valkyries steady when opponents try to change the momentum.
To stop a run, a deep corner three. A well-timed cut to the hoop to end a scoring stalemate. She has been the solution. Her offensive style is fluid and nearly effortless, but that comes from years of playing for the Italian national team and in the EuroLeague. Zandalasini reads defenses as if they were a book she has already read twice. She will punish you if you give her even a small amount of space. Before you can recover, she will pass to a cutting teammate if you are too close to her.
Her consistency has been commended by head coach Natalie Nakase, who described her as “a calming force who makes everyone around her better.” Her teammates’ body language makes it clear that’s not coach-speak. They have faith in her.
The Valkyries’ offense has a rhythm and patience when she’s on the court that is uncommon for a new team. Not to be overlooked is the intangible component. In stressful situations, Zandalasini exudes a calm assurance and a veteran’s poise that are infectious. That consistency could mean the difference between watching from home or sneaking in during a playoff race where every possession counts.
Though the Valkyries’ hopes of making the playoffs remain uncertain, one thing is certain: Cecilia Zandalasini has evolved into more than just a vital member of the team. She is the type of player who can transform a strong rookie campaign into an unprecedented postseason run.
