Thu Jun 26 02:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article version of the provided text:

**Summary:**

The Golden State Valkyries are set to face the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty at home on Wednesday night. This game marks a homecoming for Liberty star and Bay Area native Sabrina Ionescu, whose playing status is uncertain due to a neck injury. The Valkyries, currently on a two-game winning streak, are looking for their first victory against the Liberty after losing two previous matchups this season. Guard Carla Leite’s availability for the Valkyries is also uncertain due to a back injury. The Valkyries are in the middle of a five-game homestand with sold-out crowds and are seeking to continue their success at home.

**News Article:**

**Bay Area Welcomes Homegrown Star Sabrina Ionescu as Valkyries Host Liberty**

**SAN FRANCISCO** – The Golden State Valkyries (7-6) will face a tough test Wednesday night at Ballhalla as they host the reigning WNBA champion New York Liberty (10-3). The game also marks a highly anticipated homecoming for Liberty superstar Sabrina Ionescu, a Walnut Creek native and Miramonte High School alumna.

Ionescu, the first overall pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft, is currently listed as a game-time decision due to a neck injury that kept her out of Sunday’s game against the Seattle Storm. Her presence on the court will be a significant factor as the Liberty look to continue their winning ways.

The Valkyries are riding a two-game winning streak, including an impressive victory over Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever last week, followed by a dominant 24-point win against the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. Kayla Thornton led the scoring charge against the Sun with 21 points.

Golden State will be seeking their first victory against the Liberty this season, having fallen to New York twice earlier this year, including a narrow defeat on May 29. Valkyries guard Carla Leite is also listed as a game-time decision due to a back injury.

The atmosphere at Ballhalla is expected to be electric, with all games during the Valkyries’ inaugural season selling out. The team is currently in the midst of a five-game homestand, with future matchups against the Chicago Sky and the Seattle Storm looming.

KPIX+ will provide extensive pregame and postgame coverage of the highly anticipated matchup. Tip-off is scheduled for [insert game time here].

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