The Valkyries rallied from a 14-point halftime deficit and tied the game two separate times in the second half, but fell just short in the end as Laeticia Amihere’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer cut the Los Angeles lead from four the clock hit zeroes.

All eyes were on the Golden State Valkyries last night — and they didn't disappoint. Driving the news: In their inaugural game — a preseason match at a crowded Chase Center — the Valkyries nearly beat the Los Angeles Sparks despite trailing by as much as 14 points in the first half.

Justė Jocytė, the Valkyries’ first-round draft choice, was not named to the team’s training camp roster, confirming that she will not be joining the team to start the season. Janelle Salaün and Elissa Cunane are expected to join the roster at a later date after they fulfill international commitments.