Veronica Burton is cleared to play tonight for the Golden State Valkyries as they host the Atlanta Dream in a pivotal matchup on August 17, 2025. The breakout guard has become a cornerstone for Golden State this season, delivering steady scoring, distribution and defense as the Valkyries push for a higher playoff seed.
Burton’s season-to-date reflects a well-rounded rise: she logs 28.9 minutes per game, averaging 11.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.1 steals, with efficient shooting across the board (38.6% from the field, 38.9% from three, and 86.2% from the line). Her growing playmaking and two-way impact have been central to Golden State’s offensive flow and defensive intensity.
Against Atlanta this season, Burton has shown she can elevate her game in important moments. In the July 7 meeting, she played 26 minutes and produced 11 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists, shooting 57.1% from the floor and 75% from deep. That performance stands out against her career averages against the Dream, underscoring her ability to raise her level in matchups with a key divisional rival.
Tonight’s assignment comes with additional context. Golden State is dealing with injuries in the frontcourt after veteran forward Kayla Thornton sustained a season-ending knee injury, making Burton’s health and reliability even more critical as the backcourt floor general and primary ball-handler. Bursting into the season as one of the league’s most improved players, Burton has continued to grow in scoring and distribution while maintaining a strong two-way presence. Her leadership and decision-making have been particularly valuable as the Valkyries navigate a tighter playoff race.
Burton’s recent performance against the Washington Mystics further highlighted her offensive upside, recording a career-night with 30 points on 10-of-13 shooting, including six three-pointers, plus seven rebounds and seven assists. That outburst illustrates what she can do when she gets into a rhythm, and it serves as a compelling reminder of the threat she poses as a scorer and facilitator.
Looking ahead to tonight, Burton’s health and availability provide Golden State with stability and a clear focal point in a game that could swing playoff positioning. Her ability to create offense, control tempo, and apply defensive pressure in the backcourt will be crucial as the Valkyries aim to capitalize on possession and limit turnovers. If she continues her upward trajectory, Burton could once again be the difference-maker in a close, defensively minded showdown with Atlanta.
What to watch for:
– Burton’s decision-making in the pick-and-roll and her ability to pace Golden State’s offense without generating costly turnovers.
– Her impact on the Valkyries’ transition defense and how she handles Atlanta’s ball pressure in a key late-game stretch.
– The balance she brings between scoring and setting up teammates, especially with limited depth in the frontcourt.
Overall, Burton’s health and high-level play are big stories tonight. Expect her to be at the center of Golden State’s effort as they chase a crucial win and solidify their postseason positioning. If she stays aggressive and efficient, her presence could lift the Valkyries in a tight, high-stakes contest.