SEATTLE (Interstat) — The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Seattle Storm 91-80 on Friday at Key Arena in the WNBA season opener for both teams. Golden State led 23-24 after the first quarter, then used a 26-17 second quarter to take a 49-41 halftime lead. The Valkyries extended the advantage to 69-53 after three quarters, holding Seattle to 12 points in the third. The Storm rallied with 27 points in the fourth but could not overcome the deficit. Attendance was 14,200. Golden State improved to 1-0, while Seattle dropped to 0-1. Key performers for Seattle included forward Mackenzie Holmes, center Stefanie Dolson and center Dominique Malonga. The Valkyries’ defense and balanced scoring proved decisive in the win. Golden State next hosts Phoenix on Sunday, while Seattle visits Connecticut on Sunday.