NEW YORK (Interstat) — The Golden State Valkyries defeated the New York Liberty 87-70 on Thursday at Barclays Center before 15,862. Golden State took control early, leading 25-15 after the first quarter and never trailing. The Valkyries shot 28 of 71 from the floor and 13 of 35 from three-point range while holding the Liberty to 26 of 62 shooting and 6 of 24 from deep. Golden State committed only five turnovers compared to New York’s 14.

Veronica Burton led a balanced attack with 13 points and seven assists. Gabby Williams added 16 points, and Kaila Charles contributed 13 points and seven rebounds. Breanna Stewart paced New York with 18 points and nine rebounds, and Jonquel Jones finished with 16 points and eight rebounds.

Golden State improved to 3-1, while New York fell to 3-2. The Valkyries outscored the Liberty in three of four quarters and capitalized on 22 New York fouls by making 18 of 25 free throws. New York shot 12 of 16 from the stripe.