Last night, the WNBA community held its breath as Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes was helped off court after being hit in the face during a heated matchup against the Washington Mystics. The incident, which unfolded late in the second quarter, saw the Golden State Valkyries’ veteran star collide with Mystics’ Shakira Austin, resulting in a jarring scene at Chase Center. Hayes, a 13-year veteran known for her tenacity, went down hard, clutching her face as the crowd fell silent. Despite the scare, she managed a thumbs-up to fans while being escorted to the locker room, showing her resilience.
The Incident: Valkyries Guard Tiffany Hayes Helped Off Court After Being Hit in the Face
The collision occurred with 3:43 left in the second quarter, with the Mystics leading 25-19. Austin’s arm caught Hayes during a play, leading to a bloody nose and a concerning fall. A technical foul was assessed to Austin, her third in two games, sparking debates among fans online. The Valkyries later confirmed Hayes suffered a nose injury and would not return, undergoing further evaluation. Her absence left a void in the team’s backcourt, with teammates like Julie Vanloo stepping up but unable to close the gap.
Hayes’ Impact and What’s Next
Tiffany Hayes, the 2024 WNBA Sixth Player of the Year, has been a cornerstone for the expansion Valkyries. Her leadership and scoring prowess—evident in her 19-point performance against the Sparks last week—make her injury a significant blow. Fans expressed concern on social media, with many praising her grit for signaling she was okay despite the pain. The team awaits updates on her condition, with hopes she’ll return soon to bolster their lineup.
Why This Matters to Valkyries Fans
This moment underscores the physicality of the WNBA and the risks players like Hayes face. As a new franchise, the Valkyries rely on her experience to navigate early challenges. Her potential absence could test the team’s depth, but it also opens opportunities for younger guards like Carla Leite. The Bay Area faithful remain optimistic, rallying behind their star.
Stay tuned for updates on Tiffany Hayes’ recovery and share your support for the Valkyries in the comments below!