When Tiffany Hayes was added to the Valkyries roster, she wasn’t just bringing experience, she carried with her the potential to make an immediate impact. The previous season, she had led all reserves with an impressive 9.5 points in just 21.5 minutes per game, shooting a sharp 50% from the field. “I’d take a team full of Tiffanys. She shows up and competes every single game,” Nicki Collen had said. For an expansion franchise still carving out its identity, having a seasoned vet like Hayes felt like a cornerstone piece.
She showed up, too, dropping 19 points in the season opener, alongside 9 rebounds. But just as quickly as things clicked, everything changed in Game 2 of the regular season.
What is Tiffany Hayes’ injury status?
When the Valkyries stepped onto the court to face the Mystics, they were hungry to bounce back from their season-opening loss. Every player gave it their all—and Hayes was no different. But, that was until the second quarter. With 3:43 remaining before halftime, Hayes hit the floor hard under Washington’s basket.
It was only after replays showed Shakira Austin’s head colliding with Hayes that the severity became clear. The veteran guard had lain motionless for several moments before medical personnel rushed over to tend to her.
Obviously, it was a scary scene—but Hayes, tough as ever, managed to give a thumbs-up while being helped off the court with a towel pressed to her face. The gesture brought immediate relief and drew a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd of 18,064 at the Chase Center.
Still, she didn’t return to the game. The Valkyries later confirmed she’d be undergoing further evaluation. As of now, no official update has been given. But judging by her thumbs-up and her reputation for resilience, there’s optimism that Hayes will make a speedy recovery.
Tiffany Hayes (nose) is undergoing further evaluation and will not return to tonight’s game.
— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) May 22, 2025
Injuries, unfortunately, are nothing new to the veteran. Her battles with them date all the way back to her early years in the league. In 2013, while with the Atlanta Dream, a torn meniscus in her left knee forced her to miss seven games. Then in June 2019—just two days before the Dream’s season opener—Hayes suffered a right ankle injury during practice that slowed her early-season rhythm.
Most recently, in August 2024, Hayes re-injured her knee during a game against the Chicago Sky. An Aces teammate fell onto her while fighting for a rebound, forcing Hayes to leave the game and miss several matchups.
But if history tells us anything, it’s that Tiffany Hayes doesn’t stay down for long. Given her past recoveries and mental toughness, the Valkyries can remain hopeful that their veteran leader will be back on the floor soon—right when they need her the most.
All eyes on Tiffany Hayes: will she spark a comeback against L.A.?
The Valkyries were only two games into their debut season, and they already had a loss on the board. Notably, the team dropped their season opener to the Sparks, 84-67. But despite the defeat, one player stood out in nearly every aspect.
It was Tiffany Hayes who shined brightest, logging 30 minutes and leading the team with 19 points and three assists. She shot 7-of-16 from the field and 2-of-5 from beyond the arc, doing her part to keep the Valkyries competitive.
Even in their second game, Hayes made a solid start. But she ended up playing just 13 minutes and added only 2 points to the team’s total. Still, it’s not just about her scoring. Hayes brings far more to the table for this young franchise.
With over a decade in the WNBA, including a standout 2024 season where she earned Sixth Woman of the Year honors with the Las Vegas Aces, Hayes brings invaluable experience to the Valkyries. Her connection with head coach Natalie Nakase—built during their time together in Las Vegas—makes her a natural fit for the team. Nakase spoke highly of her, saying, “Her versatility, intensity, and ability to score will be invaluable as we build our team’s identity. She’s also an exceptional mentor who understands what it takes to play, and succeed, at the highest level.”
Given her dominant performance against the Sparks in the opener, Hayes’ presence is more than just welcome. Especially since the Valkyries now sit 0-2 against the Sparks, and their next matchup offers a chance for redemption.
But the real question is—will Hayes be back in time to help them turn things around?
The post What Happened to Tiffany Hayes? Bloodied Golden State Valkyries Star Didn’t Return vs Washington Mystics appeared first on EssentiallySports.