After years of waiting, the Bay Area’s wish has finally come true. The newest WNBA expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries, made its way to San Francisco at last.

On Oct. 5, 2023, the team was officially announced and eventually began playing their debut season later in 2025.

In just their very first season, the Valkyries reached great heights and surpassed many expectations. They made WNBA history as the first expansion team to make the playoffs while also securing the most wins in their inaugural season with 23 victories under head coach Natalie Nakase, 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year.

Lour Shqair ’28 said, “The Bay was long overdue for a WNBA team. Since 2022, the Warriors definitely have brought a bigger name to themselves, so why not share that same attention with women. I’m intrigued to see how they make a name for themselves.”

The Valkyries are more than just a team, but rather a movement that has created excitement amongst a strong community in the Bay Area. Fans from all over came out to support their newest team and sold out each of their 22 home games at Chase Center, commonly known as “Ballhalla” to their supporters. This is a reference to the Valhalla of Norse mythology, meaning the resting place of warriors.

Correspondingly, the Valkyries are named after female figures who guide fallen warriors to Valhalla. This creates a sense of strength for fans and an intense environment for home games. They have made a huge impact on the youth and connects the community in unique ways.

Mikey Ordona Jr. ’27 stated, “The Golden State Valkyries have impacted their community by inspiring people, especially young women who want to take their passion to the next level. Watching the Valkyries helps bring fans together and motivates them.”

With the conclusion of this year’s season, Valkyries fans remain optimistic for the next season as the team looks to build off their successful inaugural campaign.