The 2025 WNBA season marks a significant milestone with the introduction of the Golden State Valkyries, the league's first expansion team since 2008. Based in San Francisco, the Valkyries have already made headlines with record-breaking ticket sales and a promising start to their inaugural season.([Stadium Rant][1])
### Record-Breaking Fan Support
Before playing their first game, the Valkyries set a new standard for fan engagement in women's professional sports. The team received over 22,000 season ticket deposits, surpassing the previous record and demonstrating the Bay Area's enthusiasm for women's basketball. This unprecedented support ensures a vibrant home-court atmosphere at the Chase Center.([Stadium Rant][1], [ClutchPoints][2])
*Image Source: [WNBA Official Website](https://www.wnba.com)*
### Building the Team
The Valkyries' front office, led by General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin and Head Coach Natalie Nakase, strategically assembled the team's roster through the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft. Key selections included:([ูููุณ ุณุจูุฑุชุณ][3], [valkyries.wnba.com][4])
* **Veronica Burton** (Connecticut Sun)
* **Kayla Thornton** (New York Liberty)
* **Stephanie Talbot** (Los Angeles Sparks)
* **Cecilia Zandalasini** (Minnesota Lynx)([wnba.com][5], [valkyries.wnba.com][4])
These players bring a mix of experience, versatility, and leadership to the fledgling franchise.([wnba.com][5])
### Promising Start on the Court
Defying expectations, the Valkyries began their season with a 2-1 record. Their first victory was a thrilling 76-74 win over the Washington Mystics, highlighted by Veronica Burton's standout performance of 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. The team's cohesion and resilience have been evident, signaling a bright future ahead.([San Francisco Chronicle][6], [SBNation.com][7])
### Leadership and Vision
Team owner Joe Lacob, also the owner of the NBA's Golden State Warriors, has expressed a clear vision for the Valkyries. He aims to build a championship-contending team within the first five years, mirroring the success he achieved with the Warriors. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the team's infrastructure and investment in player development.([San Francisco Chronicle][8])
### Conclusion
The Golden State Valkyries have quickly established themselves as a formidable presence in the WNBA. With robust fan support, strategic leadership, and a talented roster, the team is poised to make a lasting impact on the league and inspire the next generation of women's basketball enthusiasts.