When you think about Bay Area sports, the Ballers, the Unicorns, or the Fire and Iron are not names that might first come to mind. But these new Bay Area sports teams are bringing the game on the baseball diamond, cricket field, and soccer pitch this summer. What these teams have going for them is not only high level play, but passionate followers who are helping redefine the fan experience. We’ll talk to the people behind these teams, and hear about the city’s newest WNBA franchise, the Valkyries. What’s an under the radar Bay Area sports team you are rooting for?
Ballers, Unicorns, Valkyries, Oh My! Bay Area Sports Teams Bring Sparkle to the Summer
Golden State Valkyries’ players practice during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)
Guests:
Bryan Carmel, co-founder, Oakland Ballers
Marisa Ingemi, women's sports reporter, San Francisco Chronicle
Jack Lowery, play-by-play commentator, San Francisco City Football Club
Venky Harinarayan, co-founder and co-owner, San Francisco Unicorns
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