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But for a first-time team, they did tremendously well and we’re very proud of them,“ Bordash said. She said she had tears in her eyes when the final buzzer sounded.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries’ 75–74 loss ended a phenomenal first season, in which they christened San Francisco’s Chase Center as “\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13980855/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-bay-area-djs-ladyryan-shellheart-chase-center\">Ballhalla\u003c/a>,” proceeded to sell out every home game and became the first WNBA expansion team to make it to the postseason in their debut season. For fans, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to welcome a WNBA team of their own to the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Still inside the arena after the game, Rita Garcia stood alone with her back against a column, staring blankly as others lined up to buy Valkyries jerseys at 40% off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056524\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056524\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries fans cheer during Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“One basket. We could have won by just one basket,” said Garcia, her voice faltering. “Those last couple of minutes were so heartbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wearing a Valkyries letterman jacket, she said she was feeling “a lot of emotions.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I just feel a deep connection with the team, with the essence of Ballhalla, the other fans, the community. The community is really welcoming to everyone,” Garcia said.[aside postID=news_12055670 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg']Even longtime fans of the WNBA are surprised by how quickly — and how fiercely — the Bay Area embraced the Valkyries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I’ve been waiting years for this and it’s been better than I ever dreamed it would be,” said Carissa Perkins of Oakland, who has followed the WNBA for six years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In just one 44-game season, the Valkyries have built a diehard following. Deafening cheers rattled SAP Center on Wednesday night as a sell-out crowd of 18,543 — some wearing lavender-sequin jackets, others in Valkyries-themed helmets — roared during the team’s first-ever home playoff game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“This is what it’s supposed to be like to love sports,” Perkins said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although a scheduling conflict prevented the team from hosting the Lynx at Chase Center, fans were determined to make SAP Center feel like theirs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Ballhalla is a mentality,” read one sign in the crowd.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Outside, DJs worked the block party while 11-year-old Eloise Annerau shot hoops on a temporary court.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056525\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056525 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Game 2 of the Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game begins at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“It’s gotten me more into basketball,” Eloise said of the team’s success. “ I started last year and I’ve gotten so much better. They’re really inspiring to me.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Her mother, Kristen Hutchins, leaned against a barricade and watched.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Since she started coming to Valkyries games, I’ve seen her play with more confidence and have more confidence in school and with friends,” Hutchins said. “ So sports is doing everything that I wanted it to do for her, which is to give her self-confidence and learn to be a leader.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ahead of the game, Caltrain rolled out a Valkyries-themed train. Purple tassels decorated the cars as staff passed out rally towels and hosted Valkyries trivia. Jason Schafer rode the train with his 8-year-old son.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056629\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056629 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Caltrain employee Emely Anne Balingit gives away swag to Golden State Valkyries fans as they ride Caltrain to the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025, for Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“Valkyries games have every kind of person, families, food and music,” Schafer said. “It’s just the most Bay Area thing ever.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Valkyries fans are rabid about the team, frustration with the WNBA surfaced in the stands.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some wore shirts reading, “Pay them what you owe them,” referring to players’ push for a larger share of league revenue in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement to replace the one that expires Oct. 31.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“This is a huge moment,” said E Gilliam, who held up a sign that read, “Pay the players.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056533\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056533 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Veronica Burton (left) and the Golden State Valkyries play the Minnesota Lynx during Game 2 of the WNBA playoffs at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There’s been a surge in viewership. There’s been a massive surge in attendance, and the players are not seeing a bump in wages,” Gilliam said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries broke multiple league attendance records this year and sold out all 22 home games. In just their first year, they have become the first women’s sports team to be valued at $500 million, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/valuations/teams/2025/wnba-team-values-2025-golden-state-valkyries-1234857652/\">an analysis\u003c/a> by the sports industry publication Sportico.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yet most players on the Valkyries roster, like many across the WNBA, are on contracts that pay them \u003ca href=\"https://www.spotrac.com/wnba/contracts/_/team/gs\">less than $80,000 a year\u003c/a> on average. The team’s highest-paid player is 13-year veteran Tiffany Hayes, who signed a one-year, $200,000 contract in February.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the game’s end, it was difficult to tell that the Valkyries had lost amid the thunderous cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056529\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056529\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries fans cheer during Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Chinaka Hodge, a member of the Valkyries’ “founding guard” of inaugural season ticket holders, said the night was “incredible” as she walked down the back stairs out of the arena with her mother.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I remember when the WNBA came out and people said, ‘No one will ever come see women’s basketball,’” Hodge said. “ To see young boys cheering for these young women — to see people of all different sexual orientations, creeds, nationalities, races cheering for these women — was a dream of mine.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056538\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056538\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries team member Monique Billings looks out to the crowd after losing to the Minnesota Lynx during the WNBA Playoffs at SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Across the street from SAP Center, it was hard to find a seat on the 9:53 p.m. train headed toward San Francisco. Its cars were packed with fans chatting about the game, but the vibe was anything but downtrodden.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lily Brown hung on to a rail as the train rocked its way down the tracks, with her seven-months-pregnant wife sitting nearby. The San Francisco couple were season ticket holders this year. Next year, they’re planning on investing in a good pair of earmuffs so they can bring their newborn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Though the Golden State Valkyries were eliminated from the WNBA playoffs, fans expressed intense admiration for the new team and excitement about years to come.",
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"title": "‘Better Than I Ever Dreamed’: Valkyries Fans Reflect on Historic First Season | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>“I need a cigarette,” Gerri Bordash said as she flung open one of the many doors \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055992/valkyries-fans-fly-south-for-historic-make-or-break-playoff-game\">at San José’s SAP Center\u003c/a> on Wednesday and walked out into the warm night air.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Like many other \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/how-to-be-a-valkyries-fan-a-beginners-guide-to-bay-area-wnba-fandom\">fans of the Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>, Bordash had some processing to do. Her team had just been eliminated from the first round of the WNBA playoffs, losing by a solitary point to the Minnesota Lynx, the top-seeded team in the league. On the other hand, this was the Valkyries’ inaugural season, and Bordash found a lot to be proud of.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ They were graceful. They fought like the valiant warriors that they are. Everyone can’t win, right? But for a first-time team, they did tremendously well and we’re very proud of them,“ Bordash said. She said she had tears in her eyes when the final buzzer sounded.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries’ 75–74 loss ended a phenomenal first season, in which they christened San Francisco’s Chase Center as “\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13980855/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-bay-area-djs-ladyryan-shellheart-chase-center\">Ballhalla\u003c/a>,” proceeded to sell out every home game and became the first WNBA expansion team to make it to the postseason in their debut season. For fans, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to welcome a WNBA team of their own to the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Still inside the arena after the game, Rita Garcia stood alone with her back against a column, staring blankly as others lined up to buy Valkyries jerseys at 40% off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056524\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056524\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-08-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries fans cheer during Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“One basket. We could have won by just one basket,” said Garcia, her voice faltering. “Those last couple of minutes were so heartbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wearing a Valkyries letterman jacket, she said she was feeling “a lot of emotions.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I just feel a deep connection with the team, with the essence of Ballhalla, the other fans, the community. The community is really welcoming to everyone,” Garcia said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Even longtime fans of the WNBA are surprised by how quickly — and how fiercely — the Bay Area embraced the Valkyries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I’ve been waiting years for this and it’s been better than I ever dreamed it would be,” said Carissa Perkins of Oakland, who has followed the WNBA for six years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In just one 44-game season, the Valkyries have built a diehard following. Deafening cheers rattled SAP Center on Wednesday night as a sell-out crowd of 18,543 — some wearing lavender-sequin jackets, others in Valkyries-themed helmets — roared during the team’s first-ever home playoff game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“This is what it’s supposed to be like to love sports,” Perkins said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although a scheduling conflict prevented the team from hosting the Lynx at Chase Center, fans were determined to make SAP Center feel like theirs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Ballhalla is a mentality,” read one sign in the crowd.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Outside, DJs worked the block party while 11-year-old Eloise Annerau shot hoops on a temporary court.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056525\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056525 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-11-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Game 2 of the Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game begins at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“It’s gotten me more into basketball,” Eloise said of the team’s success. “ I started last year and I’ve gotten so much better. They’re really inspiring to me.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Her mother, Kristen Hutchins, leaned against a barricade and watched.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Since she started coming to Valkyries games, I’ve seen her play with more confidence and have more confidence in school and with friends,” Hutchins said. “ So sports is doing everything that I wanted it to do for her, which is to give her self-confidence and learn to be a leader.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ahead of the game, Caltrain rolled out a Valkyries-themed train. Purple tassels decorated the cars as staff passed out rally towels and hosted Valkyries trivia. Jason Schafer rode the train with his 8-year-old son.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056629\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056629 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-ValkyriesPlayoffs-01-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Caltrain employee Emely Anne Balingit gives away swag to Golden State Valkyries fans as they ride Caltrain to the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025, for Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“Valkyries games have every kind of person, families, food and music,” Schafer said. “It’s just the most Bay Area thing ever.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Valkyries fans are rabid about the team, frustration with the WNBA surfaced in the stands.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some wore shirts reading, “Pay them what you owe them,” referring to players’ push for a larger share of league revenue in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement to replace the one that expires Oct. 31.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“This is a huge moment,” said E Gilliam, who held up a sign that read, “Pay the players.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056533\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12056533 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-38-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Veronica Burton (left) and the Golden State Valkyries play the Minnesota Lynx during Game 2 of the WNBA playoffs at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There’s been a surge in viewership. There’s been a massive surge in attendance, and the players are not seeing a bump in wages,” Gilliam said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries broke multiple league attendance records this year and sold out all 22 home games. In just their first year, they have become the first women’s sports team to be valued at $500 million, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/valuations/teams/2025/wnba-team-values-2025-golden-state-valkyries-1234857652/\">an analysis\u003c/a> by the sports industry publication Sportico.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yet most players on the Valkyries roster, like many across the WNBA, are on contracts that pay them \u003ca href=\"https://www.spotrac.com/wnba/contracts/_/team/gs\">less than $80,000 a year\u003c/a> on average. The team’s highest-paid player is 13-year veteran Tiffany Hayes, who signed a one-year, $200,000 contract in February.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the game’s end, it was difficult to tell that the Valkyries had lost amid the thunderous cheers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056529\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056529\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-18-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries fans cheer during Game 2 of the Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx WNBA playoff game at the SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Chinaka Hodge, a member of the Valkyries’ “founding guard” of inaugural season ticket holders, said the night was “incredible” as she walked down the back stairs out of the arena with her mother.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ I remember when the WNBA came out and people said, ‘No one will ever come see women’s basketball,’” Hodge said. “ To see young boys cheering for these young women — to see people of all different sexual orientations, creeds, nationalities, races cheering for these women — was a dream of mine.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12056538\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12056538\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/250917-VALKYRIESPLAYOFFS-66-BL_QED-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries team member Monique Billings looks out to the crowd after losing to the Minnesota Lynx during the WNBA Playoffs at SAP Center in San José on Sept. 17, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Across the street from SAP Center, it was hard to find a seat on the 9:53 p.m. train headed toward San Francisco. Its cars were packed with fans chatting about the game, but the vibe was anything but downtrodden.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lily Brown hung on to a rail as the train rocked its way down the tracks, with her seven-months-pregnant wife sitting nearby. The San Francisco couple were season ticket holders this year. Next year, they’re planning on investing in a good pair of earmuffs so they can bring their newborn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "golden-state-valkyries-where-to-watch-the-wnba-playoffs-in-the-san-francisco-bay-area-online-on-tv-and-at-bars",
"title": "Valkyries Playoffs 2025: Where to Watch the WNBA in the San Francisco Bay Area",
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"headTitle": "Valkyries Playoffs 2025: Where to Watch the WNBA in the San Francisco Bay Area | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> made WNBA history as the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their inaugural season. General public tickets and verified resales for \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyries/p/DOfanNsjSSs/\">their first home game\u003c/a> tonight are still available on \u003ca href=\"https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C006325A934574D\">Ticketmaster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the first new team in the franchise in nearly 20 years, the Valkyries faced high expectations. And by finishing among the league’s top eight, they delivered.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Could I be more excited? Impossible,” said San Francisco Valkyries fan Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, a teacher and co-host of the podcast \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less\u003c/a>. “It is amazing, historic, and I am so proud of the journey of these incredible women.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Because when we started this, we had no idea where we were going to go.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Playoffs start on Sunday. Read on to find out where you can follow the game in the coming weeks, whether it is on TV, bars or at San José’s SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re new to basketball but want to join the Bay Area hype after the team’s big milestone, don’t worry — we’ve got a quick explainer below on what playoffs are.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED also has \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/how-to-be-a-valkyries-fan-a-beginners-guide-to-bay-area-wnba-fandom\">a comprehensive guide\u003c/a> to the world of the WNBA and fan culture in the Bay Area for new viewers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>So, what \u003cem>are \u003c/em>playoffs?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>After a regular season of basketball, the top eight WNBA teams compete in a tournament. The \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/standings\">team\u003c/a> standings are:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>Minnesota Lynx\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Seattle Storm\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Golden State Valkyries\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Dates and times are subject to change — or even canceled altogether — depending on how the games go, but the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/news/2025-playoffs-and-finals-dates\">tentative schedule\u003c/a> in Pacific Standard Time is \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/schedule?season=2025&month=all\">as follows\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Round 1\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003cstrong>Sunday at 10 a.m. on ESPN: Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx in Minneapolis\u003c/strong>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday noon on ABC: Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday at 2 p.m. on ESPN: New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday at 7 p.m. on ESPN: Seattle Storm vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. on ESPN: Atlanta Dream vs. Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN: Las Vegas Aces vs. Seattle Storm\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Wednesday at 5 p.m. on ESPN: Phoenix Mercury vs. New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday at 7 p.m. on ESPN: Minnesota Lynx vs. Golden State Valkyries in San Jose\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 18 on ESPN2: Seattle Storm vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 18 on ESPN2: Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sept. 19. on ESPN2: Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx in Minneapolis\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 19. on ESPN2: New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Semifinals\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 23 at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN2\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 26 at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 28 at TBD on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 30 at TBD on ESPNU\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 30 at TBD on ESPNU\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Finals\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Finals 1: Oct. 3 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 2: Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 3: Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 4: Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 5: Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. on TBD\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 6: Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 7: Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>“[The] Valkyries have really attracted people [who] have never even watched basketball. And so there’s a learning curve,” said Hutchinson-Szekely’s co-host and fellow teacher, Raina Mast. “Normalize being confused. The structure is confusing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Essentially, Mast and Hutchinson-Szekely explained, each of the eight teams will play their first game on Sunday. In the first round, the highest-seeded teams face the lowest-seeded teams in a best-of-three series. The Valkyries will be facing the Minnesota Lynx, a team they have \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/team/schedule/_/name/min/minnesota-lynx\">not beaten before\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In the second round, the four remaining teams play a best-of-five series. In the finals, the last two teams compete in a best-of-five series for the championship.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may see in sports coverage where people refer to a “2-2-1-1” structure. That basically designates where the games are played. So, the first “2” means the first two games are played on the stronger team’s home court. The next “2” means the following two games are played on the weaker team’s home court. And so on.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Where can I watch the games?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>ESPN, ESPN2, ESNPU and ABC will be showing the games on TV. You can also get access to the channels through platforms like \u003ca href=\"https://tv.youtube.com/learn/wnba/\">YouTube TV\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.fubo.tv/welcome\">Fubo\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Watch the game in person\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For fans hoping to see the game in person, know that any Valkyries home games will not be played at Chase Center — better known as “Ballhalla” — where every regular-season home game has \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/valkyries/status/1964507585060753897\">sold out\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Instead, the Valkyries will be playing their first playoff home game on Wednesday at \u003ca href=\"https://www.sapcenter.com/news/detail/sap-center-to-host-first-evergolden-state-valkyrieswnba-playoff-game#:~:text=SAP%20Center%20at%20San%20Jose,Harlem%20Globetrotters%20(multiple%20years).\">San José’s SAP Center\u003c/a>. [aside postID=news_12047885 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/golden-state-valkyries.png']Jess Smith, president of the Golden State Valkyries, announced the arena change to season ticket holders after the team won the Sept. 4 game that secured their spot in the playoffs. Smith said that Chase Center was booked for a tennis tournament years in advance, before the Bay was given a WNBA team.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re already working to ensure our playoff scheduling is protected going forward to prevent scheduling conflicts for future playoff runs in Ballhalla,” the letter reads.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The news left some fans frustrated, considering that being \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/valkyries-move-first-playoff-game-to-san-jose-21032074.php\">pushed out of their home \u003c/a>arena has happened to WNBA teams in the past. As Breanna Stewart, a player and vice president for the Women’s National Basketball Players Association, said to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/valkyries-move-first-playoff-game-to-san-jose-21032074.php\">SFGate\u003c/a>, “You don’t see it happening with the NBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase, for her part, said \u003ca href=\"https://www.si.com/wnba/valkyries/valkyries-coach-opens-up-about-unfortunate-playoff-situation\">in a press conference\u003c/a> that the Valkyries are still playing in their territory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Even if we’re in San José, that’s still considered the Bay. We know that they’re going to travel, our fans are going to come,” she said. “For us, we’re still at home.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How to get to SAP Center\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you have never been to SAP Center, you’re in luck: downtown San José is very well connected by several public transit agencies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re coming from the city’s Eastside, you can take the light rail VTA from Alum Rock station straight to San José-Diridon, which is only one block away from SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12055677\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12055677\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The SAP Center sports arena in San José, California, on July 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Caltrain — which runs from San Francisco through San Mateo County to the South Bay — also stops at San José-Diridon. According to a Caltrain news release, the #416 southbound will feature a Valkyries-themed car, giving passengers the chance to win free merch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Coming in from the East Bay? You can take BART and get off at Berryessa/North San José station and then get on a VTA bus — specifically the Rapid 500 line — which will quickly take you straight to SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind that public transportation in San José does not run the whole night. So if you are getting home through transit, be sure of when the last train or bus runs so you don’t get stranded. You can also use \u003ca href=\"https://www.caltrain.com/trip-planner/view\">trip planners\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.bart.gov/planner\">help\u003c/a> \u003ca href=\"https://511.org/transit\">mark your route\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Watch the game at a bar\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you are unable to make it to a game, there are\u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-guide-to-wnba-watch-parties\"> bars and restaurants in the Bay\u003c/a> that show women’s sports.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There will likely be more parties announced as we get closer to the Valkyries’ first game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>If you can’t get into SAP Center but still want to join the fun, an \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyries/p/DOrhA63kuYt/\">official block party\u003c/a> will take place outside from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/kalwpublicmedia/p/DOrp8-AjjSf/\">\u003cstrong>KALW\u003c/strong> in San Francisco\u003c/a> is hosting a watch party, complete with free pizza.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.thenewparkway.com/\">\u003cstrong>The New Parkway Theater\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland is showing Wednesday’s game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/events/?artist=GSV\">\u003cstrong>Thrive City \u003c/strong>\u003c/a> (the venue connected to Chase Center) hosted a free watch party for Sunday’s game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">\u003cstrong>Rikki’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in San Francisco’s Castro District (the city’s first bar dedicated to women’s sports)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.zekisbar.com/\">\u003cstrong>Zeki’s Bar\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in San Francisco\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/whitehorsebar/?hl=en\">\u003cstrong>White Horse\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://line51beer.com/\">\u003cstrong>Line 51 Brewing\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/georgeandwaltsbar/?hl=en\">\u003cstrong>George & Walt’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://xingones.com/\">\u003cstrong>Xingones Cantina\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.theacoakland.com/\">\u003cstrong>Athletic Club Oakland\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fan groups like the \u003cstrong>Valqueeries\u003c/strong>, which is for queer WNBA fans, often host watch parties for away games at local bars like Mother in the Mission District. You can get updates for the next event on the \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valqueeries/\">Valqueeries’ Instagram\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story originally published on Sept. 12, and contains reporting from KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/ccabreralomeli\">\u003cem>Carlos Cabrera-Lomelí.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The Golden State Valkyries made it to the playoffs during their inaugural season. Here’s how you can follow the team in the Bay Area.",
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"title": "Valkyries Playoffs 2025: Where to Watch the WNBA in the San Francisco Bay Area | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> made WNBA history as the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their inaugural season. General public tickets and verified resales for \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyries/p/DOfanNsjSSs/\">their first home game\u003c/a> tonight are still available on \u003ca href=\"https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C006325A934574D\">Ticketmaster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the first new team in the franchise in nearly 20 years, the Valkyries faced high expectations. And by finishing among the league’s top eight, they delivered.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Could I be more excited? Impossible,” said San Francisco Valkyries fan Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, a teacher and co-host of the podcast \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less\u003c/a>. “It is amazing, historic, and I am so proud of the journey of these incredible women.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Because when we started this, we had no idea where we were going to go.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Playoffs start on Sunday. Read on to find out where you can follow the game in the coming weeks, whether it is on TV, bars or at San José’s SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re new to basketball but want to join the Bay Area hype after the team’s big milestone, don’t worry — we’ve got a quick explainer below on what playoffs are.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED also has \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/how-to-be-a-valkyries-fan-a-beginners-guide-to-bay-area-wnba-fandom\">a comprehensive guide\u003c/a> to the world of the WNBA and fan culture in the Bay Area for new viewers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>So, what \u003cem>are \u003c/em>playoffs?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>After a regular season of basketball, the top eight WNBA teams compete in a tournament. The \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/standings\">team\u003c/a> standings are:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>Minnesota Lynx\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Seattle Storm\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Golden State Valkyries\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Dates and times are subject to change — or even canceled altogether — depending on how the games go, but the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/news/2025-playoffs-and-finals-dates\">tentative schedule\u003c/a> in Pacific Standard Time is \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/schedule?season=2025&month=all\">as follows\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Round 1\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003cstrong>Sunday at 10 a.m. on ESPN: Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx in Minneapolis\u003c/strong>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday noon on ABC: Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday at 2 p.m. on ESPN: New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sunday at 7 p.m. on ESPN: Seattle Storm vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. on ESPN: Atlanta Dream vs. Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN: Las Vegas Aces vs. Seattle Storm\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Wednesday at 5 p.m. on ESPN: Phoenix Mercury vs. New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday at 7 p.m. on ESPN: Minnesota Lynx vs. Golden State Valkyries in San Jose\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 18 on ESPN2: Seattle Storm vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 18 on ESPN2: Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sept. 19. on ESPN2: Golden State Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx in Minneapolis\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 19. on ESPN2: New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Semifinals\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 21 at 5 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 23 at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN2\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 26 at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 28 at TBD on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 30 at TBD on ESPNU\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sept. 30 at TBD on ESPNU\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Finals\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Finals 1: Oct. 3 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 2: Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. on ABC\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 3: Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 4: Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 5: Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. on TBD\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 6: Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Finals 7: Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. on ESPN\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>“[The] Valkyries have really attracted people [who] have never even watched basketball. And so there’s a learning curve,” said Hutchinson-Szekely’s co-host and fellow teacher, Raina Mast. “Normalize being confused. The structure is confusing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Essentially, Mast and Hutchinson-Szekely explained, each of the eight teams will play their first game on Sunday. In the first round, the highest-seeded teams face the lowest-seeded teams in a best-of-three series. The Valkyries will be facing the Minnesota Lynx, a team they have \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/team/schedule/_/name/min/minnesota-lynx\">not beaten before\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In the second round, the four remaining teams play a best-of-five series. In the finals, the last two teams compete in a best-of-five series for the championship.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may see in sports coverage where people refer to a “2-2-1-1” structure. That basically designates where the games are played. So, the first “2” means the first two games are played on the stronger team’s home court. The next “2” means the following two games are played on the weaker team’s home court. And so on.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Where can I watch the games?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>ESPN, ESPN2, ESNPU and ABC will be showing the games on TV. You can also get access to the channels through platforms like \u003ca href=\"https://tv.youtube.com/learn/wnba/\">YouTube TV\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.fubo.tv/welcome\">Fubo\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Watch the game in person\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For fans hoping to see the game in person, know that any Valkyries home games will not be played at Chase Center — better known as “Ballhalla” — where every regular-season home game has \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/valkyries/status/1964507585060753897\">sold out\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Instead, the Valkyries will be playing their first playoff home game on Wednesday at \u003ca href=\"https://www.sapcenter.com/news/detail/sap-center-to-host-first-evergolden-state-valkyrieswnba-playoff-game#:~:text=SAP%20Center%20at%20San%20Jose,Harlem%20Globetrotters%20(multiple%20years).\">San José’s SAP Center\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Jess Smith, president of the Golden State Valkyries, announced the arena change to season ticket holders after the team won the Sept. 4 game that secured their spot in the playoffs. Smith said that Chase Center was booked for a tennis tournament years in advance, before the Bay was given a WNBA team.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re already working to ensure our playoff scheduling is protected going forward to prevent scheduling conflicts for future playoff runs in Ballhalla,” the letter reads.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The news left some fans frustrated, considering that being \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/valkyries-move-first-playoff-game-to-san-jose-21032074.php\">pushed out of their home \u003c/a>arena has happened to WNBA teams in the past. As Breanna Stewart, a player and vice president for the Women’s National Basketball Players Association, said to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/valkyries-move-first-playoff-game-to-san-jose-21032074.php\">SFGate\u003c/a>, “You don’t see it happening with the NBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase, for her part, said \u003ca href=\"https://www.si.com/wnba/valkyries/valkyries-coach-opens-up-about-unfortunate-playoff-situation\">in a press conference\u003c/a> that the Valkyries are still playing in their territory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Even if we’re in San José, that’s still considered the Bay. We know that they’re going to travel, our fans are going to come,” she said. “For us, we’re still at home.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How to get to SAP Center\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you have never been to SAP Center, you’re in luck: downtown San José is very well connected by several public transit agencies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re coming from the city’s Eastside, you can take the light rail VTA from Alum Rock station straight to San José-Diridon, which is only one block away from SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12055677\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12055677\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/SAPCenterGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The SAP Center sports arena in San José, California, on July 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Caltrain — which runs from San Francisco through San Mateo County to the South Bay — also stops at San José-Diridon. According to a Caltrain news release, the #416 southbound will feature a Valkyries-themed car, giving passengers the chance to win free merch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Coming in from the East Bay? You can take BART and get off at Berryessa/North San José station and then get on a VTA bus — specifically the Rapid 500 line — which will quickly take you straight to SAP Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind that public transportation in San José does not run the whole night. So if you are getting home through transit, be sure of when the last train or bus runs so you don’t get stranded. You can also use \u003ca href=\"https://www.caltrain.com/trip-planner/view\">trip planners\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.bart.gov/planner\">help\u003c/a> \u003ca href=\"https://511.org/transit\">mark your route\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Watch the game at a bar\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you are unable to make it to a game, there are\u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-guide-to-wnba-watch-parties\"> bars and restaurants in the Bay\u003c/a> that show women’s sports.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There will likely be more parties announced as we get closer to the Valkyries’ first game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>If you can’t get into SAP Center but still want to join the fun, an \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyries/p/DOrhA63kuYt/\">official block party\u003c/a> will take place outside from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/kalwpublicmedia/p/DOrp8-AjjSf/\">\u003cstrong>KALW\u003c/strong> in San Francisco\u003c/a> is hosting a watch party, complete with free pizza.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.thenewparkway.com/\">\u003cstrong>The New Parkway Theater\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland is showing Wednesday’s game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/events/?artist=GSV\">\u003cstrong>Thrive City \u003c/strong>\u003c/a> (the venue connected to Chase Center) hosted a free watch party for Sunday’s game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">\u003cstrong>Rikki’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in San Francisco’s Castro District (the city’s first bar dedicated to women’s sports)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.zekisbar.com/\">\u003cstrong>Zeki’s Bar\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in San Francisco\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/whitehorsebar/?hl=en\">\u003cstrong>White Horse\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://line51beer.com/\">\u003cstrong>Line 51 Brewing\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/georgeandwaltsbar/?hl=en\">\u003cstrong>George & Walt’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://xingones.com/\">\u003cstrong>Xingones Cantina\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.theacoakland.com/\">\u003cstrong>Athletic Club Oakland\u003c/strong>\u003c/a> in Oakland\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fan groups like the \u003cstrong>Valqueeries\u003c/strong>, which is for queer WNBA fans, often host watch parties for away games at local bars like Mother in the Mission District. You can get updates for the next event on the \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valqueeries/\">Valqueeries’ Instagram\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story originally published on Sept. 12, and contains reporting from KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/ccabreralomeli\">\u003cem>Carlos Cabrera-Lomelí.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>Nervous.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That’s how \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/how-to-be-a-valkyries-fan-a-beginners-guide-to-bay-area-wnba-fandom\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fan Raina Mast said she’s feeling about Wednesday’s WNBA playoff game against the Minnesota Lynx in San José.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I imagine I’m going to be crying whether they lose or win,” Mast said. “ We never thought that an expansion team would go this far.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After losing by 29 points to the top-seeded Lynx in Sunday’s Game 1 of the best-of-three quarterfinals, the Valkyries must win Wednesday to keep their underdog \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055670/where-to-watch-the-wnba-playoffs-in-the-san-francisco-bay-area-online-on-tv-and-at-bars\">playoff run\u003c/a> alive.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although a scheduling issue is forcing the expansion team to play its first playoff “home game” at San José’s SAP Center instead of San Francisco’s Chase Center, fans are getting pumped to see their team’s first playoff appearance in the Bay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Getting into the playoffs proves what we already knew. The Valks are magic,” fan Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wednesday night also marks a historic moment for Bay Area sports: the first WNBA playoff game in the region.[aside postID=news_12055670 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg']The Valkyries have been nothing short of a cultural phenomenon in their inaugural season. The team set the all-time WNBA record for average attendance (18,064) and for total fans (397,408) during the regular season. They also sold out all 22 regular-season home games. Mast said she’s enjoyed seeing the Bay Area create its own \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13980855/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-bay-area-djs-ladyryan-shellheart-chase-center\">basketball culture\u003c/a> around the team from scratch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ Everyone’s stitching their own sweaters, pulling out purple and white and mixing them together, putting on makeup and creating their own Valkyrie crowns and just putting whatever they have out there to express their support for this amazing team and this awesome organization,” Mast said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries faithful will be denied a true home court advantage, however. Chase Center booked the Laver Cup, an international tennis tournament, for Sept. 18-21 before Golden State was awarded the WNBA expansion team. Team officials were unable to find a way to accommodate both the Valkyries’ playoff game and the preparation needed to hold the tennis tournament.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Diehard Valkyries fans who live in San Francisco said the fact that they are willing to trek down to San José to cheer on their team is a testament to how much they appreciate them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just really excited to be able to support the team, and see them go as far as they can,” Alejandra Niebla said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Fans traveling by Caltrain will have the opportunity to celebrate on the trip down. The southbound #416 will run as a Valkyries-themed train with giveaways on Wednesday as it heads down to SAP Center, according to Caltrain public information officer Dan Lieberman.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries have put the Bay Area at the center of a rapidly expanding WNBA, which is set to add five more teams over the next five years. New franchises slated to come to Toronto, Portland, Oregon, Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia will bring the total number of teams in the league to 18.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Mast said she’s stitched a message into her cardigan: “We are Ballhalla.” It’s a reference to the Valkyries’ nickname for Chase Center, but also a nod to the fans that make a Valkyries game unique.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ The fans are going to show up,” Mast said, “and we’re going to play our hardest against a really amazing team.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Game 2 between the Minnesota Lynx and the Golden State Valkyries tips off at 7 p.m. at SAP Center in San José. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Nervous.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That’s how \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/how-to-be-a-valkyries-fan-a-beginners-guide-to-bay-area-wnba-fandom\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fan Raina Mast said she’s feeling about Wednesday’s WNBA playoff game against the Minnesota Lynx in San José.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I imagine I’m going to be crying whether they lose or win,” Mast said. “ We never thought that an expansion team would go this far.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After losing by 29 points to the top-seeded Lynx in Sunday’s Game 1 of the best-of-three quarterfinals, the Valkyries must win Wednesday to keep their underdog \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055670/where-to-watch-the-wnba-playoffs-in-the-san-francisco-bay-area-online-on-tv-and-at-bars\">playoff run\u003c/a> alive.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although a scheduling issue is forcing the expansion team to play its first playoff “home game” at San José’s SAP Center instead of San Francisco’s Chase Center, fans are getting pumped to see their team’s first playoff appearance in the Bay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Getting into the playoffs proves what we already knew. The Valks are magic,” fan Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wednesday night also marks a historic moment for Bay Area sports: the first WNBA playoff game in the region.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The Valkyries have been nothing short of a cultural phenomenon in their inaugural season. The team set the all-time WNBA record for average attendance (18,064) and for total fans (397,408) during the regular season. They also sold out all 22 regular-season home games. Mast said she’s enjoyed seeing the Bay Area create its own \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13980855/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-bay-area-djs-ladyryan-shellheart-chase-center\">basketball culture\u003c/a> around the team from scratch.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ Everyone’s stitching their own sweaters, pulling out purple and white and mixing them together, putting on makeup and creating their own Valkyrie crowns and just putting whatever they have out there to express their support for this amazing team and this awesome organization,” Mast said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries faithful will be denied a true home court advantage, however. Chase Center booked the Laver Cup, an international tennis tournament, for Sept. 18-21 before Golden State was awarded the WNBA expansion team. Team officials were unable to find a way to accommodate both the Valkyries’ playoff game and the preparation needed to hold the tennis tournament.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Diehard Valkyries fans who live in San Francisco said the fact that they are willing to trek down to San José to cheer on their team is a testament to how much they appreciate them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just really excited to be able to support the team, and see them go as far as they can,” Alejandra Niebla said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Fans traveling by Caltrain will have the opportunity to celebrate on the trip down. The southbound #416 will run as a Valkyries-themed train with giveaways on Wednesday as it heads down to SAP Center, according to Caltrain public information officer Dan Lieberman.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries have put the Bay Area at the center of a rapidly expanding WNBA, which is set to add five more teams over the next five years. New franchises slated to come to Toronto, Portland, Oregon, Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia will bring the total number of teams in the league to 18.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Mast said she’s stitched a message into her cardigan: “We are Ballhalla.” It’s a reference to the Valkyries’ nickname for Chase Center, but also a nod to the fans that make a Valkyries game unique.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ The fans are going to show up,” Mast said, “and we’re going to play our hardest against a really amazing team.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Game 2 between the Minnesota Lynx and the Golden State Valkyries tips off at 7 p.m. at SAP Center in San José. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "injury-ends-valkyries-star-thorntons-season-raising-questions-about-playoff-hopes",
"title": "Injury Ends Valkyries Star Thornton’s Season, Raising Questions About Playoff Hopes",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> forward Kayla Thornton is out for the remainder of the team’s inaugural season after suffering a serious injury during practice earlier this week, the Valkyries announced Friday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Over the last few months, Thornton has become a fan favorite among the thousands who visit “Ballhalla” — a nickname for the Chase Center — to watch her and her teammates play. Some of Thornton’s supporters are concerned about what her absence could mean for the team as playoffs approach.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A spokesperson for the Valkyries said in a statement that Thornton’s surgery on Friday was successful and that she will begin her rehabilitation process immediately. The team did not confirm whether Thornton is expected to return next season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just gutted for her,” said Lindsay Myers, one of the team’s many die-hard fans. While Myers resides in Sacramento, she and her wife are proud season ticket holders and frequently travel to San Francisco to watch the Valkyries play. “[Thornton] is having a career season. … For that season to be cut short, it’s really heartbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s been an incredible season for Thornton. In addition to playing a career-high 30 minutes per game, she was named an All-Star earlier this month for the first time in her nine-year WNBA career. It’s also the first time that Thornton has been in a starting lineup, a “leadership role” that Myers said the forward has flourished in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Myers said she’s worried about the Valkyries’ chances of getting to the playoffs with Thornton off the court. While she has faith in the team’s grit, she said it’s going to be a lot harder as the players deal with unexpected changes to their roster and the loss of a key player.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re at a point where you want your team to start really gelling, and that takes leadership and relationships and time,” Myers said. “But these women must have all gone in 100% to go as hard as they’ve gone. … We just have to trust them to keep doing that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since their introduction as the league’s newest team in nearly 20 years, the Valkyries have had an intense season both on and off the court. They sold out 11 home games at the Chase Center and have the ninth-best record in the WNBA at 10–12. They play against Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings at “Ballhalla” on Friday.[aside postID=news_12047885 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/golden-state-valkyries.png']There have been some bumps along the way, however. The Valkyries faced criticism from fans earlier this month after Belgian player Julie Vanloo was waived from the team following her temporary departure to play in the EuroBasket Tournament. Shyanne Sellers, another fan favorite, was also cut from the team in May.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>With Thornton sidelined, the team could see more changes in the coming weeks. The Valkyries recently added center Iliana Rupert from France, and she is expected to appear in Friday’s game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Myers said she’s disappointed she won’t see Thornton on the court again this season, she’s still excited to see how the rest of the team performs. One thing she loves about being a Valkyries fan is the community’s support — for both the players and each other.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At a time when there is so much political tension and fear, Myers said she feels fortunate whenever she has the chance to be in the stands, having fun and watching the Valkyries. It’s a source of light during a dark time, she added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s just an amazing space because we’re at a really perfect nexus of appreciating female athletes, sports and just the beauty of this game,” Myers said. “Having it be in our backyard is so fantastic.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> forward Kayla Thornton is out for the remainder of the team’s inaugural season after suffering a serious injury during practice earlier this week, the Valkyries announced Friday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Over the last few months, Thornton has become a fan favorite among the thousands who visit “Ballhalla” — a nickname for the Chase Center — to watch her and her teammates play. Some of Thornton’s supporters are concerned about what her absence could mean for the team as playoffs approach.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A spokesperson for the Valkyries said in a statement that Thornton’s surgery on Friday was successful and that she will begin her rehabilitation process immediately. The team did not confirm whether Thornton is expected to return next season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just gutted for her,” said Lindsay Myers, one of the team’s many die-hard fans. While Myers resides in Sacramento, she and her wife are proud season ticket holders and frequently travel to San Francisco to watch the Valkyries play. “[Thornton] is having a career season. … For that season to be cut short, it’s really heartbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s been an incredible season for Thornton. In addition to playing a career-high 30 minutes per game, she was named an All-Star earlier this month for the first time in her nine-year WNBA career. It’s also the first time that Thornton has been in a starting lineup, a “leadership role” that Myers said the forward has flourished in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Myers said she’s worried about the Valkyries’ chances of getting to the playoffs with Thornton off the court. While she has faith in the team’s grit, she said it’s going to be a lot harder as the players deal with unexpected changes to their roster and the loss of a key player.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re at a point where you want your team to start really gelling, and that takes leadership and relationships and time,” Myers said. “But these women must have all gone in 100% to go as hard as they’ve gone. … We just have to trust them to keep doing that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since their introduction as the league’s newest team in nearly 20 years, the Valkyries have had an intense season both on and off the court. They sold out 11 home games at the Chase Center and have the ninth-best record in the WNBA at 10–12. They play against Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings at “Ballhalla” on Friday.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>There have been some bumps along the way, however. The Valkyries faced criticism from fans earlier this month after Belgian player Julie Vanloo was waived from the team following her temporary departure to play in the EuroBasket Tournament. Shyanne Sellers, another fan favorite, was also cut from the team in May.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>With Thornton sidelined, the team could see more changes in the coming weeks. The Valkyries recently added center Iliana Rupert from France, and she is expected to appear in Friday’s game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Myers said she’s disappointed she won’t see Thornton on the court again this season, she’s still excited to see how the rest of the team performs. One thing she loves about being a Valkyries fan is the community’s support — for both the players and each other.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At a time when there is so much political tension and fear, Myers said she feels fortunate whenever she has the chance to be in the stands, having fun and watching the Valkyries. It’s a source of light during a dark time, she added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s just an amazing space because we’re at a really perfect nexus of appreciating female athletes, sports and just the beauty of this game,” Myers said. “Having it be in our backyard is so fantastic.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla",
"title": "Golden State Valkyries: Level Up Your Bay Area WNBA Fandom With Our Primer",
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"content": "\u003cp>The Golden State Valkyries — the WNBA’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12039501/wnbas-newest-team-golden-state-valkyries-kick-off-first-season\">first new team\u003c/a> in nearly 20 years — are halfway through their inaugural season, and the Bay Area’s hunger for the team has been apparent.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So far, 11 home games at Chase Center have been \u003ca href=\"https://frontofficesports.com/valkyries-have-stunned-the-wnba-nothing-has-held-us-back/#:~:text=The%20team%20sold%20out%20its,rebrand%20of%20the%20Chase%20Center.\">sold out\u003c/a>, with thousands of fans repping the team in its now-signature royal violet. On \u003ca href=\"https://www.reddit.com/r/warriors/comments/1lfu3np/why_is_the_valkyries_crowd_so_much_better_than/\">social\u003c/a> \u003ca href=\"https://www.threads.com/@beltzner/post/DLG5Ur_RgiP/holy-moly-the-chase-center-sounds-as-loud-for-the-valkyries-at-least-on-the-broa\">media\u003c/a>, you can see opposing players and their fans alike have remarked on the intense excitement in the arena.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries play their next game on Friday at Chase Center. \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/standings\">The Dallas Wings are currently the 12th best team\u003c/a> in the WNBA, while the Valkyries are the ninth best with a 10–12 record.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For many people, a WNBA team in the Bay Area has been a long time coming. Third-generation San Franciscan Megan Doherty-Baker said her family has been following local sports history for years. Her grandfather was even a sports photographer for the \u003cem>San Francisco Examiner. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We just all grew up in my family knowing that to show love for this place was to be really connected to the teams that we loved too,” she said. “So it extends now to the Valkyries.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047879\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047879\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Megan Doherty-Baker, a ValQueeries organizer, chats with fellow fans at a Valkyries watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For others, like this reporter, basketball knowledge goes as far as \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_QRHJoXXYw&list=RDA_QRHJoXXYw&start_radio=1&pp=ygUZZ2V0IHlvdXIgaGVhZCBpbiB0aGUgZ2FtZaAHAQ%3D%3D\">Troy Bolton’s angst in \u003cem>High School Musical\u003c/em>\u003c/a>. But the Valkyries’ arrival in the Bay makes this season the perfect opportunity to get into the rapidly growing world of the WNBA.[pullquote size='medium' align='right']🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Valkyries \u003c/strong>are female \u003ca href=\"https://www.pbs.org/video/valkyries-the-real-story-behind-these-warriors-of-legend-ibrnw7/\">warriors who guide the souls of the dead in Norse mythology\u003c/a>. (If you are less of a mythology fan, it’s what \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNvUjCNYUrk\">Tessa Thompson’s character is in \u003cem>Thor\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>.)\u003c/em>[/pullquote]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m not a sports person. I didn’t grow up playing sports,” San Francisco resident Robin Yang said. “Then a couple of years ago, when we found out that we were getting our team here, I was like, ‘Oh, I would love to be like, on the ground floor of something like that.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yang’s basketball “hyperfixation” developed quickly. She has been to six of the home games so far.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People love to find reasons to hate on the Bay Area,” Yang said. Supporting the Valkyries has been a way for her to take a stand and say, ‘No, there are really cool things happening here.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Are you itching to join the Valkyries hype but not sure where to start? KQED has you covered with a comprehensive primer explaining the world of the WNBA for very, \u003cem>very \u003c/em>new fans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040692\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-800x497.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1020x634.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-160x99.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1536x955.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1920x1193.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries at their home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This is a long guide, so if you prefer you can \u003cstrong>jump straight to key questions like\u003c/strong>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#valkyries-schedule\">What is the Golden State Valkyries’ schedule, and how do I get tickets?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">What should I know about my first time at Chase Center?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#storylines\">What are the storylines this season?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#wnba-fandom\">How do I get involved with the WNBA fandom?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"roster\">\u003c/a>What does the roster for the Valkyries look like? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The team is made up of 12 players and coached by Natalie Nakase. You can learn more about the team and their game highlights by \u003ca href=\"https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/24130218/\">clicking through the panels\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c!-- iframe plugin v.4.3 wordpress.org/plugins/iframe/ -->\u003cbr>\n\u003ciframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://flo.uri.sh/visualisation/24130218/embed\" title=\"Interactive or visual content\" class=\"flourish-embed-iframe\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" style=\"width:100%;height:600px;\" sandbox=\"allow-same-origin allow-forms allow-scripts allow-downloads allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation\" width=\"100%\" height=\"500\">\u003c/iframe>\u003c/p>\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 100%!;margin-top: 4px!important;text-align: right!important\">\n\u003cp>\u003ca class=\"flourish-credit\" style=\"text-decoration: none!important\" href=\"https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/24130218/?utm_source=embed&utm_campaign=visualisation/24130218\" target=\"_top\">\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 105px!important;height: 16px!important;border: none!important;margin: 0!important\" src=\"https://public.flourish.studio/resources/made_with_flourish.svg\" alt=\"Made with Flourish\">\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\n\u003cp>As the Valkyries’ veteran player, Tiffany “Tip” Hayes is a crucial presence, explained Portland-based designer Alexandria Haigh, who is also one of the founders of women’s basketball publication \u003ca href=\"https://www.flagrantmag.com/pages/about-us\">Flagrant Magazine\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“For both the team and the fans, having that vet presence is really important to sort of draw the connection between the old WNBA and a new team,” Haigh said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Other players to keep an eye on include fan favorites like Kayla Thornton, who became a \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/kayla-thornton-consistent-scorer-valkyries-20759239.php\">first-time All-Star\u003c/a> this season, Temi Fagbenle, Kate Martin and Kaitlyn Chen.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But all of the players have their own passionate stans. “These are like Renaissance women,” said San Francisco’s Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, co-host of the podcast \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less.\u003c/a> “They’ve got their fashion lines, they’re authors … They’re coming with excellent stats from either their time in the WNBA or college or from overseas.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Why does the team keep changing? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you have already been to a few Valkyries games, you may have noticed that the team is not the same from game to game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, in the past few weeks, many Valkyries players went to play for their home country in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.thenexthoops.com/features/valkyries-have-to-defy-expectations-again-following-eurobasket-exodus/\">EuroBasket Tournament\u003c/a>, prompting the team to temporarily sign new players. However, not every player who left is guaranteed a spot when they return. In early July, Belgian basketball player Julie Vanloo, who was part of the winning team in the European tournament, had just landed in San Francisco when she found out that the Valkyries had waived her.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040681\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040681\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1304\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-800x522.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1020x665.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1536x1001.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1920x1252.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Julie Vanloo (35) advances toward the basket at the Valkyries’ home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“After traveling 18 hours back to the Bay, I missed the fan ceremony and the chance to share that special medal moment with my family and friends,” Vanloo, who the Los Angeles Sparks snatched up, wrote on \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/p/DLk_ORxhfxK/?img_index=1\">Instagram\u003c/a>. “Honestly, that stung. I understand it’s business, but nothing prepares you for the loneliness that comes with getting cut.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Golden State Valkyries have drummed up some decent amount of anger for some of their choices, including waiving another favorite, Shyanne Sellers, said Oakland and Chicago-based journalist Maya Goldberg-Safir, \u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-guide-to-being-a-golden\">who writes Rough Notes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As women’s basketball gets more popular and players get more visibility, attachment to certain people grows — and so does disappointment and sadness when they get cut.[pullquote size='medium' align='right']🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Waived \u003c/strong>is when a player is \u003ca href=\"https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/wnba/2025/05/06/what-does-it-mean-to-be-waived-wnba/83472043007/\">released before their contract ends\u003c/a>. There is a 48-hour period in which another team can take over that player’s contract and add them to \u003cem>their\u003c/em> team. If this doesn’t happen in 48 hours, the player becomes a free agent and can sign with a new team.[/pullquote]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The WNBA is still figuring a lot of things out,” Goldberg-Safir said. “One of the things that they’re still figuring out is how to waive players in this moment, when the league is so popular and people are so invested.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are truly not enough spots for the number of really talented folks that are playing in the league or trying to play in the league.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>WNBA teams are allowed a maximum of 12 players, while NBA rosters typically carry 15.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Not only is there a lot more pressure for (players) to be physically able to play every single game, but it means that you can’t essentially train a bunch of additional people that can come in and be easily slotted into the team,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047881\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047881\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer for the Valkyries at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. The fan group, ValQueeries, hosted a watch party. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047878\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047878\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Meggie B. (center, no last name given) watches the Valkyries in anticipation at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This year, members of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association are renegotiating their \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnbpa.com/thecba\">collective bargaining agreement\u003c/a> — and one of their demands is expanding team rosters, Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The players are also bargaining for better pay, working off the long-time \u003ca href=\"https://www.kalw.org/bounce-the-valkyries-first-season-in-the-bay/2025-07-01/ep-4-valkyries-and-the-gender-pay-gap\">disparity between women’s and men’s sports stars\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The W is making more money than ever,” Yang said. WNBA teams increased in value by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/24/sport/wnba-franchise-increase-value-sportico-spt\">an average of 180% over the last year\u003c/a>, with the Valkyries valued the highest at $500 million.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Do I need to understand basketball stats? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When you go to a basketball game, you will see a flurry of numbers on large screens that can feel almost Wall Street-esque. Those are the player’s stats, and they can be quite overwhelming.[aside postID=news_12040665 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I would say you don’t have to know too much about basketball to be able to enjoy it in person,” Haigh said. “You can kind of tell when something goes right and when something goes wrong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s a lot of details that can muddy those waters, but don’t obsess over stats and rules too much if you’re trying to just go watch and see if you enjoy it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Haigh said that the stats can help understand a player’s performance and their value in the WNBA, so to speak. The \u003ca href=\"https://www.hometeamsonline.com/teams/popups/Glossary.asp?s=basketball\">major stat categories\u003c/a> to know are:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>PPG \u003c/strong>is \u003cstrong>Points Per Game: \u003c/strong>The average number of a player’s points per game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>RPG\u003c/strong> is \u003cstrong>Rebounds Per Game\u003c/strong>: The average number of a player’s rebounds. A rebound is when a player collects a missed shot on the offensive or defensive end of the court.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>APG \u003c/strong>is \u003cstrong>Assists Per Game: \u003c/strong>The average number of assists a player makes. An assist is the last pass to a teammate that directly leads to a field goal.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040680\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040680\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score at their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Learn more about positions in basketball:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_4CymXARWQ\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"valkyries-schedule\">\u003c/a>When do the Valkyries play? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the current season, each team will \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/faq\">play 44 games\u003c/a>. Here is \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule\">what the schedule\u003c/a> for upcoming Valkyries games looks like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Home games\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, July 25 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Aug. 9 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Los Angeles Sparks\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Monday, Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Connecticut Sun\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 17 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 31 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, Sept. 4 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Away games\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, July 27 at 10 a.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Connecticut Sun \u003cstrong>in Connecticut\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, July 29 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Atlanta Dream \u003cstrong>in Georgia\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, July 31 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics \u003cstrong>in D.C.\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 1 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs.Chicago Sky \u003cstrong>in Illinois\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Las Vegas Aces \u003cstrong>in Nevada\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics \u003cstrong>in D.C.\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 15 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Chicago Sky \u003cstrong>in Illinois\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Phoenix Mercury \u003cstrong>in Arizona\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings \u003cstrong>in Texas\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Seattle Storm \u003cstrong>in Washington\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx \u003cstrong>in Minnesota\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>How do I get tickets to home games? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can get tickets for home games at \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/tickets\">the Valkyries’ official website\u003c/a>, where options include \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/tickets/mini-plans\">mini-plans for multiple games \u003c/a>or season tickets. Season ticket holders become part of the \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/founding-guard\">“Founding Guard,\u003c/a>” with access to perks like on-court appearances.[aside postID=arts_13977457 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/06/RIKKIS-0326-fave.jpg']The most economical option is \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule?season=2025&month=all&location=home&opponent=all\">the single game tickets\u003c/a>, which are relatively more affordable than Warriors tickets. The upcoming Dallas Wings game is pricier than the last home game against the Phoenix Mercury, however. \u003ca href=\"https://www.ticketmaster.com/golden-state-valkyries-vs-dallas-wings-san-francisco-california-07-25-2025/event/1C00618BB84925EB?brand=valkyries&artistid=3369949&wt.mc_id=WNBA_TEAM_GS_SCHED_PG_GM12&utm_source=WNBA.com&utm_medium=client&utm_campaign=WNBA_TEAM_GS&utm_content=SCHED_PG_GM12\">The cheapest ticket for the Friday game\u003c/a> against the Dallas Wings is around $125.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some fans who have season tickets may sell individual games to other people. You may be able to find these offers on social media sites like Facebook groups. Doherty-Baker said fan groups like the Valqueeries, which she helps run, may also have a quick connection to people who are looking to sell or just generously give out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(But be careful, and verify the person before sending any money since \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11956083/taylor-swift-levis-stadium-eras-santa-clara-tickets#taylorswifttickets\">ticket scams have been common in recent years\u003c/a>.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040686\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040686\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mychal Threets takes a photo with E-40 after the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Are there any watch parties in the Bay Area?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you are craving the vibe of cheering fans but tickets may be out of your reach, there may be a local group or venue that is hosting a (possibly free) watch party.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thrive Center\u003c/strong> (the venue connected to Chase Center) often shows the game on a large screen outside the arena.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fan groups like \u003cstrong>the Valqueeries\u003c/strong>, which is for queer WNBA fans, often host watch parties for away games at local bars like Mother in the Mission District. You can get updates for the next event on \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valqueeries/\">the Valqueeries’ Instagram\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Rikki’s \u003c/strong>in San Francisco’s Castro District is the area’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">first bar dedicated to women’s sports\u003c/a> and aims to show every Valkyries game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Line 51 Brewing in Oakland has two watch parties on \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 25 (home game)\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 31 (away game.) \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>George & Walt’s \u003c/strong>in Oakland is \u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/georgeandwaltsbar/?hl=en\">a woman-owned sports bar\u003c/a>\u003c/strong> with a watch party on July 27 at 10 a,m.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Line 51 Brewing\u003c/strong> in Oakland has two watch parties on \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 25 (home game)\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 31\u003c/a> (away game).\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Xingones Cantina\u003c/strong> in Oakland is hosting watch parties on July 29 at 4:30 p.m., on August 3 at 3 p.m., on August 22 at 7 p.m. and on September 11 at 7 p.m.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047880\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047880\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Miles Ott watches the game at a Valkyries watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. The fan group, ValQueeries, hosted a watch party. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Where can I watch the Valkyries online or on TV?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The TV broadcast schedule for the Valkyries can be found on \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule/broadcast-schedule\">the official website\u003c/a>. But it’s straight up confusing, because it’s not consistent and rights to stream vary from game to game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, some games can sometimes be watched on KPIX+ in the Bay Area or KMAX in Sacramento. Other games may be on ION, which is a TV network and you can find what channel it is on locally on its \u003ca href=\"https://www.ionwnba.com/\">website\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can stream some games on \u003ca href=\"https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/tournament/amzn1.dv.icid.9128d05b-2c57-491d-89da-c49d779c5db4\">Amazon Prime\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.fubo.tv/stream/wnba/?irad=1707172&irmp=5579095&sharedid=PtnrUS_TA_Editorial_HTW_Articles\">Fubo\u003c/a> or even buy a League Pass to get \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/leaguepass\">access to more platforms\u003c/a>. The Athletic has \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6353404/2025/05/16/wnba-how-to-watch/\">a guide on some platforms to check out\u003c/a> and how to navigate WNBA schedules.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">\u003c/a>What should I know before going to Chase Center?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Basketball games move fast. They are around two to two and a half hours long and split into quarters.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is usually a halftime show during the Chase Center games, featuring performances by local acts. E-40 performed at the inaugural game against the Los Angeles Sparks.[pullquote size='medium' align='right']🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Ballhalla \u003c/strong>is what the Valkyries have been calling Chase Center. It’s a reference to \u003ca href=\"https://www.history.com/articles/viking-valhalla-valkyrie-afterlife\">Valhalla\u003c/a>, a type of afterlife for warriors overlooked by the Norse god Odin.[/pullquote]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also spot icons in women’s sports like \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/NBSMediaLIVE/status/1939482658993824234\">soccer star Megan Rapinoe\u003c/a> and see support from the Valkyries’ NBA counterparts, including \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLgbcQyxEef/\">Warriors stars Stephen Curry\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/warriors-valkyries-brandin-podziemski-20421849.php\">Brandin Podziemski\u003c/a>, who has been a regular cheerleader of the new team.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED has \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-bag-policy\">a thorough guide\u003c/a> on what to expect when \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-bag-policy\">heading to a concert at Chase Center\u003c/a>. Here are some of the highlights.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Golden State Valkyries Merch\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you arrive at the home games early enough, you may also be able to snag some complimentary merch handed out at the gates or on your seat in the stadium. For example, the first 10,000 fans to tonight’s game can get \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/game/1022500138/PHX-vs-GSV\">a Valkyries wrist pouch\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on the hunt for merch — \u003ca href=\"https://shop.valkyries.com/en/\">the Valkyries have plenty\u003c/a> in its \u003ca href=\"https://www.nylon.com/entertainment/olivia-rodrigo-prince-hole-purple-pop-music-history\">pop-girl purple\u003c/a> — check out the \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/a-to-z-guide/\">stands\u003c/a> at Portals 10, 21, 41, 42, 47 and 59.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12047938\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals.jpg 1600w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals-160x100.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals-1536x960.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is also the Golden State Shop right outside Chase Center, which \u003ca href=\"https://goldenstate.com/shop/\">stays open late after games\u003c/a>. Keep in mind: The line for the merch after a game will be \u003cem>long\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Merch can be found only online, like the very adorable Peanuts collab with the WNBA that features \u003ca href=\"https://www.homage.com/collections/wnba-x-peanuts/products/peanuts-peppermint-patty-x-golden-state-valkyries\">Peppermint Patty with the Valkyries’ logo\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047882\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047882\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans watch the Valkyries in anticipation at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>The Chase Center bag policy\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Backpacks (except for single-compartment drawstring bags) of any kind are prohibited from entering the arena. Any other bag you bring, including diaper bags, must be smaller than 14 by 14 by 6 inches.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bags that do not meet the requirements can be checked at one of Chase’s two bag check locations for $10. Bag check is at the corner of 16th Street and Terry A. Francois Boulevard.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Here are some more things \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/a-to-z-guide\">you cannot bring into Chase Center\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Bottles and cans.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Refillable water bottles or cups.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Signs over 11 x 17 inches or attached to any pole or stick.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Masks that cover the whole face. (Face coverings to lower your risks of catching — or spreading — COVID-19, like N95 masks, are allowed. Limited face paint is accepted.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Lights, tripods and professional recording equipment. Flash photography is not allowed.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Noise-making devices, such as air horns, whistles or cowbells.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Weapons and self-defense items of any kind, including mace, knives and tasers.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Selfie sticks.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You \u003cem>can \u003c/em>bring:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Baby bags, plastic bottles and formula.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Strollers that can be checked in at Portals 13 or 52 during the event.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Umbrellas.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Parking at and near Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chase Center has \u003ca href=\"https://chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/parking/\">a guide to its parking garage\u003c/a>. The venue’s website also refers fans to the \u003ca href=\"https://spothero.com/search?kind=destination&id=74629&%243p=a_hasoffers&%24affiliate_json=http%3A%2F%2Ftracking.spothero.com%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D1%26aff_id%3D1753%26source%3Dchasecenter%26aff_sub2%3Dparkingpage%26aff_sub3%3Dlink%26format%3Djson&_branch_match_id=1355649275202063070&utm_source=Partnerships&utm_campaign=Tune_Platform&utm_medium=paid+advertising&_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA32SwW7DIAyGnyYc20KaVp2EpmnVjrtUOyNCnMKaAAOyqZc%2B%2B0y6pe2mTcoB%2Fzbm8%2B%2FolHy8m8%2Bjd0lDcDPp%2Fawz9jBPkXr2%2FLYDer93smOckYItS8%2Bl0DK6toUQSVQaeuA6dyEHYxveQEzGymScJSfVGXUQpuF0weolpU1dyrJSdKNozRpWYQgLtiHRDUEBV9gYFNgEgQyhO7ctyoeCPeH3CxG1C2RRYk2VAYtye4VYsNV4QApMUAwnqhz%2FyzUWu5iEGkIAq45442W3neR32Q2A2iIrSO5sI8NR%2BKHuTERUTGEmailk25rOyARf0jgvnq8mRnn0GVVGvpE5JV4mzW9GJbdQHJHyaqY3xGt0djRv8i4FqXA9%2B9lkonI96nhHKLTuh0VZPgfrqvybN5fFoc7IXobc38s9XBIlJs6LWrUu9DJhnNmIRn7%2Ba5%2FkylW%2BIDj9ernCv%2BMUAOkCthd1cB8RAn%2FUwfXwCT%2FpNYK9AgAA&view=dl\">third-party parking website SpotHero\u003c/a>, where you can find cheaper parking options farther away. So if you’re driving to the arena but haven’t secured your parking yet, consider wearing comfier shoes for the walk.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber at Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting to the venue using a rideshare service will likely be pretty smooth. It’s getting out of the area \u003cem>after\u003c/em> a game that is almost certainly going to be a challenge. And due to surge pricing, it will also be far more expensive to get an Uber or Lyft as you exit the venue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are \u003ca href=\"https://images.ctfassets.net/0lzgl3qjkmm1/6k8OJ6yu4tTfjV4wHsmKTG/0b4cc696d2b3f2360ad34bbc16ffbffd/uber-map.png\">multiple designated pickup and drop-off zones\u003c/a> located within one block of Chase Center. Upon arrival, use one of the designated passenger loading zones (white curbs) along Terry A. Francois Boulevard for a safe curbside drop-off. As you leave the venue, rideshare apps will automatically display the best places to get picked up within a five-minute walk radius.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Public transit to Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Public transit schedules can always be subject to change. Check the timings for your route on the day of the event and be sure of your very last service home. You can also read \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-parking\">KQED’s guide on transportation at Chase Center\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This map also gives a quick overview of the Muni, BART and Caltrain stops nearby:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12047939\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080.jpg 1080w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080-160x160.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Any Chase Center patron who shows their event ticket at Muni turnstiles and boarding platforms can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmta.com/fares/your-chase-center-event-ticket-your-muni-fare\">ride Muni without charge\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Accessibility at Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chase Center addresses questions about accessibility in \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/a-to-z-guide\">its online A-to-Z Guide\u003c/a>, which includes information about accessible parking, hearing assistance, ADA-compliant restrooms and service animals.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The venue said guests can request complimentary wheelchair escorts by visiting the kiosks located at Portal 13 or by texting 833-CC4-FANS.[pullquote size='medium' align='right']🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: The W\u003c/strong> refers to the WNBA. Another major women’s basketball league is \u003ca href=\"https://www.unrivaled.basketball/\">Unrivaled\u003c/a>.[/pullquote]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To schedule an American Sign Language interpreter, guests should contact guestexperiences@warriors.com ahead of time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can email guestexperiences@warriors.com for more details.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Accessible drop-offs and pickups are along the curb of \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/visitor-info/\">16th Street and Terry A. Francois Boulevard\u003c/a>, with accessible entry and exit from the East Entrance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040682\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040682\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score during their WNBA season opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"storylines\">\u003c/a>What are the storylines?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>New team, new coach, new dynamics\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since this is a brand-new team, the Valkyries have never \u003cem>played \u003c/em>together before, Doherty-Baker said. As a fan, it makes it all the more exciting to see how the team figures out its dynamics and relationships in real time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“They learn so freaking quickly,” Doherty-Baker said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@breezyhall_/video/7520853622213643533\" data-video-id=\"7520853622213643533\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@breezyhall_\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@breezyhall_?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@breezyhall_\u003c/a> why are we shaking each other hand so aggressively 😂😂😂 \u003ca title=\"fyp\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#fyp\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"foryou\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#foryou\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"breezyhall\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/breezyhall?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#breezyhall\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"wnba\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wnba?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#wnba\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"valkyries\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/valkyries?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#valkyries\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Illegal - PinkPantheress\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Illegal-7502057134566525713?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Illegal – PinkPantheress\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>[tiktok]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The Valkyries really are kind of a headline in the 2025 WNBA season,” Goldberg-Safir said. For California basketball fans, people “expected the team to do well. I don’t think they expected the team to do \u003cem>so \u003c/em>well … the vibes are truly pretty incredible … (and) there’s a number of players that are really outperforming their previous seasons.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@laeticiaamihere/video/7520852847940963614\" data-video-id=\"7520852847940963614\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@laeticiaamihere\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@laeticiaamihere?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@laeticiaamihere\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"valkyries\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/valkyries?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#valkyries\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"dubbs\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/dubbs?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#dubbs\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Bunna Summa - BunnaB\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Bunna-Summa-7492171577455593473?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Bunna Summa – BunnaB\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>[tiktok]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir added that \u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-i-wrote-about-the-leagues\">Nakase\u003c/a> is “proving herself so far to be a really, really good coach.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love seeing coaches who are former players, women and particularly women of color,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038786\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038786\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Head Coach Natalie Nakase speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Who are the teams to beat?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm and Indiana Fever are strong teams that are playing well this season, Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Many are hoping to beat the New York Liberty in particular, since last year the Liberty won their first-ever WNBA championship. But it was a controversial win due to a “highly contested foul call at the end of the game” against the Minnesota Lynx, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As Bay Area fans, this is a good moment to shut them up,” she said with a laugh.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Honoring the history of women’s basketball in the Bay\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For Goldberg-Safir, “the Golden State Valkyries coming to the Bay is like this lifelong dream-come-true in a lot of ways,” and she immediately dove into the history of women’s basketball in the Bay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She learned that the Valkyries are, in fact, \u003cem>not\u003c/em> the first professional women’s team to play in San Francisco. That would be the San Francisco Pioneers, which played in the Women’s Professional Basketball League from 1979 to 1981. In fact, last week’s game honored the Pioneers, where \u003ca href=\"https://www.thenexthoops.com/wbl/pioneers-wbl-valkyries-wnba/\">several of the players reunited\u003c/a>.[aside postID=news_12047979 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_013_BF_KQED.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most of (the players) are still around,” said Goldberg-Safir, who has been \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bounce-honoring-the-san-francisco-pioneers-live-in-person-tickets-1420298634449?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">dedicated to documenting the history of the Pioneers\u003c/a>. “They really wanna talk about their stories and share their experiences because they really helped pave the way for pro women’s basketball and the WNBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the larger Northern California area, there were also \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xngDgvMK28o\">the Sacramento Monarchs\u003c/a>, which played from the inaugural 1997 WNBA season to 2009. (They also had fans rocking purple.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s a lot of nostalgia for that and even sadness that they ever left that area,” said Doherty-Baker, who went to the games as a kid.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"wnba-fandom\">\u003c/a>What should I know about fan culture?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>“WNBA fans are very, very passionate,” Haigh said. “A lot of them have been (here) since the inception years ago. They love their teams.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir said that she sees a variety of reasons why people get into the WNBA. It can range from basketball stats, political history or even player fashion.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@brwsports/video/7515963003137707295\" data-video-id=\"7515963003137707295\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@brwsports\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@brwsports?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@brwsports\u003c/a> 🤩 (Via @Golden State Valkyries) \u003ca title=\"wnba\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wnba?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#wnba\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"womensbasketball\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/womensbasketball?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#womensbasketball\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"fashion\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fashion?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#fashion\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"tunnelfits\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tunnelfits?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#tunnelfits\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Under Pressure - bleacherreport\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Under-Pressure-7398336470773189418?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Under Pressure – bleacherreport\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>“There are a lot of folks who are finding fandom in the WNBA that haven’t felt welcomed or included in sports spaces before,” Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Fans do like to know who is dating who\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yang, the basketball fan from San Francisco, said there was a specific “inciting incident” that led to her piqued interest in the WNBA. It was a show where a comedian put together a PowerPoint of all of the ways the WNBA was better than the NBA, with the primary point being because all of the players are dating each other.[pullquote size='medium' align='right']🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: MNBA\u003c/strong> — short for the Men’s National Basketball Association — is what some fans slyly call the NBA.[/pullquote]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s that kind of stuff that you’re like, ‘Oh, there’s \u003cem>stories \u003c/em>here,” Yang said. “It’s not just, like, who’s winning.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I had a lot of people be like, ‘The WNBA is my reality TV,” Doherty-Baker said. “I think it is a really great way for folks (for whom) sports hasn’t been their jam to come in with an interest in the players.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040679\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040679\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fágbénlé (14) makes a basket during the first quarter. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>It’s more than just the NBA …\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Haigh emphasized the importance of looking at the WNBA as “truly its own league” rather than an “extension of the NBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One common — and sexist — criticism of the WNBA is that it’s not as fun “because they don’t dunk.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As a fan of both leagues, I don’t think that dunking makes the NBA miles and miles better than the W,” Haigh said. “There’s this idea that we should lower the rims in the W so they can dunk, and it’s just this weird obsession with dunking that I just frankly don’t understand.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>… and it’s more than just one player\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever has been a major star in the women’s basketball world, but you will likely get an eye roll from a long-time fan for crediting all of the WNBA’s success to just her.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“(Clark) has done a lot, but the talent has been there. The skills, the vibes, the fans — they have been there since before Caitlin,” Haigh said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is also the coverage and commentary around Clark that is worth keeping in mind. \u003ca href=\"https://news.rice.edu/news/2025/study-suggests-racial-bias-angel-reese-caitlin-clark-debate-examines-how-social-media\">A March study by Rice University\u003c/a> analyzed thousands of tweets and found that comments about Clark, who is white, tend to be more positive when compared to comments about fellow WNBA star Angel Reese, who is Black.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are people who are sort of using women’s basketball as a kind of proxy to express racist agendas,” Goldberg-Safir said. “And that can oftentimes look like this emphatic support of specific white players as sort of a white savior role.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Clark said \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/40348389/caitlin-clark-speaks-racist-misogynistic-comments\">she denounced racist comments\u003c/a>, adding that “People should not be using my name to push those agendas. It’s disappointing. It’s not acceptable.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>WNBA fans value inclusivity\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir said WNBA fans have a vested interest in social justice — a cause players have championed within the league, especially around \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/news/wnba-announces-a-2020-season-dedicated-to-social-justice\">racial justice\u003c/a> and queer visibility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Raina Mast, San Francisco resident and \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less podcast\u003c/a> cohost, said she will see people at protests with Valkyries gear, and then hop on the Muni towards the Chase Center for the game the same day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It “is just so telling of what the Bay Area is about,” said Mast, whose father even played in the NBA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The WNBA has evolved since its inception, said Goldberg-Safir: “More queer, more political, more proudly Black-led.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“A lot of our elders, queer elders, lesbians, former basketball players, people who have been in the community for a long time as coaches or family members, those are the folks that have been around and stuck around,” Goldberg-Safir said. “It’s really important to continue to include those people actively and to learn from them about their knowledge of the WNBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040690\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1899px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040690\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1899\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg 1899w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-800x562.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1020x716.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-160x112.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1536x1078.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1899px) 100vw, 1899px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Jhunehl Fortaleza, left, dressed as a Valkyrie, dances outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Representation of the players and coach Naskase has been big for young people too, said Hutchinson-Szekely, Mast’s co-host – who is also a teacher at a school with a large Asian American population.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was really incredible to see the impact of that on the students, when we first had Kaitlyn Chen,” she said. “I had a student who came up to me and was elated about the fact that her dad bought season tickets, and she got a Kaitlyn Chen jersey … and how connected that made [the student] feel to the team and to her culture.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Queer fandom is a major part of WNBA culture, leading to fan groups like Doherty-Baker’s Valqueeries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The amount of times I’ve heard from other queer fans, like ‘I just wanna make queer friends,’” she said. “You would think in the Bay it would be easier, because there’s so many of us here, but I find that that’s not really the case.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I can be really shy. I would just encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to just say ‘hi.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a moment of political, economic and strife, it “feels really good” to be a part of “something bigger than yourself,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040684\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040684\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer during the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA season opener against the Los Angeles Sparks. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“It’s really cool to be walking into Chase Center on a game day and seeing all these families, all these older queer groups of friends or couples, all these people of color,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was taking the 22 across the city into Chase Center, and I just remember watching people get on the bus and like the bus becoming more and more saturated with this color. It just felt really, really wonderful to be in that presence.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yang said a major part of that feeling can be attributed to the fans and the way the Valkyries were rolled out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It allows the fans to buy into that as well and be like, ‘Oh yeah, that’s who we are,’” Yang said. “‘We’re gonna support you, like you are the future champions that we hope you are.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was originally published on July 14.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>The Golden State Valkyries — the WNBA’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12039501/wnbas-newest-team-golden-state-valkyries-kick-off-first-season\">first new team\u003c/a> in nearly 20 years — are halfway through their inaugural season, and the Bay Area’s hunger for the team has been apparent.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So far, 11 home games at Chase Center have been \u003ca href=\"https://frontofficesports.com/valkyries-have-stunned-the-wnba-nothing-has-held-us-back/#:~:text=The%20team%20sold%20out%20its,rebrand%20of%20the%20Chase%20Center.\">sold out\u003c/a>, with thousands of fans repping the team in its now-signature royal violet. On \u003ca href=\"https://www.reddit.com/r/warriors/comments/1lfu3np/why_is_the_valkyries_crowd_so_much_better_than/\">social\u003c/a> \u003ca href=\"https://www.threads.com/@beltzner/post/DLG5Ur_RgiP/holy-moly-the-chase-center-sounds-as-loud-for-the-valkyries-at-least-on-the-broa\">media\u003c/a>, you can see opposing players and their fans alike have remarked on the intense excitement in the arena.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries play their next game on Friday at Chase Center. \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/standings\">The Dallas Wings are currently the 12th best team\u003c/a> in the WNBA, while the Valkyries are the ninth best with a 10–12 record.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For many people, a WNBA team in the Bay Area has been a long time coming. Third-generation San Franciscan Megan Doherty-Baker said her family has been following local sports history for years. Her grandfather was even a sports photographer for the \u003cem>San Francisco Examiner. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We just all grew up in my family knowing that to show love for this place was to be really connected to the teams that we loved too,” she said. “So it extends now to the Valkyries.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047879\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047879\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00275_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Megan Doherty-Baker, a ValQueeries organizer, chats with fellow fans at a Valkyries watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For others, like this reporter, basketball knowledge goes as far as \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_QRHJoXXYw&list=RDA_QRHJoXXYw&start_radio=1&pp=ygUZZ2V0IHlvdXIgaGVhZCBpbiB0aGUgZ2FtZaAHAQ%3D%3D\">Troy Bolton’s angst in \u003cem>High School Musical\u003c/em>\u003c/a>. But the Valkyries’ arrival in the Bay makes this season the perfect opportunity to get into the rapidly growing world of the WNBA.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Valkyries \u003c/strong>are female \u003ca href=\"https://www.pbs.org/video/valkyries-the-real-story-behind-these-warriors-of-legend-ibrnw7/\">warriors who guide the souls of the dead in Norse mythology\u003c/a>. (If you are less of a mythology fan, it’s what \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNvUjCNYUrk\">Tessa Thompson’s character is in \u003cem>Thor\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>.)\u003c/em>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m not a sports person. I didn’t grow up playing sports,” San Francisco resident Robin Yang said. “Then a couple of years ago, when we found out that we were getting our team here, I was like, ‘Oh, I would love to be like, on the ground floor of something like that.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yang’s basketball “hyperfixation” developed quickly. She has been to six of the home games so far.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People love to find reasons to hate on the Bay Area,” Yang said. Supporting the Valkyries has been a way for her to take a stand and say, ‘No, there are really cool things happening here.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Are you itching to join the Valkyries hype but not sure where to start? KQED has you covered with a comprehensive primer explaining the world of the WNBA for very, \u003cem>very \u003c/em>new fans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040692\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-800x497.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1020x634.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-160x99.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1536x955.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1920x1193.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries at their home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This is a long guide, so if you prefer you can \u003cstrong>jump straight to key questions like\u003c/strong>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#valkyries-schedule\">What is the Golden State Valkyries’ schedule, and how do I get tickets?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">What should I know about my first time at Chase Center?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#storylines\">What are the storylines this season?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#wnba-fandom\">How do I get involved with the WNBA fandom?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"roster\">\u003c/a>What does the roster for the Valkyries look like? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The team is made up of 12 players and coached by Natalie Nakase. You can learn more about the team and their game highlights by \u003ca href=\"https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/24130218/\">clicking through the panels\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c!-- iframe plugin v.4.3 wordpress.org/plugins/iframe/ -->\u003cbr>\n\u003ciframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://flo.uri.sh/visualisation/24130218/embed\" title=\"Interactive or visual content\" class=\"flourish-embed-iframe\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" style=\"width:100%;height:600px;\" sandbox=\"allow-same-origin allow-forms allow-scripts allow-downloads allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation\" width=\"100%\" height=\"500\">\u003c/iframe>\u003c/p>\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 100%!;margin-top: 4px!important;text-align: right!important\">\n\u003cp>\u003ca class=\"flourish-credit\" style=\"text-decoration: none!important\" href=\"https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/24130218/?utm_source=embed&utm_campaign=visualisation/24130218\" target=\"_top\">\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 105px!important;height: 16px!important;border: none!important;margin: 0!important\" src=\"https://public.flourish.studio/resources/made_with_flourish.svg\" alt=\"Made with Flourish\">\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\n\u003cp>As the Valkyries’ veteran player, Tiffany “Tip” Hayes is a crucial presence, explained Portland-based designer Alexandria Haigh, who is also one of the founders of women’s basketball publication \u003ca href=\"https://www.flagrantmag.com/pages/about-us\">Flagrant Magazine\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“For both the team and the fans, having that vet presence is really important to sort of draw the connection between the old WNBA and a new team,” Haigh said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Other players to keep an eye on include fan favorites like Kayla Thornton, who became a \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/kayla-thornton-consistent-scorer-valkyries-20759239.php\">first-time All-Star\u003c/a> this season, Temi Fagbenle, Kate Martin and Kaitlyn Chen.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But all of the players have their own passionate stans. “These are like Renaissance women,” said San Francisco’s Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, co-host of the podcast \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less.\u003c/a> “They’ve got their fashion lines, they’re authors … They’re coming with excellent stats from either their time in the WNBA or college or from overseas.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Why does the team keep changing? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you have already been to a few Valkyries games, you may have noticed that the team is not the same from game to game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, in the past few weeks, many Valkyries players went to play for their home country in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.thenexthoops.com/features/valkyries-have-to-defy-expectations-again-following-eurobasket-exodus/\">EuroBasket Tournament\u003c/a>, prompting the team to temporarily sign new players. However, not every player who left is guaranteed a spot when they return. In early July, Belgian basketball player Julie Vanloo, who was part of the winning team in the European tournament, had just landed in San Francisco when she found out that the Valkyries had waived her.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040681\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040681\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1304\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-800x522.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1020x665.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1536x1001.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1920x1252.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Julie Vanloo (35) advances toward the basket at the Valkyries’ home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“After traveling 18 hours back to the Bay, I missed the fan ceremony and the chance to share that special medal moment with my family and friends,” Vanloo, who the Los Angeles Sparks snatched up, wrote on \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/p/DLk_ORxhfxK/?img_index=1\">Instagram\u003c/a>. “Honestly, that stung. I understand it’s business, but nothing prepares you for the loneliness that comes with getting cut.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Golden State Valkyries have drummed up some decent amount of anger for some of their choices, including waiving another favorite, Shyanne Sellers, said Oakland and Chicago-based journalist Maya Goldberg-Safir, \u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-guide-to-being-a-golden\">who writes Rough Notes\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As women’s basketball gets more popular and players get more visibility, attachment to certain people grows — and so does disappointment and sadness when they get cut.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Waived \u003c/strong>is when a player is \u003ca href=\"https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/wnba/2025/05/06/what-does-it-mean-to-be-waived-wnba/83472043007/\">released before their contract ends\u003c/a>. There is a 48-hour period in which another team can take over that player’s contract and add them to \u003cem>their\u003c/em> team. If this doesn’t happen in 48 hours, the player becomes a free agent and can sign with a new team.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The WNBA is still figuring a lot of things out,” Goldberg-Safir said. “One of the things that they’re still figuring out is how to waive players in this moment, when the league is so popular and people are so invested.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are truly not enough spots for the number of really talented folks that are playing in the league or trying to play in the league.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>WNBA teams are allowed a maximum of 12 players, while NBA rosters typically carry 15.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Not only is there a lot more pressure for (players) to be physically able to play every single game, but it means that you can’t essentially train a bunch of additional people that can come in and be easily slotted into the team,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047881\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047881\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00420_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer for the Valkyries at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. The fan group, ValQueeries, hosted a watch party. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047878\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047878\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00163_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Meggie B. (center, no last name given) watches the Valkyries in anticipation at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This year, members of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association are renegotiating their \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnbpa.com/thecba\">collective bargaining agreement\u003c/a> — and one of their demands is expanding team rosters, Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The players are also bargaining for better pay, working off the long-time \u003ca href=\"https://www.kalw.org/bounce-the-valkyries-first-season-in-the-bay/2025-07-01/ep-4-valkyries-and-the-gender-pay-gap\">disparity between women’s and men’s sports stars\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The W is making more money than ever,” Yang said. WNBA teams increased in value by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/24/sport/wnba-franchise-increase-value-sportico-spt\">an average of 180% over the last year\u003c/a>, with the Valkyries valued the highest at $500 million.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Do I need to understand basketball stats? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When you go to a basketball game, you will see a flurry of numbers on large screens that can feel almost Wall Street-esque. Those are the player’s stats, and they can be quite overwhelming.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I would say you don’t have to know too much about basketball to be able to enjoy it in person,” Haigh said. “You can kind of tell when something goes right and when something goes wrong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s a lot of details that can muddy those waters, but don’t obsess over stats and rules too much if you’re trying to just go watch and see if you enjoy it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Haigh said that the stats can help understand a player’s performance and their value in the WNBA, so to speak. The \u003ca href=\"https://www.hometeamsonline.com/teams/popups/Glossary.asp?s=basketball\">major stat categories\u003c/a> to know are:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>PPG \u003c/strong>is \u003cstrong>Points Per Game: \u003c/strong>The average number of a player’s points per game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>RPG\u003c/strong> is \u003cstrong>Rebounds Per Game\u003c/strong>: The average number of a player’s rebounds. A rebound is when a player collects a missed shot on the offensive or defensive end of the court.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>APG \u003c/strong>is \u003cstrong>Assists Per Game: \u003c/strong>The average number of assists a player makes. An assist is the last pass to a teammate that directly leads to a field goal.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040680\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040680\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score at their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Learn more about positions in basketball:\u003c/p>\u003c/p>\u003cp>\u003cspan class='utils-parseShortcode-shortcodes-__youtubeShortcode__embedYoutube'>\n \u003cspan class='utils-parseShortcode-shortcodes-__youtubeShortcode__embedYoutubeInside'>\n \u003ciframe\n loading='lazy'\n class='utils-parseShortcode-shortcodes-__youtubeShortcode__youtubePlayer'\n type='text/html'\n src='//www.youtube.com/embed/4_4CymXARWQ'\n title='//www.youtube.com/embed/4_4CymXARWQ'\n allowfullscreen='true'\n style='border:0;'>\u003c/iframe>\n \u003c/span>\n \u003c/span>\u003c/p>\u003cp>\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"valkyries-schedule\">\u003c/a>When do the Valkyries play? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the current season, each team will \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/faq\">play 44 games\u003c/a>. Here is \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule\">what the schedule\u003c/a> for upcoming Valkyries games looks like.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Home games\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, July 25 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Las Vegas Aces\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Aug. 9 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Los Angeles Sparks\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Monday, Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Connecticut Sun\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 17 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Phoenix Mercury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 31 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Indiana Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. New York Liberty\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, Sept. 4 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Saturday, Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Away games\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, July 27 at 10 a.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Connecticut Sun \u003cstrong>in Connecticut\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, July 29 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Atlanta Dream \u003cstrong>in Georgia\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, July 31 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics \u003cstrong>in D.C.\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 1 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs.Chicago Sky \u003cstrong>in Illinois\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Las Vegas Aces \u003cstrong>in Nevada\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics \u003cstrong>in D.C.\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 15 at 4:30 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Chicago Sky \u003cstrong>in Illinois\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Friday, Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Phoenix Mercury \u003cstrong>in Arizona\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Sunday, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings \u003cstrong>in Texas\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Seattle Storm \u003cstrong>in Washington\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thursday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. \u003c/strong>Valkyries vs. Minnesota Lynx \u003cstrong>in Minnesota\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>How do I get tickets to home games? \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can get tickets for home games at \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/tickets\">the Valkyries’ official website\u003c/a>, where options include \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/tickets/mini-plans\">mini-plans for multiple games \u003c/a>or season tickets. Season ticket holders become part of the \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/founding-guard\">“Founding Guard,\u003c/a>” with access to perks like on-court appearances.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The most economical option is \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule?season=2025&month=all&location=home&opponent=all\">the single game tickets\u003c/a>, which are relatively more affordable than Warriors tickets. The upcoming Dallas Wings game is pricier than the last home game against the Phoenix Mercury, however. \u003ca href=\"https://www.ticketmaster.com/golden-state-valkyries-vs-dallas-wings-san-francisco-california-07-25-2025/event/1C00618BB84925EB?brand=valkyries&artistid=3369949&wt.mc_id=WNBA_TEAM_GS_SCHED_PG_GM12&utm_source=WNBA.com&utm_medium=client&utm_campaign=WNBA_TEAM_GS&utm_content=SCHED_PG_GM12\">The cheapest ticket for the Friday game\u003c/a> against the Dallas Wings is around $125.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some fans who have season tickets may sell individual games to other people. You may be able to find these offers on social media sites like Facebook groups. Doherty-Baker said fan groups like the Valqueeries, which she helps run, may also have a quick connection to people who are looking to sell or just generously give out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(But be careful, and verify the person before sending any money since \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11956083/taylor-swift-levis-stadium-eras-santa-clara-tickets#taylorswifttickets\">ticket scams have been common in recent years\u003c/a>.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040686\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040686\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mychal Threets takes a photo with E-40 after the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Are there any watch parties in the Bay Area?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you are craving the vibe of cheering fans but tickets may be out of your reach, there may be a local group or venue that is hosting a (possibly free) watch party.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Thrive Center\u003c/strong> (the venue connected to Chase Center) often shows the game on a large screen outside the arena.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fan groups like \u003cstrong>the Valqueeries\u003c/strong>, which is for queer WNBA fans, often host watch parties for away games at local bars like Mother in the Mission District. You can get updates for the next event on \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valqueeries/\">the Valqueeries’ Instagram\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Rikki’s \u003c/strong>in San Francisco’s Castro District is the area’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">first bar dedicated to women’s sports\u003c/a> and aims to show every Valkyries game.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Line 51 Brewing in Oakland has two watch parties on \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 25 (home game)\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 31 (away game.) \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>George & Walt’s \u003c/strong>in Oakland is \u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/georgeandwaltsbar/?hl=en\">a woman-owned sports bar\u003c/a>\u003c/strong> with a watch party on July 27 at 10 a,m.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Line 51 Brewing\u003c/strong> in Oakland has two watch parties on \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 25 (home game)\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golden-state-valkyries-watch-party-line-51-tickets-1364587902149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">July 31\u003c/a> (away game).\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Xingones Cantina\u003c/strong> in Oakland is hosting watch parties on July 29 at 4:30 p.m., on August 3 at 3 p.m., on August 22 at 7 p.m. and on September 11 at 7 p.m.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047880\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047880\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00321_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Miles Ott watches the game at a Valkyries watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12, 2025. The fan group, ValQueeries, hosted a watch party. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Where can I watch the Valkyries online or on TV?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The TV broadcast schedule for the Valkyries can be found on \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/schedule/broadcast-schedule\">the official website\u003c/a>. But it’s straight up confusing, because it’s not consistent and rights to stream vary from game to game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, some games can sometimes be watched on KPIX+ in the Bay Area or KMAX in Sacramento. Other games may be on ION, which is a TV network and you can find what channel it is on locally on its \u003ca href=\"https://www.ionwnba.com/\">website\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can stream some games on \u003ca href=\"https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/tournament/amzn1.dv.icid.9128d05b-2c57-491d-89da-c49d779c5db4\">Amazon Prime\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.fubo.tv/stream/wnba/?irad=1707172&irmp=5579095&sharedid=PtnrUS_TA_Editorial_HTW_Articles\">Fubo\u003c/a> or even buy a League Pass to get \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/leaguepass\">access to more platforms\u003c/a>. The Athletic has \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6353404/2025/05/16/wnba-how-to-watch/\">a guide on some platforms to check out\u003c/a> and how to navigate WNBA schedules.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">\u003c/a>What should I know before going to Chase Center?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Basketball games move fast. They are around two to two and a half hours long and split into quarters.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is usually a halftime show during the Chase Center games, featuring performances by local acts. E-40 performed at the inaugural game against the Los Angeles Sparks.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: Ballhalla \u003c/strong>is what the Valkyries have been calling Chase Center. It’s a reference to \u003ca href=\"https://www.history.com/articles/viking-valhalla-valkyrie-afterlife\">Valhalla\u003c/a>, a type of afterlife for warriors overlooked by the Norse god Odin.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also spot icons in women’s sports like \u003ca href=\"https://x.com/NBSMediaLIVE/status/1939482658993824234\">soccer star Megan Rapinoe\u003c/a> and see support from the Valkyries’ NBA counterparts, including \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLgbcQyxEef/\">Warriors stars Stephen Curry\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/warriors-valkyries-brandin-podziemski-20421849.php\">Brandin Podziemski\u003c/a>, who has been a regular cheerleader of the new team.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED has \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-bag-policy\">a thorough guide\u003c/a> on what to expect when \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-bag-policy\">heading to a concert at Chase Center\u003c/a>. Here are some of the highlights.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Golden State Valkyries Merch\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you arrive at the home games early enough, you may also be able to snag some complimentary merch handed out at the gates or on your seat in the stadium. For example, the first 10,000 fans to tonight’s game can get \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/game/1022500138/PHX-vs-GSV\">a Valkyries wrist pouch\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on the hunt for merch — \u003ca href=\"https://shop.valkyries.com/en/\">the Valkyries have plenty\u003c/a> in its \u003ca href=\"https://www.nylon.com/entertainment/olivia-rodrigo-prince-hole-purple-pop-music-history\">pop-girl purple\u003c/a> — check out the \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/a-to-z-guide/\">stands\u003c/a> at Portals 10, 21, 41, 42, 47 and 59.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12047938\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals.jpg 1600w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals-160x100.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/cc-portals-1536x960.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is also the Golden State Shop right outside Chase Center, which \u003ca href=\"https://goldenstate.com/shop/\">stays open late after games\u003c/a>. Keep in mind: The line for the merch after a game will be \u003cem>long\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Merch can be found only online, like the very adorable Peanuts collab with the WNBA that features \u003ca href=\"https://www.homage.com/collections/wnba-x-peanuts/products/peanuts-peppermint-patty-x-golden-state-valkyries\">Peppermint Patty with the Valkyries’ logo\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047882\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047882\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00453_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans watch the Valkyries in anticipation at a watch party at White Horse Bar in Oakland on July 12. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>The Chase Center bag policy\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Backpacks (except for single-compartment drawstring bags) of any kind are prohibited from entering the arena. Any other bag you bring, including diaper bags, must be smaller than 14 by 14 by 6 inches.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bags that do not meet the requirements can be checked at one of Chase’s two bag check locations for $10. Bag check is at the corner of 16th Street and Terry A. Francois Boulevard.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Here are some more things \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/a-to-z-guide\">you cannot bring into Chase Center\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Bottles and cans.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Refillable water bottles or cups.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Signs over 11 x 17 inches or attached to any pole or stick.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Masks that cover the whole face. (Face coverings to lower your risks of catching — or spreading — COVID-19, like N95 masks, are allowed. Limited face paint is accepted.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Lights, tripods and professional recording equipment. Flash photography is not allowed.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Noise-making devices, such as air horns, whistles or cowbells.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Weapons and self-defense items of any kind, including mace, knives and tasers.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Selfie sticks.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You \u003cem>can \u003c/em>bring:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Baby bags, plastic bottles and formula.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Strollers that can be checked in at Portals 13 or 52 during the event.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Umbrellas.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Parking at and near Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chase Center has \u003ca href=\"https://chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/parking/\">a guide to its parking garage\u003c/a>. The venue’s website also refers fans to the \u003ca href=\"https://spothero.com/search?kind=destination&id=74629&%243p=a_hasoffers&%24affiliate_json=http%3A%2F%2Ftracking.spothero.com%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D1%26aff_id%3D1753%26source%3Dchasecenter%26aff_sub2%3Dparkingpage%26aff_sub3%3Dlink%26format%3Djson&_branch_match_id=1355649275202063070&utm_source=Partnerships&utm_campaign=Tune_Platform&utm_medium=paid+advertising&_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA32SwW7DIAyGnyYc20KaVp2EpmnVjrtUOyNCnMKaAAOyqZc%2B%2B0y6pe2mTcoB%2Fzbm8%2B%2FolHy8m8%2Bjd0lDcDPp%2Fawz9jBPkXr2%2FLYDer93smOckYItS8%2Bl0DK6toUQSVQaeuA6dyEHYxveQEzGymScJSfVGXUQpuF0weolpU1dyrJSdKNozRpWYQgLtiHRDUEBV9gYFNgEgQyhO7ctyoeCPeH3CxG1C2RRYk2VAYtye4VYsNV4QApMUAwnqhz%2FyzUWu5iEGkIAq45442W3neR32Q2A2iIrSO5sI8NR%2BKHuTERUTGEmailk25rOyARf0jgvnq8mRnn0GVVGvpE5JV4mzW9GJbdQHJHyaqY3xGt0djRv8i4FqXA9%2B9lkonI96nhHKLTuh0VZPgfrqvybN5fFoc7IXobc38s9XBIlJs6LWrUu9DJhnNmIRn7%2Ba5%2FkylW%2BIDj9ernCv%2BMUAOkCthd1cB8RAn%2FUwfXwCT%2FpNYK9AgAA&view=dl\">third-party parking website SpotHero\u003c/a>, where you can find cheaper parking options farther away. So if you’re driving to the arena but haven’t secured your parking yet, consider wearing comfier shoes for the walk.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040673\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1943px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040673\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1943\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed.jpg 1943w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-800x549.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1020x700.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-63_qed-1920x1317.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1943px) 100vw, 1943px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) advances toward the basket during the Valkyries’ home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber at Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting to the venue using a rideshare service will likely be pretty smooth. It’s getting out of the area \u003cem>after\u003c/em> a game that is almost certainly going to be a challenge. And due to surge pricing, it will also be far more expensive to get an Uber or Lyft as you exit the venue.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are \u003ca href=\"https://images.ctfassets.net/0lzgl3qjkmm1/6k8OJ6yu4tTfjV4wHsmKTG/0b4cc696d2b3f2360ad34bbc16ffbffd/uber-map.png\">multiple designated pickup and drop-off zones\u003c/a> located within one block of Chase Center. Upon arrival, use one of the designated passenger loading zones (white curbs) along Terry A. Francois Boulevard for a safe curbside drop-off. As you leave the venue, rideshare apps will automatically display the best places to get picked up within a five-minute walk radius.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Public transit to Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Public transit schedules can always be subject to change. Check the timings for your route on the day of the event and be sure of your very last service home. You can also read \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12046841/lady-gaga-mayhem-ball-tour-san-francisco-chase-center-parking-bag-policy#chase-center-parking\">KQED’s guide on transportation at Chase Center\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This map also gives a quick overview of the Muni, BART and Caltrain stops nearby:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12047939\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080.jpg 1080w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/CC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_MapCC_BM_20231005_CC_Transportation_Map_1080x1080-160x160.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\">\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Any Chase Center patron who shows their event ticket at Muni turnstiles and boarding platforms can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmta.com/fares/your-chase-center-event-ticket-your-muni-fare\">ride Muni without charge\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Accessibility at Chase Center\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chase Center addresses questions about accessibility in \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/a-to-z-guide\">its online A-to-Z Guide\u003c/a>, which includes information about accessible parking, hearing assistance, ADA-compliant restrooms and service animals.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The venue said guests can request complimentary wheelchair escorts by visiting the kiosks located at Portal 13 or by texting 833-CC4-FANS.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: The W\u003c/strong> refers to the WNBA. Another major women’s basketball league is \u003ca href=\"https://www.unrivaled.basketball/\">Unrivaled\u003c/a>.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To schedule an American Sign Language interpreter, guests should contact guestexperiences@warriors.com ahead of time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can email guestexperiences@warriors.com for more details.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Accessible drop-offs and pickups are along the curb of \u003ca href=\"https://www.chasecenter.com/plan-your-visit/visitor-info/\">16th Street and Terry A. Francois Boulevard\u003c/a>, with accessible entry and exit from the East Entrance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040682\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040682\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score during their WNBA season opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"storylines\">\u003c/a>What are the storylines?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>New team, new coach, new dynamics\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since this is a brand-new team, the Valkyries have never \u003cem>played \u003c/em>together before, Doherty-Baker said. As a fan, it makes it all the more exciting to see how the team figures out its dynamics and relationships in real time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“They learn so freaking quickly,” Doherty-Baker said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@breezyhall_/video/7520853622213643533\" data-video-id=\"7520853622213643533\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@breezyhall_\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@breezyhall_?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@breezyhall_\u003c/a> why are we shaking each other hand so aggressively 😂😂😂 \u003ca title=\"fyp\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#fyp\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"foryou\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#foryou\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"breezyhall\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/breezyhall?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#breezyhall\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"wnba\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wnba?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#wnba\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"valkyries\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/valkyries?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#valkyries\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Illegal - PinkPantheress\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Illegal-7502057134566525713?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Illegal – PinkPantheress\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The Valkyries really are kind of a headline in the 2025 WNBA season,” Goldberg-Safir said. For California basketball fans, people “expected the team to do well. I don’t think they expected the team to do \u003cem>so \u003c/em>well … the vibes are truly pretty incredible … (and) there’s a number of players that are really outperforming their previous seasons.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@laeticiaamihere/video/7520852847940963614\" data-video-id=\"7520852847940963614\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@laeticiaamihere\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@laeticiaamihere?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@laeticiaamihere\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"valkyries\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/valkyries?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#valkyries\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"dubbs\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/dubbs?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#dubbs\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Bunna Summa - BunnaB\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Bunna-Summa-7492171577455593473?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Bunna Summa – BunnaB\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir added that \u003ca href=\"https://wnbaroughnotes.substack.com/p/rough-notes-i-wrote-about-the-leagues\">Nakase\u003c/a> is “proving herself so far to be a really, really good coach.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love seeing coaches who are former players, women and particularly women of color,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038786\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038786\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Head Coach Natalie Nakase speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Who are the teams to beat?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm and Indiana Fever are strong teams that are playing well this season, Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Many are hoping to beat the New York Liberty in particular, since last year the Liberty won their first-ever WNBA championship. But it was a controversial win due to a “highly contested foul call at the end of the game” against the Minnesota Lynx, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As Bay Area fans, this is a good moment to shut them up,” she said with a laugh.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Honoring the history of women’s basketball in the Bay\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For Goldberg-Safir, “the Golden State Valkyries coming to the Bay is like this lifelong dream-come-true in a lot of ways,” and she immediately dove into the history of women’s basketball in the Bay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She learned that the Valkyries are, in fact, \u003cem>not\u003c/em> the first professional women’s team to play in San Francisco. That would be the San Francisco Pioneers, which played in the Women’s Professional Basketball League from 1979 to 1981. In fact, last week’s game honored the Pioneers, where \u003ca href=\"https://www.thenexthoops.com/wbl/pioneers-wbl-valkyries-wnba/\">several of the players reunited\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most of (the players) are still around,” said Goldberg-Safir, who has been \u003ca href=\"https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bounce-honoring-the-san-francisco-pioneers-live-in-person-tickets-1420298634449?aff=ebdssbdestsearch\">dedicated to documenting the history of the Pioneers\u003c/a>. “They really wanna talk about their stories and share their experiences because they really helped pave the way for pro women’s basketball and the WNBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the larger Northern California area, there were also \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xngDgvMK28o\">the Sacramento Monarchs\u003c/a>, which played from the inaugural 1997 WNBA season to 2009. (They also had fans rocking purple.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s a lot of nostalgia for that and even sadness that they ever left that area,” said Doherty-Baker, who went to the games as a kid.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>\u003ca id=\"wnba-fandom\">\u003c/a>What should I know about fan culture?\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>“WNBA fans are very, very passionate,” Haigh said. “A lot of them have been (here) since the inception years ago. They love their teams.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir said that she sees a variety of reasons why people get into the WNBA. It can range from basketball stats, political history or even player fashion.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@brwsports/video/7515963003137707295\" data-video-id=\"7515963003137707295\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@brwsports\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@brwsports?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@brwsports\u003c/a> 🤩 (Via @Golden State Valkyries) \u003ca title=\"wnba\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wnba?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#wnba\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"womensbasketball\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/womensbasketball?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#womensbasketball\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"fashion\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fashion?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#fashion\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"tunnelfits\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tunnelfits?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#tunnelfits\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ Under Pressure - bleacherreport\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/Under-Pressure-7398336470773189418?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ Under Pressure – bleacherreport\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>“There are a lot of folks who are finding fandom in the WNBA that haven’t felt welcomed or included in sports spaces before,” Goldberg-Safir said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>Fans do like to know who is dating who\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yang, the basketball fan from San Francisco, said there was a specific “inciting incident” that led to her piqued interest in the WNBA. It was a show where a comedian put together a PowerPoint of all of the ways the WNBA was better than the NBA, with the primary point being because all of the players are dating each other.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "🏀 \u003cstrong>GLOSSARY: MNBA\u003c/strong> — short for the Men’s National Basketball Association — is what some fans slyly call the NBA.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s that kind of stuff that you’re like, ‘Oh, there’s \u003cem>stories \u003c/em>here,” Yang said. “It’s not just, like, who’s winning.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I had a lot of people be like, ‘The WNBA is my reality TV,” Doherty-Baker said. “I think it is a really great way for folks (for whom) sports hasn’t been their jam to come in with an interest in the players.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040679\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040679\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fágbénlé (14) makes a basket during the first quarter. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>It’s more than just the NBA …\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Haigh emphasized the importance of looking at the WNBA as “truly its own league” rather than an “extension of the NBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One common — and sexist — criticism of the WNBA is that it’s not as fun “because they don’t dunk.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As a fan of both leagues, I don’t think that dunking makes the NBA miles and miles better than the W,” Haigh said. “There’s this idea that we should lower the rims in the W so they can dunk, and it’s just this weird obsession with dunking that I just frankly don’t understand.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>… and it’s more than just one player\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever has been a major star in the women’s basketball world, but you will likely get an eye roll from a long-time fan for crediting all of the WNBA’s success to just her.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“(Clark) has done a lot, but the talent has been there. The skills, the vibes, the fans — they have been there since before Caitlin,” Haigh said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is also the coverage and commentary around Clark that is worth keeping in mind. \u003ca href=\"https://news.rice.edu/news/2025/study-suggests-racial-bias-angel-reese-caitlin-clark-debate-examines-how-social-media\">A March study by Rice University\u003c/a> analyzed thousands of tweets and found that comments about Clark, who is white, tend to be more positive when compared to comments about fellow WNBA star Angel Reese, who is Black.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are people who are sort of using women’s basketball as a kind of proxy to express racist agendas,” Goldberg-Safir said. “And that can oftentimes look like this emphatic support of specific white players as sort of a white savior role.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Clark said \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/40348389/caitlin-clark-speaks-racist-misogynistic-comments\">she denounced racist comments\u003c/a>, adding that “People should not be using my name to push those agendas. It’s disappointing. It’s not acceptable.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003cstrong>WNBA fans value inclusivity\u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Goldberg-Safir said WNBA fans have a vested interest in social justice — a cause players have championed within the league, especially around \u003ca href=\"https://www.wnba.com/news/wnba-announces-a-2020-season-dedicated-to-social-justice\">racial justice\u003c/a> and queer visibility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Raina Mast, San Francisco resident and \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/valkyriessayless/\">Valkyries Say Less podcast\u003c/a> cohost, said she will see people at protests with Valkyries gear, and then hop on the Muni towards the Chase Center for the game the same day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It “is just so telling of what the Bay Area is about,” said Mast, whose father even played in the NBA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The WNBA has evolved since its inception, said Goldberg-Safir: “More queer, more political, more proudly Black-led.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“A lot of our elders, queer elders, lesbians, former basketball players, people who have been in the community for a long time as coaches or family members, those are the folks that have been around and stuck around,” Goldberg-Safir said. “It’s really important to continue to include those people actively and to learn from them about their knowledge of the WNBA.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040690\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1899px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040690\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1899\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg 1899w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-800x562.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1020x716.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-160x112.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1536x1078.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1899px) 100vw, 1899px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Jhunehl Fortaleza, left, dressed as a Valkyrie, dances outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Representation of the players and coach Naskase has been big for young people too, said Hutchinson-Szekely, Mast’s co-host – who is also a teacher at a school with a large Asian American population.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was really incredible to see the impact of that on the students, when we first had Kaitlyn Chen,” she said. “I had a student who came up to me and was elated about the fact that her dad bought season tickets, and she got a Kaitlyn Chen jersey … and how connected that made [the student] feel to the team and to her culture.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Queer fandom is a major part of WNBA culture, leading to fan groups like Doherty-Baker’s Valqueeries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The amount of times I’ve heard from other queer fans, like ‘I just wanna make queer friends,’” she said. “You would think in the Bay it would be easier, because there’s so many of us here, but I find that that’s not really the case.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I can be really shy. I would just encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to just say ‘hi.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a moment of political, economic and strife, it “feels really good” to be a part of “something bigger than yourself,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040684\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040684\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer during the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA season opener against the Los Angeles Sparks. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“It’s really cool to be walking into Chase Center on a game day and seeing all these families, all these older queer groups of friends or couples, all these people of color,” Yang said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was taking the 22 across the city into Chase Center, and I just remember watching people get on the bus and like the bus becoming more and more saturated with this color. It just felt really, really wonderful to be in that presence.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yang said a major part of that feeling can be attributed to the fans and the way the Valkyries were rolled out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It allows the fans to buy into that as well and be like, ‘Oh yeah, that’s who we are,’” Yang said. “‘We’re gonna support you, like you are the future champions that we hope you are.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was originally published on July 14.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "a-basketball-trailblazer-my-mother-the-wnba-star-youve-never-heard-of",
"title": "A Basketball Trailblazer: My Mother, the WNBA Star You’ve Never Heard Of",
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"headTitle": "A Basketball Trailblazer: My Mother, the WNBA Star You’ve Never Heard Of | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>My mom, Judy Mosley McAfee, was one of the very first women drafted into the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/wnba\">WNBA\u003c/a>. But you’ve probably never heard of her. I certainly didn’t know how she blazed a trail for what women’s basketball has become today until I started researching her past.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My mom passed away from breast cancer when I was 12. I never saw her playing college or pro ball because by the time I was born in 2001, she had stopped playing. I knew her better as a high school teacher and coach.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now that I’m 24, just a few years older than my mom was when she started playing college ball, I’ve been on a quest to understand that side of her, and why she loved a sport I’ve been less than fond of for most of my life.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m 5’10” — and my whole life, people have asked me if I play basketball. But the truth is, I’ve never really liked the sport. The exuberant mascots, the endless running up and down the court. It felt pointless and boring to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But when my mom played, she made fans fall in love with women’s basketball, and ultimately left a legacy that paved the way for today’s record attendance at WNBA games — and the rise of teams like the Golden State Valkyries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047798\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047798\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My mom started her basketball career at La Puente High in Los Angeles, where she averaged more than 15 points per game. Recruiters came knocking from more than 80 schools, but she ultimately decided on the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which, at the time, ranked 159th in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But my mom turned that around. She would become the nation’s second-leading scorer, averaging 27 points and 15 rebounds per game. And she put the University of Hawaii on the map. Today, the UH Rainbow Wahines are ranked seventh in the NCAA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[aside postID=news_12047885 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250712-valkyries101_00046_TV_qed.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even 35 years after graduating from UH, my mom is still considered the best player — in both women’s and men’s sports — in the school’s history. She was even honored with the title “All-Time American” for her last two years of college.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This spring, I actually got to visit the college to meet some of her former teammates and see the gym where the Wahines used to play. I kept trying to envision what it must have been like to be 18, a California girl on a basketball scholarship to Hawaii, double majoring and balancing good grades with her record-breaking basketball career. I truly do not know how she did it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The best part of the trip was visiting the current Wahines locker room to marvel at a giant photo on the wall. There was my mom, larger than life, going for a rebound, the only player to lead the Wahines in scoring and rebounding for four straight seasons.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When the ball was in the air, you don’t know which way the ball was gonna bounce, but your mom did,” her former assistant coach, George Wolfe, told me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We call it a nose for the ball,” Wolfe said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Soon after graduating in 1990, my mom played overseas in places like Italy, Hungary, Japan and Spain. Once she met my dad, he traveled with her all over the world, witnessing the influence she had on the crowd. He told me it was like walking on clouds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047804\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047804\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee holds a family picture of her mother and aunt at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In 1997, she was drafted to the Sacramento Monarchs for the WNBA’s inaugural season. She was the sixth woman picked for the league — out of 32 women selected from around the globe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My mom’s former teammate, Tajama Abraham, told me it wasn’t easy to be a part of the first-ever women’s basketball national league because there were no mentors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re creating this whole women’s pro thing from scratch. We had no understanding of what it [was] going to take at that level,” Abraham said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And in those early years, the women’s league \u003ca href=\"https://uncpress.org/book/9781469674780/shattering-the-glass/\">didn’t get the same coverage as the NBA\u003c/a> — and generated far less advertising revenue and corporate support.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back in that first year of the WNBA, female players only earned a base salary of $28,000 a season. Compare that to NBA players’ base of $200,000.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though my mom passed more than a decade ago, it feels good to get to know her better. To know that she paved the way for women’s basketball and teams like the Golden State Valkyries to get the respect they deserve.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047807\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047807\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>I’m grateful to get to know this side of my mom. She was a champion, a. A true warrior on and off the court. I didn’t get to know her for very long, but she was, and still is, everything to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I can’t remember how her voice sounds anymore, but I will always recall the smell of the fresh pots of rice she would make in the early morning, before her two-hour commute to work. I will always cherish her big gummy smile, the one we’d see after she told a joke that usually only she thought was funny. I won’t forget the way she would throw her hair up into a ponytail and curl her bangs with a bump.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Like her favorite flower, she was a rose plucked too soon. Luscious, fleeting. A flower that left me with thorns all over because I held on too hard. And still, I would pick thorns out of my hands for the rest of my life if that meant I could see her again. If I make it to 45, I hope I’m at least half as cool as she was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I may not blaze new trails or set new records like she did, but I know that if I just try my hardest and am genuine in what I do, everything will be okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I love you, mommy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ci>Audy McAfee produced this audio documentary as her master’s thesis at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism’s audio program.\u003c/i>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>My mom, Judy Mosley McAfee, was one of the very first women drafted into the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/wnba\">WNBA\u003c/a>. But you’ve probably never heard of her. I certainly didn’t know how she blazed a trail for what women’s basketball has become today until I started researching her past.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My mom passed away from breast cancer when I was 12. I never saw her playing college or pro ball because by the time I was born in 2001, she had stopped playing. I knew her better as a high school teacher and coach.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now that I’m 24, just a few years older than my mom was when she started playing college ball, I’ve been on a quest to understand that side of her, and why she loved a sport I’ve been less than fond of for most of my life.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I’m 5’10” — and my whole life, people have asked me if I play basketball. But the truth is, I’ve never really liked the sport. The exuberant mascots, the endless running up and down the court. It felt pointless and boring to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But when my mom played, she made fans fall in love with women’s basketball, and ultimately left a legacy that paved the way for today’s record attendance at WNBA games — and the rise of teams like the Golden State Valkyries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047798\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047798\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_011_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>My mom started her basketball career at La Puente High in Los Angeles, where she averaged more than 15 points per game. Recruiters came knocking from more than 80 schools, but she ultimately decided on the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which, at the time, ranked 159th in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But my mom turned that around. She would become the nation’s second-leading scorer, averaging 27 points and 15 rebounds per game. And she put the University of Hawaii on the map. Today, the UH Rainbow Wahines are ranked seventh in the NCAA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even 35 years after graduating from UH, my mom is still considered the best player — in both women’s and men’s sports — in the school’s history. She was even honored with the title “All-Time American” for her last two years of college.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This spring, I actually got to visit the college to meet some of her former teammates and see the gym where the Wahines used to play. I kept trying to envision what it must have been like to be 18, a California girl on a basketball scholarship to Hawaii, double majoring and balancing good grades with her record-breaking basketball career. I truly do not know how she did it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The best part of the trip was visiting the current Wahines locker room to marvel at a giant photo on the wall. There was my mom, larger than life, going for a rebound, the only player to lead the Wahines in scoring and rebounding for four straight seasons.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When the ball was in the air, you don’t know which way the ball was gonna bounce, but your mom did,” her former assistant coach, George Wolfe, told me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We call it a nose for the ball,” Wolfe said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Soon after graduating in 1990, my mom played overseas in places like Italy, Hungary, Japan and Spain. Once she met my dad, he traveled with her all over the world, witnessing the influence she had on the crowd. He told me it was like walking on clouds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047804\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047804\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_005_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee holds a family picture of her mother and aunt at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In 1997, she was drafted to the Sacramento Monarchs for the WNBA’s inaugural season. She was the sixth woman picked for the league — out of 32 women selected from around the globe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My mom’s former teammate, Tajama Abraham, told me it wasn’t easy to be a part of the first-ever women’s basketball national league because there were no mentors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re creating this whole women’s pro thing from scratch. We had no understanding of what it [was] going to take at that level,” Abraham said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And in those early years, the women’s league \u003ca href=\"https://uncpress.org/book/9781469674780/shattering-the-glass/\">didn’t get the same coverage as the NBA\u003c/a> — and generated far less advertising revenue and corporate support.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back in that first year of the WNBA, female players only earned a base salary of $28,000 a season. Compare that to NBA players’ base of $200,000.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though my mom passed more than a decade ago, it feels good to get to know her better. To know that she paved the way for women’s basketball and teams like the Golden State Valkyries to get the respect they deserve.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047807\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047807\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/250711_WNBA-mom_002_BF_KQED-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Audy McAfee at her home in Oakland, on July 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Brian L. Frank/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>I’m grateful to get to know this side of my mom. She was a champion, a. A true warrior on and off the court. I didn’t get to know her for very long, but she was, and still is, everything to me.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I can’t remember how her voice sounds anymore, but I will always recall the smell of the fresh pots of rice she would make in the early morning, before her two-hour commute to work. I will always cherish her big gummy smile, the one we’d see after she told a joke that usually only she thought was funny. I won’t forget the way she would throw her hair up into a ponytail and curl her bangs with a bump.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Like her favorite flower, she was a rose plucked too soon. Luscious, fleeting. A flower that left me with thorns all over because I held on too hard. And still, I would pick thorns out of my hands for the rest of my life if that meant I could see her again. If I make it to 45, I hope I’m at least half as cool as she was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I may not blaze new trails or set new records like she did, but I know that if I just try my hardest and am genuine in what I do, everything will be okay.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I love you, mommy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ci>Audy McAfee produced this audio documentary as her master’s thesis at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism’s audio program.\u003c/i>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "a-new-home-for-womens-sports-stanford-scales-back-trans-care-for-minors-and-why-some-sf-malls-are-thriving",
"title": "A New Home For Women’s Sports, Stanford Scales Back Trans Care for Minors, and Why Some SF Malls Are Thriving",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">On this month’s edition of The Bay’s news roundup, we introduce you to the Bay Area’s first women’s sports bar, discuss Stanford’s scaling back of gender-related surgical procedures for minors, and the secret sauce of the San Francisco malls defying the ‘doom loop’ narrative.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c!-- iframe plugin v.4.3 wordpress.org/plugins/iframe/ -->\u003cbr>\n\u003ciframe loading=\"lazy\" frameborder=\"0\" height=\"200\" scrolling=\"no\" src=\"https://playlist.megaphone.fm?e=KQINC2905167660\" width=\"100%\" class=\"iframe-class\">\u003c/iframe>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>Links:\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Bay Area’s First Women’s Sports Bar Is Open for Business\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1997491/stanford-scales-back-trans-care-for-minors-amid-federal-crackdown\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Stanford Scales Back Trans Care for Minors Amid Federal Crackdown\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977860/asian-food-bay-area-malls-jagalchi-serramonte-stonestown-westfield-valley-fair\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Asian Food Is Coming to Save a Mall Near You\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">SF Chronicle:\u003c/span> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/japantown-stonestown-galleria-mall-20331459.php\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">These S.F. malls are experiencing a ‘renaissance’ that defies the doom loop. Here’s their secret\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This is a computer-generated transcript. While our team has reviewed it, there may be errors.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:00:04] I’m Ericka Cruz Guevarra and welcome to The Bay, local news to keep you rooted and welcome to The Bay’s June News Roundup where I sit down with the rest of The Bay team to talk about some of the other stories that we have been following this month. I’m joined today by our producer Jessica Kariisa and our beloved intern Mel Velasquez.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:00:32] I mean, I can’t believe it’s already halfway through the year here, which is really crazy. We’ve got a lot of news going on around the world and also around the Bay, but also we’ve got some big news from our team this month, which I’ll get to shortly, but just a quick look back at some of the stories that we’ve done this month. I mean obviously immigration has really been the big story. Nationally and at the local level, we talked about the role that local soccer leagues have been playing for immigrant youth coming here to Alameda County in particular. We talked about Berkeley’s approach to probably one of the more challenging forms of homelessness in the Bay area, folks living in RVs, and this really successful program they’ve been running there, offering money to people living in RVs to get them on the path to more permanent housing. We talked about Suisun City’s effort to potentially grow by nine times its current size, and we also talked about local theater in a free fall here in the Bay Area. So as always, quite the range from us at the Bay, but there’s really been a lot going on.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:01:52] Yeah, I mean, it’s been a really crazy month. You know, there were a lot of protests, spontaneous protests that happened all across the country, especially here in the Bay Area. And there was obviously the huge, you know, King’s protest. We’re all in different parts of the Bay, but we were texting each other that day, like, oh, wow, like in every corner of the Bay, something is going on. Alan was in Chicago and there was obviously a lot going on there too. So it’s definitely been an active month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:02:21] Also just a lot kind of going on for us here on the Bay team. This month is our intern Mel Velasquez’s last month with us on the show. Mel has been a really, really huge part of the team. You all don’t get to see it, but for us in the background, Mel brings this really just fun energy and so much light to the team. It really, I think, helped us get through these last couple of weeks in the news cycle. Honestly, Mel, how are you feeling? How are you thinking about the last couple of months working with us on the show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:02:59] It’s been incredible. I mean, you guys are like the best team I’ve worked with. Everyone has just been so helpful and I look forward to coming here and like working with you all. I’ve had some great experiences like when we went to Six Flags for the thousandth episode that was so much fun. And then actually the more recent one that I had a lot of fun with was going to Aurora Theater in Berkeley for that episode. That was also really fun. It’s been nice to work with you all and I’m very sad that this will be my last episode. I’ve had such a just a really incredible time. I can’t emphasize that enough.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:03:49] I mean, I can’t believe that the six months is already up. Like, I can’t wrap my head around that. But I also want to point out that Mel also produced her own episode for us on Central American students at Berkeley, pushing for a department. And to see you work through that process of, you know, getting the idea and really pushing through and getting to produce such a great episode was just like a joy to watch and I hope that everyone who hasn’t already listened to it goes and listens to it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:04:20] Yes, definitely listen to it if you haven’t already. That’s also another one of the stories that we covered on the show this month. I should also mention that in addition to Mel leaving us, we are preparing to take our July break from producing new episodes. We’ll be spending that time just kind of regrouping and reflecting and cooking up some other things that we want to make for you all when we get back. So we will be taking a break from making episodes. We’ll be back in August. But more news on that later. But in the meantime, Mel, this episode is definitely a love letter to you. We appreciate you so much. And we really enjoyed working with you. Thanks for everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:05:12] Aw, thank you guys for everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:05:19] Well Mel, before we let you go, we want to start off with you and the story that you’ve been following this month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:05:26] Well, I feel like I’ve been following this for a lot longer than June, but the first women’s sports bar in the Bay Area opened on June 11th, right in time for Pride Month, and it’s called Rikki’s, and I mean, it’s been getting a lot of attention right now, but yeah, I got to go, and it was really fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:05:51] Yeah, I mean I feel like their timing is, I mean, is perfect. It’s Pride Month. We’ve also been covering on this show, you know, the Bay Area getting a pro women’s basketball team. We talked about Bay FC and I know you talked with the actual owners of Rikki’s. What did they tell you about, like, why they wanted to open this bar?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:06:13] Yeah, so I got to talk to one of the co-founders of Rikki’s, Sarah Yergovich, and the other co-founder, her name is Danielle Tho, but they just wanted a place where they could watch women’s sports. I know that for a lot of like women’s-sports fans, and in particular, my partner has had this experience often. Where they go to a sports bar, they wanna watch a game, whether that be the WNBA championships or just an important game, like a Bay FC game. It was hard for them to find a place where they could go into a bar, sit down, and have the game on the TV. And if they do let you change the TV to a women’s sports game, oftentimes the volume isn’t gonna be on, so you’re kind of just watching a muted game. And sometimes they just won’t play it. This is like a place exclusively for women’s sports and also just a place that everyone can feel welcome and safe and I know that women’s sport is a huge part of like the LGBTQ community here and they really want to emphasize that inclusivity part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:07:31] Definitely heard about Rikki’s. I haven’t had the chance to go. I’m actually going to my first Valkyries game on Sunday. I’m really excited about that. But I’m curious about your experience at Rikki’s, what was it like when you went there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:07:44] It was crazy because there actually wasn’t like a game from like a Bay Area team on any of the TVs, but there were like a lot of people. I went last Sunday. There’s tons of like sports memorabilia from Bay FC and the Valkyries. A lot of people had this like combo of like Bay FC hat and Valkyrie’s shirt. I feel like that was a pattern that I saw a lot. But yeah, there is a full bar. I had like this roasted cabbage dish. It was kind of fancy for a sports bar, but it was like really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:08:24] That’s really cool, and I’m also curious, why is it called Rikki’s? Is it named after somebody?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:08:30] Yeah, so it’s named after Rikki Streicher, who was an LGBTQ activist, and she opened up a lot of lesbian bars in San Francisco, and was just like a huge advocate for equal rights before same-sex couples were able to get married.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:08:49] Well, I’m sure there will be lots to see at Rikki’s in the coming months and years to come. Mel, thanks so much for bringing this story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:09:01] Of course, thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:09:27] And welcome back to the Bay’s June news roundup where I sit down with the rest of the Bay team to talk about some of the other stories that we have been following this month. Producer Jessica Kariisa, I wanna turn to you first. What story have you been following?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:09:41] I’m following a story down in Palo Alto specifically around Stanford Medicine and trans care and basically effective June 2nd in response to increased scrutiny at the federal level on gender affirming care, Stanford Medicine decided to pause gender related surgical procedures for patients under 19 years old as a way to avoid legal action and potential loss of funding. I should mention that I’m referring to reporting that was done by KQD’s Lesley McClurg and The Chronicle’s Catherine Ho.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:10:22] Yeah, I mean, what does this mean exactly? What kind of procedures are we talking about?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:10:30] Surgeries for minors are on hold, but Stanford’s LGBTQ health program will continue to offer other services, including hormone therapy, behavioral health support, voice training, and primary care. But surgeries in particular, for people under 19 years old, that’s what’s going be on hold for now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:10:56] So how did we get here in the first place? How did we to this decision?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:11:03] Basically, back in January, President Trump signed an executive order that directed federal agencies to, quote, not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support so-called transition of a child from one sex to another. And this was going to affect hospitals and medical schools that receive federal grants. The order was blocked by a federal judge in March. But then in May, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, sent a letter to hospitals asking about, you know, how they treat gender dysphoria, asking about their protocols around consent and outcome tracking and financial data. And so I think a lot of medical centers figure that they might need to be proactive to avoid retaliation from the federal government. And it should be mentioned that, you, know, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association have said that, like, gender-affirming care, including surgery in some cases, is medically necessary and life-saving. And generally, surgery is not recommended for minors and it’s reserved for older teens with extreme gender dysphoria. The Chronicle reported, they said experts in transgender care have estimated that it’s really not that many surgeries that are actually happening every year. It’s just become a lightning rod issue, especially for the Trump administration, and so it’s unfortunately led to this decision.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:12:36] Where does this leave people seeking this care? I mean, do they have any other options here in the Bay Area absent Stanford?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:12:48] Yeah, so UCSF actually is one of the few places that is still offering gender-affirming surgeries to teenagers under the age of 19. And it should be noted that, you know, in February, the attorney general of the state of California, Rob Bonta, did warn hospitals that like denying or pausing care for trans youth could potentially violate state law. Back in 2022, California passed a sanctuary law protecting families who travel to California for gender affirming care. So, you know, I think that it remains to be seen, but there are some things happening at the state level to try and protect trans youth who are seeking care. So we’ll just have to see how it all plays out with the friction with the federal level, but there a few options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:13:44] Well, definitely something to follow as this story continues to develop. Jessica, thank you so much. And we are going to shift the tone a little bit with my story here. I have been thinking a lot lately about malls. I don’t know about you all and your hometown malls, but mine is just really not what it once was. I think this is really part of a national trend of retailers that have been really struggling with the rise of Amazon and COVID. And I think downtown San Francisco and the malls in downtown San Fransisco are probably one of the biggest representations of that. Union Square and San Francisco Center are really not doing very well, but I have been following this story from the San Francisco Chronicle about these San Francisco malls that are actually experiencing a renaissance that, in their words, really defies the doom loop narrative of San Francisco right now, and the really interesting story of their secret sauce, which is, they write, rising Asian cultural power.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:15:03] I feel like, especially in my hometown, back in North Carolina, it’s just kind of sad to see empty malls. And over here, I’ve definitely seen a lot of them. But tell us more about this secret sauce. What exactly is happening in these malls?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:15:20] As far as successful malls experiencing a renaissance right now. Stonestown in San Francisco and also the Japan Town shopping center are doing amazing. Stonestown which is near SF State, a bunch of high schools, you know, it’s really concentrated around a lot of students. That mall has experienced a record high traffic last year. It’s up by 6% in just the last 12 months. And sales per square foot at that mall are up by 20% since 2019. Japantown similarly has been experiencing record high foot traffic. That mall’s parking garage has also become the agency’s busiest last year. So those are just some of the numbers that show just how successful they’ve been. And the secret sauce is really this new wave of Asian retailers. At these malls, at Stone’s Town in particular, you’ve seen the rise of Pop Mart, where you could get blind boxes. There’s a Miniso there now, a Daiso. And then, I mean, not even to mention the food, there’s Supreme Dumpling, there’s Hot Pot, there’s Vietnamese food. And a lot of the folks who are running these mall are saying that even the legacy businesses at some of these mall have been really following suit and trying to appeal to Gen Z, which is really the folks who are really coming out and supporting these malls.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:16:57] We used to be a proper country and we used to have flourishing malls where we could walk around and browse. I love to browse, personally. Um, so, like, why are these other malls struggling?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:17:14] You know, when we think about Union Square and the San Francisco Center, which are both located downtown, I think these are both areas that used to attract a lot of foot traffic and just aren’t doing that anymore. You know we’ve been talking a lot about, over the last couple of years, about San Francisco’s downtown really struggling to come back. And you could really see that at the San Fransisco Center. I mean, over half of that mall is now empty. It’s lost dozens of retailers in recent years, including some pretty big ones like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. Another thing I’d say too is the role of perception and how the perception of downtown San Francisco as being unsafe and BART being unsafe has played a big role in why people aren’t coming to downtown. And I’d say that the reason why I think a lot of people are going to Stonestown and Japantown, according to the article, is this perception of safety. I think a lot of people feel Stonestown and Japan Town are located in sort of safer areas. You know, Stonestown has a pretty robust parking lot, which is also a huge appeal. Whether or not the perception of safety around downtown is true or not, just that feeling, as we’ve talked about on this show a ton is strong enough to either get people to show up or get people not to show up. So I think the story of Stonestown and Japantown are really representative of that.\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">On this month’s edition of The Bay’s news roundup, we introduce you to the Bay Area’s first women’s sports bar, discuss Stanford’s scaling back of gender-related surgical procedures for minors, and the secret sauce of the San Francisco malls defying the ‘doom loop’ narrative.\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c!-- iframe plugin v.4.3 wordpress.org/plugins/iframe/ -->\u003cbr>\n\u003ciframe loading=\"lazy\" frameborder=\"0\" height=\"200\" scrolling=\"no\" src=\"https://playlist.megaphone.fm?e=KQINC2905167660\" width=\"100%\" class=\"iframe-class\">\u003c/iframe>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cb>Links:\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977457/rikkis-first-womens-sports-bar-bay-area-open-castro-sf-valkyries\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Bay Area’s First Women’s Sports Bar Is Open for Business\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1997491/stanford-scales-back-trans-care-for-minors-amid-federal-crackdown\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Stanford Scales Back Trans Care for Minors Amid Federal Crackdown\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13977860/asian-food-bay-area-malls-jagalchi-serramonte-stonestown-westfield-valley-fair\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Asian Food Is Coming to Save a Mall Near You\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">SF Chronicle:\u003c/span> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/japantown-stonestown-galleria-mall-20331459.php\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">These S.F. malls are experiencing a ‘renaissance’ that defies the doom loop. Here’s their secret\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This is a computer-generated transcript. While our team has reviewed it, there may be errors.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:00:04] I’m Ericka Cruz Guevarra and welcome to The Bay, local news to keep you rooted and welcome to The Bay’s June News Roundup where I sit down with the rest of The Bay team to talk about some of the other stories that we have been following this month. I’m joined today by our producer Jessica Kariisa and our beloved intern Mel Velasquez.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:00:32] I mean, I can’t believe it’s already halfway through the year here, which is really crazy. We’ve got a lot of news going on around the world and also around the Bay, but also we’ve got some big news from our team this month, which I’ll get to shortly, but just a quick look back at some of the stories that we’ve done this month. I mean obviously immigration has really been the big story. Nationally and at the local level, we talked about the role that local soccer leagues have been playing for immigrant youth coming here to Alameda County in particular. We talked about Berkeley’s approach to probably one of the more challenging forms of homelessness in the Bay area, folks living in RVs, and this really successful program they’ve been running there, offering money to people living in RVs to get them on the path to more permanent housing. We talked about Suisun City’s effort to potentially grow by nine times its current size, and we also talked about local theater in a free fall here in the Bay Area. So as always, quite the range from us at the Bay, but there’s really been a lot going on.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:01:52] Yeah, I mean, it’s been a really crazy month. You know, there were a lot of protests, spontaneous protests that happened all across the country, especially here in the Bay Area. And there was obviously the huge, you know, King’s protest. We’re all in different parts of the Bay, but we were texting each other that day, like, oh, wow, like in every corner of the Bay, something is going on. Alan was in Chicago and there was obviously a lot going on there too. So it’s definitely been an active month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:02:21] Also just a lot kind of going on for us here on the Bay team. This month is our intern Mel Velasquez’s last month with us on the show. Mel has been a really, really huge part of the team. You all don’t get to see it, but for us in the background, Mel brings this really just fun energy and so much light to the team. It really, I think, helped us get through these last couple of weeks in the news cycle. Honestly, Mel, how are you feeling? How are you thinking about the last couple of months working with us on the show?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:02:59] It’s been incredible. I mean, you guys are like the best team I’ve worked with. Everyone has just been so helpful and I look forward to coming here and like working with you all. I’ve had some great experiences like when we went to Six Flags for the thousandth episode that was so much fun. And then actually the more recent one that I had a lot of fun with was going to Aurora Theater in Berkeley for that episode. That was also really fun. It’s been nice to work with you all and I’m very sad that this will be my last episode. I’ve had such a just a really incredible time. I can’t emphasize that enough.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:03:49] I mean, I can’t believe that the six months is already up. Like, I can’t wrap my head around that. But I also want to point out that Mel also produced her own episode for us on Central American students at Berkeley, pushing for a department. And to see you work through that process of, you know, getting the idea and really pushing through and getting to produce such a great episode was just like a joy to watch and I hope that everyone who hasn’t already listened to it goes and listens to it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:04:20] Yes, definitely listen to it if you haven’t already. That’s also another one of the stories that we covered on the show this month. I should also mention that in addition to Mel leaving us, we are preparing to take our July break from producing new episodes. We’ll be spending that time just kind of regrouping and reflecting and cooking up some other things that we want to make for you all when we get back. So we will be taking a break from making episodes. We’ll be back in August. But more news on that later. But in the meantime, Mel, this episode is definitely a love letter to you. We appreciate you so much. And we really enjoyed working with you. Thanks for everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:05:12] Aw, thank you guys for everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:05:19] Well Mel, before we let you go, we want to start off with you and the story that you’ve been following this month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:05:26] Well, I feel like I’ve been following this for a lot longer than June, but the first women’s sports bar in the Bay Area opened on June 11th, right in time for Pride Month, and it’s called Rikki’s, and I mean, it’s been getting a lot of attention right now, but yeah, I got to go, and it was really fun.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:05:51] Yeah, I mean I feel like their timing is, I mean, is perfect. It’s Pride Month. We’ve also been covering on this show, you know, the Bay Area getting a pro women’s basketball team. We talked about Bay FC and I know you talked with the actual owners of Rikki’s. What did they tell you about, like, why they wanted to open this bar?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:06:13] Yeah, so I got to talk to one of the co-founders of Rikki’s, Sarah Yergovich, and the other co-founder, her name is Danielle Tho, but they just wanted a place where they could watch women’s sports. I know that for a lot of like women’s-sports fans, and in particular, my partner has had this experience often. Where they go to a sports bar, they wanna watch a game, whether that be the WNBA championships or just an important game, like a Bay FC game. It was hard for them to find a place where they could go into a bar, sit down, and have the game on the TV. And if they do let you change the TV to a women’s sports game, oftentimes the volume isn’t gonna be on, so you’re kind of just watching a muted game. And sometimes they just won’t play it. This is like a place exclusively for women’s sports and also just a place that everyone can feel welcome and safe and I know that women’s sport is a huge part of like the LGBTQ community here and they really want to emphasize that inclusivity part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:07:31] Definitely heard about Rikki’s. I haven’t had the chance to go. I’m actually going to my first Valkyries game on Sunday. I’m really excited about that. But I’m curious about your experience at Rikki’s, what was it like when you went there?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:07:44] It was crazy because there actually wasn’t like a game from like a Bay Area team on any of the TVs, but there were like a lot of people. I went last Sunday. There’s tons of like sports memorabilia from Bay FC and the Valkyries. A lot of people had this like combo of like Bay FC hat and Valkyrie’s shirt. I feel like that was a pattern that I saw a lot. But yeah, there is a full bar. I had like this roasted cabbage dish. It was kind of fancy for a sports bar, but it was like really good.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:08:24] That’s really cool, and I’m also curious, why is it called Rikki’s? Is it named after somebody?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:08:30] Yeah, so it’s named after Rikki Streicher, who was an LGBTQ activist, and she opened up a lot of lesbian bars in San Francisco, and was just like a huge advocate for equal rights before same-sex couples were able to get married.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:08:49] Well, I’m sure there will be lots to see at Rikki’s in the coming months and years to come. Mel, thanks so much for bringing this story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:09:01] Of course, thank you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:09:27] And welcome back to the Bay’s June news roundup where I sit down with the rest of the Bay team to talk about some of the other stories that we have been following this month. Producer Jessica Kariisa, I wanna turn to you first. What story have you been following?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:09:41] I’m following a story down in Palo Alto specifically around Stanford Medicine and trans care and basically effective June 2nd in response to increased scrutiny at the federal level on gender affirming care, Stanford Medicine decided to pause gender related surgical procedures for patients under 19 years old as a way to avoid legal action and potential loss of funding. I should mention that I’m referring to reporting that was done by KQD’s Lesley McClurg and The Chronicle’s Catherine Ho.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:10:22] Yeah, I mean, what does this mean exactly? What kind of procedures are we talking about?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:10:30] Surgeries for minors are on hold, but Stanford’s LGBTQ health program will continue to offer other services, including hormone therapy, behavioral health support, voice training, and primary care. But surgeries in particular, for people under 19 years old, that’s what’s going be on hold for now.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:10:56] So how did we get here in the first place? How did we to this decision?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:11:03] Basically, back in January, President Trump signed an executive order that directed federal agencies to, quote, not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support so-called transition of a child from one sex to another. And this was going to affect hospitals and medical schools that receive federal grants. The order was blocked by a federal judge in March. But then in May, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, sent a letter to hospitals asking about, you know, how they treat gender dysphoria, asking about their protocols around consent and outcome tracking and financial data. And so I think a lot of medical centers figure that they might need to be proactive to avoid retaliation from the federal government. And it should be mentioned that, you, know, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association have said that, like, gender-affirming care, including surgery in some cases, is medically necessary and life-saving. And generally, surgery is not recommended for minors and it’s reserved for older teens with extreme gender dysphoria. The Chronicle reported, they said experts in transgender care have estimated that it’s really not that many surgeries that are actually happening every year. It’s just become a lightning rod issue, especially for the Trump administration, and so it’s unfortunately led to this decision.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:12:36] Where does this leave people seeking this care? I mean, do they have any other options here in the Bay Area absent Stanford?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:12:48] Yeah, so UCSF actually is one of the few places that is still offering gender-affirming surgeries to teenagers under the age of 19. And it should be noted that, you know, in February, the attorney general of the state of California, Rob Bonta, did warn hospitals that like denying or pausing care for trans youth could potentially violate state law. Back in 2022, California passed a sanctuary law protecting families who travel to California for gender affirming care. So, you know, I think that it remains to be seen, but there are some things happening at the state level to try and protect trans youth who are seeking care. So we’ll just have to see how it all plays out with the friction with the federal level, but there a few options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:13:44] Well, definitely something to follow as this story continues to develop. Jessica, thank you so much. And we are going to shift the tone a little bit with my story here. I have been thinking a lot lately about malls. I don’t know about you all and your hometown malls, but mine is just really not what it once was. I think this is really part of a national trend of retailers that have been really struggling with the rise of Amazon and COVID. And I think downtown San Francisco and the malls in downtown San Fransisco are probably one of the biggest representations of that. Union Square and San Francisco Center are really not doing very well, but I have been following this story from the San Francisco Chronicle about these San Francisco malls that are actually experiencing a renaissance that, in their words, really defies the doom loop narrative of San Francisco right now, and the really interesting story of their secret sauce, which is, they write, rising Asian cultural power.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jessica Kariisa \u003c/strong>[00:15:03] I feel like, especially in my hometown, back in North Carolina, it’s just kind of sad to see empty malls. And over here, I’ve definitely seen a lot of them. But tell us more about this secret sauce. What exactly is happening in these malls?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:15:20] As far as successful malls experiencing a renaissance right now. Stonestown in San Francisco and also the Japan Town shopping center are doing amazing. Stonestown which is near SF State, a bunch of high schools, you know, it’s really concentrated around a lot of students. That mall has experienced a record high traffic last year. It’s up by 6% in just the last 12 months. And sales per square foot at that mall are up by 20% since 2019. Japantown similarly has been experiencing record high foot traffic. That mall’s parking garage has also become the agency’s busiest last year. So those are just some of the numbers that show just how successful they’ve been. And the secret sauce is really this new wave of Asian retailers. At these malls, at Stone’s Town in particular, you’ve seen the rise of Pop Mart, where you could get blind boxes. There’s a Miniso there now, a Daiso. And then, I mean, not even to mention the food, there’s Supreme Dumpling, there’s Hot Pot, there’s Vietnamese food. And a lot of the folks who are running these mall are saying that even the legacy businesses at some of these mall have been really following suit and trying to appeal to Gen Z, which is really the folks who are really coming out and supporting these malls.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Mel Velasquez \u003c/strong>[00:16:57] We used to be a proper country and we used to have flourishing malls where we could walk around and browse. I love to browse, personally. Um, so, like, why are these other malls struggling?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ericka Cruz Guevarra \u003c/strong>[00:17:14] You know, when we think about Union Square and the San Francisco Center, which are both located downtown, I think these are both areas that used to attract a lot of foot traffic and just aren’t doing that anymore. You know we’ve been talking a lot about, over the last couple of years, about San Francisco’s downtown really struggling to come back. And you could really see that at the San Fransisco Center. I mean, over half of that mall is now empty. It’s lost dozens of retailers in recent years, including some pretty big ones like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. Another thing I’d say too is the role of perception and how the perception of downtown San Francisco as being unsafe and BART being unsafe has played a big role in why people aren’t coming to downtown. And I’d say that the reason why I think a lot of people are going to Stonestown and Japantown, according to the article, is this perception of safety. I think a lot of people feel Stonestown and Japan Town are located in sort of safer areas. You know, Stonestown has a pretty robust parking lot, which is also a huge appeal. Whether or not the perception of safety around downtown is true or not, just that feeling, as we’ve talked about on this show a ton is strong enough to either get people to show up or get people not to show up. So I think the story of Stonestown and Japantown are really representative of that.\u003c/p>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"title": "The Bay Area’s Newest Basketball Team Makes History",
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"headTitle": "The Bay Area’s Newest Basketball Team Makes History | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>The Bay Area’s brand new WNBA team, the Golden State Valkyries, made history Friday with the second-largest crowd — a roaring 18,064 fans — of any team in their debut game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the Chase Center, purple, or rather Valkyries violet, took over the regular blue and gold for the team’s home opener Friday night against the Los Angeles Sparks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040674\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040674\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries are introduced for their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040703\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040703\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Veronica Burton (22) and Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson (2) tip-off during the 1st quarter (left), and a fan holds a Valkyries flag (right) at the Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Forward Kayla Thornton, formerly of the New York Liberty, recorded the first points in the game and the first points in franchise history with a 2 at the 9:36 mark.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For much of the game, it looked like the team might actually write a win in the record books for their first game, but the Valkyries gave the ball away 22 times, which led to 25 Sparks points from turnovers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040679\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040679\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fágbénlé (14) makes a basket during the first quarter. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040705\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040705\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries play against the Los Angeles Sparks as fans cheer them on. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040680\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040680\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The star of the night was guard Julie Vanloo, who sank three 3-pointers in a row in the third quarter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We still have to learn how to play with each other,” Vanloo said of the loss. “It hasn’t even been two and a half weeks [playing as a team], so let’s be honest, it’s not easy. L.A. had a lot of people who have been playing with each other. We’re new. We’re going to work through it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040681\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040681\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1304\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-800x522.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1020x665.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1536x1001.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1920x1252.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Julie Vanloo (35) advances toward the basket. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040682\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040682\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score during their WNBA season opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040684\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040684\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer during the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA season opener against the Los Angeles Sparks. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>At the last buzzer, the score was 84–67.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the loss did not seem to discourage the fans looking to stand by the team through thick and thin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener at Chase Center. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040686\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040686\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mychal Threets (right) takes a photo with E-40 after the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040690\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1899px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040690\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1899\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg 1899w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-800x562.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1020x716.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-160x112.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1536x1078.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1899px) 100vw, 1899px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Jhunehl Fortaleza, left, dressed as a Valkyrie, dances outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“I was out of my chair a lot and cheering really, really loudly, even though obviously the ending didn’t go as we wanted,” said season ticket holder Erin Ng. “I think the energy is still just so supportive of this team and how we just want to show up for them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And show up they did. Fans started arriving at Chase Center hours before tip-off, sporting Valkyries violet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040699\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040699\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Dennis Aguiling (left) and Riley, 11, (right) pose for photos ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For some, it was about more than the game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I want her to see women on a platform, celebrated in sports,” said Beth MacNulty, tears falling down her face as she spoke about why she brought her 5-year-old daughter, Clara, to the game. “I’m hoping this inspires her to love basketball as much as I have loved basketball and it’ll just be a fun time to see this through her eyes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>MacNulty played basketball growing up, as did fellow Valkyries fan, Corinne Cueva.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Back in the day when I was in high school, I was a point guard and I was like ‘I want to be in the WNBA’ but then, you know, I’m Filipino and I’m short,” she said. “So this is the closest I’m gonna get to being in the WNBA, is being a superfan.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s basketball that brought her and her husband, Cesar Cueva, together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040688\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040688\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Couple Cesar and Corrine Cueva pose for a photo, holding a sign that Cesar made, ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“One of our first few dates is just like us going to a basketball court and shooting it around,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Krista Juli has planned her vacation schedule to make every single Valkyries game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re getting the opportunity to see just amazing basketball,” she said. “And it’s not just about the Valkyries, but we’re gonna see the [Indiana] Fever, we’re going to see the [New York] Liberty, we’re going to see amazing players across the league. … And then just being able to cheer on our own team while all of that is happening is just an added bonus.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Gloria Challenger came all the way from Florida to see the Valkyries’ first game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I support the women. The men get all the support. the women don’t get much support, so I go out and support the women.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040689\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1954px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040689\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1954\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed.jpg 1954w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-800x546.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1020x696.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-160x109.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1536x1048.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1920x1310.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1954px) 100vw, 1954px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Gloria Challenger of Florida poses for a photo ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Over the years, she’s traveled to see the first games of WNBA expansions in San Antonio, and most recently in Miami in 2008.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries’ arrival was highly-anticipated among Bay Area basketball fans. The team is the first WNBA expansion team in 17 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040692\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-800x497.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1020x634.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-160x99.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1536x955.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1920x1193.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries at their home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As for the season ahead?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just excited to see them get to know each other better, get better with every game,” said Leigha Bartley, who drove in from Eureka with her mom and 10-year-old daughter. “And, hey, maybe they will bring home that championship in the first five years.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Golden State hosts the Washington Mystics on Wednesday, May 21 at 7 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>The Bay Area’s brand new WNBA team, the Golden State Valkyries, made history Friday with the second-largest crowd — a roaring 18,064 fans — of any team in their debut game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the Chase Center, purple, or rather Valkyries violet, took over the regular blue and gold for the team’s home opener Friday night against the Los Angeles Sparks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040674\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040674\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-22_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries are introduced for their home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040703\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040703\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-5-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Veronica Burton (22) and Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson (2) tip-off during the 1st quarter (left), and a fan holds a Valkyries flag (right) at the Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Forward Kayla Thornton, formerly of the New York Liberty, recorded the first points in the game and the first points in franchise history with a 2 at the 9:36 mark.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For much of the game, it looked like the team might actually write a win in the record books for their first game, but the Valkyries gave the ball away 22 times, which led to 25 Sparks points from turnovers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040679\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040679\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-80_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fágbénlé (14) makes a basket during the first quarter. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040705\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040705\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-6-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries play against the Los Angeles Sparks as fans cheer them on. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040680\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040680\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-47_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The star of the night was guard Julie Vanloo, who sank three 3-pointers in a row in the third quarter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We still have to learn how to play with each other,” Vanloo said of the loss. “It hasn’t even been two and a half weeks [playing as a team], so let’s be honest, it’s not easy. L.A. had a lot of people who have been playing with each other. We’re new. We’re going to work through it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040681\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040681\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1304\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-800x522.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1020x665.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1536x1001.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-69_qed-1920x1252.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries guard Julie Vanloo (35) advances toward the basket. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040682\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040682\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-44_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer as the Golden State Valkyries score during their WNBA season opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040684\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040684\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-29_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans cheer during the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA season opener against the Los Angeles Sparks. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>At the last buzzer, the score was 84–67.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the loss did not seem to discourage the fans looking to stand by the team through thick and thin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040685\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040685\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-49_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A fan cheers after the Golden State Valkyries scored during their home opener at Chase Center. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040686\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040686\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-36_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mychal Threets (right) takes a photo with E-40 after the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040690\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1899px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040690\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1899\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed.jpg 1899w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-800x562.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1020x716.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-160x112.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-48_qed-1536x1078.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1899px) 100vw, 1899px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Jhunehl Fortaleza, left, dressed as a Valkyrie, dances outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“I was out of my chair a lot and cheering really, really loudly, even though obviously the ending didn’t go as we wanted,” said season ticket holder Erin Ng. “I think the energy is still just so supportive of this team and how we just want to show up for them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And show up they did. Fans started arriving at Chase Center hours before tip-off, sporting Valkyries violet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040699\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2500px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040699\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-800x267.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1020x340.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-2048x682.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/Side-by-side-Downpage-4-1920x640.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Dennis Aguiling (left) and Riley, 11, (right) pose for photos ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For some, it was about more than the game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I want her to see women on a platform, celebrated in sports,” said Beth MacNulty, tears falling down her face as she spoke about why she brought her 5-year-old daughter, Clara, to the game. “I’m hoping this inspires her to love basketball as much as I have loved basketball and it’ll just be a fun time to see this through her eyes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040691\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1873px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1873\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed.jpg 1873w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-800x569.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1020x726.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-160x114.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-53_qed-1536x1093.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1873px) 100vw, 1873px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fans pose for a photo outside of Chase Center, following the WNBA game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>MacNulty played basketball growing up, as did fellow Valkyries fan, Corinne Cueva.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Back in the day when I was in high school, I was a point guard and I was like ‘I want to be in the WNBA’ but then, you know, I’m Filipino and I’m short,” she said. “So this is the closest I’m gonna get to being in the WNBA, is being a superfan.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s basketball that brought her and her husband, Cesar Cueva, together.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040688\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040688\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-11_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Couple Cesar and Corrine Cueva pose for a photo, holding a sign that Cesar made, ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“One of our first few dates is just like us going to a basketball court and shooting it around,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Krista Juli has planned her vacation schedule to make every single Valkyries game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re getting the opportunity to see just amazing basketball,” she said. “And it’s not just about the Valkyries, but we’re gonna see the [Indiana] Fever, we’re going to see the [New York] Liberty, we’re going to see amazing players across the league. … And then just being able to cheer on our own team while all of that is happening is just an added bonus.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Gloria Challenger came all the way from Florida to see the Valkyries’ first game.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I support the women. The men get all the support. the women don’t get much support, so I go out and support the women.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040689\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1954px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040689\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1954\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed.jpg 1954w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-800x546.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1020x696.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-160x109.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1536x1048.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-9_qed-1920x1310.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1954px) 100vw, 1954px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Gloria Challenger of Florida poses for a photo ahead of the Golden State Valkyries’ home opener. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Over the years, she’s traveled to see the first games of WNBA expansions in San Antonio, and most recently in Miami in 2008.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Valkyries’ arrival was highly-anticipated among Bay Area basketball fans. The team is the first WNBA expansion team in 17 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040692\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-800x497.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1020x634.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-160x99.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1536x955.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20250516_ValkyriesHomeOpener_GC-23_qed-1-1920x1193.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Golden State Valkyries at their home opener at Chase Center on May 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As for the season ahead?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m just excited to see them get to know each other better, get better with every game,” said Leigha Bartley, who drove in from Eureka with her mom and 10-year-old daughter. “And, hey, maybe they will bring home that championship in the first five years.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Golden State hosts the Washington Mystics on Wednesday, May 21 at 7 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>Kaitlyn Chen has had a busy spring.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just weeks after she hoisted the NCAA \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/womens-basketball\">women’s basketball\u003c/a> championship trophy with her University of Connecticut teammates, the point guard, originally from Southern California, was drafted by the WNBA’s newest team, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11986061/get-ready-for-the-golden-state-valkyries-bay-areas-new-wnba-team\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been hectic,” Chen told KQED during preseason training camp in Oakland to determine the team’s final 12-player roster ahead of the May 16 home opener at Chase Center. “The best part is how much everyone cares and everyone really wants you to succeed.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If she makes the team, Chen’s first game with the Valkyries will be against the Los Angeles Sparks — a team she grew up watching play at Crypto.com Arena, formerly Staples Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s definitely a surreal experience,” she said, smiling.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s been about a year since the Golden State Valkyries were officially named a WNBA franchise in the league’s first expansion in 17 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s a huge deal,” said Dr. Bonnie Morris, professor of women’s history at UC Berkeley and author of the book \u003cem>What’s the Score? 25 Years of Teaching Women’s Sports History\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038785\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038785\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Kaitlyn Chen speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>According to Morris, the expansion of the league increases opportunities for women to make a living from the professional sports industry — not just as athletes, but in support roles that range from media to officiating to management.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have more women playing sports than ever before, but we haven’t seen the same revolution in terms of staffing,” Morris said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Women make up much of the Valkyries’ senior leadership, including the president, vice presidents, general manager, director of player development, director of performance, head athletic trainer and head coach.[aside postID=news_12040376 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-21-BL-KQED.jpg']“We get to write our own story,” head coach Natalie Nakase said during a press event on May 1. “I think that’s one of the coolest things. But I’m also telling our players to just be present. Just be where your feet are.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Eighteen players were invited to the 19-day training camp at the Sephora Performance Center in downtown Oakland. Many players have played with or against each other in college, the WNBA and international leagues.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We all have been in each other’s spheres in one way or the other throughout the years. So the communication and the chemistry came a bit more easily because of that,” said Temi Fágbénlé, a center who was one of the Valkyries’ nine expansion draft selections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fágbénlé, who most recently played for the Indiana Fever, won a WNBA championship with the Minnesota Lynx in 2017 and represented Great Britain in women’s basketball at the 2012 Summer Olympics.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038781\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038781\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Kaitlyn Chen (right) practices during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other WNBA competitors-turned-teammates include guard Kate Martin, formerly with the Las Vegas Aces; forward Monique Billings, who previously played for the Phoenix Mercury; and forward Kayla Thornton, who played for the New York Liberty last season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it comes to creating chemistry between veterans and rookies like Chen, Nakase said she’s trying to foster a team philosophy that’s “competitive and connected.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means running practices where players aren’t afraid to push and shove, but also making sure players are feeling healthy both mentally and physically, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m big on just having them have a free mind. So whatever that takes — whether I have to adjust to more shooting, to less shooting, to more defense — I’m very flexible. Health is important,” Nakase added. “Once we step on that floor, I want Chase Center and all our fans to feel that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038786\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038786\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Head Coach Natalie Nakase speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Jessie Lin, a lifelong basketball player and UC Berkeley student, said her family already has tickets to two Valkyries games.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think a lot of young girls are going to be like, ‘This is doable,’” said Lin, who, as an Asian American, is particularly inspired by the drafting of Chen, whose parents are Taiwanese immigrants. “This is the profession I can pursue. And I’m so excited for the visibility.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Despite all the excitement, Morris acknowledged that a “social lag” in the United States persists when considering professional women’s sports “high level.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The question is now: Can women, fans and investors make the difference for professional women’s leagues?” she said. “I hope so.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Kaitlyn Chen has had a busy spring.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just weeks after she hoisted the NCAA \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/womens-basketball\">women’s basketball\u003c/a> championship trophy with her University of Connecticut teammates, the point guard, originally from Southern California, was drafted by the WNBA’s newest team, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11986061/get-ready-for-the-golden-state-valkyries-bay-areas-new-wnba-team\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been hectic,” Chen told KQED during preseason training camp in Oakland to determine the team’s final 12-player roster ahead of the May 16 home opener at Chase Center. “The best part is how much everyone cares and everyone really wants you to succeed.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If she makes the team, Chen’s first game with the Valkyries will be against the Los Angeles Sparks — a team she grew up watching play at Crypto.com Arena, formerly Staples Center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s definitely a surreal experience,” she said, smiling.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s been about a year since the Golden State Valkyries were officially named a WNBA franchise in the league’s first expansion in 17 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s a huge deal,” said Dr. Bonnie Morris, professor of women’s history at UC Berkeley and author of the book \u003cem>What’s the Score? 25 Years of Teaching Women’s Sports History\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038785\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038785\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-36-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Kaitlyn Chen speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>According to Morris, the expansion of the league increases opportunities for women to make a living from the professional sports industry — not just as athletes, but in support roles that range from media to officiating to management.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have more women playing sports than ever before, but we haven’t seen the same revolution in terms of staffing,” Morris said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Women make up much of the Valkyries’ senior leadership, including the president, vice presidents, general manager, director of player development, director of performance, head athletic trainer and head coach.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>“We get to write our own story,” head coach Natalie Nakase said during a press event on May 1. “I think that’s one of the coolest things. But I’m also telling our players to just be present. Just be where your feet are.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Eighteen players were invited to the 19-day training camp at the Sephora Performance Center in downtown Oakland. Many players have played with or against each other in college, the WNBA and international leagues.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We all have been in each other’s spheres in one way or the other throughout the years. So the communication and the chemistry came a bit more easily because of that,” said Temi Fágbénlé, a center who was one of the Valkyries’ nine expansion draft selections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fágbénlé, who most recently played for the Indiana Fever, won a WNBA championship with the Minnesota Lynx in 2017 and represented Great Britain in women’s basketball at the 2012 Summer Olympics.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038781\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038781\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-11-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Kaitlyn Chen (right) practices during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other WNBA competitors-turned-teammates include guard Kate Martin, formerly with the Las Vegas Aces; forward Monique Billings, who previously played for the Phoenix Mercury; and forward Kayla Thornton, who played for the New York Liberty last season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it comes to creating chemistry between veterans and rookies like Chen, Nakase said she’s trying to foster a team philosophy that’s “competitive and connected.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means running practices where players aren’t afraid to push and shove, but also making sure players are feeling healthy both mentally and physically, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m big on just having them have a free mind. So whatever that takes — whether I have to adjust to more shooting, to less shooting, to more defense — I’m very flexible. Health is important,” Nakase added. “Once we step on that floor, I want Chase Center and all our fans to feel that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12038786\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12038786\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/250501-VALKYRIESOPENERTEAMPROFILE-38-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Golden State Valkyries’ Head Coach Natalie Nakase speaks with the press during training camp held at the Sephora Performance Center in Oakland on May 1, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Jessie Lin, a lifelong basketball player and UC Berkeley student, said her family already has tickets to two Valkyries games.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think a lot of young girls are going to be like, ‘This is doable,’” said Lin, who, as an Asian American, is particularly inspired by the drafting of Chen, whose parents are Taiwanese immigrants. “This is the profession I can pursue. And I’m so excited for the visibility.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Despite all the excitement, Morris acknowledged that a “social lag” in the United States persists when considering professional women’s sports “high level.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The question is now: Can women, fans and investors make the difference for professional women’s leagues?” she said. “I hope so.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"title": "SOLD OUT: Rethinking Housing in America",
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