Witness the Bay Area through captivating images and compelling narratives. Explore the latest visually-driven storytelling by KQED and immerse yourself in the heart of our community.
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"slug": "golden-state-valkyries-fans-gear-up-for-game-3-of-the-wnba-finals-in-atlanta",
"title": "Valkyries Fans Take Dream Loss in Stride, Prepare to Rally for Game 4",
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"content": "\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a hard-fought game, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fell to the Atlanta Dream in Game 3 of the Women’s National Basketball Association Finals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But fans who traveled to Atlanta from the Bay Area and beyond said the loss wouldn’t prevent the team, now down 2-1, from winning the best-of-seven series.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They poured their heart into it and I’m not one of those people that blame the refs, but we got some really hard, bad calls,” said Aileen Casanave, a diehard fan who was staying in a vacation rental with more than a dozen other fans, some of whom she’d just met. “We’re going to figure out the strategy. They’re going to throw down at the next game.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Casanave was part of one of the pockets of purple at State Farm Arena that stood out against a sea of hometown blue as diehard Valkyries supporters cheered for the Bay Area team.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105689\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries face off against the Atlanta Dream during Game 3 of the WNBA finals at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105696\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries fans sit surrounded by a sea of Atlanta Dream fans during Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christine McSpadden was disappointed but remained optimistic. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Well that was a tough loss, but I know they’re going to come back,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She will be back for Game 4 in Atlanta on Saturday. In the meantime, she plans to explore the city and meet other Valkyries fans who made the trip.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I came all the way from San Francisco to cheer my girls on,” she said. “I love my girls, ride or die, I love them.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The team lost 97-71, but the brutal final score obscured how close the game was at certain points — including briefly tying it up just after halftime. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They play with heart. They play with passion,” said Melissa Gonzalez, a Santa Rosa resident who flew in Wednesday ahead of the game — the first time she’d ever done something like that. “Everybody is so warm and welcoming…the players, they stop, they sign, they acknowledge you.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We’re Balhalla in the A,” said Alex Morrison, a staunch fan from the start, referring to the name Valkyries fans use for the Chase Center in San Francisco. “That’s what we’re calling ourselves.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They said going to the finals in the team’s second year was “just too hard to fathom. It’s just so awesome.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105623\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105623\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex Morrison of Berkeley rocks a Golden State Valkyries hat and head wings ahead of Game 3 in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105640\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105640\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Aileen Casanave of San Jose (center) and other Golden State Valkyries fans attend a fan meetup ahead of Game 3 at Stats in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105633\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105633\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sirena Roberts, left, and Danielle Hohos, of San Francisco wear matching outfits made by a Golden State Valkyries season ticket holder, in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105635\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105635\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sirena Roberts and Danielle Hohos wear Golden State Valkyries themed basketball purses in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both teams came to Wednesday’s high-stakes game in Atlanta with a win under their belts. The Valkyries \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104970/valkyries-host-game-1-of-wnba-finals\">took Game 1\u003c/a> 68-64 in a nail-biter at San Francisco’s Chase Center last week, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">fell to the Dream\u003c/a> 79-65 on Monday in Game 2 of the playoff series.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Valkyries guard Veronica Burton, in a postgame conference after Monday’s loss, said the team “shot terribly” and that they “need to be able to take a punch and punch back.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By Wednesday, the team was ready to come back and leave it all on the court. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In spite of the loss, the number of fans in Atlanta reflected the pride and passion the Valkyries have inspired.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Casanave, a “founder” who has held season tickets since the beginning, said the team’s ownership and management has treated the women’s team the same way they treat the men who play for the Warriors, allowing them to soar. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They didn’t have to scrape for every little dime, every little penny,” she said, adding that she hopes other teams will adopt a similar playbook. “I think we have the strongest bench in the league.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At STATS Brewpub in downtown Atlanta, Jacob Harris, a 35-year-old from Berkeley who lives in Marin County, quickly grew to love the team.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Harris, a self-described massive Bay Area sports fan, quickly grew to love the team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Everything the players stand for is kind of what the Bay Area stands for … underdog culture,” he said. “They compete and they win because they care. That’s Bay Area.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Valkyries are only in their second season after launching in 2025, and quickly became the most valuable women’s sports team in the world and the first ever to generate over $100 million in annual revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/leagues/basketball/2026/golden-state-valkyries-revenue-first-100-million-1234946807/\">\u003cem>Sportico\u003c/em>\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1372\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105681\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f-1536x1054.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries guard-forward Kaila Charles (6) defends against Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) during the WNBA Finals Game 3 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105695\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase at Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bay Area’s WNBA team, which is owned by the same group as the Golden State Warriors, has racked up thousands of fans and season ticket-holders, selling out their home court at Chase Center dozens of times already. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their meteoric rise comes as the WNBA has seen a boost in fandom across the country.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta were moved from the Dream’s regular 3,500-seat stadium in College Park to the 17,000-seat State Farm Arena downtown. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many Valkyries fans, the rapid growth has been a source of pride and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Los Angeles-based Valkyries fan Hill Winans, following the team has become a huge hobby. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I believe in us. I still believe in us,” Winans said after the game.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“They poured their heart into it and I’m not one of those people that blame the refs, but we got some really hard, bad calls,” said Aileen Casanave, a diehard fan who was staying in a vacation rental with more than a dozen other fans, some of whom she’d just met. “We’re going to figure out the strategy. They’re going to throw down at the next game.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105696\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries fans sit surrounded by a sea of Atlanta Dream fans during Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105623\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex Morrison of Berkeley rocks a Golden State Valkyries hat and head wings ahead of Game 3 in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Casanave, a “founder” who has held season tickets since the beginning, said the team’s ownership and management has treated the women’s team the same way they treat the men who play for the Warriors, allowing them to soar. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“They didn’t have to scrape for every little dime, every little penny,” she said, adding that she hopes other teams will adopt a similar playbook. “I think we have the strongest bench in the league.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>At STATS Brewpub in downtown Atlanta, Jacob Harris, a 35-year-old from Berkeley who lives in Marin County, quickly grew to love the team.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Everything the players stand for is kind of what the Bay Area stands for … underdog culture,” he said. “They compete and they win because they care. That’s Bay Area.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries are only in their second season after launching in 2025, and quickly became the most valuable women’s sports team in the world and the first ever to generate over $100 million in annual revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/leagues/basketball/2026/golden-state-valkyries-revenue-first-100-million-1234946807/\">\u003cem>Sportico\u003c/em>\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105681\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries guard-forward Kaila Charles (6) defends against Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) during the WNBA Finals Game 3 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105695\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase at Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Bay Area’s WNBA team, which is owned by the same group as the Golden State Warriors, has racked up thousands of fans and season ticket-holders, selling out their home court at Chase Center dozens of times already. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The Bay Area’s WNBA team, which is owned by the same group as the Golden State Warriors, has racked up thousands of fans and season ticket-holders, selling out their home court at Chase Center dozens of times already. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta were moved from the Dream’s regular 3,500-seat stadium in College Park to the 17,000-seat State Farm Arena downtown. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>For Los Angeles-based Valkyries fan Hill Winans, following the team has become a huge hobby. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I believe in us. I still believe in us,” Winans said after the game.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I believe in us. I still believe in us,” Winans said after the game.\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "The Bay Area’s WNBA team took on the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena in Game 3 of the best-of-seven series. ",
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"title": "Valkyries Fans Take Dream Loss in Stride, Prepare to Rally for Game 4 | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a hard-fought game, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fell to the Atlanta Dream in Game 3 of the Women’s National Basketball Association Finals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But fans who traveled to Atlanta from the Bay Area and beyond said the loss wouldn’t prevent the team, now down 2-1, from winning the best-of-seven series.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They poured their heart into it and I’m not one of those people that blame the refs, but we got some really hard, bad calls,” said Aileen Casanave, a diehard fan who was staying in a vacation rental with more than a dozen other fans, some of whom she’d just met. “We’re going to figure out the strategy. They’re going to throw down at the next game.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Casanave was part of one of the pockets of purple at State Farm Arena that stood out against a sea of hometown blue as diehard Valkyries supporters cheered for the Bay Area team.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105689\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-8-KQED-deb12d81-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries face off against the Atlanta Dream during Game 3 of the WNBA finals at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105696\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-20-KQED-7f4312cb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries fans sit surrounded by a sea of Atlanta Dream fans during Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christine McSpadden was disappointed but remained optimistic. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Well that was a tough loss, but I know they’re going to come back,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She will be back for Game 4 in Atlanta on Saturday. In the meantime, she plans to explore the city and meet other Valkyries fans who made the trip.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I came all the way from San Francisco to cheer my girls on,” she said. “I love my girls, ride or die, I love them.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The team lost 97-71, but the brutal final score obscured how close the game was at certain points — including briefly tying it up just after halftime. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They play with heart. They play with passion,” said Melissa Gonzalez, a Santa Rosa resident who flew in Wednesday ahead of the game — the first time she’d ever done something like that. “Everybody is so warm and welcoming…the players, they stop, they sign, they acknowledge you.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We’re Balhalla in the A,” said Alex Morrison, a staunch fan from the start, referring to the name Valkyries fans use for the Chase Center in San Francisco. “That’s what we’re calling ourselves.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They said going to the finals in the team’s second year was “just too hard to fathom. It’s just so awesome.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105623\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105623\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-05-KQED-ccbbc102-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex Morrison of Berkeley rocks a Golden State Valkyries hat and head wings ahead of Game 3 in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105640\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105640\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-09-KQED-c9b3c6c5-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Aileen Casanave of San Jose (center) and other Golden State Valkyries fans attend a fan meetup ahead of Game 3 at Stats in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105633\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105633\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-07-KQED-4b85167d-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sirena Roberts, left, and Danielle Hohos, of San Francisco wear matching outfits made by a Golden State Valkyries season ticket holder, in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12105635\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105635\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261021-Valkyries-Game-3-GC-08-KQED-09e62bff-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sirena Roberts and Danielle Hohos wear Golden State Valkyries themed basketball purses in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both teams came to Wednesday’s high-stakes game in Atlanta with a win under their belts. The Valkyries \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104970/valkyries-host-game-1-of-wnba-finals\">took Game 1\u003c/a> 68-64 in a nail-biter at San Francisco’s Chase Center last week, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">fell to the Dream\u003c/a> 79-65 on Monday in Game 2 of the playoff series.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Valkyries guard Veronica Burton, in a postgame conference after Monday’s loss, said the team “shot terribly” and that they “need to be able to take a punch and punch back.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By Wednesday, the team was ready to come back and leave it all on the court. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In spite of the loss, the number of fans in Atlanta reflected the pride and passion the Valkyries have inspired.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Casanave, a “founder” who has held season tickets since the beginning, said the team’s ownership and management has treated the women’s team the same way they treat the men who play for the Warriors, allowing them to soar. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“They didn’t have to scrape for every little dime, every little penny,” she said, adding that she hopes other teams will adopt a similar playbook. “I think we have the strongest bench in the league.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At STATS Brewpub in downtown Atlanta, Jacob Harris, a 35-year-old from Berkeley who lives in Marin County, quickly grew to love the team.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Harris, a self-described massive Bay Area sports fan, quickly grew to love the team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Everything the players stand for is kind of what the Bay Area stands for … underdog culture,” he said. “They compete and they win because they care. That’s Bay Area.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Valkyries are only in their second season after launching in 2025, and quickly became the most valuable women’s sports team in the world and the first ever to generate over $100 million in annual revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/leagues/basketball/2026/golden-state-valkyries-revenue-first-100-million-1234946807/\">\u003cem>Sportico\u003c/em>\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1372\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105681\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f-160x110.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-6-KQED-55c6e28f-1536x1054.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries guard-forward Kaila Charles (6) defends against Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) during the WNBA Finals Game 3 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105695\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/20261021_ValkyriesGame3_GC-19-KQED-5d301db0-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase at Game 3 of the WNBA finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 21, 2026. (Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bay Area’s WNBA team, which is owned by the same group as the Golden State Warriors, has racked up thousands of fans and season ticket-holders, selling out their home court at Chase Center dozens of times already. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their meteoric rise comes as the WNBA has seen a boost in fandom across the country.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta were moved from the Dream’s regular 3,500-seat stadium in College Park to the 17,000-seat State Farm Arena downtown. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many Valkyries fans, the rapid growth has been a source of pride and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Los Angeles-based Valkyries fan Hill Winans, following the team has become a huge hobby. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I believe in us. I still believe in us,” Winans said after the game.\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "valkyries-fans-most-creative-fits-at-game-2-of-the-wnba-finals",
"title": "Valkyries Fans’ Most Creative Fits at Game 2 of the WNBA Finals",
"publishDate": 1792519374,
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"headTitle": "Valkyries Fans’ Most Creative Fits at Game 2 of the WNBA Finals | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> faced off against the Atlanta Dream during \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">Game 2 of WNBA Finals\u003c/a> Monday night, the players set the tone with their tunnel fits. Gabby Williams arrived in a cool, casual 49ers jersey and sunglasses, and Angel Reese looked glamorous and polished in a black high-neck gown and kitten heels.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fans at Ballhalla showed out, too. Photographer Estefany Gonzalez captured their sparkliest and most creative looks as they filed into the Chase Center, where the Dream beat the Valks, tying the series at 1-1. The teams will meet again at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Oct. 21.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994884\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gioia Garner, 53, dresses in all purple outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Garner spent her Christmas fund on tickets for the game and said her friends can expect cards this year. “Our ladies are kicking ass and taking names so why wouldn’t we give them our money?” Garner said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994885\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Details from Gioia Garner’s look. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994898\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Brittney Elena, 37, holds her dog, Diva, 16, outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Elena is originally from the Bay Area and travels from Los Angeles for home games as a season ticket holder. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994899\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Diva the dog shows off her Valkyries T-shirt. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994886\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Elias Guting, 30, wears a custom outfit he designed at Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Guting’s clothing brand Nostalgic Attitude has been worn by players themselves. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994908\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sam Akpan, 43, poses for a portrait outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Akpan was one of the many people watching the game outside of the Chase Center. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994906\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jessica Foung, 43, holds a stack of purple bracelets outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994896\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb.JPG 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tina C., 46, wears a sequence purple suit outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. “I didn’t really think that myself was a sports fan, but I didn’t really have a women’s team that I could root for. So, you know, having a big women’s team in the Bay really converted me,” Tina C. said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994889\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tina C. spent more than a week hand gluing feathers to the back of their blazer for the special occasion. “This team, it sparkles. So I needed to have something that matched the team’s vibe, you know? I’m violet’s gay cousin with the black feathers,” they said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994887\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lianne Leong, who goes by “the golden Valkyrie,” wears a custom made golden outfit outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco. Leong has made Anime, Star Wars, KPop Demon Hunters, and various other cosplay costumes over the past ten years and decided to use her skills to make a Valkyrie costume after moving back to the Bay Area in January. “Valkyries were going crazy. So I just thought, well, duh, I should just make a costume. Obviously,” Leong said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994888\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132.JPG 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tiffany Mease, 40, wears purple fur in honor of the Golden State Valkyries outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. “It took four hours on a glue gun believe it or not,” Mease said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994897\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jeph Lee, 53, wears a thrifted purple coat outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994915\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Monica Blakely, left, poses for a portrait with Angelique Muñoz, after bumping into each other and realizing they were both sporting the same headband outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994916\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans watch Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Before the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> faced off against the Atlanta Dream during \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">Game 2 of WNBA Finals\u003c/a> Monday night, the players set the tone with their tunnel fits. Gabby Williams arrived in a cool, casual 49ers jersey and sunglasses, and Angel Reese looked glamorous and polished in a black high-neck gown and kitten heels.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Before the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> faced off against the Atlanta Dream during \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">Game 2 of WNBA Finals\u003c/a> Monday night, the players set the tone with their tunnel fits. Gabby Williams arrived in a cool, casual 49ers jersey and sunglasses, and Angel Reese looked glamorous and polished in a black high-neck gown and kitten heels.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The fans at Ballhalla showed out, too. Photographer Estefany Gonzalez captured their sparkliest and most creative looks as they filed into the Chase Center, where the Dream beat the Valks, tying the series at 1-1. The teams will meet again at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Oct. 21.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994884\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gioia Garner, 53, dresses in all purple outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Garner spent her Christmas fund on tickets for the game and said her friends can expect cards this year. “Our ladies are kicking ass and taking names so why wouldn’t we give them our money?” Garner said.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994898\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Brittney Elena, 37, holds her dog, Diva, 16, outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Elena is originally from the Bay Area and travels from Los Angeles for home games as a season ticket holder.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"excerpt": "San Francisco’s Chase Center was a sea of sequins, feathers and all things purple on Monday night.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> faced off against the Atlanta Dream during \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12105116/valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals\">Game 2 of WNBA Finals\u003c/a> Monday night, the players set the tone with their tunnel fits. Gabby Williams arrived in a cool, casual 49ers jersey and sunglasses, and Angel Reese looked glamorous and polished in a black high-neck gown and kitten heels.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fans at Ballhalla showed out, too. Photographer Estefany Gonzalez captured their sparkliest and most creative looks as they filed into the Chase Center, where the Dream beat the Valks, tying the series at 1-1. The teams will meet again at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Oct. 21.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994884\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_018_qed-d271061a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gioia Garner, 53, dresses in all purple outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Garner spent her Christmas fund on tickets for the game and said her friends can expect cards this year. “Our ladies are kicking ass and taking names so why wouldn’t we give them our money?” Garner said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994885\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_019_qed-52d7c0e8-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Details from Gioia Garner’s look. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994898\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_022_qed-7dee8ef6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Brittney Elena, 37, holds her dog, Diva, 16, outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Elena is originally from the Bay Area and travels from Los Angeles for home games as a season ticket holder. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994899\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_023_qed-273a938f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Diva the dog shows off her Valkyries T-shirt. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994886\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_039_qed-e8517d83-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Elias Guting, 30, wears a custom outfit he designed at Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Guting’s clothing brand Nostalgic Attitude has been worn by players themselves. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994908\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_035_qed-5eee009f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sam Akpan, 43, poses for a portrait outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. Akpan was one of the many people watching the game outside of the Chase Center. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994906\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_030_qed-06696c63-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jessica Foung, 43, holds a stack of purple bracelets outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994896\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb.JPG 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_013_qed-c07c1ecb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tina C., 46, wears a sequence purple suit outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. “I didn’t really think that myself was a sports fan, but I didn’t really have a women’s team that I could root for. So, you know, having a big women’s team in the Bay really converted me,” Tina C. said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994889\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_014_qed-17d4ab75-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tina C. spent more than a week hand gluing feathers to the back of their blazer for the special occasion. “This team, it sparkles. So I needed to have something that matched the team’s vibe, you know? I’m violet’s gay cousin with the black feathers,” they said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994887\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_003_qed-72b0d4b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lianne Leong, who goes by “the golden Valkyrie,” wears a custom made golden outfit outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco. Leong has made Anime, Star Wars, KPop Demon Hunters, and various other cosplay costumes over the past ten years and decided to use her skills to make a Valkyrie costume after moving back to the Bay Area in January. “Valkyries were going crazy. So I just thought, well, duh, I should just make a costume. Obviously,” Leong said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994888\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132.JPG 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_012_qed-8bb9d132-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tiffany Mease, 40, wears purple fur in honor of the Golden State Valkyries outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. “It took four hours on a glue gun believe it or not,” Mease said. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994897\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_021_qed-694d4742-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jeph Lee, 53, wears a thrifted purple coat outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994915\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_009_qed-ee26845e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Monica Blakely, left, poses for a portrait with Angelique Muñoz, after bumping into each other and realizing they were both sporting the same headband outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013.JPG\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13994916\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013.JPG 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/20261019_ValksGame2_045_qed-0d7d5013-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans watch Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. (Estefany Gonzalez for KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "valkyries-fall-to-dream-65-79-in-game-2-of-wnba-finals",
"title": "Valkyries Fall to Dream, 79-65 in Game 2 of WNBA Finals",
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"headTitle": "Valkyries Fall to Dream, 79-65 in Game 2 of WNBA Finals | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>Ballhalla saw its \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fall for the first time this postseason, as the Atlanta Dream pulled ahead in the second half Monday evening and clinched the win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Riding into Game 2 of the WNBA Finals off a four-point win Saturday, the Valkyries struggled to stay afloat. After losing the lead right at halftime, the team put up only nine points in the third quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But the Dream tacked on 21 points to end the third quarter strong, finishing with a 14-point lead over the Valkyries. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The crowd erupted in groans during a handful of foul calls in the third quarter — with some fans chanting “Ref, you suck!” from the bleachers, according to KQED’s Natalia Navarro, who reported live from Ballhalla. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105237\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105237\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries huddle after losing to the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105230\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105230\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton plays during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105228\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105228\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105236\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105236\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans react after the Golden State Valkyries lose to the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Jordin Canada ended the quarter with a buzzer beater from across the court, before the Dream continued dominating the fourth quarter, scoring an additional 19 points. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Angel Reese carried the Dream’s offense with a double-double — 30 points and 16 rebounds. She also made history, becoming the youngest player in WNBA history to have at least 20 points and 10 boards in a Finals game.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Dream sank nearly twice as many free throws as the Valkyries, clearing 30 out of 35 shots from the line, with the Valkyries making 16 out of 19. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries fought through the end, putting 19 points on the board in the fourth quarter, but ultimately, were left chasing the Dream, who forced 19 turnovers. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the postgame conference, Valkyries guard Veronica Burton said they “shot terribly” and that they “need to be able to take a punch and punch back.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Despite the loss, the fans still have faith and they kept the energy high through the bitter end.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“These ladies can pull it out,” Merrill Feather told KQED after the game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“The good news is, there will be one more game here and they’ll take it then,” Paul Wedel said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The franchise has come a long — and fast — way since its debut in 2024. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>As the WNBA’s 13th addition to the league, the Valkyries have seen an explosive rise, with one of the league’s most devoted fan bases. Violet-clad crowds flock to Chase Center to cheer them on, and the team has already broken records. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Earlier this month, \u003cem>Sportico\u003c/em> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/leagues/basketball/2026/golden-state-valkyries-revenue-first-100-million-1234946807/\">reported\u003c/a> that the Valkyries became the first professional women’s sports team in history to surpass $100 million in annual revenue. It also estimated that after a full WNBA Finals run, the Valkyries could end up bringing in around $30 million more.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105230\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105230\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton plays during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">East Bay rapper LaRussell performs at halftime during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105227\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105227\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105241\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105241\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Athletic’s podcast, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/podcast/287-the-athletic-womens-basketball-show/\">No Offseason\u003c/a>, said that Ballhalla gives the Valkyries a significant home-court advantage. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries sold out every game this \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-sell-out-all-home-games-for-second-consecutive-season\">season\u003c/a> and last — packing the stands with violet wigs, sequin jackets and fans chanting “G-S-V” until they \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12103702/golden-state-valkyries-advance-to-wnba-finals-after-sweeping-las-vegas-aces\">lose their voices\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Games 3 and 4 will take place in Atlanta’s 17,000-seat State Farm Arena. The venue is an upgrade from the Dream’s usual home, the Gateway Center Arena at College Park, which holds just 3,500 fans. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>To make the move work, Game 3 was pushed up from Oct. 22 to Oct. 21. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>For Game 4, the Hawks changed their tipoff time on Oct. 24 from 8:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the Valkyries and the Dream changed theirs from 3:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105173\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105173\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Toni Noonan wears Golden State Valkyries face paint before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105223\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105223\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Stacey Camillo cheers before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>While the Valkyries are away, fans can cheer together throughout the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104461/ballhalla-better-be-prepping-where-to-cheer-on-the-valkyries-in-the-wnba-finals\">city\u003c/a> or stop by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104572/going-to-cheer-for-the-valkyries-this-saturday-stop-by-boohalla\">Boohalla\u003c/a> to get in the violet spirit. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>If the series goes to Game 7, the Valkyries and the Dream return to San Francisco for a haunted Halloween showdown. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A standout moment for Game 2, KQED’s Natalia Navarro reported, was what came after the buzzer. Valkyries fans proved their reputation, chanting “G-S-V” for a solid minute and cheering the team off the court.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105173\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Toni Noonan wears Golden State Valkyries face paint before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105223\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Stacey Camillo cheers before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105223\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Stacey Camillo cheers before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>While the Valkyries are away, fans can cheer together throughout the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104461/ballhalla-better-be-prepping-where-to-cheer-on-the-valkyries-in-the-wnba-finals\">city\u003c/a> or stop by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104572/going-to-cheer-for-the-valkyries-this-saturday-stop-by-boohalla\">Boohalla\u003c/a> to get in the violet spirit. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>While the Valkyries are away, fans can cheer together throughout the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104461/ballhalla-better-be-prepping-where-to-cheer-on-the-valkyries-in-the-wnba-finals\">city\u003c/a> or stop by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104572/going-to-cheer-for-the-valkyries-this-saturday-stop-by-boohalla\">Boohalla\u003c/a> to get in the violet spirit. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>If the series goes to Game 7, the Valkyries and the Dream return to San Francisco for a haunted Halloween showdown. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>A standout moment for Game 2, KQED’s Natalia Navarro reported, was what came after the buzzer. Valkyries fans proved their reputation, chanting “G-S-V” for a solid minute and cheering the team off the court.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>A standout moment for Game 2, KQED’s Natalia Navarro reported, was what came after the buzzer. Valkyries fans proved their reputation, chanting “G-S-V” for a solid minute and cheering the team off the court.\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "After a tight first half, the Dream pulled ahead in the third and fourth quarters, securing a win over the Golden State Valkyries. Next stop — Atlanta for Game 3. ",
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"title": "Valkyries Fall to Dream, 79-65 in Game 2 of WNBA Finals | KQED",
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"headline": "Valkyries Fall to Dream, 79-65 in Game 2 of WNBA Finals",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>Ballhalla saw its \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> fall for the first time this postseason, as the Atlanta Dream pulled ahead in the second half Monday evening and clinched the win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Riding into Game 2 of the WNBA Finals off a four-point win Saturday, the Valkyries struggled to stay afloat. After losing the lead right at halftime, the team put up only nine points in the third quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But the Dream tacked on 21 points to end the third quarter strong, finishing with a 14-point lead over the Valkyries. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The crowd erupted in groans during a handful of foul calls in the third quarter — with some fans chanting “Ref, you suck!” from the bleachers, according to KQED’s Natalia Navarro, who reported live from Ballhalla. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105237\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105237\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-31-BL-7a9b8a29-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries huddle after losing to the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105230\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105230\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton plays during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105228\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105228\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-14-BL-d68531d0-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105236\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105236\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-29-BL-5d7293b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans react after the Golden State Valkyries lose to the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Jordin Canada ended the quarter with a buzzer beater from across the court, before the Dream continued dominating the fourth quarter, scoring an additional 19 points. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Angel Reese carried the Dream’s offense with a double-double — 30 points and 16 rebounds. She also made history, becoming the youngest player in WNBA history to have at least 20 points and 10 boards in a Finals game.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Dream sank nearly twice as many free throws as the Valkyries, clearing 30 out of 35 shots from the line, with the Valkyries making 16 out of 19. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries fought through the end, putting 19 points on the board in the fourth quarter, but ultimately, were left chasing the Dream, who forced 19 turnovers. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the postgame conference, Valkyries guard Veronica Burton said they “shot terribly” and that they “need to be able to take a punch and punch back.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Despite the loss, the fans still have faith and they kept the energy high through the bitter end.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“These ladies can pull it out,” Merrill Feather told KQED after the game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“The good news is, there will be one more game here and they’ll take it then,” Paul Wedel said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The franchise has come a long — and fast — way since its debut in 2024. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>As the WNBA’s 13th addition to the league, the Valkyries have seen an explosive rise, with one of the league’s most devoted fan bases. Violet-clad crowds flock to Chase Center to cheer them on, and the team has already broken records. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Earlier this month, \u003cem>Sportico\u003c/em> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sportico.com/leagues/basketball/2026/golden-state-valkyries-revenue-first-100-million-1234946807/\">reported\u003c/a> that the Valkyries became the first professional women’s sports team in history to surpass $100 million in annual revenue. It also estimated that after a full WNBA Finals run, the Valkyries could end up bringing in around $30 million more.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105230\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105230\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-19-BL-0bb766d6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton plays during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105243\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-21-BL-c1761e82-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">East Bay rapper LaRussell performs at halftime during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105227\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105227\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-13-BL-21d0d3b1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105241\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105241\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-26-BL-e17d384c-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 2 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Athletic’s podcast, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/podcast/287-the-athletic-womens-basketball-show/\">No Offseason\u003c/a>, said that Ballhalla gives the Valkyries a significant home-court advantage. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries sold out every game this \u003ca href=\"https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-sell-out-all-home-games-for-second-consecutive-season\">season\u003c/a> and last — packing the stands with violet wigs, sequin jackets and fans chanting “G-S-V” until they \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12103702/golden-state-valkyries-advance-to-wnba-finals-after-sweeping-las-vegas-aces\">lose their voices\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Games 3 and 4 will take place in Atlanta’s 17,000-seat State Farm Arena. The venue is an upgrade from the Dream’s usual home, the Gateway Center Arena at College Park, which holds just 3,500 fans. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>To make the move work, Game 3 was pushed up from Oct. 22 to Oct. 21. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>For Game 4, the Hawks changed their tipoff time on Oct. 24 from 8:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the Valkyries and the Dream changed theirs from 3:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105173\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105173\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-03-BL-47a34861-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Toni Noonan wears Golden State Valkyries face paint before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105223\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105223\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261019-ValksGame1-04-BL-9f8e9d68-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Stacey Camillo cheers before Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 19, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>While the Valkyries are away, fans can cheer together throughout the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104461/ballhalla-better-be-prepping-where-to-cheer-on-the-valkyries-in-the-wnba-finals\">city\u003c/a> or stop by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12104572/going-to-cheer-for-the-valkyries-this-saturday-stop-by-boohalla\">Boohalla\u003c/a> to get in the violet spirit. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>If the series goes to Game 7, the Valkyries and the Dream return to San Francisco for a haunted Halloween showdown. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A standout moment for Game 2, KQED’s Natalia Navarro reported, was what came after the buzzer. Valkyries fans proved their reputation, chanting “G-S-V” for a solid minute and cheering the team off the court.\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "valkyries-host-game-1-of-wnba-finals",
"title": "Valkyries Take WNBA Finals Game 1",
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"headTitle": "Valkyries Take WNBA Finals Game 1 | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>It’s another first for the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> — the franchise’s first-ever WNBA Finals win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The team took Game 1 of the best-of-seven series against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday afternoon. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries channeled a lively Ballhalla crowd during the match, taking in yet another sold-out arena’s roars. The game was a close one, 68-64. The two teams went back and forth to take the lead until the last few minutes, when the Valkyries held on. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105004\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We always know we’re gonna find a way somehow,” forward Gabby Williams told reporters after the game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>When asked how it felt to hear the crowd shout her name, Williams said it feels “like we’re not done yet.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Viveca Ycoy-Walton, who watched the game at Oakland’s Golden Ratio Bar, was feeling differently. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling freaking amazing,” Ycoy-Walton said. “This is a moment for the Bay right now.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105012\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105012\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries celebrate their win against the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105008\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105008\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Atlanta and Golden State are both top-tier defending teams, and as they battled, the Valkyries seemed to miss some of the shots they would usually make. Williams wasn’t worried. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I feel the belief and the trust from my teammates and staff. That’s why those moments don’t maybe feel as heavy, because I know whatever happens, this team is just going to find a way,” Williams said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fans cheered throughout the game and erupted when the Valkyries got the win. Even before the match, they showed their love for the atmosphere in and out of the arena. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Alisha Ardiana, dressed in lavender coveralls, hair and a Valkyries bag outside of Chase Center, made fun of her wife last year for her interest in the team — only to find herself basking in the joy she said she was surrounded by. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105001\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Today is about lavender,” Ardiana said. “So much of what is important about this event is that everyone gets to be a shiny 12-year-old version of themselves.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Carol Rossi’s journey to being a fan was a little different — she was a founding season ticket holder. She said she thought fans would mostly be other lesbians, but found that families, dads and people of all cultures were always around. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We like to say, ‘This is what our country would be like if Kamala [Harris] had been elected president,’” Rossi said. “Everyone’s welcome and we get along.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105000\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105007\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105007\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Season ticket holder Jessie Dotson said she’s been “all in” since experiencing the energy of the crowd.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just love the game, I love the vibe. It’s just like a happy place,” Dotson said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be adding to their list of historic firsts if they win the series. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re only in their second season. Despite being the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, they were counted out by some in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12103702/golden-state-valkyries-advance-to-wnba-finals-after-sweeping-las-vegas-aces\">semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces, who they swept\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12104979\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104979\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alisha Ardiana stands outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12104978\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104978\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alison Garvin (left) and Mallory Haggart cheer outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re no underdogs in the Finals, though. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Whether it’s thanks to \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeBIhTPNX8V/\">Ballhalla’s magic\u003c/a> or the undeniable strength of the team’s roster this year, ESPN predicted before Game 1 that the Valkyries had \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50182030/wnba-finals-2026-dream-valkyries-preview-predictions\">a 62.4% chance\u003c/a> of taking home the franchise’s first championship.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Dream, which swept the New York Liberty in its own semifinals series, hasn’t been to the finals since 2013, when they were swept (like they were the other two previous times the Dream reached the WNBA’s highest stage). But they have three All-Stars this year and are \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50190828/finals-ranking-best-players-playoffs\">leading\u003c/a> ESPN’s individual player playoff rankings.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the Valkyries’ first season, they clinched an expansion team’s first appearance in the playoffs after \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50162878/wnba-finals-2026-golden-state-valkyries-expansion-team\">achieving\u003c/a> the league’s second-best first-year winning percentage ever. They were swept in the first round, but clearly didn’t give up. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104977\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans stand outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re the first professional women’s sports team \u003ca href=\"https://abc7news.com/post/golden-state-valkyries-hit-record-100-million-annual-revenue-worlds-most-valuable-womens-sports-franchise-nearing-1-billion/19936590/\">to generate at least\u003c/a> $100 million in annual revenue — in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">second year in a row, the Valks have posted\u003c/a> the highest value of any WNBA team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Ycoy-Walton said if they win, it will be “by design.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s no secret that at the second year of what they’ve built there in the organization, from the [general manager] all the way down to the coaches, even to the support staff, they built something really special here in Oakland even though they play in [San Francisco],” Ycoy-Walton said. “Oakland really has a big piece of the heart of the Valks.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>V Vasquez, a bartender at Golden Ratio, said at halftime that the Valkyries mean more for Oakland because of the departure of other professional sports teams like the former Oakland Raiders and the A’s. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105017\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s a bummer to see them go,” Vasquez said. “A women’s basketball team, I feel like it’s bringing in a lot of people who maybe weren’t following the WNBA before.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Game 2 of the Finals is at Chase Center on Monday at 5 p.m., and Nakase is hoping fans bring even more energy. “Level up, right? We gotta go Game 2,” Nakase said after the game. “ It has to be better, we’re gonna ask more from our players, so I’d say … rest and recover, Ballhalla.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/calam\">\u003cem>Christopher Alam\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem> contributed to this report.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The team took Game 1 of the best-of-seven series against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday afternoon. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries channeled a lively Ballhalla crowd during the match, taking in yet another sold-out arena’s roars. The game was a close one, 68-64. The two teams went back and forth to take the lead until the last few minutes, when the Valkyries held on. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105004\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“We always know we’re gonna find a way somehow,” forward Gabby Williams told reporters after the game. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>When asked how it felt to hear the crowd shout her name, Williams said it feels “like we’re not done yet.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be adding to their list of historic firsts if they win the series. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104979\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alisha Ardiana stands outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104978\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alison Garvin (left) and Mallory Haggart cheer outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Whether it’s thanks to \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeBIhTPNX8V/\">Ballhalla’s magic\u003c/a> or the undeniable strength of the team’s roster this year, ESPN predicted before Game 1 that the Valkyries had \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50182030/wnba-finals-2026-dream-valkyries-preview-predictions\">a 62.4% chance\u003c/a> of taking home the franchise’s first championship.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Dream, which swept the New York Liberty in its own semifinals series, hasn’t been to the finals since 2013, when they were swept (like they were the other two previous times the Dream reached the WNBA’s highest stage). But they have three All-Stars this year and are \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50190828/finals-ranking-best-players-playoffs\">leading\u003c/a> ESPN’s individual player playoff rankings.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>In the Valkyries’ first season, they clinched an expansion team’s first appearance in the playoffs after \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50162878/wnba-finals-2026-golden-state-valkyries-expansion-team\">achieving\u003c/a> the league’s second-best first-year winning percentage ever. They were swept in the first round, but clearly didn’t give up. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104977\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans stand outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>They’re the first professional women’s sports team \u003ca href=\"https://abc7news.com/post/golden-state-valkyries-hit-record-100-million-annual-revenue-worlds-most-valuable-womens-sports-franchise-nearing-1-billion/19936590/\">to generate at least\u003c/a> $100 million in annual revenue — in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">second year in a row, the Valks have posted\u003c/a> the highest value of any WNBA team. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>They’re the first professional women’s sports team \u003ca href=\"https://abc7news.com/post/golden-state-valkyries-hit-record-100-million-annual-revenue-worlds-most-valuable-womens-sports-franchise-nearing-1-billion/19936590/\">to generate at least\u003c/a> $100 million in annual revenue — in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">second year in a row, the Valks have posted\u003c/a> the highest value of any WNBA team. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Ycoy-Walton said if they win, it will be “by design.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It’s no secret that at the second year of what they’ve built there in the organization, from the [general manager] all the way down to the coaches, even to the support staff, they built something really special here in Oakland even though they play in [San Francisco],” Ycoy-Walton said. “Oakland really has a big piece of the heart of the Valks.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“It’s no secret that at the second year of what they’ve built there in the organization, from the [general manager] all the way down to the coaches, even to the support staff, they built something really special here in Oakland even though they play in [San Francisco],” Ycoy-Walton said. “Oakland really has a big piece of the heart of the Valks.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>V Vasquez, a bartender at Golden Ratio, said at halftime that the Valkyries mean more for Oakland because of the departure of other professional sports teams like the former Oakland Raiders and the A’s. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>V Vasquez, a bartender at Golden Ratio, said at halftime that the Valkyries mean more for Oakland because of the departure of other professional sports teams like the former Oakland Raiders and the A’s. \u003c/p>\n"
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105017\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It’s a bummer to see them go,” Vasquez said. “A women’s basketball team, I feel like it’s bringing in a lot of people who maybe weren’t following the WNBA before.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“It’s a bummer to see them go,” Vasquez said. “A women’s basketball team, I feel like it’s bringing in a lot of people who maybe weren’t following the WNBA before.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Game 2 of the Finals is at Chase Center on Monday at 5 p.m., and Nakase is hoping fans bring even more energy. “Level up, right? We gotta go Game 2,” Nakase said after the game. “ It has to be better, we’re gonna ask more from our players, so I’d say … rest and recover, Ballhalla.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Game 2 of the Finals is at Chase Center on Monday at 5 p.m., and Nakase is hoping fans bring even more energy. “Level up, right? We gotta go Game 2,” Nakase said after the game. “ It has to be better, we’re gonna ask more from our players, so I’d say … rest and recover, Ballhalla.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/calam\">\u003cem>Christopher Alam\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem> contributed to this report.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/calam\">\u003cem>Christopher Alam\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem> contributed to this report.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "The Valkyries bested the Atlanta Dream at San Francisco’s Chase Center. ",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>It’s another first for the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> — the franchise’s first-ever WNBA Finals win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The team took Game 1 of the best-of-seven series against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday afternoon. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries channeled a lively Ballhalla crowd during the match, taking in yet another sold-out arena’s roars. The game was a close one, 68-64. The two teams went back and forth to take the lead until the last few minutes, when the Valkyries held on. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105004\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-21-BL-38e239e7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We always know we’re gonna find a way somehow,” forward Gabby Williams told reporters after the game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>When asked how it felt to hear the crowd shout her name, Williams said it feels “like we’re not done yet.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Viveca Ycoy-Walton, who watched the game at Oakland’s Golden Ratio Bar, was feeling differently. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling freaking amazing,” Ycoy-Walton said. “This is a moment for the Bay right now.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105012\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105012\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-29-BL-f10d66f9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries celebrate their win against the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105008\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105008\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-25-BL-5b245d1f-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Atlanta and Golden State are both top-tier defending teams, and as they battled, the Valkyries seemed to miss some of the shots they would usually make. Williams wasn’t worried. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I feel the belief and the trust from my teammates and staff. That’s why those moments don’t maybe feel as heavy, because I know whatever happens, this team is just going to find a way,” Williams said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fans cheered throughout the game and erupted when the Valkyries got the win. Even before the match, they showed their love for the atmosphere in and out of the arena. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Alisha Ardiana, dressed in lavender coveralls, hair and a Valkyries bag outside of Chase Center, made fun of her wife last year for her interest in the team — only to find herself basking in the joy she said she was surrounded by. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105001\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-18-BL-15b8283e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Golden State Valkyries play the Atlanta Dream during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Today is about lavender,” Ardiana said. “So much of what is important about this event is that everyone gets to be a shiny 12-year-old version of themselves.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Carol Rossi’s journey to being a fan was a little different — she was a founding season ticket holder. She said she thought fans would mostly be other lesbians, but found that families, dads and people of all cultures were always around. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We like to say, ‘This is what our country would be like if Kamala [Harris] had been elected president,’” Rossi said. “Everyone’s welcome and we get along.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105000\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-17-BL-eb68ee9e-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12105007\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105007\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-24-BL-0d081d1a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Season ticket holder Jessie Dotson said she’s been “all in” since experiencing the energy of the crowd.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just love the game, I love the vibe. It’s just like a happy place,” Dotson said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be adding to their list of historic firsts if they win the series. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re only in their second season. Despite being the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, they were counted out by some in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12103702/golden-state-valkyries-advance-to-wnba-finals-after-sweeping-las-vegas-aces\">semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces, who they swept\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12104979\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104979\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-10-BL-e1c6ec8d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alisha Ardiana stands outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12104978\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104978\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-08-BL-2891b308-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alison Garvin (left) and Mallory Haggart cheer outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re no underdogs in the Finals, though. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Whether it’s thanks to \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/reel/DeBIhTPNX8V/\">Ballhalla’s magic\u003c/a> or the undeniable strength of the team’s roster this year, ESPN predicted before Game 1 that the Valkyries had \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50182030/wnba-finals-2026-dream-valkyries-preview-predictions\">a 62.4% chance\u003c/a> of taking home the franchise’s first championship.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Dream, which swept the New York Liberty in its own semifinals series, hasn’t been to the finals since 2013, when they were swept (like they were the other two previous times the Dream reached the WNBA’s highest stage). But they have three All-Stars this year and are \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50190828/finals-ranking-best-players-playoffs\">leading\u003c/a> ESPN’s individual player playoff rankings.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the Valkyries’ first season, they clinched an expansion team’s first appearance in the playoffs after \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/50162878/wnba-finals-2026-golden-state-valkyries-expansion-team\">achieving\u003c/a> the league’s second-best first-year winning percentage ever. They were swept in the first round, but clearly didn’t give up. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12104977\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-03-BL-7f500e70-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans stand outside Chase Center in San Francisco before the WNBA Finals game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>They’re the first professional women’s sports team \u003ca href=\"https://abc7news.com/post/golden-state-valkyries-hit-record-100-million-annual-revenue-worlds-most-valuable-womens-sports-franchise-nearing-1-billion/19936590/\">to generate at least\u003c/a> $100 million in annual revenue — in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">second year in a row, the Valks have posted\u003c/a> the highest value of any WNBA team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Ycoy-Walton said if they win, it will be “by design.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s no secret that at the second year of what they’ve built there in the organization, from the [general manager] all the way down to the coaches, even to the support staff, they built something really special here in Oakland even though they play in [San Francisco],” Ycoy-Walton said. “Oakland really has a big piece of the heart of the Valks.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>V Vasquez, a bartender at Golden Ratio, said at halftime that the Valkyries mean more for Oakland because of the departure of other professional sports teams like the former Oakland Raiders and the A’s. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12105017\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261017-ValksGame1-31-BL-a8bc3c98-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries during Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s a bummer to see them go,” Vasquez said. “A women’s basketball team, I feel like it’s bringing in a lot of people who maybe weren’t following the WNBA before.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Game 2 of the Finals is at Chase Center on Monday at 5 p.m., and Nakase is hoping fans bring even more energy. “Level up, right? We gotta go Game 2,” Nakase said after the game. “ It has to be better, we’re gonna ask more from our players, so I’d say … rest and recover, Ballhalla.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/calam\">\u003cem>Christopher Alam\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem> contributed to this report.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "golden-state-valkyries-advance-to-wnba-finals-after-sweeping-las-vegas-aces",
"title": "Golden State Valkyries Advance to WNBA Finals After Sweeping Las Vegas Aces",
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"headTitle": "Golden State Valkyries Advance to WNBA Finals After Sweeping Las Vegas Aces | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> are heading to the 2026 Women’s National Basketball Association Finals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Bay Area’s WNBA team defeated the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on Friday night 87-77 in overtime, sweeping their semifinals opponent 3-0 in the best-of-five series. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Valkyries fans decked out in violet spilled out onto the sidewalk at a watch party at the Mission brewery Standard Deviant cheering after the final buzzer. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I feel elated, just absolutely buzzed. This just means so much for the city and so much for sports,” said Becky Mincio. “We’re literally in tears because this just means so much.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103933\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103933\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans applaud as the Golden State Valkyries face the Las Vegas Aces during a watch party at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103931\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103931\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries merchandise and party favors cover a table before a watch party at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will play the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the finals next Saturday, Oct. 17 at Chase Center. It’s only the team’s second season but already the Valkyries’ second time in a WNBA playoff series \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12082769/the-valkyries-first-season-was-a-huge-success-can-they-take-it-to-the-next-level\">since launching in 2025\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But Friday’s win in Las Vegas didn’t come easy. Fans were on edge for nearly all of the first half as the Valkyries trailed behind the Aces, who had home court advantage. The Aces led at halftime, and the teams traded the lead back and forth throughout the fourth quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries managed to claw back to a tie, sending the game into overtime. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At a post-game press conference, Center Kiah Stokes and guard Gabby Williams said the overtime win was a mix of excitement — and relief.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It feels special because this is a special group,” Williams said. “We’re about to have some bandwagoners because we didn’t get no love all season. Nobody believed in us, but it honestly made us smile because all we need is each other.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>When the team ultimately clinched the win, the Mission brewery erupted in cheers. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"889\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103934\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103934\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da.jpg 889w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da-160x240.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 889px) 100vw, 889px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chelsea Blockin jumps and cheers as the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"889\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103938\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103938\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b.jpg 889w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b-160x240.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 889px) 100vw, 889px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Zac Brown throws his arms in the air as the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“In the last game, Gabby [Williams] said that she felt like Ballhalla was the sixth person on the court,” said Chelsea Locklin referring to recent comments from the team’s star forward about fans at the Chase Center. “It felt like we were still sending the same Ballhalla energy to them in Vegas.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Ballhalla, a play on the mythological hall called Valhalla in the same Norse mythology that the Valkyries are named after, has become a source of joy and pride for the team’s fanbase. Many of the viewers at Standard Deviant said they had gone to games in person before Friday’s away game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">Fandom\u003c/a> for the team has exploded with celebrity-studded games and sold-out matches leading up to their finals debut. Their homecourt has been packed with fans in purple shirts, winged headpieces and other homages to the team’s mythical mascot. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>After their inaugural season, the Valkyries were deemed the most valuable team in the league, reaching around $850 million valuation in 2026 after a record-breaking $78 million in revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">ESPN\u003c/a>, largely fueled by the team’s thousands of season-ticket holders and sponsorship. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103942\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A Golden State Valkyries fan wearing a No. 15 jersey throws his arms in the air during the team’s game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m a season-ticket holder, been at every single game, losing my voice every single night,” said Angelina Zamatia, who came out to watch the game with friends in San Francisco on Friday night. “I’m so proud of this team. Literally a dream come true.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Megan Gerwe came to Friday’s watch party at Standard Deviant with her moms and friends to celebrate her aunt’s birthday, even handmaking lavender party hats with the team logo for extra flair. She said the team has been especially meaningful to her family. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“There are lots of queer players on our team, which is super important and cool for my family, because we’re represented,” Gerwe said. “I’m just so glad that so many people here are into the Valkyries it’s such a special thing to be a part of, especially for women and queer women.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fiona Lin grew up watching NBA games with her dad and grandfather in China, and said it’s been thrilling to feel represented by players like Kaitlyn Chen. She said having a home team to root for in San Francisco has been an exciting and, at times nerve-wracking, experience. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103941\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103941\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Max Chang (left) and Fiona Lin pose in matching Golden State Valkyries shirts outside Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103944\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103944\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Four Golden State Valkyries fans wear matching Kaitlyn Chen jerseys while watching the team’s playoff game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We went to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12102708/valkyries-comeback-win-catapults-team-to-its-first-semifinals\">one of the playoffs last Friday\u003c/a>. I was so stressed the whole time. I was so nervous that my Oura ring was like, ‘you were so stressed for the last two hours and a half,’” Lin laughed, referring to a health monitoring wearable device. “But the crowd was just amazing.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase, a former WNBA player and assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers, knows the playoff circuit well. In her previous role as assistant coach for the Las Vegas Aces, she steered the team to two WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase was awarded WNBA Coach of the year after leading the Valkyries’ debut season in 2025. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>That year, the Valkyries quickly gave fans something to cheer for by reaching the playoffs, making history as the first expansion team to reach a postseason in their inaugural season. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103946\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Niki Hsu (left), Alyssa Leu and Kayla Curameng pose in matching Golden State Valkyries Kaitlyn Chen jerseys at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>However the Valkyries 2025 playoff series fell short when the Minnesota Lynx knocked the team out in the first round. This year, the Valkyries managed to push further. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Andrew Pospeshil and other rowdy fans Friday night couldn’t be more excited for the next round. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m watching every game for the finals,” he said. “This is the greatest sports environment and fandom. It’s so much fun. I feel like the team has a great chemistry. The fans are just enjoying this so much. I’m having a f— time.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams said the team culture and the work they’d put in together made it feel like they “had something worth fighting for.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Shout out to the Valkyries organization, they had this vision from the start and to see it come to fruition already in year two, it’s pretty amazing. It’s special,” Stokes said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase said she saw a “new level of fight” from her players last night.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Literally this is a dream come true to be going to the finals in our second year — it can come true,” Nakase said. “As we know, job’s not done and we now have to go another gear.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Bay Area’s WNBA team defeated the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on Friday night 87-77 in overtime, sweeping their semifinals opponent 3-0 in the best-of-five series. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Valkyries fans decked out in violet spilled out onto the sidewalk at a watch party at the Mission brewery Standard Deviant cheering after the final buzzer. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I feel elated, just absolutely buzzed. This just means so much for the city and so much for sports,” said Becky Mincio. “We’re literally in tears because this just means so much.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I feel elated, just absolutely buzzed. This just means so much for the city and so much for sports,” said Becky Mincio. “We’re literally in tears because this just means so much.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103933\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans applaud as the Golden State Valkyries face the Las Vegas Aces during a watch party at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will play the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the finals next Saturday, Oct. 17 at Chase Center. It’s only the team’s second season but already the Valkyries’ second time in a WNBA playoff series \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12082769/the-valkyries-first-season-was-a-huge-success-can-they-take-it-to-the-next-level\">since launching in 2025\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>But Friday’s win in Las Vegas didn’t come easy. Fans were on edge for nearly all of the first half as the Valkyries trailed behind the Aces, who had home court advantage. The Aces led at halftime, and the teams traded the lead back and forth throughout the fourth quarter. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>At a post-game press conference, Center Kiah Stokes and guard Gabby Williams said the overtime win was a mix of excitement — and relief.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It feels special because this is a special group,” Williams said. “We’re about to have some bandwagoners because we didn’t get no love all season. Nobody believed in us, but it honestly made us smile because all we need is each other.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103934\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chelsea Blockin jumps and cheers as the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“In the last game, Gabby [Williams] said that she felt like Ballhalla was the sixth person on the court,” said Chelsea Locklin referring to recent comments from the team’s star forward about fans at the Chase Center. “It felt like we were still sending the same Ballhalla energy to them in Vegas.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Ballhalla, a play on the mythological hall called Valhalla in the same Norse mythology that the Valkyries are named after, has become a source of joy and pride for the team’s fanbase. Many of the viewers at Standard Deviant said they had gone to games in person before Friday’s away game. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">Fandom\u003c/a> for the team has exploded with celebrity-studded games and sold-out matches leading up to their finals debut. Their homecourt has been packed with fans in purple shirts, winged headpieces and other homages to the team’s mythical mascot. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">Fandom\u003c/a> for the team has exploded with celebrity-studded games and sold-out matches leading up to their finals debut. Their homecourt has been packed with fans in purple shirts, winged headpieces and other homages to the team’s mythical mascot. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>After their inaugural season, the Valkyries were deemed the most valuable team in the league, reaching around $850 million valuation in 2026 after a record-breaking $78 million in revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">ESPN\u003c/a>, largely fueled by the team’s thousands of season-ticket holders and sponsorship. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>After their inaugural season, the Valkyries were deemed the most valuable team in the league, reaching around $850 million valuation in 2026 after a record-breaking $78 million in revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">ESPN\u003c/a>, largely fueled by the team’s thousands of season-ticket holders and sponsorship. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103942\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A Golden State Valkyries fan wearing a No. 15 jersey throws his arms in the air during the team’s game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103942\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A Golden State Valkyries fan wearing a No. 15 jersey throws his arms in the air during the team’s game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I’m a season-ticket holder, been at every single game, losing my voice every single night,” said Angelina Zamatia, who came out to watch the game with friends in San Francisco on Friday night. “I’m so proud of this team. Literally a dream come true.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I’m a season-ticket holder, been at every single game, losing my voice every single night,” said Angelina Zamatia, who came out to watch the game with friends in San Francisco on Friday night. “I’m so proud of this team. Literally a dream come true.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Megan Gerwe came to Friday’s watch party at Standard Deviant with her moms and friends to celebrate her aunt’s birthday, even handmaking lavender party hats with the team logo for extra flair. She said the team has been especially meaningful to her family. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Megan Gerwe came to Friday’s watch party at Standard Deviant with her moms and friends to celebrate her aunt’s birthday, even handmaking lavender party hats with the team logo for extra flair. She said the team has been especially meaningful to her family. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“There are lots of queer players on our team, which is super important and cool for my family, because we’re represented,” Gerwe said. “I’m just so glad that so many people here are into the Valkyries it’s such a special thing to be a part of, especially for women and queer women.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>However the Valkyries 2025 playoff series fell short when the Minnesota Lynx knocked the team out in the first round. This year, the Valkyries managed to push further. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I’m watching every game for the finals,” he said. “This is the greatest sports environment and fandom. It’s so much fun. I feel like the team has a great chemistry. The fans are just enjoying this so much. I’m having a f— time.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Shout out to the Valkyries organization, they had this vision from the start and to see it come to fruition already in year two, it’s pretty amazing. It’s special,” Stokes said.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“Shout out to the Valkyries organization, they had this vision from the start and to see it come to fruition already in year two, it’s pretty amazing. It’s special,” Stokes said.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Literally this is a dream come true to be going to the finals in our second year — it can come true,” Nakase said. “As we know, job’s not done and we now have to go another gear.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The Valkyries will play the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the finals next Saturday, Oct. 17 at Chase Center.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> are heading to the 2026 Women’s National Basketball Association Finals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Bay Area’s WNBA team defeated the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on Friday night 87-77 in overtime, sweeping their semifinals opponent 3-0 in the best-of-five series. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Valkyries fans decked out in violet spilled out onto the sidewalk at a watch party at the Mission brewery Standard Deviant cheering after the final buzzer. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I feel elated, just absolutely buzzed. This just means so much for the city and so much for sports,” said Becky Mincio. “We’re literally in tears because this just means so much.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103933\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103933\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_016_qed-40cc2b0d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans applaud as the Golden State Valkyries face the Las Vegas Aces during a watch party at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103931\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103931\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_007_qed-d0db134d-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries merchandise and party favors cover a table before a watch party at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will play the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the finals next Saturday, Oct. 17 at Chase Center. It’s only the team’s second season but already the Valkyries’ second time in a WNBA playoff series \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12082769/the-valkyries-first-season-was-a-huge-success-can-they-take-it-to-the-next-level\">since launching in 2025\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But Friday’s win in Las Vegas didn’t come easy. Fans were on edge for nearly all of the first half as the Valkyries trailed behind the Aces, who had home court advantage. The Aces led at halftime, and the teams traded the lead back and forth throughout the fourth quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries managed to claw back to a tie, sending the game into overtime. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At a post-game press conference, Center Kiah Stokes and guard Gabby Williams said the overtime win was a mix of excitement — and relief.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It feels special because this is a special group,” Williams said. “We’re about to have some bandwagoners because we didn’t get no love all season. Nobody believed in us, but it honestly made us smile because all we need is each other.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>When the team ultimately clinched the win, the Mission brewery erupted in cheers. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"889\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103934\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103934\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da.jpg 889w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_030_qed-cdb409da-160x240.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 889px) 100vw, 889px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chelsea Blockin jumps and cheers as the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"889\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103938\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103938\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b.jpg 889w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_028_qed-20ea4e3b-160x240.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 889px) 100vw, 889px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Zac Brown throws his arms in the air as the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“In the last game, Gabby [Williams] said that she felt like Ballhalla was the sixth person on the court,” said Chelsea Locklin referring to recent comments from the team’s star forward about fans at the Chase Center. “It felt like we were still sending the same Ballhalla energy to them in Vegas.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Ballhalla, a play on the mythological hall called Valhalla in the same Norse mythology that the Valkyries are named after, has become a source of joy and pride for the team’s fanbase. Many of the viewers at Standard Deviant said they had gone to games in person before Friday’s away game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">Fandom\u003c/a> for the team has exploded with celebrity-studded games and sold-out matches leading up to their finals debut. Their homecourt has been packed with fans in purple shirts, winged headpieces and other homages to the team’s mythical mascot. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>After their inaugural season, the Valkyries were deemed the most valuable team in the league, reaching around $850 million valuation in 2026 after a record-breaking $78 million in revenue, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48645552/valkyries-wnba-most-valuable-team-2nd-straight-year\">ESPN\u003c/a>, largely fueled by the team’s thousands of season-ticket holders and sponsorship. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103942\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_019_qed-9d5b3406-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A Golden State Valkyries fan wearing a No. 15 jersey throws his arms in the air during the team’s game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m a season-ticket holder, been at every single game, losing my voice every single night,” said Angelina Zamatia, who came out to watch the game with friends in San Francisco on Friday night. “I’m so proud of this team. Literally a dream come true.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Megan Gerwe came to Friday’s watch party at Standard Deviant with her moms and friends to celebrate her aunt’s birthday, even handmaking lavender party hats with the team logo for extra flair. She said the team has been especially meaningful to her family. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“There are lots of queer players on our team, which is super important and cool for my family, because we’re represented,” Gerwe said. “I’m just so glad that so many people here are into the Valkyries it’s such a special thing to be a part of, especially for women and queer women.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fiona Lin grew up watching NBA games with her dad and grandfather in China, and said it’s been thrilling to feel represented by players like Kaitlyn Chen. She said having a home team to root for in San Francisco has been an exciting and, at times nerve-wracking, experience. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103941\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103941\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_010_qed-57cb1f9a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Max Chang (left) and Fiona Lin pose in matching Golden State Valkyries shirts outside Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12103944\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103944\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_017_qed-121b07fd-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Four Golden State Valkyries fans wear matching Kaitlyn Chen jerseys while watching the team’s playoff game against the Las Vegas Aces at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We went to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12102708/valkyries-comeback-win-catapults-team-to-its-first-semifinals\">one of the playoffs last Friday\u003c/a>. I was so stressed the whole time. I was so nervous that my Oura ring was like, ‘you were so stressed for the last two hours and a half,’” Lin laughed, referring to a health monitoring wearable device. “But the crowd was just amazing.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase, a former WNBA player and assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers, knows the playoff circuit well. In her previous role as assistant coach for the Las Vegas Aces, she steered the team to two WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase was awarded WNBA Coach of the year after leading the Valkyries’ debut season in 2025. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>That year, the Valkyries quickly gave fans something to cheer for by reaching the playoffs, making history as the first expansion team to reach a postseason in their inaugural season. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12103946\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/10092026Valkyries-Friday-Night_GH_006_qed-63bbf2f9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Niki Hsu (left), Alyssa Leu and Kayla Curameng pose in matching Golden State Valkyries Kaitlyn Chen jerseys at Standard Deviant Brewing in San Francisco on Oct. 9, 2026. (Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>However the Valkyries 2025 playoff series fell short when the Minnesota Lynx knocked the team out in the first round. This year, the Valkyries managed to push further. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Andrew Pospeshil and other rowdy fans Friday night couldn’t be more excited for the next round. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m watching every game for the finals,” he said. “This is the greatest sports environment and fandom. It’s so much fun. I feel like the team has a great chemistry. The fans are just enjoying this so much. I’m having a f— time.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams said the team culture and the work they’d put in together made it feel like they “had something worth fighting for.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Shout out to the Valkyries organization, they had this vision from the start and to see it come to fruition already in year two, it’s pretty amazing. It’s special,” Stokes said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase said she saw a “new level of fight” from her players last night.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Literally this is a dream come true to be going to the finals in our second year — it can come true,” Nakase said. “As we know, job’s not done and we now have to go another gear.”\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "valkyries-comeback-win-catapults-team-to-its-first-semifinals",
"title": "Valkyries Comeback Win Catapults Team to Its First Semifinals",
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"headTitle": "Valkyries Comeback Win Catapults Team to Its First Semifinals | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> punched their ticket to the franchise’s first-ever WNBA semifinals on Friday night, after erasing a 16-point deficit in the second half of a win-or-go-home playoff game against the Dallas Wings. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Chase Center’s sell-out crowd erupted when the Valkyries, largely led by a 17-point second half push by forward Gabby Williams, took the last game in a best-of-three round one series on their home court. In just their second season since beginning play in 2025, it marks the franchise’s first playoff series win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The 77-73 victory advances them to a best-of-five semifinals series, where they’ll host defending WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, starting Sunday. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102722\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102722\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries players celebrate after defeating the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102726\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102726\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries mascot Violet lies on the court after the team defeated the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams told ESPN after the game that she swore there was magic in Ballhalla, the name given to Chase Center, when filled with fans who are loud and passionate. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I loved it because it forced us to talk louder, communicate more and when you’re screaming more, your energy is up and you’re into it, so we definitely owe Ballhalla a big thank you,” Williams said at the post-game press conference. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams scored a team high of 19 points overall and netted the last baskets that resulted in victory for the No. 2 seeded team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102714\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102714\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans react after the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102712\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102712\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bay Area rapper E-40 poses for a photo courtside near the end of Game 3 of the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA first-round playoff series against the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Tiffany Hayes was the team’s second-highest scorer of the night, trailing Williams with 18 points. She said a switch flipped in the last quarter or so of the game – “it’s literally win or go home, so we gotta do something.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I don’t know if I can speak for everyone, but I think I can when I say: Our back’s against the wall, we’re going to scratch and claw and do what we need to do and lock into our scheme,” Hayes said post-game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-11 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102728\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102728\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gabby Williams plays in Game 3 of the WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102719\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102719\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tiffany Hayes goes for the shot as the Valkyries play the Dallas Wings in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>After the Wings scored 18 consecutive points between the end of the first half and the beginning of the third quarter, Veronica Burton hit a three-pointer that marked the beginning of the Valkyries path to victory. The team went on to outscore the Wings 17-15 in the third quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase appeared to collapse near the sideline in the fourth quarter, but went on coaching the rest of the game. Nakase didn’t appear at the post-game conference but assistant coach Kasib Powell said that she was fine and will be ready for the semifinals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Obviously, it’s a quick turnaround. We play again on Sunday and she wouldn’t miss it for anything,” Powell told reporters. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102725\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Confetti falls after the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries made history when they reached the playoffs last year in their inaugural season, becoming the first expansion team to reach the postseason. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But their historic performance fell short when the Minnesota Lynx swept them in the first round, leaving the Valkyries with a 0% winning percentage in the playoffs. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102715\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102715\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Margaret and Diggory Williams cheer before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings in Game 3 of the first round of the WNBA playoffs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102713\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102713\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans watch in anticipation near the end of Game 3 of the WNBA first-round playoff series between the Golden State Valkyries and Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Now, they’re the highest ranked team remaining this postseason. Hayes said she’s seen the work that staff and players have put in since last year. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I literally commend everybody down the line, top to bottom on just our work ethic and wanting to work and wanting to win and get better as a team,” Hayes said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will host the Aces tomorrow at 1 p.m at Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> punched their ticket to the franchise’s first-ever WNBA semifinals on Friday night, after erasing a 16-point deficit in the second half of a win-or-go-home playoff game against the Dallas Wings. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Chase Center’s sell-out crowd erupted when the Valkyries, largely led by a 17-point second half push by forward Gabby Williams, took the last game in a best-of-three round one series on their home court. In just their second season since beginning play in 2025, it marks the franchise’s first playoff series win. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The 77-73 victory advances them to a best-of-five semifinals series, where they’ll host defending WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, starting Sunday. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Williams told ESPN after the game that she swore there was magic in Ballhalla, the name given to Chase Center, when filled with fans who are loud and passionate. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Tiffany Hayes was the team’s second-highest scorer of the night, trailing Williams with 18 points. She said a switch flipped in the last quarter or so of the game – “it’s literally win or go home, so we gotta do something.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>After the Wings scored 18 consecutive points between the end of the first half and the beginning of the third quarter, Veronica Burton hit a three-pointer that marked the beginning of the Valkyries path to victory. The team went on to outscore the Wings 17-15 in the third quarter. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase appeared to collapse near the sideline in the fourth quarter, but went on coaching the rest of the game. Nakase didn’t appear at the post-game conference but assistant coach Kasib Powell said that she was fine and will be ready for the semifinals. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Now, they’re the highest ranked team remaining this postseason. Hayes said she’s seen the work that staff and players have put in since last year. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I literally commend everybody down the line, top to bottom on just our work ethic and wanting to work and wanting to win and get better as a team,” Hayes said. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will host the Aces tomorrow at 1 p.m at Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The Friday win against the Dallas Wings is also the team’s first playoff series win since the franchise began play in 2025. ",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a> punched their ticket to the franchise’s first-ever WNBA semifinals on Friday night, after erasing a 16-point deficit in the second half of a win-or-go-home playoff game against the Dallas Wings. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Chase Center’s sell-out crowd erupted when the Valkyries, largely led by a 17-point second half push by forward Gabby Williams, took the last game in a best-of-three round one series on their home court. In just their second season since beginning play in 2025, it marks the franchise’s first playoff series win. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The 77-73 victory advances them to a best-of-five semifinals series, where they’ll host defending WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, starting Sunday. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102722\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102722\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-42-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries players celebrate after defeating the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102726\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102726\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-52-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Golden State Valkyries mascot Violet lies on the court after the team defeated the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams told ESPN after the game that she swore there was magic in Ballhalla, the name given to Chase Center, when filled with fans who are loud and passionate. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I loved it because it forced us to talk louder, communicate more and when you’re screaming more, your energy is up and you’re into it, so we definitely owe Ballhalla a big thank you,” Williams said at the post-game press conference. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Williams scored a team high of 19 points overall and netted the last baskets that resulted in victory for the No. 2 seeded team. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102714\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102714\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-40-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans react after the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102712\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102712\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-37-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bay Area rapper E-40 poses for a photo courtside near the end of Game 3 of the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA first-round playoff series against the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Tiffany Hayes was the team’s second-highest scorer of the night, trailing Williams with 18 points. She said a switch flipped in the last quarter or so of the game – “it’s literally win or go home, so we gotta do something.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I don’t know if I can speak for everyone, but I think I can when I say: Our back’s against the wall, we’re going to scratch and claw and do what we need to do and lock into our scheme,” Hayes said post-game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-11 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102728\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102728\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-04-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gabby Williams plays in Game 3 of the WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102719\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102719\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-24-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tiffany Hayes goes for the shot as the Valkyries play the Dallas Wings in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>After the Wings scored 18 consecutive points between the end of the first half and the beginning of the third quarter, Veronica Burton hit a three-pointer that marked the beginning of the Valkyries path to victory. The team went on to outscore the Wings 17-15 in the third quarter. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Coach Natalie Nakase appeared to collapse near the sideline in the fourth quarter, but went on coaching the rest of the game. Nakase didn’t appear at the post-game conference but assistant coach Kasib Powell said that she was fine and will be ready for the semifinals. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Obviously, it’s a quick turnaround. We play again on Sunday and she wouldn’t miss it for anything,” Powell told reporters. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102725\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-49-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Confetti falls after the Golden State Valkyries defeat the Dallas Wings 77-73 in Game 3 of their WNBA first-round playoff series at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries made history when they reached the playoffs last year in their inaugural season, becoming the first expansion team to reach the postseason. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But their historic performance fell short when the Minnesota Lynx swept them in the first round, leaving the Valkyries with a 0% winning percentage in the playoffs. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102715\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102715\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-01-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Margaret and Diggory Williams cheer before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings in Game 3 of the first round of the WNBA playoffs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12102713\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102713\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261002-ValkyriesRound1-38-BL-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans watch in anticipation near the end of Game 3 of the WNBA first-round playoff series between the Golden State Valkyries and Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2026. (Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Now, they’re the highest ranked team remaining this postseason. Hayes said she’s seen the work that staff and players have put in since last year. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I literally commend everybody down the line, top to bottom on just our work ethic and wanting to work and wanting to win and get better as a team,” Hayes said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will host the Aces tomorrow at 1 p.m at Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "a-giant-la-catrina-sculpture-sends-a-defiant-message-from-oaklands-latinx-community",
"title": "A Giant La Catrina Sculpture Sends a Defiant Message From Oakland’s Latinx Community",
"publishDate": 1791043200,
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"headTitle": "A Giant La Catrina Sculpture Sends a Defiant Message From Oakland’s Latinx Community | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was reported for K Onda KQED, a monthly newsletter focused on the Bay Area’s Latinx community. \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/newsletters/k-onda\">\u003cem>Click here to subscribe.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the not-too-distant past, I might have argued that we had reached peak Catrina — the skeleton image linked with \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/dia-de-los-muertos\">Día de los Muertos\u003c/a> was everywhere from keychains to restaurant murals — and was becoming cliché.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A giant La Catrina sculpture in Oakland has proven me wrong. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>On Thursday morning, a crowd of hundreds gathered in the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza to officially welcome the towering 34-foot sculpture, with fanfare usually reserved for a foreign dignitary.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102424\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 34-foot-tall La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102425\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Decorations on the dress of La Catrina de Oakland include California poppies, pan dulce and the words, “aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12102436\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102436\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ana Maria Dueñas (center) and others take photos of the La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Elected officials, including Mayor Barbara Lee and the Consul General of Mexico, offered remarks. A ballet folklórico from Oakland’s Fremont High School, Turf Inc. dancers and a mariachi performed. Bystanders cheered and took selfies. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>All the while, La Catrina, with her arms stretched out, seemed to offer everyone an unexpected warm hug. The skeletal figure dons a marigold crown and a purple dress covered in Mexican iconography and phrases, including “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” which means, “We are here and we’re not leaving.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Last year, Chris Iglesias, CEO of Oakland nonprofit the Unity Council, saw that artists had installed massive Catrina sculptures in other cities and decided that Oakland needed one, too. The Unity Council organizes the annual Día de los Muertos festival in Fruitvale. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Because of Día de los Muertos and how many people come out every year, and what happened last year with the theme, ‘Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,’ it’s like, let’s just build on that,” he said during the welcome ceremony. “We want to build on it in a very big way. We didn’t think he was going to be this big. She’s a big lady, right? But she’s a beautiful lady.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12102437\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102437\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A mariachi group performs at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102432\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee and Chris Iglesias, CEO of the Unity Council, dance together as members of Fremont High School’s baile folklóriko group perform at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Unity Council connected with ArtSumex, a group of Mexican artists who specialize in larger-than-life Catrinas, to commission the piece, which was crafted in central Mexico and trucked to Oakland. Other groups, including Visit Oakland, the city of Oakland and the Latino Community Foundation, joined in to help cover the $65,000 cost. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Thursday’s welcome ceremony was a celebration of an amazing work of art, but also of Oakland’s community and the way Mexican culture transcends borders.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“She traveled over 2,000 miles from Mexico to Oakland,” said Caheri Gutierrez, the Unity Council’s director of fund development and communications. “A journey that mirrors the journeys of generations of families who have made their way here to El Norte, carrying their culture, traditions, dreams and hopes. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“And now she stands here in Fruitvale, the heart of Oakland’s Latino community, as the tallest Catrina in the United States.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The speakers on Thursdays talked about the importance of honoring and uplifting immigrant communities at a time when the federal government has adopted an anti-immigrant stance and launched a harsh deportation enforcement campaign. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102430\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee speaks at The Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102433\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The crowd welcomes La Catrina de Oakland by saying “Bienvenida, a Oakland, la Catrina,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>La Catrina, “really is a symbol of the friendship, of the connection, of the enduring legacy, of the contributions that Mexicans and Mexican Americans have made,” said Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation and former HUD secretary. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“During this time when the community has been targeted, when it’s been scapegoated, when it has been otherized, when it is told in so many ways that it doesn’t belong, instead, we find in this image … a beautiful, beautiful statement about joy and celebration.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Lee talked about her childhood in El Paso, Texas, a border community where two countries converged. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We are a town that stays true to its values for speaking up for racial justice, to defending our immigrant neighbors when their rights are being threatened and to protect our immigrant neighborhoods,” she said. “I know that immigrants give our city of Oakland its strength, its culture and its resilience. And that’s why La Catrina means so much.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102429\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Onlookers watch the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland from the BART platform at Fruitvale Station in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>La Catrina refers to an image created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada in 1912 as a satirical image making fun of Mexico’s upper classes. Skeleton imagery, however, dates back thousands of years to the indigenous people of Mexico. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In recent decades, Posada’s Catrina has become heavily associated with Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, a holiday in which people honor deceased loved ones and ancestors, and now represents an \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101911846/how-dia-de-los-muertos-continues-to-evolve\">evolution of an ancient tradition.\u003c/a> \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062734/how-californians-are-reclaiming-dia-de-los-muertos-as-an-act-of-cultural-resistance\">Day of the Dead\u003c/a> has slowly crept into mainstream U.S. culture thanks to movies like Disney’s \u003cem>Coco\u003c/em> — and of course the holiday industrial complex that turns any celebration into an excuse to buy decor and merchandise. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102434\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the public welcome La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I have been worried for years that oversaturation of skeleton imagery meant that it and Day of the Dead were losing significance. Catrinas depict the dead as living beings, which represents the way life and death are intertwined and the way death and the deceased are ever-present in our lives. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>There is something arresting, evocative and impressive about Catrinas because skeletons aren’t supposed to laugh or smile or exude life. It’s a fascinating dichotomy, which is perhaps why La Catrina is an appropriate symbol for our current times when immigrants are under siege and yet bring so much life to our communities.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I found it endearing that the speakers at the welcome ceremony talked about La Catrina as a being who had traveled to Oakland, who would serve to welcome people stepping off BART and who would serve as an ambassador of Mexican culture. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I hope you go see her for yourself. You can visit La Catrina at the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza now through Nov. 1.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102436\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ana Maria Dueñas (center) and others take photos of the La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Elected officials, including Mayor Barbara Lee and the Consul General of Mexico, offered remarks. A ballet folklórico from Oakland’s Fremont High School, Turf Inc. dancers and a mariachi performed. Bystanders cheered and took selfies. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>All the while, La Catrina, with her arms stretched out, seemed to offer everyone an unexpected warm hug. The skeletal figure dons a marigold crown and a purple dress covered in Mexican iconography and phrases, including “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” which means, “We are here and we’re not leaving.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>All the while, La Catrina, with her arms stretched out, seemed to offer everyone an unexpected warm hug. The skeletal figure dons a marigold crown and a purple dress covered in Mexican iconography and phrases, including “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” which means, “We are here and we’re not leaving.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Last year, Chris Iglesias, CEO of Oakland nonprofit the Unity Council, saw that artists had installed massive Catrina sculptures in other cities and decided that Oakland needed one, too. The Unity Council organizes the annual Día de los Muertos festival in Fruitvale. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Last year, Chris Iglesias, CEO of Oakland nonprofit the Unity Council, saw that artists had installed massive Catrina sculptures in other cities and decided that Oakland needed one, too. The Unity Council organizes the annual Día de los Muertos festival in Fruitvale. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Because of Día de los Muertos and how many people come out every year, and what happened last year with the theme, ‘Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,’ it’s like, let’s just build on that,” he said during the welcome ceremony. “We want to build on it in a very big way. We didn’t think he was going to be this big. She’s a big lady, right? But she’s a beautiful lady.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102437\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A mariachi group performs at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102432\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee and Chris Iglesias, CEO of the Unity Council, dance together as members of Fremont High School’s baile folklóriko group perform at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Unity Council connected with ArtSumex, a group of Mexican artists who specialize in larger-than-life Catrinas, to commission the piece, which was crafted in central Mexico and trucked to Oakland. Other groups, including Visit Oakland, the city of Oakland and the Latino Community Foundation, joined in to help cover the $65,000 cost. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Thursday’s welcome ceremony was a celebration of an amazing work of art, but also of Oakland’s community and the way Mexican culture transcends borders.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“She traveled over 2,000 miles from Mexico to Oakland,” said Caheri Gutierrez, the Unity Council’s director of fund development and communications. “A journey that mirrors the journeys of generations of families who have made their way here to El Norte, carrying their culture, traditions, dreams and hopes. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“She traveled over 2,000 miles from Mexico to Oakland,” said Caheri Gutierrez, the Unity Council’s director of fund development and communications. “A journey that mirrors the journeys of generations of families who have made their way here to El Norte, carrying their culture, traditions, dreams and hopes. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“And now she stands here in Fruitvale, the heart of Oakland’s Latino community, as the tallest Catrina in the United States.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The speakers on Thursdays talked about the importance of honoring and uplifting immigrant communities at a time when the federal government has adopted an anti-immigrant stance and launched a harsh deportation enforcement campaign. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The speakers on Thursdays talked about the importance of honoring and uplifting immigrant communities at a time when the federal government has adopted an anti-immigrant stance and launched a harsh deportation enforcement campaign. \u003c/p>\n"
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102430\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee speaks at The Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102433\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The crowd welcomes La Catrina de Oakland by saying “Bienvenida, a Oakland, la Catrina,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102433\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The crowd welcomes La Catrina de Oakland by saying “Bienvenida, a Oakland, la Catrina,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>La Catrina, “really is a symbol of the friendship, of the connection, of the enduring legacy, of the contributions that Mexicans and Mexican Americans have made,” said Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation and former HUD secretary. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“During this time when the community has been targeted, when it’s been scapegoated, when it has been otherized, when it is told in so many ways that it doesn’t belong, instead, we find in this image … a beautiful, beautiful statement about joy and celebration.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“During this time when the community has been targeted, when it’s been scapegoated, when it has been otherized, when it is told in so many ways that it doesn’t belong, instead, we find in this image … a beautiful, beautiful statement about joy and celebration.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Lee talked about her childhood in El Paso, Texas, a border community where two countries converged. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“We are a town that stays true to its values for speaking up for racial justice, to defending our immigrant neighbors when their rights are being threatened and to protect our immigrant neighborhoods,” she said. “I know that immigrants give our city of Oakland its strength, its culture and its resilience. And that’s why La Catrina means so much.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“We are a town that stays true to its values for speaking up for racial justice, to defending our immigrant neighbors when their rights are being threatened and to protect our immigrant neighborhoods,” she said. “I know that immigrants give our city of Oakland its strength, its culture and its resilience. And that’s why La Catrina means so much.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102429\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Onlookers watch the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland from the BART platform at Fruitvale Station in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102429\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Onlookers watch the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland from the BART platform at Fruitvale Station in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>La Catrina refers to an image created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada in 1912 as a satirical image making fun of Mexico’s upper classes. Skeleton imagery, however, dates back thousands of years to the indigenous people of Mexico. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>La Catrina refers to an image created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada in 1912 as a satirical image making fun of Mexico’s upper classes. Skeleton imagery, however, dates back thousands of years to the indigenous people of Mexico. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>In recent decades, Posada’s Catrina has become heavily associated with Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, a holiday in which people honor deceased loved ones and ancestors, and now represents an \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101911846/how-dia-de-los-muertos-continues-to-evolve\">evolution of an ancient tradition.\u003c/a> \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>In recent decades, Posada’s Catrina has become heavily associated with Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, a holiday in which people honor deceased loved ones and ancestors, and now represents an \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101911846/how-dia-de-los-muertos-continues-to-evolve\">evolution of an ancient tradition.\u003c/a> \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062734/how-californians-are-reclaiming-dia-de-los-muertos-as-an-act-of-cultural-resistance\">Day of the Dead\u003c/a> has slowly crept into mainstream U.S. culture thanks to movies like Disney’s \u003cem>Coco\u003c/em> — and of course the holiday industrial complex that turns any celebration into an excuse to buy decor and merchandise. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102434\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the public welcome La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102434\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the public welcome La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>I have been worried for years that oversaturation of skeleton imagery meant that it and Day of the Dead were losing significance. Catrinas depict the dead as living beings, which represents the way life and death are intertwined and the way death and the deceased are ever-present in our lives. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>I have been worried for years that oversaturation of skeleton imagery meant that it and Day of the Dead were losing significance. Catrinas depict the dead as living beings, which represents the way life and death are intertwined and the way death and the deceased are ever-present in our lives. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>There is something arresting, evocative and impressive about Catrinas because skeletons aren’t supposed to laugh or smile or exude life. It’s a fascinating dichotomy, which is perhaps why La Catrina is an appropriate symbol for our current times when immigrants are under siege and yet bring so much life to our communities.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>There is something arresting, evocative and impressive about Catrinas because skeletons aren’t supposed to laugh or smile or exude life. It’s a fascinating dichotomy, which is perhaps why La Catrina is an appropriate symbol for our current times when immigrants are under siege and yet bring so much life to our communities.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>I found it endearing that the speakers at the welcome ceremony talked about La Catrina as a being who had traveled to Oakland, who would serve to welcome people stepping off BART and who would serve as an ambassador of Mexican culture. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>I found it endearing that the speakers at the welcome ceremony talked about La Catrina as a being who had traveled to Oakland, who would serve to welcome people stepping off BART and who would serve as an ambassador of Mexican culture. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>I hope you go see her for yourself. You can visit La Catrina at the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza now through Nov. 1.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>I hope you go see her for yourself. You can visit La Catrina at the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza now through Nov. 1.\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "An East Bay ceremony welcoming the sculpture from Mexico celebrated culture bridging borders.",
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"title": "A Giant La Catrina Sculpture Sends a Defiant Message From Oakland’s Latinx Community | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was reported for K Onda KQED, a monthly newsletter focused on the Bay Area’s Latinx community. \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/newsletters/k-onda\">\u003cem>Click here to subscribe.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In the not-too-distant past, I might have argued that we had reached peak Catrina — the skeleton image linked with \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/dia-de-los-muertos\">Día de los Muertos\u003c/a> was everywhere from keychains to restaurant murals — and was becoming cliché.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A giant La Catrina sculpture in Oakland has proven me wrong. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>On Thursday morning, a crowd of hundreds gathered in the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza to officially welcome the towering 34-foot sculpture, with fanfare usually reserved for a foreign dignitary.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102424\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-01-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 34-foot-tall La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102425\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-02-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Decorations on the dress of La Catrina de Oakland include California poppies, pan dulce and the words, “aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12102436\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102436\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-18-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ana Maria Dueñas (center) and others take photos of the La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Elected officials, including Mayor Barbara Lee and the Consul General of Mexico, offered remarks. A ballet folklórico from Oakland’s Fremont High School, Turf Inc. dancers and a mariachi performed. Bystanders cheered and took selfies. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>All the while, La Catrina, with her arms stretched out, seemed to offer everyone an unexpected warm hug. The skeletal figure dons a marigold crown and a purple dress covered in Mexican iconography and phrases, including “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,” which means, “We are here and we’re not leaving.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Last year, Chris Iglesias, CEO of Oakland nonprofit the Unity Council, saw that artists had installed massive Catrina sculptures in other cities and decided that Oakland needed one, too. The Unity Council organizes the annual Día de los Muertos festival in Fruitvale. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Because of Día de los Muertos and how many people come out every year, and what happened last year with the theme, ‘Aquí estamos y no nos vamos,’ it’s like, let’s just build on that,” he said during the welcome ceremony. “We want to build on it in a very big way. We didn’t think he was going to be this big. She’s a big lady, right? But she’s a beautiful lady.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" data-id=\"12102437\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102437\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-19-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A mariachi group performs at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102432\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-14-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee and Chris Iglesias, CEO of the Unity Council, dance together as members of Fremont High School’s baile folklóriko group perform at the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Unity Council connected with ArtSumex, a group of Mexican artists who specialize in larger-than-life Catrinas, to commission the piece, which was crafted in central Mexico and trucked to Oakland. Other groups, including Visit Oakland, the city of Oakland and the Latino Community Foundation, joined in to help cover the $65,000 cost. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Thursday’s welcome ceremony was a celebration of an amazing work of art, but also of Oakland’s community and the way Mexican culture transcends borders.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“She traveled over 2,000 miles from Mexico to Oakland,” said Caheri Gutierrez, the Unity Council’s director of fund development and communications. “A journey that mirrors the journeys of generations of families who have made their way here to El Norte, carrying their culture, traditions, dreams and hopes. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“And now she stands here in Fruitvale, the heart of Oakland’s Latino community, as the tallest Catrina in the United States.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The speakers on Thursdays talked about the importance of honoring and uplifting immigrant communities at a time when the federal government has adopted an anti-immigrant stance and launched a harsh deportation enforcement campaign. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102430\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-10-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee speaks at The Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102433\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-16-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The crowd welcomes La Catrina de Oakland by saying “Bienvenida, a Oakland, la Catrina,” at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>La Catrina, “really is a symbol of the friendship, of the connection, of the enduring legacy, of the contributions that Mexicans and Mexican Americans have made,” said Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation and former HUD secretary. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“During this time when the community has been targeted, when it’s been scapegoated, when it has been otherized, when it is told in so many ways that it doesn’t belong, instead, we find in this image … a beautiful, beautiful statement about joy and celebration.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Lee talked about her childhood in El Paso, Texas, a border community where two countries converged. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We are a town that stays true to its values for speaking up for racial justice, to defending our immigrant neighbors when their rights are being threatened and to protect our immigrant neighborhoods,” she said. “I know that immigrants give our city of Oakland its strength, its culture and its resilience. And that’s why La Catrina means so much.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102429\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-08-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Onlookers watch the Welcome Ceremony for La Catrina de Oakland from the BART platform at Fruitvale Station in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>La Catrina refers to an image created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada in 1912 as a satirical image making fun of Mexico’s upper classes. Skeleton imagery, however, dates back thousands of years to the indigenous people of Mexico. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>In recent decades, Posada’s Catrina has become heavily associated with Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, a holiday in which people honor deceased loved ones and ancestors, and now represents an \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101911846/how-dia-de-los-muertos-continues-to-evolve\">evolution of an ancient tradition.\u003c/a> \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062734/how-californians-are-reclaiming-dia-de-los-muertos-as-an-act-of-cultural-resistance\">Day of the Dead\u003c/a> has slowly crept into mainstream U.S. culture thanks to movies like Disney’s \u003cem>Coco\u003c/em> — and of course the holiday industrial complex that turns any celebration into an excuse to buy decor and merchandise. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12102434\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/10/261001-LA-CATRINA-OAKLAND-MD-17-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the public welcome La Catrina de Oakland at Fruitvale Plaza in Oakland on Oct. 1, 2026. (Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I have been worried for years that oversaturation of skeleton imagery meant that it and Day of the Dead were losing significance. Catrinas depict the dead as living beings, which represents the way life and death are intertwined and the way death and the deceased are ever-present in our lives. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>There is something arresting, evocative and impressive about Catrinas because skeletons aren’t supposed to laugh or smile or exude life. It’s a fascinating dichotomy, which is perhaps why La Catrina is an appropriate symbol for our current times when immigrants are under siege and yet bring so much life to our communities.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I found it endearing that the speakers at the welcome ceremony talked about La Catrina as a being who had traveled to Oakland, who would serve to welcome people stepping off BART and who would serve as an ambassador of Mexican culture. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>I hope you go see her for yourself. You can visit La Catrina at the Fruitvale Transit Center plaza now through Nov. 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "fans-rally-at-chase-center-as-valkyries-win-their-first-playoff-game-on-sunday",
"title": "Fans Rally at Chase Center as Valkyries Win Their First Playoff Game on Sunday",
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"headTitle": "Fans Rally at Chase Center as Valkyries Win Their First Playoff Game on Sunday | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>’ second playoff run is off to a strong start after the team won 104 to 80 against the Dallas Wings on Sunday night at home at the Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The night saw a packed house and major milestones for the Valkyries in a couple different ways: the team’s first playoff win ever, the highest number of points scored in the franchise’s two years and six players who hit multiple threes — the last of which made the walls of Chase Center (a.k.a. Ballhalla) rattle with the cheers of a fandom that has become well known for its passion and loyalty. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Considering the Valkyries’ debut last year brought in a whole new wave of basketball fans, KQED has guides on \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12096884/in-the-midst-of-basketball-and-baseball-season-how-to-join-womens-sports-fandom-in-the-bay-area\">how to join in on the WNBA fandom\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">how to follow playoffs\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">how to attend a game at Chase Center\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101590\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Valkyries fans light their phones during a break at the Golden State Valkyries home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>We also spoke to some of the fervent fans decked out in purple before the game to see how they are feeling about the Valkyries’ playoff chances and what advice they have for newcomers. Because, as Dallas Wings guard and WNBA fan favorite Paige Bueckers said after the game, Valkyries fans are the team’s “sixth man.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I think they have one of the best home courts in the league,” Bueckers said. “There’s not a silent voice in the crowd. So, it’s tough to play here, but as a competitor, you kind of love that and you want to embrace that environment.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries went hard during the first half of the game, leading by 21 points. After a very Bay Area halftime show that featured West Coast hip-hop legend Too $hort (much to \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SFP8iPWvR34\">the delight of Valkyries player Gabby Williams\u003c/a>), the Wings were unable to close the gap and push through the Valkyries’ defense. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101589\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101581\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101581\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101587\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101587\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be facing the Wings again on Wednesday, this time in Texas. In a postgame press conference, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase — fresh off a \u003ca href=\"https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-womens-basketball-world-cup-2026\">FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup win\u003c/a> with Team USA — said she is already telling the players to start thinking about the next game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“They’re already in recovery mode right now. I told them it was a must because tonight’s recovery is going to be so, so important,” she said in a postgame conference. “We have to really expect a Dallas Wings team that’s going to be hungry.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Next game mentality; nothing carries over from this game,” she said. “We’re already onto the next.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Prospects for the Valkyries are much better during this year’s playoffs than last year, when the freshman team, ranked eighth in the league, lost twice to the Minnesota Lynx. Now, the Valkyries are ranked second in the league and, if they beat the Wings in a best-of-three, will face either the Las Vegas Aces or the Indiana Fever.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101586\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101586\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101579\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101579\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tam Vu/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“That’s part of our identity, knowing I can play as hard as I can when I’m on the court, because as soon as someone else comes in, we have another burst,” Valkyries forward Williams said. “That’s just what we’ve hung our hat on all season — is our depth.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase also commented on the growth of the team — and how that has been reflected in Ballhalla and the fans. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“[The crowd is] more in unison,” she said. “Our team this year is a lot more connected; you could see the whole Ballhalla community is more connected.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>If you are hoping to get in on the hype during this major point in the WNBA postseason, here’s what several friendly fans recommended to those just joining in: \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Janene Wendrick, Oakland\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling ready. I’m so excited that we’re in the playoffs for the second season and second time around. People thought that we just weren’t gonna make it … I’m ready to be loud in the building.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What’s your favorite thing about Ballhalla? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Every single game you see, you meet new friends, and you just smile. You leave happy. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose. You’re just still leaving happy.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101582\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Janene Wendrick poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We’re gonna welcome you. We’re going to show you all the little tips that we have for you.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I always tell someone: Don’t forget to get your free cup. Don’t forget to go to the activations. Don’t forget to go down to check out the Sephora vending machine. Don’t forget to stay in your seat … there’s so much you want to see [during the] halftime; stay in your seat.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jodi Howard, Sunnyvale \u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What was your favorite moment of the season?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You know, Friday night’s game was terrifying, and winning that game at the very end was probably my favorite moment.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a WNBA fan? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Maybe for like a year before the Valkyries. Not too long. I started following the [Las Vegas] Aces because a friend of mine loved them.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just knew that when we were getting a team that it was something I wanted to support and get into, and it has been the best decision I’ve made in a long time, so I’ve loved it. “\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101583\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jodi Howard poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You’re going to be amazed at the kindness of the fans, at the energy of the fans; it feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Chase Center tip? I like the adult Slurpees. They’re delicious, but the food is really expensive — so eat before you go in.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kashina Garner, San Francisco\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101585\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kashina Garner poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling great. The Valkyries are No. 2 seed, so we need to just take this home … I’m feeling over the moon right now.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a women’s basketball fan? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’ve been a basketball fan for quite some time now, but I’ve really become a fan since the Valkyries became a part of the WNBA.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“First of all, the color is my favorite color. And just all around the environment that this, you know, the women’s empowerment and… the atmosphere that it brings, you know, it’s also amazing.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Eva LaMorte, Sacramento\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003cem>Can you tell me a bit about your outfit? \u003c/em>\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I was going for cutesy, sporty cutesy. I love to customize my own shoes, so I definitely went all out on my shoes today, but I would say more cutesy sporty.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101658\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eva Lamorte poses for a portrait before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling today? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“This is my first playoff. I know they went last year, but it’s my first playoff game with them, so just super duper excited.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s just spending time with my daughter out here. It’s become our thing to come together, and being here with her is the best part of it.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We used to have \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13989177/monarchs-sacramento-wnba-team-history\">the Sacramento Monarchs\u003c/a> out there. Now we have the Valkyries out this way. I just love women’s sports. Like, we need more of it.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“A lot of people are intimidated … just sit and watch. It becomes a blast.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Anywhere is a good seat; I love Ballhalla for that reason … I’ve really only ever been here for the basketball games. So whether you’re up high or up close, you’re really seeing it all.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Everybody in the place is just incredible to be around. Anywhere you sit, not only the view, but the people.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>’ second playoff run is off to a strong start after the team won 104 to 80 against the Dallas Wings on Sunday night at home at the Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The night saw a packed house and major milestones for the Valkyries in a couple different ways: the team’s first playoff win ever, the highest number of points scored in the franchise’s two years and six players who hit multiple threes — the last of which made the walls of Chase Center (a.k.a. Ballhalla) rattle with the cheers of a fandom that has become well known for its passion and loyalty. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The night saw a packed house and major milestones for the Valkyries in a couple different ways: the team’s first playoff win ever, the highest number of points scored in the franchise’s two years and six players who hit multiple threes — the last of which made the walls of Chase Center (a.k.a. Ballhalla) rattle with the cheers of a fandom that has become well known for its passion and loyalty. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Considering the Valkyries’ debut last year brought in a whole new wave of basketball fans, KQED has guides on \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12096884/in-the-midst-of-basketball-and-baseball-season-how-to-join-womens-sports-fandom-in-the-bay-area\">how to join in on the WNBA fandom\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">how to follow playoffs\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">how to attend a game at Chase Center\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Considering the Valkyries’ debut last year brought in a whole new wave of basketball fans, KQED has guides on \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12096884/in-the-midst-of-basketball-and-baseball-season-how-to-join-womens-sports-fandom-in-the-bay-area\">how to join in on the WNBA fandom\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">how to follow playoffs\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">how to attend a game at Chase Center\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n"
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101590\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Valkyries fans light their phones during a break at the Golden State Valkyries home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>We also spoke to some of the fervent fans decked out in purple before the game to see how they are feeling about the Valkyries’ playoff chances and what advice they have for newcomers. Because, as Dallas Wings guard and WNBA fan favorite Paige Bueckers said after the game, Valkyries fans are the team’s “sixth man.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>We also spoke to some of the fervent fans decked out in purple before the game to see how they are feeling about the Valkyries’ playoff chances and what advice they have for newcomers. Because, as Dallas Wings guard and WNBA fan favorite Paige Bueckers said after the game, Valkyries fans are the team’s “sixth man.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I think they have one of the best home courts in the league,” Bueckers said. “There’s not a silent voice in the crowd. So, it’s tough to play here, but as a competitor, you kind of love that and you want to embrace that environment.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I think they have one of the best home courts in the league,” Bueckers said. “There’s not a silent voice in the crowd. So, it’s tough to play here, but as a competitor, you kind of love that and you want to embrace that environment.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries went hard during the first half of the game, leading by 21 points. After a very Bay Area halftime show that featured West Coast hip-hop legend Too $hort (much to \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SFP8iPWvR34\">the delight of Valkyries player Gabby Williams\u003c/a>), the Wings were unable to close the gap and push through the Valkyries’ defense. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The Valkyries went hard during the first half of the game, leading by 21 points. After a very Bay Area halftime show that featured West Coast hip-hop legend Too $hort (much to \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SFP8iPWvR34\">the delight of Valkyries player Gabby Williams\u003c/a>), the Wings were unable to close the gap and push through the Valkyries’ defense. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101589\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be facing the Wings again on Wednesday, this time in Texas. In a postgame press conference, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase — fresh off a \u003ca href=\"https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-womens-basketball-world-cup-2026\">FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup win\u003c/a> with Team USA — said she is already telling the players to start thinking about the next game. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be facing the Wings again on Wednesday, this time in Texas. In a postgame press conference, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase — fresh off a \u003ca href=\"https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-womens-basketball-world-cup-2026\">FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup win\u003c/a> with Team USA — said she is already telling the players to start thinking about the next game. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“They’re already in recovery mode right now. I told them it was a must because tonight’s recovery is going to be so, so important,” she said in a postgame conference. “We have to really expect a Dallas Wings team that’s going to be hungry.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“They’re already in recovery mode right now. I told them it was a must because tonight’s recovery is going to be so, so important,” she said in a postgame conference. “We have to really expect a Dallas Wings team that’s going to be hungry.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Prospects for the Valkyries are much better during this year’s playoffs than last year, when the freshman team, ranked eighth in the league, lost twice to the Minnesota Lynx. Now, the Valkyries are ranked second in the league and, if they beat the Wings in a best-of-three, will face either the Las Vegas Aces or the Indiana Fever.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“That’s part of our identity, knowing I can play as hard as I can when I’m on the court, because as soon as someone else comes in, we have another burst,” Valkyries forward Williams said. “That’s just what we’ve hung our hat on all season — is our depth.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“That’s part of our identity, knowing I can play as hard as I can when I’m on the court, because as soon as someone else comes in, we have another burst,” Valkyries forward Williams said. “That’s just what we’ve hung our hat on all season — is our depth.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Nakase also commented on the growth of the team — and how that has been reflected in Ballhalla and the fans. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“[The crowd is] more in unison,” she said. “Our team this year is a lot more connected; you could see the whole Ballhalla community is more connected.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“[The crowd is] more in unison,” she said. “Our team this year is a lot more connected; you could see the whole Ballhalla community is more connected.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>If you are hoping to get in on the hype during this major point in the WNBA postseason, here’s what several friendly fans recommended to those just joining in: \u003c/p>\n",
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"attrs": {
"text": "Janene Wendrick, Oakland",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Janene Wendrick, Oakland\u003c/h2>\n",
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"attrs": {
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"text": "How are you feeling right now? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling ready. I’m so excited that we’re in the playoffs for the second season and second time around. People thought that we just weren’t gonna make it … I’m ready to be loud in the building.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling ready. I’m so excited that we’re in the playoffs for the second season and second time around. People thought that we just weren’t gonna make it … I’m ready to be loud in the building.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"text": "What’s your favorite thing about Ballhalla? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What’s your favorite thing about Ballhalla? \u003c/h3>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Every single game you see, you meet new friends, and you just smile. You leave happy. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose. You’re just still leaving happy.” \u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>“Every single game you see, you meet new friends, and you just smile. You leave happy. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose. You’re just still leaving happy.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101582\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Janene Wendrick poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101582\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Janene Wendrick poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"text": "If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n",
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"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“We’re gonna welcome you. We’re going to show you all the little tips that we have for you.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“We’re gonna welcome you. We’re going to show you all the little tips that we have for you.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I always tell someone: Don’t forget to get your free cup. Don’t forget to go to the activations. Don’t forget to go down to check out the Sephora vending machine. Don’t forget to stay in your seat … there’s so much you want to see [during the] halftime; stay in your seat.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I always tell someone: Don’t forget to get your free cup. Don’t forget to go to the activations. Don’t forget to go down to check out the Sephora vending machine. Don’t forget to stay in your seat … there’s so much you want to see [during the] halftime; stay in your seat.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"attrs": {
"text": "Jodi Howard, Sunnyvale ",
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"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jodi Howard, Sunnyvale \u003c/h2>\n"
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{
"blockName": "core/heading",
"attrs": {
"level": 3,
"text": "What was your favorite moment of the season?"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What was your favorite moment of the season?\u003c/h3>\n",
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"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What was your favorite moment of the season?\u003c/h3>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“You know, Friday night’s game was terrifying, and winning that game at the very end was probably my favorite moment.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"blockName": "core/heading",
"attrs": {
"level": 3,
"text": "How long have you been a WNBA fan? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a WNBA fan? \u003c/h3>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a WNBA fan? \u003c/h3>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Maybe for like a year before the Valkyries. Not too long. I started following the [Las Vegas] Aces because a friend of mine loved them.\u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>“Maybe for like a year before the Valkyries. Not too long. I started following the [Las Vegas] Aces because a friend of mine loved them.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I just knew that when we were getting a team that it was something I wanted to support and get into, and it has been the best decision I’ve made in a long time, so I’ve loved it. “\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I just knew that when we were getting a team that it was something I wanted to support and get into, and it has been the best decision I’ve made in a long time, so I’ve loved it. “\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101583\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jodi Howard poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101583\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jodi Howard poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"attrs": {
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"text": "If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“You’re going to be amazed at the kindness of the fans, at the energy of the fans; it feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“You’re going to be amazed at the kindness of the fans, at the energy of the fans; it feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Chase Center tip? I like the adult Slurpees. They’re delicious, but the food is really expensive — so eat before you go in.” \u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>“Chase Center tip? I like the adult Slurpees. They’re delicious, but the food is really expensive — so eat before you go in.” \u003c/p>\n"
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{
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"attrs": {
"text": "Kashina Garner, San Francisco",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kashina Garner, San Francisco\u003c/h2>\n",
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"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kashina Garner, San Francisco\u003c/h2>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101585\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kashina Garner poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101585\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kashina Garner poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"blockName": "core/heading",
"attrs": {
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"text": "How are you feeling right now? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling great. The Valkyries are No. 2 seed, so we need to just take this home … I’m feeling over the moon right now.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling great. The Valkyries are No. 2 seed, so we need to just take this home … I’m feeling over the moon right now.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"blockName": "core/heading",
"attrs": {
"level": 3,
"text": "How long have you been a women’s basketball fan? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a women’s basketball fan? \u003c/h3>\n",
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"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a women’s basketball fan? \u003c/h3>\n"
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{
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I’ve been a basketball fan for quite some time now, but I’ve really become a fan since the Valkyries became a part of the WNBA.\u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>“I’ve been a basketball fan for quite some time now, but I’ve really become a fan since the Valkyries became a part of the WNBA.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“First of all, the color is my favorite color. And just all around the environment that this, you know, the women’s empowerment and… the atmosphere that it brings, you know, it’s also amazing.” \u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>“First of all, the color is my favorite color. And just all around the environment that this, you know, the women’s empowerment and… the atmosphere that it brings, you know, it’s also amazing.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"attrs": {
"text": "Eva LaMorte, Sacramento",
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"blockName": "core/heading",
"attrs": {
"level": 3,
"text": "Can you tell me a bit about your outfit? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003cem>Can you tell me a bit about your outfit? \u003c/em>\u003c/h3>\n",
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"\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003cem>Can you tell me a bit about your outfit? \u003c/em>\u003c/h3>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I was going for cutesy, sporty cutesy. I love to customize my own shoes, so I definitely went all out on my shoes today, but I would say more cutesy sporty.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“I was going for cutesy, sporty cutesy. I love to customize my own shoes, so I definitely went all out on my shoes today, but I would say more cutesy sporty.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101658\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eva Lamorte poses for a portrait before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101658\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eva Lamorte poses for a portrait before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"text": "How are you feeling today? "
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling today? \u003c/h3>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“This is my first playoff. I know they went last year, but it’s my first playoff game with them, so just super duper excited.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It’s just spending time with my daughter out here. It’s become our thing to come together, and being here with her is the best part of it.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“We used to have \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13989177/monarchs-sacramento-wnba-team-history\">the Sacramento Monarchs\u003c/a> out there. Now we have the Valkyries out this way. I just love women’s sports. Like, we need more of it.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"text": "If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“A lot of people are intimidated … just sit and watch. It becomes a blast.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“Anywhere is a good seat; I love Ballhalla for that reason … I’ve really only ever been here for the basketball games. So whether you’re up high or up close, you’re really seeing it all.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“Anywhere is a good seat; I love Ballhalla for that reason … I’ve really only ever been here for the basketball games. So whether you’re up high or up close, you’re really seeing it all.\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "WNBA playoffs have begun, and the Golden State Valkyries started strong with a win over Dallas.",
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"title": "Fans Rally at Chase Center as Valkyries Win Their First Playoff Game on Sunday | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/golden-state-valkyries\">Golden State Valkyries\u003c/a>’ second playoff run is off to a strong start after the team won 104 to 80 against the Dallas Wings on Sunday night at home at the Chase Center in San Francisco.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The night saw a packed house and major milestones for the Valkyries in a couple different ways: the team’s first playoff win ever, the highest number of points scored in the franchise’s two years and six players who hit multiple threes — the last of which made the walls of Chase Center (a.k.a. Ballhalla) rattle with the cheers of a fandom that has become well known for its passion and loyalty. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Considering the Valkyries’ debut last year brought in a whole new wave of basketball fans, KQED has guides on \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12096884/in-the-midst-of-basketball-and-baseball-season-how-to-join-womens-sports-fandom-in-the-bay-area\">how to join in on the WNBA fandom\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12101382/golden-state-valkyries-playoffs-wnba-2026-chase-center-ballhalla\">how to follow playoffs\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12047885/golden-state-valkyries-wnba-schedule-fandom-chase-center-san-francisco-ballhalla#chase-center-san-francisco-parking\">how to attend a game at Chase Center\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101590\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02241_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Valkyries fans light their phones during a break at the Golden State Valkyries home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>We also spoke to some of the fervent fans decked out in purple before the game to see how they are feeling about the Valkyries’ playoff chances and what advice they have for newcomers. Because, as Dallas Wings guard and WNBA fan favorite Paige Bueckers said after the game, Valkyries fans are the team’s “sixth man.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I think they have one of the best home courts in the league,” Bueckers said. “There’s not a silent voice in the crowd. So, it’s tough to play here, but as a competitor, you kind of love that and you want to embrace that environment.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries went hard during the first half of the game, leading by 21 points. After a very Bay Area halftime show that featured West Coast hip-hop legend Too $hort (much to \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SFP8iPWvR34\">the delight of Valkyries player Gabby Williams\u003c/a>), the Wings were unable to close the gap and push through the Valkyries’ defense. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101589\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-02213_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fans cheer for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101581\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101581\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01348_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101587\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101587\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01897_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The Valkyries will be facing the Wings again on Wednesday, this time in Texas. In a postgame press conference, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase — fresh off a \u003ca href=\"https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-womens-basketball-world-cup-2026\">FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup win\u003c/a> with Team USA — said she is already telling the players to start thinking about the next game. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“They’re already in recovery mode right now. I told them it was a must because tonight’s recovery is going to be so, so important,” she said in a postgame conference. “We have to really expect a Dallas Wings team that’s going to be hungry.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Next game mentality; nothing carries over from this game,” she said. “We’re already onto the next.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Prospects for the Valkyries are much better during this year’s playoffs than last year, when the freshman team, ranked eighth in the league, lost twice to the Minnesota Lynx. Now, the Valkyries are ranked second in the league and, if they beat the Wings in a best-of-three, will face either the Las Vegas Aces or the Indiana Fever.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101586\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101586\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01811_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12101579\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101579\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01332_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A fan cheers for the Golden State Valkyries as they play against the Dallas Wings during their home opener at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tam Vu/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“That’s part of our identity, knowing I can play as hard as I can when I’m on the court, because as soon as someone else comes in, we have another burst,” Valkyries forward Williams said. “That’s just what we’ve hung our hat on all season — is our depth.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nakase also commented on the growth of the team — and how that has been reflected in Ballhalla and the fans. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“[The crowd is] more in unison,” she said. “Our team this year is a lot more connected; you could see the whole Ballhalla community is more connected.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>If you are hoping to get in on the hype during this major point in the WNBA postseason, here’s what several friendly fans recommended to those just joining in: \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Janene Wendrick, Oakland\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling ready. I’m so excited that we’re in the playoffs for the second season and second time around. People thought that we just weren’t gonna make it … I’m ready to be loud in the building.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What’s your favorite thing about Ballhalla? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Every single game you see, you meet new friends, and you just smile. You leave happy. It doesn’t matter if we win or lose. You’re just still leaving happy.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101582\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01639_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Janene Wendrick poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We’re gonna welcome you. We’re going to show you all the little tips that we have for you.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I always tell someone: Don’t forget to get your free cup. Don’t forget to go to the activations. Don’t forget to go down to check out the Sephora vending machine. Don’t forget to stay in your seat … there’s so much you want to see [during the] halftime; stay in your seat.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jodi Howard, Sunnyvale \u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What was your favorite moment of the season?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You know, Friday night’s game was terrifying, and winning that game at the very end was probably my favorite moment.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a WNBA fan? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Maybe for like a year before the Valkyries. Not too long. I started following the [Las Vegas] Aces because a friend of mine loved them.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just knew that when we were getting a team that it was something I wanted to support and get into, and it has been the best decision I’ve made in a long time, so I’ve loved it. “\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101583\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01695_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jodi Howard poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You’re going to be amazed at the kindness of the fans, at the energy of the fans; it feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Chase Center tip? I like the adult Slurpees. They’re delicious, but the food is really expensive — so eat before you go in.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kashina Garner, San Francisco\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101585\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-VALKYRIESPLAYOFF1-01792_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kashina Garner poses for a portrait sporting a cape and purple feather mask before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling right now? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’m feeling great. The Valkyries are No. 2 seed, so we need to just take this home … I’m feeling over the moon right now.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long have you been a women’s basketball fan? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I’ve been a basketball fan for quite some time now, but I’ve really become a fan since the Valkyries became a part of the WNBA.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“First of all, the color is my favorite color. And just all around the environment that this, you know, the women’s empowerment and… the atmosphere that it brings, you know, it’s also amazing.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Eva LaMorte, Sacramento\u003c/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003cem>Can you tell me a bit about your outfit? \u003c/em>\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I was going for cutesy, sporty cutesy. I love to customize my own shoes, so I definitely went all out on my shoes today, but I would say more cutesy sporty.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12101658\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260927-valkyriesplayoff1-01762_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eva Lamorte poses for a portrait before the Golden State Valkyries play the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 27, 2026. The Golden State Valkyries won 104-80 in the first playoff game of the season. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are you feeling today? \u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“This is my first playoff. I know they went last year, but it’s my first playoff game with them, so just super duper excited.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s just spending time with my daughter out here. It’s become our thing to come together, and being here with her is the best part of it.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“We used to have \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13989177/monarchs-sacramento-wnba-team-history\">the Sacramento Monarchs\u003c/a> out there. Now we have the Valkyries out this way. I just love women’s sports. Like, we need more of it.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you had advice for someone going to Ballhalla for the first time, what would it be?\u003c/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“A lot of people are intimidated … just sit and watch. It becomes a blast.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Anywhere is a good seat; I love Ballhalla for that reason … I’ve really only ever been here for the basketball games. So whether you’re up high or up close, you’re really seeing it all.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Everybody in the place is just incredible to be around. Anywhere you sit, not only the view, but the people.”\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "just-in-my-blood-lowriding-is-a-family-affair-at-mission-districts-annual-parade",
"title": "‘Just in My Blood’: Lowriding Is a Family Affair at Mission District’s Annual Parade",
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"headTitle": "‘Just in My Blood’: Lowriding Is a Family Affair at Mission District’s Annual Parade | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>Chad Oliver said he’s embraced \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/lowriders\">lowriding \u003c/a>as a lifestyle since he was in high school. Now in his 50s, he holds his grandson with as much pride as when he talks about his cherry red 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>It’s a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966254/california-lifts-decades-old-ban-on-lowrider-cruising\">historically criminalized\u003c/a> culture strained by decades of now-lifted cruising bans across California, which enthusiasts say targeted Mexican Americans. But through those like Oliver — and hundreds of others with lowriders on display at the annual Mission District parade — that \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13987600/lowrider-stamp-new-unveiling-cars-san-francisco\">tradition still thrives\u003c/a> today.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s always been in my life. It’s a lifestyle,” Oliver, of Manteca, said. “It’ll be in my family for as long as I’m around.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-13 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100692\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The front bumper of a 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100691\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chad Oliver and his grandson Lorenzo pose for a portrait in front of his 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Lowrider Council celebrated its 45th anniversary by hosting its lowrider parade on Saturday. The event, days after the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, came complete with a “King of the Streets” hopping competition along with a car show and an art exhibit.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Oliver’s grandson, Lorenzo, came with his parents in a pinstriped 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass they’ve had for about two years. Antonio Esparza, the boy’s father, said the parade is always “the best feeling you ever have.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I mean, if you ain’t got a car, jump in with someone,” said Esparza, who came from Sacramento for the event. “All these is family.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-14 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100693\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100693\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Antonio Esparza (left) and his wife Blanca Esparza (right) pose with children in their family at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100694\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100694\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Children watch the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade from a parked car in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Attendees on Saturday often noted they made the ride to San Francisco’s event because shows across the state didn’t have the same vibe. David Gomez is a San Jose native who came out with his son Mateo, 12, in a dark blue 1994 Lincoln they’ve been building together. Gomez, who now lives in Redding, said they typically go to other shows where they live and in Northern California. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“But they don’t do nothing like they do out here in the Bay Area and Sacramento,” Gomez said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Drivers rode down streets in the neighborhood in carefully painted cars and motorcycles, blaring music and prominently displaying flags of Mexico and other countries. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-15 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100695\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100695\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A custom street sign that reads, “Frisco King of the Streets,” at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100696\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100696\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People gather for the hopper competition at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>David Peralta, though, was among Mission District natives who said the sight of the cars reminded him of how “the neighborhood used to be” before the displacement of some Latino neighbors. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s just in my blood,” Peralta said. “With all the cars and all the Mexican people coming out. You know, some of them got moved out — but we’re back.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Peralta grew to love cars thanks to his older brothers and seeing them cruise back in the day. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-16 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100697\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100697\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">David Peralta poses with his car at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100698\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100698\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A “Homies” doll is mounted on a car with the Mexico flag at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-17 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100701\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100701\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Parade participants fly the Mexico flag as they drive down Mission Street at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100702\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100702\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lidia Rioss wears makeup traditionally worn on Day of the Dead, a holiday celebrated in Mexico dedicated to honoring deceased family members, at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I knew when I got older, I was going to get me one,” Peralta said, adding that he’ll be passing his current car on to his 14-year-old son. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Molly Seret showed up in her red patina-painted 1963 Biscayne Wagon — the first car she ever got at 15 — and stood out among the drivers \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13965353/duenas-all-womens-lowrider-club-silicon-valley-sunnyvale-angel-romero\">as one of the few women\u003c/a>. Her story was the same. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Growing up, my dad had a shop, so I spent a lot of time in a shop as a child,” Seret said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-18 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100699\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100699\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A biker rides his motorcycle as flames come out of his exhaust at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100700\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100700\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A couple takes a selfie with parade participants in their car at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Julian Nunez, who came in his baby blue 1998 Lincoln town car, took an interest in cars too because his dad always had cars around him and the two worked on them together. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just do it for the crowd,” Nunez said. “It’s fun being the center of attention sometimes.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Chad Oliver said he’s embraced \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/lowriders\">lowriding \u003c/a>as a lifestyle since he was in high school. Now in his 50s, he holds his grandson with as much pride as when he talks about his cherry red 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>It’s a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966254/california-lifts-decades-old-ban-on-lowrider-cruising\">historically criminalized\u003c/a> culture strained by decades of now-lifted cruising bans across California, which enthusiasts say targeted Mexican Americans. But through those like Oliver — and hundreds of others with lowriders on display at the annual Mission District parade — that \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13987600/lowrider-stamp-new-unveiling-cars-san-francisco\">tradition still thrives\u003c/a> today.\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It’s always been in my life. It’s a lifestyle,” Oliver, of Manteca, said. “It’ll be in my family for as long as I’m around.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“It’s always been in my life. It’s a lifestyle,” Oliver, of Manteca, said. “It’ll be in my family for as long as I’m around.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100692\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The front bumper of a 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100691\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chad Oliver and his grandson Lorenzo pose for a portrait in front of his 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Lowrider Council celebrated its 45th anniversary by hosting its lowrider parade on Saturday. The event, days after the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, came complete with a “King of the Streets” hopping competition along with a car show and an art exhibit.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Lowrider Council celebrated its 45th anniversary by hosting its lowrider parade on Saturday. The event, days after the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, came complete with a “King of the Streets” hopping competition along with a car show and an art exhibit.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Oliver’s grandson, Lorenzo, came with his parents in a pinstriped 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass they’ve had for about two years. Antonio Esparza, the boy’s father, said the parade is always “the best feeling you ever have.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Oliver’s grandson, Lorenzo, came with his parents in a pinstriped 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass they’ve had for about two years. Antonio Esparza, the boy’s father, said the parade is always “the best feeling you ever have.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I mean, if you ain’t got a car, jump in with someone,” said Esparza, who came from Sacramento for the event. “All these is family.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Attendees on Saturday often noted they made the ride to San Francisco’s event because shows across the state didn’t have the same vibe. David Gomez is a San Jose native who came out with his son Mateo, 12, in a dark blue 1994 Lincoln they’ve been building together. Gomez, who now lives in Redding, said they typically go to other shows where they live and in Northern California. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Attendees on Saturday often noted they made the ride to San Francisco’s event because shows across the state didn’t have the same vibe. David Gomez is a San Jose native who came out with his son Mateo, 12, in a dark blue 1994 Lincoln they’ve been building together. Gomez, who now lives in Redding, said they typically go to other shows where they live and in Northern California. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“But they don’t do nothing like they do out here in the Bay Area and Sacramento,” Gomez said. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Drivers rode down streets in the neighborhood in carefully painted cars and motorcycles, blaring music and prominently displaying flags of Mexico and other countries. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100695\"/>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A custom street sign that reads, “Frisco King of the Streets,” at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>David Peralta, though, was among Mission District natives who said the sight of the cars reminded him of how “the neighborhood used to be” before the displacement of some Latino neighbors. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“It’s just in my blood,” Peralta said. “With all the cars and all the Mexican people coming out. You know, some of them got moved out — but we’re back.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“I knew when I got older, I was going to get me one,” Peralta said, adding that he’ll be passing his current car on to his 14-year-old son. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Julian Nunez, who came in his baby blue 1998 Lincoln town car, took an interest in cars too because his dad always had cars around him and the two worked on them together. \u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>Chad Oliver said he’s embraced \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/tag/lowriders\">lowriding \u003c/a>as a lifestyle since he was in high school. Now in his 50s, he holds his grandson with as much pride as when he talks about his cherry red 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>It’s a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966254/california-lifts-decades-old-ban-on-lowrider-cruising\">historically criminalized\u003c/a> culture strained by decades of now-lifted cruising bans across California, which enthusiasts say targeted Mexican Americans. But through those like Oliver — and hundreds of others with lowriders on display at the annual Mission District parade — that \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13987600/lowrider-stamp-new-unveiling-cars-san-francisco\">tradition still thrives\u003c/a> today.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s always been in my life. It’s a lifestyle,” Oliver, of Manteca, said. “It’ll be in my family for as long as I’m around.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-13 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100692\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100692\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01090_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The front bumper of a 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100691\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100691\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01079_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chad Oliver and his grandson Lorenzo pose for a portrait in front of his 1978 Cadillac Coupe DeVille at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Lowrider Council celebrated its 45th anniversary by hosting its lowrider parade on Saturday. The event, days after the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, came complete with a “King of the Streets” hopping competition along with a car show and an art exhibit.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Oliver’s grandson, Lorenzo, came with his parents in a pinstriped 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass they’ve had for about two years. Antonio Esparza, the boy’s father, said the parade is always “the best feeling you ever have.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I mean, if you ain’t got a car, jump in with someone,” said Esparza, who came from Sacramento for the event. “All these is family.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-14 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100693\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100693\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01110_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Antonio Esparza (left) and his wife Blanca Esparza (right) pose with children in their family at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100694\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100694\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01103_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Children watch the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade from a parked car in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Attendees on Saturday often noted they made the ride to San Francisco’s event because shows across the state didn’t have the same vibe. David Gomez is a San Jose native who came out with his son Mateo, 12, in a dark blue 1994 Lincoln they’ve been building together. Gomez, who now lives in Redding, said they typically go to other shows where they live and in Northern California. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“But they don’t do nothing like they do out here in the Bay Area and Sacramento,” Gomez said. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Drivers rode down streets in the neighborhood in carefully painted cars and motorcycles, blaring music and prominently displaying flags of Mexico and other countries. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-15 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100695\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100695\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01771_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A custom street sign that reads, “Frisco King of the Streets,” at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100696\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100696\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01557_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People gather for the hopper competition at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>David Peralta, though, was among Mission District natives who said the sight of the cars reminded him of how “the neighborhood used to be” before the displacement of some Latino neighbors. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“It’s just in my blood,” Peralta said. “With all the cars and all the Mexican people coming out. You know, some of them got moved out — but we’re back.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Peralta grew to love cars thanks to his older brothers and seeing them cruise back in the day. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-16 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100697\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100697\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01020_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">David Peralta poses with his car at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100698\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100698\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01674_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A “Homies” doll is mounted on a car with the Mexico flag at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-17 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100701\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100701\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01007_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Parade participants fly the Mexico flag as they drive down Mission Street at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100702\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100702\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-01034_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lidia Rioss wears makeup traditionally worn on Day of the Dead, a holiday celebrated in Mexico dedicated to honoring deceased family members, at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I knew when I got older, I was going to get me one,” Peralta said, adding that he’ll be passing his current car on to his 14-year-old son. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Molly Seret showed up in her red patina-painted 1963 Biscayne Wagon — the first car she ever got at 15 — and stood out among the drivers \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/13965353/duenas-all-womens-lowrider-club-silicon-valley-sunnyvale-angel-romero\">as one of the few women\u003c/a>. Her story was the same. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“Growing up, my dad had a shop, so I spent a lot of time in a shop as a child,” Seret said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-18 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100699\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100699\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00927_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A biker rides his motorcycle as flames come out of his exhaust at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" data-id=\"12100700\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12100700\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260919-lowriderparade-00519_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A couple takes a selfie with parade participants in their car at the King of the Streets annual lowrider parade in San Francisco’s Mission District on Sept. 19, 2026. (Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Julian Nunez, who came in his baby blue 1998 Lincoln town car, took an interest in cars too because his dad always had cars around him and the two worked on them together. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“I just do it for the crowd,” Nunez said. “It’s fun being the center of attention sometimes.” \u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "this-bay-area-immigrant-rights-organization-is-helping-filipino-caregivers-care-for-themselves",
"title": "This Bay Area Immigrant Rights Organization Is Helping Filipino Caregivers Care for Themselves",
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"headTitle": "This Bay Area Immigrant Rights Organization Is Helping Filipino Caregivers Care for Themselves | KQED",
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"content": "\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This project was produced jointly by KQED and CatchLight as part of the \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"http://catchlight.io/mental-health\">\u003cem>mental health visual desk initiative.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s only obligation was to focus on himself. At least for one day. In the bright orange office of Filipino Advocates for Justice (FAJ), where he was attending a special wellness meeting for caregiver worker leaders like himself, he closed his eyes, relaxed his shoulders and breathed. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You are seen. Inhale,” a staff member told the group. “You are valued. Exhale.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Sometimes, Pakbet said he feels valued, like when he was a private aide for Teddy, a 98-year-old woman at the retirement home. They developed a relationship like a mother and son, and he would treat her so — cooking her homemade chicken feet adobo, or watching makeup tutorials with her online. He’d apply her lipstick, dress her in a gown and accompany her into the dining room, declaring, “The queen has arrived!” Besides bathing her and monitoring vitals, he saw it as his job to make her laugh.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099853\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness, leads a mental wellness breathing and massage exercise to open FAJ’s Kapwa Circle, a monthly community-building event, at the organization’s Union City location on March 6, 2026. Right: Pakbet (center) sings “Precious and Few” as the FAJ community honors FAJ worker organizer, Santi Tagle Buensuceso, during a surprise farewell party about one week before Buensuceso relocates back to the Philippines. Although Pakbet had a caregiving shift that evening, he joined the first half of the Kapwa Circle to attend the surprise going-away party for Buensuceso, who he considers an older sister. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096175\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the Filipino Advocates for Justice community practice a breathing and movement exercise during the organization’s March Kapwa Circle. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Other times, his body remembers: panic attacks from the chronic stress of unstable paychecks and exploitative employers, grief for his mother with cancer back home in the Philippines, whom he hasn’t hugged in a decade. The depression has led to insomnia and isolation.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“My world is work, home. I don’t have any trusted friends,” he said. “This is my life.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet, 54, said caregivers like him can feel overworked and undervalued. A Bay Area immigrant rights organization, FAJ creates an affirming space for them to rest and celebrate, so they can show up whole — not only for themselves but for others.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"994\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096186\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-160x80.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-1536x763.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Center: Pakbet poses for a portrait in his Bay Area home on May 4, 2026, where he has lived with his family for six years. Previously, they lived in abusive situations, sharing cramped spaces and experiencing mistreatment. In 2020, with guidance from a friend at FAJ, they secured their own apartment. “We rent, and we’re very happy because my son has a room. I can cook now,” said Pakbet. “That’s our paradise.” Left and Right: A Bible and cross adorn the walls of Pakbet’s apartment. The demands of caregiving often weigh heavily on his mind, but he finds solace in his faith. “It’s hard, it’s very tiring,” he said. “Without my son, without my faith, I almost give up.” (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Leaning on Filipino cultural practices and intergenerational connection, mental health is woven into everything they do, from monthly gatherings and wellness clinics to everyday grounding techniques and artistic expression. Yet the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and statewide funding cuts to mental health services have threatened their prevention work, even as a shortage in \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/Goals/4\">care workers \u003c/a>looms. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Filipinos are heavily represented in the healthcare workforce, according to \u003ca href=\"https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7969854/\">research\u003c/a>, and many are paid to care for older adults. Respect for elders is a deeply embedded cultural value. As California’s population continues to age — \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/\">about 25% will be an older adult by 2030\u003c/a> — caregivers will become even more essential. But isolation, burnout, racial discrimination, wage theft, and more can all contribute to mental health challenges.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“They are the first to take care of everybody else. And that’s done at the expense of their own bodies, their own emotional health,” said Geraldine Alcid, executive director of FAJ. “They deserve to take care of themselves, and they deserve rest.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1272\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096185\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-160x102.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-1536x977.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An old photograph of Pakbet and Teddy decorated with makeup and his written reflections. To help Teddy prepare for outings, Pakbet watched YouTube tutorials to learn makeup and helped her choose dresses and jewelry. At the care home, Pakbet recalls people asking him, “Where is your master?” but Teddy always defended him, responding that he was her family. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; instant photo made with and handwriting and decorations by Pakbet)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1620\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_05_Caregiver1_CookingAdobo_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096600\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet cooks chicken adobo at home. He de-stresses through cooking and finds joy in sharing his food. When caring for Teddy, a former client who was bedridden, he learned she had grown tired of retirement home meals and missed eating dim sum and chicken feet. He made her chicken feet adobo and began cooking for her. Over time, Pakbet says, she regained energy and began walking again. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; handwriting by Pakbet)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>When Pakbet first arrived in the States alone over a decade ago, he lived and worked at a residential care home for older adults. He said his boss forced him to sleep on cardboard in the garage, and his paychecks didn’t reflect the long, exhausting hours. He also knew caregivers who died by suicide. Pakbet, at times, didn’t know if he’d make it. The reason he immigrated was to provide for his son’s education.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Pakbet said his Bible and a photo of his son got him through.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s experience is common. Yet cultural \u003ca href=\"https://filipinos4justice.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/3-30-22-Filipino-Advocates-for-Justice-FAJ_-A-Mental-Health-Report-_-Kumusta-Tayo-2021.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">stigma\u003c/a> and shame can prevent Filipino immigrants from seeking support. “I’ve witnessed many times caregivers who need help. They get scared and hide in the dark,” Pakbet said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Over a decade ago, Oakland-based community health center Asian Health Services referred an exploited caregiver who was anxious and stressed to FAJ. The organization realized others had similar stories, and it was the catalyst for it to focus efforts on prevention. In 2015, they launched a mental health support group for caregivers, many of them older, funded through a two-year Alameda County innovations grant. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>FAJ expanded its program with the help of an eight-year county contract. They hired a licensed mental health professional on staff, as well as three part-time community outreach specialists to facilitate mental health offerings rooted in culture. FAJ also created a Healing Advisory Committee that organizes free annual wellness clinics, featuring Filipino traditions such as hilot, a massage focused on releasing trauma. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096179\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet hangs a wet sheet to dry near the window in his Bay Area home. After years of living in the United States without access to an in-home washing machine, he set up a small washer in his apartment kitchen — a change he says has saved him time and eased the routines of daily life. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"920\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096178\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Pakbet holds calamansi — a sweet and sour Filipino citrus with fragrant flowers — that he harvested from the office garden at Filipino Advocates for Justice for cooking. Right: Pakbet’s caregiving scrubs drape the living room couch where he sleeps so that his son can have the only bedroom in their apartment. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>In 2023, a one-time state grant from the Department of Aging enabled FAJ to shift attention again to caregivers. They provided training on topics such as nutrition and managing grief, weaving in hands-on clinics for everyday self-care. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At first, caregivers expressed apprehensive curiosity. Then eventually, they requested chia seed pudding recipes and acupuncture, even the caregivers who feared needles. The organization also provided acupressure rings people could roll on their fingers whenever they needed to calm themselves.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nervous system regulation is essential for moving from merely surviving to thriving, said Dr. Karen Villanueva, training lead and executive director of Kilusan Wellness. And for the majority of caregivers with little time or money, accessibility is key. “So much the better if you can tuck it in your pocket and take it out when you need it.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>This July, the policy changes California made to its landmark Behavioral Services Act took effect. When voters passed Proposition 1 in 2024, they approved Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plans to shift funds away from prevention and early intervention toward treatment beds. FAJ’s prevention funding, which supports half of their direct services, was reduced from $360,000 to zero dollars — the organization lost its licensed mental health professional and folded its community outreach advisers into other roles.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At the special meeting for wellness worker leaders, where Pakbet could slow down and breathe, the thinning manifested in another way. Usually, nearly a dozen caregivers would be gearing up to knock on the doors of care homes in the East Bay, handing “know your rights” information to employees. The organization pays these workers a learning stipend to perform this outreach work. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But when Pakbet looked around the office, he was one of the few caregivers who had stayed. Half of the group had chosen to spend their remaining years in the Philippines as the Trump administration pushes to aggressively crack down on immigration. Many said they were tired of feeling criminalized and undervalued, or, as one staff member of the organization said, an “America-doesn’t-deserve-me” mentality. Others said they missed moments with loved ones.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096177\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet listens to a talk on safety in sanctuary cities during an FAJ informational session for caregivers and their community. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Along with other caregivers in this story, KQED is referring to Pakbet only by a nickname to allow them to speak openly about their mental health struggles and working conditions without jeopardizing their employment.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet understands the impulse to return home. Still, he said he was feeling especially tender.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>His “lifeline,” FAJ’s worker organizer and seasoned activist Santi Tagle Buensuceso, had announced that she was also returning to her homeland.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Whenever Pakbet struggled, instead of crying alone, he’d call Tagle Buensuceso. Sometimes, he’d voice his doubts about his ability to be a provider: “Am I a good father? Am I doing OK? Do I need to go back to the Philippines?” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She would assure him that trying his best was good enough, that he was a great father and husband. She also realized caregivers like Pakbet needed more outlets and two years ago suggested FAJ host monthly Kapwa Circles for the wider community. A third space to unwind, to reflect, to create joy. \u003ca href=\"https://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2026/webprogram/Paper61579.html\">Kapwa\u003c/a>, a Filipino value meaning interconnectedness, the recognition of yourself in each other.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096176\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Community members practice a breathing and movement exercise as Santi Tagle Buensuceso reads a farewell card signed by the Filipino Advocates for Justice community during a surprise party held a week before her return to the Philippines. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096171\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, right, says goodbye to Tagle Buensuceso during her surprise farewell party. To Pakbet, Buensuceso was like an older sister, someone who always looked out for and advocated for him. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>On a Friday evening in March, the young and old came together at FAJ’s Union City office to recreate a slice of the Philippines.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fried chicken from Jollibee piled high on paper plates, the sounds of people speaking Tagalog could be heard. Outside, a community garden where calamansi, a citrus fruit native to the Philippines, had been harvested for a jar of juice. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The event is what FAJ leadership describes as a “Filipino family party” or a Kapwa Circle. It has a different flavor each month and begins with a discussion of a social justice topic — sanctuary cities, for one, or voter registration — to invite people into FAJ’s organizing work. After the community conversation, they host an activity like bingo or mahjong. Always karaoke, whether planned or not. There is a rule of no chisme, but many will say gossip is their favorite part. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096174\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People dance the Pinoy Cha-Cha during the March Kapwa Circle at the offices of Filipino Advocates for Justice in Union City, California. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099855\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Cristy Ferrer, a Filipino Advocates for Justice organizer, left, and Ine, a caregiver and FAJ worker leader, lead a Pinoy Cha-Cha dance lesson. Right: Ine dances with another community member during the Kapwa Circle. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>The evening was Tagle Buensuceso’s last circle. Pakbet was there, drawn to a space where he could laugh and smile naturally. “I don’t need to fake it,” he said. He must leave early, however, to care for a client. Pakbet is now a certified nurse assistant and works hourly one-on-one with clients, but stability has been elusive lately. Clients have entered hospital care or passed away. With fewer hours, he has no choice.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>For now, he joined in celebrating Tagle Buensuceso. As a surprise, staff handed out printed lyrics of her favorite song, “Precious and Few” by the band Climax. Ine, a fellow caregiver worker leader, grabbed her guitar. She led the group for a sing-along to the ’70s soft-rock song about cherishing moments, and the metaphor was not lost.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A mother of three, Ine came solo to the U.S. 15 years ago to provide her children a good college education, and has lived and worked at a care home ever since. As the home’s cook, Ine, 63, plates green pesto pasta and other colorful food with the intention to appeal to her dementia patients. She also administers medicine, having gone back to school to become a pharmacy technician, graduating with honors. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9ectSMWvm4\n\u003c/div>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She said she talks with her husband and children via video every night, but misses them the most on holidays and birthdays. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Back in her room at the care home, she filled a balikbayan box for her son’s 41st birthday. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She lovingly selected Lacoste polo shirts, Ferrero Rocher chocolate and other items for the care package by hand, a proxy for her presence. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1513\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_06_VideoPortraits_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096610\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Caregivers, community members and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice pose for portraits in the garden near a calamansi tree cared for by staff and harvested by caregivers for their food. Some chose gestures of wellness to express in their portraits. “There’s such a deep, immense healing power that caregivers have,” said Daisy Maxion, FAJ organizing director. “They remind us of what it means to be human.” (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Every month, she makes sure she has time off for the Kapwa Circle. When she is tired, when the monotony of caregiving is grueling, she said being with other caregivers at FAJ and, better, using her musical talent to entertain, gives her the “strength to work for another day.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>This evening, Ine passed the mic to Tagle Buensuceso, who said that before FAJ, she believed cigarettes were the only form of wellness. She left the group with one last piece of wisdom. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of your community.” Pakbet clapped. The music began. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Hands linked and people moved to the Cupid Shuffle, the Macarena, the Pinoy Cha-Cha. Ine was in her element, her first love, dance. The food whittled down. When a delivery worker stopped by to drop off more Spam musubi, she was met with a chorus of: “Stay. Take a plate.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"920\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096181\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: A community member of Filipino Advocates for Justice holds a flower in her hand as she poses in front of a backdrop. “If you’re able to breathe deeply and freely, if you’re able to sit with difficult emotions, if you’re able to get regular sleep and eat food that has some nutrition in it … you’re leaving room for creativity and imagination and the courage to reach out,” said Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness. “Nervous system regulation allows us to really know who we are.” Right: Two attendees wear Filipiniana dresses as they fill ttheir plates during a Kapwa Circle potluck. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>There is power in knowing others share similar experiences, said Dr. Annalisa Enrile, a Filipina community organizer and professor at the USC School of Social Work.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Enrile has researched how \u003ca href=\"https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-27795-003.html\">communal care in Filipino immigrant communities\u003c/a> that draws on cultural practices can ease stress and improve mental well-being. “If you feel like you belong in a way that gives you agency, and reduces stigma,” she said, “then you’re more apt to ask for help.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>FAJ’s leaders, too, realized belonging was a way to build trust and encourage caregivers to open up, and it’s why they have prioritized connection as the heart of their programming. Recently, they were relieved to hear they received one year of bridge funding to bring back their mental health specialist as they figure out how to sustain their wellness and mental health services. A temporary bandage, executive director Geraldine Alcid said, but enough to keep going. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096184\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ine near the San Francisco Bay, where she likes to go and recharge when she has time. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Despite the funding uncertainty, the group is sustained by a deep hope: Show up, and something might shift. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet wasn’t sure if he’d come back to FAJ when Tagle Buensuceso left. He decided to keep showing up anyway, without a community elsewhere. Later that spring, he attended a picnic for caregivers at Contra Loma Regional Park in Contra Costa County. The stillness of the oak-tree-dotted hills contrasted with the chaos of the last few months. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>One of his male clients was in the hospital, which meant Pakbet was not being paid to take care of him and was spending too much time alone at home in his apartment. He nearly missed a rent payment until he reached out to FAJ to help. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1998\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096180\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg 1998w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1998px) 100vw, 1998px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, center, joins other caregivers and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice under the shade of a tree at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch for an annual picnic–an opportunity to connect with caregivers from across the Bay Area and enjoy nature. Caregivers practiced wellness stretching, shared food and reenacted moments from caregiving through a “Theater of the Oppressed” activity. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Grateful for people, for peaceful nature, he set up his phone on a tripod to document the picnic. The wind was gentle. The wetlands glassy. A duck swam by and Pakbet paused to look at it, reminding him of balut, a delicacy with roots in his mother’s province. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The caregivers took turns sharing their favorite stretch before acting out a scripted scene from \u003cem>Theater of the Oppressed\u003c/em>, an approach that uses roleplay to explore solutions to social problems. Pakbet assumed the role of a care home owner. Drawing from his own experience, he joked about doling out “expensive” perfume from the Dollar Tree instead of actual dollars for overtime. People burst out laughing.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet reflected afterward and said he has never felt more anchored in his purpose to empower caregivers like himself. Next outreach, when he knocks on doors, before asking about rights, before handing them a booklet, he will first ask, “How are you doing?”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was made possible in part by the Aging Beat workshop, convened by the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s only obligation was to focus on himself. At least for one day. In the bright orange office of Filipino Advocates for Justice (FAJ), where he was attending a special wellness meeting for caregiver worker leaders like himself, he closed his eyes, relaxed his shoulders and breathed. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Sometimes, Pakbet said he feels valued, like when he was a private aide for Teddy, a 98-year-old woman at the retirement home. They developed a relationship like a mother and son, and he would treat her so — cooking her homemade chicken feet adobo, or watching makeup tutorials with her online. He’d apply her lipstick, dress her in a gown and accompany her into the dining room, declaring, “The queen has arrived!” Besides bathing her and monitoring vitals, he saw it as his job to make her laugh.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Sometimes, Pakbet said he feels valued, like when he was a private aide for Teddy, a 98-year-old woman at the retirement home. They developed a relationship like a mother and son, and he would treat her so — cooking her homemade chicken feet adobo, or watching makeup tutorials with her online. He’d apply her lipstick, dress her in a gown and accompany her into the dining room, declaring, “The queen has arrived!” Besides bathing her and monitoring vitals, he saw it as his job to make her laugh.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099853\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness, leads a mental wellness breathing and massage exercise to open FAJ’s Kapwa Circle, a monthly community-building event, at the organization’s Union City location on March 6, 2026. Right: Pakbet (center) sings “Precious and Few” as the FAJ community honors FAJ worker organizer, Santi Tagle Buensuceso, during a surprise farewell party about one week before Buensuceso relocates back to the Philippines. Although Pakbet had a caregiving shift that evening, he joined the first half of the Kapwa Circle to attend the surprise going-away party for Buensuceso, who he considers an older sister.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099853\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness, leads a mental wellness breathing and massage exercise to open FAJ’s Kapwa Circle, a monthly community-building event, at the organization’s Union City location on March 6, 2026. Right: Pakbet (center) sings “Precious and Few” as the FAJ community honors FAJ worker organizer, Santi Tagle Buensuceso, during a surprise farewell party about one week before Buensuceso relocates back to the Philippines. Although Pakbet had a caregiving shift that evening, he joined the first half of the Kapwa Circle to attend the surprise going-away party for Buensuceso, who he considers an older sister.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096175\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the Filipino Advocates for Justice community practice a breathing and movement exercise during the organization’s March Kapwa Circle.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096175\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the Filipino Advocates for Justice community practice a breathing and movement exercise during the organization’s March Kapwa Circle.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Other times, his body remembers: panic attacks from the chronic stress of unstable paychecks and exploitative employers, grief for his mother with cancer back home in the Philippines, whom he hasn’t hugged in a decade. The depression has led to insomnia and isolation.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Other times, his body remembers: panic attacks from the chronic stress of unstable paychecks and exploitative employers, grief for his mother with cancer back home in the Philippines, whom he hasn’t hugged in a decade. The depression has led to insomnia and isolation.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“My world is work, home. I don’t have any trusted friends,” he said. “This is my life.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“My world is work, home. I don’t have any trusted friends,” he said. “This is my life.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Pakbet, 54, said caregivers like him can feel overworked and undervalued. A Bay Area immigrant rights organization, FAJ creates an affirming space for them to rest and celebrate, so they can show up whole — not only for themselves but for others.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Pakbet, 54, said caregivers like him can feel overworked and undervalued. A Bay Area immigrant rights organization, FAJ creates an affirming space for them to rest and celebrate, so they can show up whole — not only for themselves but for others.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096186\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-160x80.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-1536x763.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Center: Pakbet poses for a portrait in his Bay Area home on May 4, 2026, where he has lived with his family for six years. Previously, they lived in abusive situations, sharing cramped spaces and experiencing mistreatment. In 2020, with guidance from a friend at FAJ, they secured their own apartment. “We rent, and we’re very happy because my son has a room. I can cook now,” said Pakbet. “That’s our paradise.” Left and Right: A Bible and cross adorn the walls of Pakbet’s apartment. The demands of caregiving often weigh heavily on his mind, but he finds solace in his faith. “It’s hard, it’s very tiring,” he said. “Without my son, without my faith, I almost give up.”\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096186\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Center: Pakbet poses for a portrait in his Bay Area home on May 4, 2026, where he has lived with his family for six years. Previously, they lived in abusive situations, sharing cramped spaces and experiencing mistreatment. In 2020, with guidance from a friend at FAJ, they secured their own apartment. “We rent, and we’re very happy because my son has a room. I can cook now,” said Pakbet. “That’s our paradise.” Left and Right: A Bible and cross adorn the walls of Pakbet’s apartment. The demands of caregiving often weigh heavily on his mind, but he finds solace in his faith. “It’s hard, it’s very tiring,” he said. “Without my son, without my faith, I almost give up.”\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Leaning on Filipino cultural practices and intergenerational connection, mental health is woven into everything they do, from monthly gatherings and wellness clinics to everyday grounding techniques and artistic expression. Yet the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and statewide funding cuts to mental health services have threatened their prevention work, even as a shortage in \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/Goals/4\">care workers \u003c/a>looms. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Leaning on Filipino cultural practices and intergenerational connection, mental health is woven into everything they do, from monthly gatherings and wellness clinics to everyday grounding techniques and artistic expression. Yet the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and statewide funding cuts to mental health services have threatened their prevention work, even as a shortage in \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/Goals/4\">care workers \u003c/a>looms. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Filipinos are heavily represented in the healthcare workforce, according to \u003ca href=\"https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7969854/\">research\u003c/a>, and many are paid to care for older adults. Respect for elders is a deeply embedded cultural value. As California’s population continues to age — \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/\">about 25% will be an older adult by 2030\u003c/a> — caregivers will become even more essential. But isolation, burnout, racial discrimination, wage theft, and more can all contribute to mental health challenges.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Filipinos are heavily represented in the healthcare workforce, according to \u003ca href=\"https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7969854/\">research\u003c/a>, and many are paid to care for older adults. Respect for elders is a deeply embedded cultural value. As California’s population continues to age — \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/\">about 25% will be an older adult by 2030\u003c/a> — caregivers will become even more essential. But isolation, burnout, racial discrimination, wage theft, and more can all contribute to mental health challenges.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>“They are the first to take care of everybody else. And that’s done at the expense of their own bodies, their own emotional health,” said Geraldine Alcid, executive director of FAJ. “They deserve to take care of themselves, and they deserve rest.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>“They are the first to take care of everybody else. And that’s done at the expense of their own bodies, their own emotional health,” said Geraldine Alcid, executive director of FAJ. “They deserve to take care of themselves, and they deserve rest.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096185\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-160x102.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-1536x977.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An old photograph of Pakbet and Teddy decorated with makeup and his written reflections. To help Teddy prepare for outings, Pakbet watched YouTube tutorials to learn makeup and helped her choose dresses and jewelry. At the care home, Pakbet recalls people asking him, “Where is your master?” but Teddy always defended him, responding that he was her family.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; instant photo made with and handwriting and decorations by Pakbet)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096185\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An old photograph of Pakbet and Teddy decorated with makeup and his written reflections. To help Teddy prepare for outings, Pakbet watched YouTube tutorials to learn makeup and helped her choose dresses and jewelry. At the care home, Pakbet recalls people asking him, “Where is your master?” but Teddy always defended him, responding that he was her family.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; instant photo made with and handwriting and decorations by Pakbet)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_05_Caregiver1_CookingAdobo_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096600\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet cooks chicken adobo at home. He de-stresses through cooking and finds joy in sharing his food. When caring for Teddy, a former client who was bedridden, he learned she had grown tired of retirement home meals and missed eating dim sum and chicken feet. He made her chicken feet adobo and began cooking for her. Over time, Pakbet says, she regained energy and began walking again.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; handwriting by Pakbet)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_05_Caregiver1_CookingAdobo_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096600\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet cooks chicken adobo at home. He de-stresses through cooking and finds joy in sharing his food. When caring for Teddy, a former client who was bedridden, he learned she had grown tired of retirement home meals and missed eating dim sum and chicken feet. He made her chicken feet adobo and began cooking for her. Over time, Pakbet says, she regained energy and began walking again.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; handwriting by Pakbet)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>When Pakbet first arrived in the States alone over a decade ago, he lived and worked at a residential care home for older adults. He said his boss forced him to sleep on cardboard in the garage, and his paychecks didn’t reflect the long, exhausting hours. He also knew caregivers who died by suicide. Pakbet, at times, didn’t know if he’d make it. The reason he immigrated was to provide for his son’s education.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Pakbet said his Bible and a photo of his son got him through.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>When Pakbet first arrived in the States alone over a decade ago, he lived and worked at a residential care home for older adults. He said his boss forced him to sleep on cardboard in the garage, and his paychecks didn’t reflect the long, exhausting hours. He also knew caregivers who died by suicide. Pakbet, at times, didn’t know if he’d make it. The reason he immigrated was to provide for his son’s education.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Pakbet said his Bible and a photo of his son got him through.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s experience is common. Yet cultural \u003ca href=\"https://filipinos4justice.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/3-30-22-Filipino-Advocates-for-Justice-FAJ_-A-Mental-Health-Report-_-Kumusta-Tayo-2021.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">stigma\u003c/a> and shame can prevent Filipino immigrants from seeking support. “I’ve witnessed many times caregivers who need help. They get scared and hide in the dark,” Pakbet said.\u003c/p>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s experience is common. Yet cultural \u003ca href=\"https://filipinos4justice.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/3-30-22-Filipino-Advocates-for-Justice-FAJ_-A-Mental-Health-Report-_-Kumusta-Tayo-2021.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">stigma\u003c/a> and shame can prevent Filipino immigrants from seeking support. “I’ve witnessed many times caregivers who need help. They get scared and hide in the dark,” Pakbet said.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Over a decade ago, Oakland-based community health center Asian Health Services referred an exploited caregiver who was anxious and stressed to FAJ. The organization realized others had similar stories, and it was the catalyst for it to focus efforts on prevention. In 2015, they launched a mental health support group for caregivers, many of them older, funded through a two-year Alameda County innovations grant. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Over a decade ago, Oakland-based community health center Asian Health Services referred an exploited caregiver who was anxious and stressed to FAJ. The organization realized others had similar stories, and it was the catalyst for it to focus efforts on prevention. In 2015, they launched a mental health support group for caregivers, many of them older, funded through a two-year Alameda County innovations grant. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>FAJ expanded its program with the help of an eight-year county contract. They hired a licensed mental health professional on staff, as well as three part-time community outreach specialists to facilitate mental health offerings rooted in culture. FAJ also created a Healing Advisory Committee that organizes free annual wellness clinics, featuring Filipino traditions such as hilot, a massage focused on releasing trauma. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>FAJ expanded its program with the help of an eight-year county contract. They hired a licensed mental health professional on staff, as well as three part-time community outreach specialists to facilitate mental health offerings rooted in culture. FAJ also created a Healing Advisory Committee that organizes free annual wellness clinics, featuring Filipino traditions such as hilot, a massage focused on releasing trauma. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096179\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet hangs a wet sheet to dry near the window in his Bay Area home. After years of living in the United States without access to an in-home washing machine, he set up a small washer in his apartment kitchen — a change he says has saved him time and eased the routines of daily life.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096179\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet hangs a wet sheet to dry near the window in his Bay Area home. After years of living in the United States without access to an in-home washing machine, he set up a small washer in his apartment kitchen — a change he says has saved him time and eased the routines of daily life.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096178\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Pakbet holds calamansi — a sweet and sour Filipino citrus with fragrant flowers — that he harvested from the office garden at Filipino Advocates for Justice for cooking. Right: Pakbet’s caregiving scrubs drape the living room couch where he sleeps so that his son can have the only bedroom in their apartment.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096178\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Pakbet holds calamansi — a sweet and sour Filipino citrus with fragrant flowers — that he harvested from the office garden at Filipino Advocates for Justice for cooking. Right: Pakbet’s caregiving scrubs drape the living room couch where he sleeps so that his son can have the only bedroom in their apartment.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>In 2023, a one-time state grant from the Department of Aging enabled FAJ to shift attention again to caregivers. They provided training on topics such as nutrition and managing grief, weaving in hands-on clinics for everyday self-care. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>In 2023, a one-time state grant from the Department of Aging enabled FAJ to shift attention again to caregivers. They provided training on topics such as nutrition and managing grief, weaving in hands-on clinics for everyday self-care. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>At first, caregivers expressed apprehensive curiosity. Then eventually, they requested chia seed pudding recipes and acupuncture, even the caregivers who feared needles. The organization also provided acupressure rings people could roll on their fingers whenever they needed to calm themselves.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>At first, caregivers expressed apprehensive curiosity. Then eventually, they requested chia seed pudding recipes and acupuncture, even the caregivers who feared needles. The organization also provided acupressure rings people could roll on their fingers whenever they needed to calm themselves.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Nervous system regulation is essential for moving from merely surviving to thriving, said Dr. Karen Villanueva, training lead and executive director of Kilusan Wellness. And for the majority of caregivers with little time or money, accessibility is key. “So much the better if you can tuck it in your pocket and take it out when you need it.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Nervous system regulation is essential for moving from merely surviving to thriving, said Dr. Karen Villanueva, training lead and executive director of Kilusan Wellness. And for the majority of caregivers with little time or money, accessibility is key. “So much the better if you can tuck it in your pocket and take it out when you need it.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>This July, the policy changes California made to its landmark Behavioral Services Act took effect. When voters passed Proposition 1 in 2024, they approved Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plans to shift funds away from prevention and early intervention toward treatment beds. FAJ’s prevention funding, which supports half of their direct services, was reduced from $360,000 to zero dollars — the organization lost its licensed mental health professional and folded its community outreach advisers into other roles.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>This July, the policy changes California made to its landmark Behavioral Services Act took effect. When voters passed Proposition 1 in 2024, they approved Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plans to shift funds away from prevention and early intervention toward treatment beds. FAJ’s prevention funding, which supports half of their direct services, was reduced from $360,000 to zero dollars — the organization lost its licensed mental health professional and folded its community outreach advisers into other roles.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>At the special meeting for wellness worker leaders, where Pakbet could slow down and breathe, the thinning manifested in another way. Usually, nearly a dozen caregivers would be gearing up to knock on the doors of care homes in the East Bay, handing “know your rights” information to employees. The organization pays these workers a learning stipend to perform this outreach work. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>At the special meeting for wellness worker leaders, where Pakbet could slow down and breathe, the thinning manifested in another way. Usually, nearly a dozen caregivers would be gearing up to knock on the doors of care homes in the East Bay, handing “know your rights” information to employees. The organization pays these workers a learning stipend to perform this outreach work. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>But when Pakbet looked around the office, he was one of the few caregivers who had stayed. Half of the group had chosen to spend their remaining years in the Philippines as the Trump administration pushes to aggressively crack down on immigration. Many said they were tired of feeling criminalized and undervalued, or, as one staff member of the organization said, an “America-doesn’t-deserve-me” mentality. Others said they missed moments with loved ones.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>But when Pakbet looked around the office, he was one of the few caregivers who had stayed. Half of the group had chosen to spend their remaining years in the Philippines as the Trump administration pushes to aggressively crack down on immigration. Many said they were tired of feeling criminalized and undervalued, or, as one staff member of the organization said, an “America-doesn’t-deserve-me” mentality. Others said they missed moments with loved ones.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096177\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet listens to a talk on safety in sanctuary cities during an FAJ informational session for caregivers and their community. \u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096177\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet listens to a talk on safety in sanctuary cities during an FAJ informational session for caregivers and their community. \u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Along with other caregivers in this story, KQED is referring to Pakbet only by a nickname to allow them to speak openly about their mental health struggles and working conditions without jeopardizing their employment.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Along with other caregivers in this story, KQED is referring to Pakbet only by a nickname to allow them to speak openly about their mental health struggles and working conditions without jeopardizing their employment.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Pakbet understands the impulse to return home. Still, he said he was feeling especially tender.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Pakbet understands the impulse to return home. Still, he said he was feeling especially tender.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>His “lifeline,” FAJ’s worker organizer and seasoned activist Santi Tagle Buensuceso, had announced that she was also returning to her homeland.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>His “lifeline,” FAJ’s worker organizer and seasoned activist Santi Tagle Buensuceso, had announced that she was also returning to her homeland.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Whenever Pakbet struggled, instead of crying alone, he’d call Tagle Buensuceso. Sometimes, he’d voice his doubts about his ability to be a provider: “Am I a good father? Am I doing OK? Do I need to go back to the Philippines?” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Whenever Pakbet struggled, instead of crying alone, he’d call Tagle Buensuceso. Sometimes, he’d voice his doubts about his ability to be a provider: “Am I a good father? Am I doing OK? Do I need to go back to the Philippines?” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>She would assure him that trying his best was good enough, that he was a great father and husband. She also realized caregivers like Pakbet needed more outlets and two years ago suggested FAJ host monthly Kapwa Circles for the wider community. A third space to unwind, to reflect, to create joy. \u003ca href=\"https://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2026/webprogram/Paper61579.html\">Kapwa\u003c/a>, a Filipino value meaning interconnectedness, the recognition of yourself in each other.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>She would assure him that trying his best was good enough, that he was a great father and husband. She also realized caregivers like Pakbet needed more outlets and two years ago suggested FAJ host monthly Kapwa Circles for the wider community. A third space to unwind, to reflect, to create joy. \u003ca href=\"https://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2026/webprogram/Paper61579.html\">Kapwa\u003c/a>, a Filipino value meaning interconnectedness, the recognition of yourself in each other.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096176\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Community members practice a breathing and movement exercise as Santi Tagle Buensuceso reads a farewell card signed by the Filipino Advocates for Justice community during a surprise party held a week before her return to the Philippines.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096176\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Community members practice a breathing and movement exercise as Santi Tagle Buensuceso reads a farewell card signed by the Filipino Advocates for Justice community during a surprise party held a week before her return to the Philippines.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096171\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, right, says goodbye to Tagle Buensuceso during her surprise farewell party. To Pakbet, Buensuceso was like an older sister, someone who always looked out for and advocated for him.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096171\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, right, says goodbye to Tagle Buensuceso during her surprise farewell party. To Pakbet, Buensuceso was like an older sister, someone who always looked out for and advocated for him.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>On a Friday evening in March, the young and old came together at FAJ’s Union City office to recreate a slice of the Philippines.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>On a Friday evening in March, the young and old came together at FAJ’s Union City office to recreate a slice of the Philippines.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Fried chicken from Jollibee piled high on paper plates, the sounds of people speaking Tagalog could be heard. Outside, a community garden where calamansi, a citrus fruit native to the Philippines, had been harvested for a jar of juice. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Fried chicken from Jollibee piled high on paper plates, the sounds of people speaking Tagalog could be heard. Outside, a community garden where calamansi, a citrus fruit native to the Philippines, had been harvested for a jar of juice. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The event is what FAJ leadership describes as a “Filipino family party” or a Kapwa Circle. It has a different flavor each month and begins with a discussion of a social justice topic — sanctuary cities, for one, or voter registration — to invite people into FAJ’s organizing work. After the community conversation, they host an activity like bingo or mahjong. Always karaoke, whether planned or not. There is a rule of no chisme, but many will say gossip is their favorite part. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The event is what FAJ leadership describes as a “Filipino family party” or a Kapwa Circle. It has a different flavor each month and begins with a discussion of a social justice topic — sanctuary cities, for one, or voter registration — to invite people into FAJ’s organizing work. After the community conversation, they host an activity like bingo or mahjong. Always karaoke, whether planned or not. There is a rule of no chisme, but many will say gossip is their favorite part. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096174\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People dance the Pinoy Cha-Cha during the March Kapwa Circle at the offices of Filipino Advocates for Justice in Union City, California.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096174\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People dance the Pinoy Cha-Cha during the March Kapwa Circle at the offices of Filipino Advocates for Justice in Union City, California.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099855\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Cristy Ferrer, a Filipino Advocates for Justice organizer, left, and Ine, a caregiver and FAJ worker leader, lead a Pinoy Cha-Cha dance lesson. Right: Ine dances with another community member during the Kapwa Circle.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099855\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Cristy Ferrer, a Filipino Advocates for Justice organizer, left, and Ine, a caregiver and FAJ worker leader, lead a Pinoy Cha-Cha dance lesson. Right: Ine dances with another community member during the Kapwa Circle.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The evening was Tagle Buensuceso’s last circle. Pakbet was there, drawn to a space where he could laugh and smile naturally. “I don’t need to fake it,” he said. He must leave early, however, to care for a client. Pakbet is now a certified nurse assistant and works hourly one-on-one with clients, but stability has been elusive lately. Clients have entered hospital care or passed away. With fewer hours, he has no choice.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The evening was Tagle Buensuceso’s last circle. Pakbet was there, drawn to a space where he could laugh and smile naturally. “I don’t need to fake it,” he said. He must leave early, however, to care for a client. Pakbet is now a certified nurse assistant and works hourly one-on-one with clients, but stability has been elusive lately. Clients have entered hospital care or passed away. With fewer hours, he has no choice.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>For now, he joined in celebrating Tagle Buensuceso. As a surprise, staff handed out printed lyrics of her favorite song, “Precious and Few” by the band Climax. Ine, a fellow caregiver worker leader, grabbed her guitar. She led the group for a sing-along to the ’70s soft-rock song about cherishing moments, and the metaphor was not lost.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>For now, he joined in celebrating Tagle Buensuceso. As a surprise, staff handed out printed lyrics of her favorite song, “Precious and Few” by the band Climax. Ine, a fellow caregiver worker leader, grabbed her guitar. She led the group for a sing-along to the ’70s soft-rock song about cherishing moments, and the metaphor was not lost.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>A mother of three, Ine came solo to the U.S. 15 years ago to provide her children a good college education, and has lived and worked at a care home ever since. As the home’s cook, Ine, 63, plates green pesto pasta and other colorful food with the intention to appeal to her dementia patients. She also administers medicine, having gone back to school to become a pharmacy technician, graduating with honors. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>A mother of three, Ine came solo to the U.S. 15 years ago to provide her children a good college education, and has lived and worked at a care home ever since. As the home’s cook, Ine, 63, plates green pesto pasta and other colorful food with the intention to appeal to her dementia patients. She also administers medicine, having gone back to school to become a pharmacy technician, graduating with honors. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9ectSMWvm4\n\u003c/div>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>She said she talks with her husband and children via video every night, but misses them the most on holidays and birthdays. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Back in her room at the care home, she filled a balikbayan box for her son’s 41st birthday. \u003c/p>\n",
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>She lovingly selected Lacoste polo shirts, Ferrero Rocher chocolate and other items for the care package by hand, a proxy for her presence. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>She lovingly selected Lacoste polo shirts, Ferrero Rocher chocolate and other items for the care package by hand, a proxy for her presence. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_06_VideoPortraits_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096610\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Caregivers, community members and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice pose for portraits in the garden near a calamansi tree cared for by staff and harvested by caregivers for their food. Some chose gestures of wellness to express in their portraits. “There’s such a deep, immense healing power that caregivers have,” said Daisy Maxion, FAJ organizing director. “They remind us of what it means to be human.”\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_06_VideoPortraits_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096610\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Caregivers, community members and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice pose for portraits in the garden near a calamansi tree cared for by staff and harvested by caregivers for their food. Some chose gestures of wellness to express in their portraits. “There’s such a deep, immense healing power that caregivers have,” said Daisy Maxion, FAJ organizing director. “They remind us of what it means to be human.”\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Every month, she makes sure she has time off for the Kapwa Circle. When she is tired, when the monotony of caregiving is grueling, she said being with other caregivers at FAJ and, better, using her musical talent to entertain, gives her the “strength to work for another day.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Every month, she makes sure she has time off for the Kapwa Circle. When she is tired, when the monotony of caregiving is grueling, she said being with other caregivers at FAJ and, better, using her musical talent to entertain, gives her the “strength to work for another day.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>This evening, Ine passed the mic to Tagle Buensuceso, who said that before FAJ, she believed cigarettes were the only form of wellness. She left the group with one last piece of wisdom. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of your community.” Pakbet clapped. The music began. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>This evening, Ine passed the mic to Tagle Buensuceso, who said that before FAJ, she believed cigarettes were the only form of wellness. She left the group with one last piece of wisdom. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of your community.” Pakbet clapped. The music began. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Hands linked and people moved to the Cupid Shuffle, the Macarena, the Pinoy Cha-Cha. Ine was in her element, her first love, dance. The food whittled down. When a delivery worker stopped by to drop off more Spam musubi, she was met with a chorus of: “Stay. Take a plate.”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Hands linked and people moved to the Cupid Shuffle, the Macarena, the Pinoy Cha-Cha. Ine was in her element, her first love, dance. The food whittled down. When a delivery worker stopped by to drop off more Spam musubi, she was met with a chorus of: “Stay. Take a plate.”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096181\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: A community member of Filipino Advocates for Justice holds a flower in her hand as she poses in front of a backdrop. “If you’re able to breathe deeply and freely, if you’re able to sit with difficult emotions, if you’re able to get regular sleep and eat food that has some nutrition in it … you’re leaving room for creativity and imagination and the courage to reach out,” said Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness. “Nervous system regulation allows us to really know who we are.” Right: Two attendees wear Filipiniana dresses as they fill ttheir plates during a Kapwa Circle potluck.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
"innerContent": [
"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096181\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: A community member of Filipino Advocates for Justice holds a flower in her hand as she poses in front of a backdrop. “If you’re able to breathe deeply and freely, if you’re able to sit with difficult emotions, if you’re able to get regular sleep and eat food that has some nutrition in it … you’re leaving room for creativity and imagination and the courage to reach out,” said Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness. “Nervous system regulation allows us to really know who we are.” Right: Two attendees wear Filipiniana dresses as they fill ttheir plates during a Kapwa Circle potluck.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>There is power in knowing others share similar experiences, said Dr. Annalisa Enrile, a Filipina community organizer and professor at the USC School of Social Work.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Enrile has researched how \u003ca href=\"https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-27795-003.html\">communal care in Filipino immigrant communities\u003c/a> that draws on cultural practices can ease stress and improve mental well-being. “If you feel like you belong in a way that gives you agency, and reduces stigma,” she said, “then you’re more apt to ask for help.” \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>There is power in knowing others share similar experiences, said Dr. Annalisa Enrile, a Filipina community organizer and professor at the USC School of Social Work.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Enrile has researched how \u003ca href=\"https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-27795-003.html\">communal care in Filipino immigrant communities\u003c/a> that draws on cultural practices can ease stress and improve mental well-being. “If you feel like you belong in a way that gives you agency, and reduces stigma,” she said, “then you’re more apt to ask for help.” \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>FAJ’s leaders, too, realized belonging was a way to build trust and encourage caregivers to open up, and it’s why they have prioritized connection as the heart of their programming. Recently, they were relieved to hear they received one year of bridge funding to bring back their mental health specialist as they figure out how to sustain their wellness and mental health services. A temporary bandage, executive director Geraldine Alcid said, but enough to keep going. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>FAJ’s leaders, too, realized belonging was a way to build trust and encourage caregivers to open up, and it’s why they have prioritized connection as the heart of their programming. Recently, they were relieved to hear they received one year of bridge funding to bring back their mental health specialist as they figure out how to sustain their wellness and mental health services. A temporary bandage, executive director Geraldine Alcid said, but enough to keep going. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096184\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ine near the San Francisco Bay, where she likes to go and recharge when she has time.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096184\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ine near the San Francisco Bay, where she likes to go and recharge when she has time.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Despite the funding uncertainty, the group is sustained by a deep hope: Show up, and something might shift. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Despite the funding uncertainty, the group is sustained by a deep hope: Show up, and something might shift. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Pakbet wasn’t sure if he’d come back to FAJ when Tagle Buensuceso left. He decided to keep showing up anyway, without a community elsewhere. Later that spring, he attended a picnic for caregivers at Contra Loma Regional Park in Contra Costa County. The stillness of the oak-tree-dotted hills contrasted with the chaos of the last few months. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Pakbet wasn’t sure if he’d come back to FAJ when Tagle Buensuceso left. He decided to keep showing up anyway, without a community elsewhere. Later that spring, he attended a picnic for caregivers at Contra Loma Regional Park in Contra Costa County. The stillness of the oak-tree-dotted hills contrasted with the chaos of the last few months. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>One of his male clients was in the hospital, which meant Pakbet was not being paid to take care of him and was spending too much time alone at home in his apartment. He nearly missed a rent payment until he reached out to FAJ to help. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>One of his male clients was in the hospital, which meant Pakbet was not being paid to take care of him and was spending too much time alone at home in his apartment. He nearly missed a rent payment until he reached out to FAJ to help. \u003c/p>\n"
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"sizes": "(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096180\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg 1998w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 992px) min(100vw, 1536px), (min-width: 768px) min(100vw, 1280px), min(100vw, 1020px)\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, center, joins other caregivers and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice under the shade of a tree at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch for an annual picnic–an opportunity to connect with caregivers from across the Bay Area and enjoy nature. Caregivers practiced wellness stretching, shared food and reenacted moments from caregiving through a “Theater of the Oppressed” activity.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n",
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"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096180\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, center, joins other caregivers and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice under the shade of a tree at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch for an annual picnic–an opportunity to connect with caregivers from across the Bay Area and enjoy nature. Caregivers practiced wellness stretching, shared food and reenacted moments from caregiving through a “Theater of the Oppressed” activity.\u003ccite class=\"wp-inline-image-credit\"> (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Grateful for people, for peaceful nature, he set up his phone on a tripod to document the picnic. The wind was gentle. The wetlands glassy. A duck swam by and Pakbet paused to look at it, reminding him of balut, a delicacy with roots in his mother’s province. \u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Grateful for people, for peaceful nature, he set up his phone on a tripod to document the picnic. The wind was gentle. The wetlands glassy. A duck swam by and Pakbet paused to look at it, reminding him of balut, a delicacy with roots in his mother’s province. \u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>The caregivers took turns sharing their favorite stretch before acting out a scripted scene from \u003cem>Theater of the Oppressed\u003c/em>, an approach that uses roleplay to explore solutions to social problems. Pakbet assumed the role of a care home owner. Drawing from his own experience, he joked about doling out “expensive” perfume from the Dollar Tree instead of actual dollars for overtime. People burst out laughing.\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>The caregivers took turns sharing their favorite stretch before acting out a scripted scene from \u003cem>Theater of the Oppressed\u003c/em>, an approach that uses roleplay to explore solutions to social problems. Pakbet assumed the role of a care home owner. Drawing from his own experience, he joked about doling out “expensive” perfume from the Dollar Tree instead of actual dollars for overtime. People burst out laughing.\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>Pakbet reflected afterward and said he has never felt more anchored in his purpose to empower caregivers like himself. Next outreach, when he knocks on doors, before asking about rights, before handing them a booklet, he will first ask, “How are you doing?”\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>Pakbet reflected afterward and said he has never felt more anchored in his purpose to empower caregivers like himself. Next outreach, when he knocks on doors, before asking about rights, before handing them a booklet, he will first ask, “How are you doing?”\u003c/p>\n"
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"innerHTML": "\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was made possible in part by the Aging Beat workshop, convened by the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n",
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"\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was made possible in part by the Aging Beat workshop, convened by the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n"
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"excerpt": "Filipino Advocates for Justice creates an affirming space for them to rest and celebrate, so they can show up whole — not only for themselves but for others.",
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"title": "This Bay Area Immigrant Rights Organization Is Helping Filipino Caregivers Care for Themselves | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This project was produced jointly by KQED and CatchLight as part of the \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"http://catchlight.io/mental-health\">\u003cem>mental health visual desk initiative.\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s only obligation was to focus on himself. At least for one day. In the bright orange office of Filipino Advocates for Justice (FAJ), where he was attending a special wellness meeting for caregiver worker leaders like himself, he closed his eyes, relaxed his shoulders and breathed. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“You are seen. Inhale,” a staff member told the group. “You are valued. Exhale.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Sometimes, Pakbet said he feels valued, like when he was a private aide for Teddy, a 98-year-old woman at the retirement home. They developed a relationship like a mother and son, and he would treat her so — cooking her homemade chicken feet adobo, or watching makeup tutorials with her online. He’d apply her lipstick, dress her in a gown and accompany her into the dining room, declaring, “The queen has arrived!” Besides bathing her and monitoring vitals, he saw it as his job to make her laugh.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099853\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness, leads a mental wellness breathing and massage exercise to open FAJ’s Kapwa Circle, a monthly community-building event, at the organization’s Union City location on March 6, 2026. Right: Pakbet (center) sings “Precious and Few” as the FAJ community honors FAJ worker organizer, Santi Tagle Buensuceso, during a surprise farewell party about one week before Buensuceso relocates back to the Philippines. Although Pakbet had a caregiving shift that evening, he joined the first half of the Kapwa Circle to attend the surprise going-away party for Buensuceso, who he considers an older sister. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096175\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-07-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Members of the Filipino Advocates for Justice community practice a breathing and movement exercise during the organization’s March Kapwa Circle. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Other times, his body remembers: panic attacks from the chronic stress of unstable paychecks and exploitative employers, grief for his mother with cancer back home in the Philippines, whom he hasn’t hugged in a decade. The depression has led to insomnia and isolation.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“My world is work, home. I don’t have any trusted friends,” he said. “This is my life.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet, 54, said caregivers like him can feel overworked and undervalued. A Bay Area immigrant rights organization, FAJ creates an affirming space for them to rest and celebrate, so they can show up whole — not only for themselves but for others.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"994\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096186\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-160x80.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-18-1536x763.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Center: Pakbet poses for a portrait in his Bay Area home on May 4, 2026, where he has lived with his family for six years. Previously, they lived in abusive situations, sharing cramped spaces and experiencing mistreatment. In 2020, with guidance from a friend at FAJ, they secured their own apartment. “We rent, and we’re very happy because my son has a room. I can cook now,” said Pakbet. “That’s our paradise.” Left and Right: A Bible and cross adorn the walls of Pakbet’s apartment. The demands of caregiving often weigh heavily on his mind, but he finds solace in his faith. “It’s hard, it’s very tiring,” he said. “Without my son, without my faith, I almost give up.” (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Leaning on Filipino cultural practices and intergenerational connection, mental health is woven into everything they do, from monthly gatherings and wellness clinics to everyday grounding techniques and artistic expression. Yet the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and statewide funding cuts to mental health services have threatened their prevention work, even as a shortage in \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/Goals/4\">care workers \u003c/a>looms. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Filipinos are heavily represented in the healthcare workforce, according to \u003ca href=\"https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7969854/\">research\u003c/a>, and many are paid to care for older adults. Respect for elders is a deeply embedded cultural value. As California’s population continues to age — \u003ca href=\"https://mpa.aging.ca.gov/\">about 25% will be an older adult by 2030\u003c/a> — caregivers will become even more essential. But isolation, burnout, racial discrimination, wage theft, and more can all contribute to mental health challenges.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>“They are the first to take care of everybody else. And that’s done at the expense of their own bodies, their own emotional health,” said Geraldine Alcid, executive director of FAJ. “They deserve to take care of themselves, and they deserve rest.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1272\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096185\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-160x102.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-17-1536x977.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An old photograph of Pakbet and Teddy decorated with makeup and his written reflections. To help Teddy prepare for outings, Pakbet watched YouTube tutorials to learn makeup and helped her choose dresses and jewelry. At the care home, Pakbet recalls people asking him, “Where is your master?” but Teddy always defended him, responding that he was her family. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; instant photo made with and handwriting and decorations by Pakbet)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1620\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_05_Caregiver1_CookingAdobo_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096600\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet cooks chicken adobo at home. He de-stresses through cooking and finds joy in sharing his food. When caring for Teddy, a former client who was bedridden, he learned she had grown tired of retirement home meals and missed eating dim sum and chicken feet. He made her chicken feet adobo and began cooking for her. Over time, Pakbet says, she regained energy and began walking again. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED; handwriting by Pakbet)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>When Pakbet first arrived in the States alone over a decade ago, he lived and worked at a residential care home for older adults. He said his boss forced him to sleep on cardboard in the garage, and his paychecks didn’t reflect the long, exhausting hours. He also knew caregivers who died by suicide. Pakbet, at times, didn’t know if he’d make it. The reason he immigrated was to provide for his son’s education.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Pakbet said his Bible and a photo of his son got him through.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet’s experience is common. Yet cultural \u003ca href=\"https://filipinos4justice.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/3-30-22-Filipino-Advocates-for-Justice-FAJ_-A-Mental-Health-Report-_-Kumusta-Tayo-2021.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">stigma\u003c/a> and shame can prevent Filipino immigrants from seeking support. “I’ve witnessed many times caregivers who need help. They get scared and hide in the dark,” Pakbet said.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Over a decade ago, Oakland-based community health center Asian Health Services referred an exploited caregiver who was anxious and stressed to FAJ. The organization realized others had similar stories, and it was the catalyst for it to focus efforts on prevention. In 2015, they launched a mental health support group for caregivers, many of them older, funded through a two-year Alameda County innovations grant. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>FAJ expanded its program with the help of an eight-year county contract. They hired a licensed mental health professional on staff, as well as three part-time community outreach specialists to facilitate mental health offerings rooted in culture. FAJ also created a Healing Advisory Committee that organizes free annual wellness clinics, featuring Filipino traditions such as hilot, a massage focused on releasing trauma. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096179\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-11-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet hangs a wet sheet to dry near the window in his Bay Area home. After years of living in the United States without access to an in-home washing machine, he set up a small washer in his apartment kitchen — a change he says has saved him time and eased the routines of daily life. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"920\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096178\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-10-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Pakbet holds calamansi — a sweet and sour Filipino citrus with fragrant flowers — that he harvested from the office garden at Filipino Advocates for Justice for cooking. Right: Pakbet’s caregiving scrubs drape the living room couch where he sleeps so that his son can have the only bedroom in their apartment. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>In 2023, a one-time state grant from the Department of Aging enabled FAJ to shift attention again to caregivers. They provided training on topics such as nutrition and managing grief, weaving in hands-on clinics for everyday self-care. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At first, caregivers expressed apprehensive curiosity. Then eventually, they requested chia seed pudding recipes and acupuncture, even the caregivers who feared needles. The organization also provided acupressure rings people could roll on their fingers whenever they needed to calm themselves.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Nervous system regulation is essential for moving from merely surviving to thriving, said Dr. Karen Villanueva, training lead and executive director of Kilusan Wellness. And for the majority of caregivers with little time or money, accessibility is key. “So much the better if you can tuck it in your pocket and take it out when you need it.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>This July, the policy changes California made to its landmark Behavioral Services Act took effect. When voters passed Proposition 1 in 2024, they approved Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plans to shift funds away from prevention and early intervention toward treatment beds. FAJ’s prevention funding, which supports half of their direct services, was reduced from $360,000 to zero dollars — the organization lost its licensed mental health professional and folded its community outreach advisers into other roles.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>At the special meeting for wellness worker leaders, where Pakbet could slow down and breathe, the thinning manifested in another way. Usually, nearly a dozen caregivers would be gearing up to knock on the doors of care homes in the East Bay, handing “know your rights” information to employees. The organization pays these workers a learning stipend to perform this outreach work. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>But when Pakbet looked around the office, he was one of the few caregivers who had stayed. Half of the group had chosen to spend their remaining years in the Philippines as the Trump administration pushes to aggressively crack down on immigration. Many said they were tired of feeling criminalized and undervalued, or, as one staff member of the organization said, an “America-doesn’t-deserve-me” mentality. Others said they missed moments with loved ones.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096177\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-09-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet listens to a talk on safety in sanctuary cities during an FAJ informational session for caregivers and their community. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Along with other caregivers in this story, KQED is referring to Pakbet only by a nickname to allow them to speak openly about their mental health struggles and working conditions without jeopardizing their employment.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet understands the impulse to return home. Still, he said he was feeling especially tender.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>His “lifeline,” FAJ’s worker organizer and seasoned activist Santi Tagle Buensuceso, had announced that she was also returning to her homeland.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Whenever Pakbet struggled, instead of crying alone, he’d call Tagle Buensuceso. Sometimes, he’d voice his doubts about his ability to be a provider: “Am I a good father? Am I doing OK? Do I need to go back to the Philippines?” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She would assure him that trying his best was good enough, that he was a great father and husband. She also realized caregivers like Pakbet needed more outlets and two years ago suggested FAJ host monthly Kapwa Circles for the wider community. A third space to unwind, to reflect, to create joy. \u003ca href=\"https://sswr.confex.com/sswr/2026/webprogram/Paper61579.html\">Kapwa\u003c/a>, a Filipino value meaning interconnectedness, the recognition of yourself in each other.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096176\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-08-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Community members practice a breathing and movement exercise as Santi Tagle Buensuceso reads a farewell card signed by the Filipino Advocates for Justice community during a surprise party held a week before her return to the Philippines. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096171\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-03-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, right, says goodbye to Tagle Buensuceso during her surprise farewell party. To Pakbet, Buensuceso was like an older sister, someone who always looked out for and advocated for him. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>On a Friday evening in March, the young and old came together at FAJ’s Union City office to recreate a slice of the Philippines.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Fried chicken from Jollibee piled high on paper plates, the sounds of people speaking Tagalog could be heard. Outside, a community garden where calamansi, a citrus fruit native to the Philippines, had been harvested for a jar of juice. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The event is what FAJ leadership describes as a “Filipino family party” or a Kapwa Circle. It has a different flavor each month and begins with a discussion of a social justice topic — sanctuary cities, for one, or voter registration — to invite people into FAJ’s organizing work. After the community conversation, they host an activity like bingo or mahjong. Always karaoke, whether planned or not. There is a rule of no chisme, but many will say gossip is their favorite part. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096174\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-06-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">People dance the Pinoy Cha-Cha during the March Kapwa Circle at the offices of Filipino Advocates for Justice in Union City, California. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2500\" height=\"833\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12099855\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1.jpg 2500w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2000x666.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-160x53.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/09/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-DIP-3-1-2048x682.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2500px) 100vw, 2500px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: Cristy Ferrer, a Filipino Advocates for Justice organizer, left, and Ine, a caregiver and FAJ worker leader, lead a Pinoy Cha-Cha dance lesson. Right: Ine dances with another community member during the Kapwa Circle. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>The evening was Tagle Buensuceso’s last circle. Pakbet was there, drawn to a space where he could laugh and smile naturally. “I don’t need to fake it,” he said. He must leave early, however, to care for a client. Pakbet is now a certified nurse assistant and works hourly one-on-one with clients, but stability has been elusive lately. Clients have entered hospital care or passed away. With fewer hours, he has no choice.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>For now, he joined in celebrating Tagle Buensuceso. As a surprise, staff handed out printed lyrics of her favorite song, “Precious and Few” by the band Climax. Ine, a fellow caregiver worker leader, grabbed her guitar. She led the group for a sing-along to the ’70s soft-rock song about cherishing moments, and the metaphor was not lost.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>A mother of three, Ine came solo to the U.S. 15 years ago to provide her children a good college education, and has lived and worked at a care home ever since. As the home’s cook, Ine, 63, plates green pesto pasta and other colorful food with the intention to appeal to her dementia patients. She also administers medicine, having gone back to school to become a pharmacy technician, graduating with honors. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\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/U9ectSMWvm4'\n title='//www.youtube.com/embed/U9ectSMWvm4'\n allowfullscreen='true'\n style='border:0;'>\u003c/iframe>\n \u003c/span>\n \u003c/span>\u003c/p>\u003cp>\u003c/div>\u003c/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She said she talks with her husband and children via video every night, but misses them the most on holidays and birthdays. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Back in her room at the care home, she filled a balikbayan box for her son’s 41st birthday. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>She lovingly selected Lacoste polo shirts, Ferrero Rocher chocolate and other items for the care package by hand, a proxy for her presence. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1513\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/FAJ_Video_06_VideoPortraits_TEST.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096610\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Caregivers, community members and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice pose for portraits in the garden near a calamansi tree cared for by staff and harvested by caregivers for their food. Some chose gestures of wellness to express in their portraits. “There’s such a deep, immense healing power that caregivers have,” said Daisy Maxion, FAJ organizing director. “They remind us of what it means to be human.” (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Every month, she makes sure she has time off for the Kapwa Circle. When she is tired, when the monotony of caregiving is grueling, she said being with other caregivers at FAJ and, better, using her musical talent to entertain, gives her the “strength to work for another day.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>This evening, Ine passed the mic to Tagle Buensuceso, who said that before FAJ, she believed cigarettes were the only form of wellness. She left the group with one last piece of wisdom. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of your community.” Pakbet clapped. The music began. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Hands linked and people moved to the Cupid Shuffle, the Macarena, the Pinoy Cha-Cha. Ine was in her element, her first love, dance. The food whittled down. When a delivery worker stopped by to drop off more Spam musubi, she was met with a chorus of: “Stay. Take a plate.”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"920\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096181\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-160x74.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-13-1536x707.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Left: A community member of Filipino Advocates for Justice holds a flower in her hand as she poses in front of a backdrop. “If you’re able to breathe deeply and freely, if you’re able to sit with difficult emotions, if you’re able to get regular sleep and eat food that has some nutrition in it … you’re leaving room for creativity and imagination and the courage to reach out,” said Karen Villanueva, executive director of Kilusan Wellness. “Nervous system regulation allows us to really know who we are.” Right: Two attendees wear Filipiniana dresses as they fill ttheir plates during a Kapwa Circle potluck. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>There is power in knowing others share similar experiences, said Dr. Annalisa Enrile, a Filipina community organizer and professor at the USC School of Social Work.\u003cbr>\u003cbr>Enrile has researched how \u003ca href=\"https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-27795-003.html\">communal care in Filipino immigrant communities\u003c/a> that draws on cultural practices can ease stress and improve mental well-being. “If you feel like you belong in a way that gives you agency, and reduces stigma,” she said, “then you’re more apt to ask for help.” \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>FAJ’s leaders, too, realized belonging was a way to build trust and encourage caregivers to open up, and it’s why they have prioritized connection as the heart of their programming. Recently, they were relieved to hear they received one year of bridge funding to bring back their mental health specialist as they figure out how to sustain their wellness and mental health services. A temporary bandage, executive director Geraldine Alcid said, but enough to keep going. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096184\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-16-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ine near the San Francisco Bay, where she likes to go and recharge when she has time. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Despite the funding uncertainty, the group is sustained by a deep hope: Show up, and something might shift. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet wasn’t sure if he’d come back to FAJ when Tagle Buensuceso left. He decided to keep showing up anyway, without a community elsewhere. Later that spring, he attended a picnic for caregivers at Contra Loma Regional Park in Contra Costa County. The stillness of the oak-tree-dotted hills contrasted with the chaos of the last few months. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>One of his male clients was in the hospital, which meant Pakbet was not being paid to take care of him and was spending too much time alone at home in his apartment. He nearly missed a rent payment until he reached out to FAJ to help. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\n\u003cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-full\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1998\" height=\"1332\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12096180\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12.jpg 1998w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/08/260820-FAJCatchlight-FM-12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1998px) 100vw, 1998px\" />\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pakbet, center, joins other caregivers and staff of Filipino Advocates for Justice under the shade of a tree at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch for an annual picnic–an opportunity to connect with caregivers from across the Bay Area and enjoy nature. Caregivers practiced wellness stretching, shared food and reenacted moments from caregiving through a “Theater of the Oppressed” activity. (Florence Middleton for Catchlight/KQED)\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003c/div>\n\n\n\u003cp>Grateful for people, for peaceful nature, he set up his phone on a tripod to document the picnic. The wind was gentle. The wetlands glassy. A duck swam by and Pakbet paused to look at it, reminding him of balut, a delicacy with roots in his mother’s province. \u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>The caregivers took turns sharing their favorite stretch before acting out a scripted scene from \u003cem>Theater of the Oppressed\u003c/em>, an approach that uses roleplay to explore solutions to social problems. Pakbet assumed the role of a care home owner. Drawing from his own experience, he joked about doling out “expensive” perfume from the Dollar Tree instead of actual dollars for overtime. People burst out laughing.\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>Pakbet reflected afterward and said he has never felt more anchored in his purpose to empower caregivers like himself. Next outreach, when he knocks on doors, before asking about rights, before handing them a booklet, he will first ask, “How are you doing?”\u003c/p>\n\n\n\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was made possible in part by the Aging Beat workshop, convened by the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"id": "commonwealth-club",
"title": "Commonwealth Club of California Podcast",
"info": "The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum. As a non-partisan forum, The Club brings to the public airwaves diverse viewpoints on important topics. The Club's weekly radio broadcast - the oldest in the U.S., dating back to 1924 - is carried across the nation on public radio stations and is now podcasting. Our website archive features audio of our recent programs, as well as selected speeches from our long and distinguished history. This podcast feed is usually updated twice a week and is always un-edited.",
"airtime": "THU 10pm, FRI 1am",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Commonwealth-Club-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
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"meta": {
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"source": "Commonwealth Club of California"
},
"link": "/radio/program/commonwealth-club",
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cDovL3d3dy5jb21tb253ZWFsdGhjbHViLm9yZy9hdWRpby9wb2RjYXN0L3dlZWtseS54bWw",
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},
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"id": "forum",
"title": "Forum",
"tagline": "The conversation starts here",
"info": "KQED’s live call-in program discussing local, state, national and international issues, as well as in-depth interviews.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 9am-11am, 10pm-11pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Forum-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Forum with Mina Kim and Alexis Madrigal",
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"order": 9
},
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"id": "freakonomics-radio",
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"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/05/freakonomicsRadio.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "http://freakonomics.com/",
"airtime": "SUN 1am-2am, SAT 3pm-4pm",
"meta": {
"site": "radio",
"source": "WNYC"
},
"link": "/radio/program/freakonomics-radio",
"subscribe": {
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/podcasts/WNYC-Podcasts/Freakonomics-Radio-p272293/",
"rss": "https://feeds.feedburner.com/freakonomicsradio"
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},
"fresh-air": {
"id": "fresh-air",
"title": "Fresh Air",
"info": "Hosted by Terry Gross, \u003cem>Fresh Air from WHYY\u003c/em> is the Peabody Award-winning weekday magazine of contemporary arts and issues. One of public radio's most popular programs, Fresh Air features intimate conversations with today's biggest luminaries.",
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?s=143441&mt=2&id=214089682&at=11l79Y&ct=nprdirectory",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/381444908/podcast.xml"
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"info": "A live production of NPR and WBUR Boston, in collaboration with stations across the country, Here & Now reflects the fluid world of news as it's happening in the middle of the day, with timely, in-depth news, interviews and conversation. Hosted by Robin Young, Jeremy Hobson and Tonya Mosley.",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510051/podcast.xml"
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},
"hidden-brain": {
"id": "hidden-brain",
"title": "Hidden Brain",
"info": "Shankar Vedantam uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices and direct our relationships.",
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"airtime": "SUN 7pm-8pm",
"meta": {
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"source": "NPR"
},
"link": "/radio/program/hidden-brain",
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},
"how-i-built-this": {
"id": "how-i-built-this",
"title": "How I Built This with Guy Raz",
"info": "Guy Raz dives into the stories behind some of the world's best known companies. How I Built This weaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists—and the movements they built.",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/05/howIBuiltThis.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510313/how-i-built-this",
"airtime": "SUN 7:30pm-8pm",
"meta": {
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},
"link": "/radio/program/how-i-built-this",
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"npr": "https://rpb3r.app.goo.gl/3zxy",
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-built-this-with-guy-raz/id1150510297?mt=2",
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},
"hyphenacion": {
"id": "hyphenacion",
"title": "Hyphenación",
"tagline": "Where conversation and cultura meet",
"info": "What kind of no sabo word is Hyphenación? For us, it’s about living within a hyphenation. Like being a third-gen Mexican-American from the Texas border now living that Bay Area Chicano life. Like Xorje! Each week we bring together a couple of hyphenated Latinos to talk all about personal life choices: family, careers, relationships, belonging … everything is on the table. ",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hyphenacion_FinalAssets_PodcastTile.png",
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"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/hyphenacion",
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"order": 15
},
"link": "/podcasts/hyphenacion",
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"spotify": "https://open.spotify.com/show/2p3Fifq96nw9BPcmFdIq0o?si=39209f7b25774f38",
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},
"jerrybrown": {
"id": "jerrybrown",
"title": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown",
"tagline": "Lessons from a lifetime in politics",
"info": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown brings listeners the wisdom of the former Governor, Mayor, and presidential candidate. Scott Shafer interviewed Brown for more than 40 hours, covering the former governor's life and half-century in the political game – and Brown has some lessons he'd like to share. ",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/The-Political-Mind-of-Jerry-Brown-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
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"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/jerrybrown",
"meta": {
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"order": 18
},
"link": "/podcasts/jerrybrown",
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}
},
"latino-usa": {
"id": "latino-usa",
"title": "Latino USA",
"airtime": "MON 1am-2am, SUN 6pm-7pm",
"info": "Latino USA, the radio journal of news and culture, is the only national, English-language radio program produced from a Latino perspective.",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/latinoUsa.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "http://latinousa.org/",
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},
"link": "/radio/program/latino-usa",
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?s=143441&mt=2&id=79681317&at=11l79Y&ct=nprdirectory",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510016/podcast.xml"
}
},
"marketplace": {
"id": "marketplace",
"title": "Marketplace",
"info": "Our flagship program, helmed by Kai Ryssdal, examines what the day in money delivered, through stories, conversations, newsworthy numbers and more. Updated Monday through Friday at about 3:30 p.m. PT.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 4pm-4:30pm, MON-WED 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Marketplace-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.marketplace.org/",
"meta": {
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"source": "American Public Media"
},
"link": "/radio/program/marketplace",
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"rss": "https://feeds.publicradio.org/public_feeds/marketplace-pm/rss/rss"
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},
"masters-of-scale": {
"id": "masters-of-scale",
"title": "Masters of Scale",
"info": "Masters of Scale is an original podcast in which LinkedIn co-founder and Greylock Partner Reid Hoffman sets out to describe and prove theories that explain how great entrepreneurs take their companies from zero to a gazillion in ingenious fashion.",
"airtime": "Every other Wednesday June 12 through October 16 at 8pm (repeats Thursdays at 2am)",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Masters-of-Scale-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://mastersofscale.com/",
"meta": {
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"source": "WaitWhat"
},
"link": "/radio/program/masters-of-scale",
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"apple": "http://mastersofscale.app.link/",
"rss": "https://rss.art19.com/masters-of-scale"
}
},
"mindshift": {
"id": "mindshift",
"title": "MindShift",
"tagline": "A podcast about the future of learning and how we raise our kids",
"info": "The MindShift podcast explores the innovations in education that are shaping how kids learn. Hosts Ki Sung and Katrina Schwartz introduce listeners to educators, researchers, parents and students who are developing effective ways to improve how kids learn. We cover topics like how fed-up administrators are developing surprising tactics to deal with classroom disruptions; how listening to podcasts are helping kids develop reading skills; the consequences of overparenting; and why interdisciplinary learning can engage students on all ends of the traditional achievement spectrum. This podcast is part of the MindShift education site, a division of KQED News. KQED is an NPR/PBS member station based in San Francisco. You can also visit the MindShift website for episodes and supplemental blog posts or tweet us \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/MindShiftKQED\">@MindShiftKQED\u003c/a> or visit us at \u003ca href=\"/mindshift\">MindShift.KQED.org\u003c/a>",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Mindshift-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED MindShift: How We Will Learn",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/mindshift/",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 12
},
"link": "/podcasts/mindshift",
"subscribe": {
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vS1FJTkM1NzY0NjAwNDI5",
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}
},
"morning-edition": {
"id": "morning-edition",
"title": "Morning Edition",
"info": "\u003cem>Morning Edition\u003c/em> takes listeners around the country and the world with multi-faceted stories and commentaries every weekday. Hosts Steve Inskeep, David Greene and Rachel Martin bring you the latest breaking news and features to prepare you for the day.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 3am-9am",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Morning-Edition-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/programs/morning-edition/",
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"link": "/radio/program/morning-edition"
},
"onourwatch": {
"id": "onourwatch",
"title": "On Our Watch",
"tagline": "Deeply-reported investigative journalism",
"info": "For decades, the process for how police police themselves has been inconsistent – if not opaque. In some states, like California, these proceedings were completely hidden. After a new police transparency law unsealed scores of internal affairs files, our reporters set out to examine these cases and the shadow world of police discipline. On Our Watch brings listeners into the rooms where officers are questioned and witnesses are interrogated to find out who this system is really protecting. Is it the officers, or the public they've sworn to serve?",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/On-Our-Watch-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "On Our Watch from NPR and KQED",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/onourwatch",
"meta": {
"site": "news",
"source": "kqed",
"order": 11
},
"link": "/podcasts/onourwatch",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1567098962",
"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5ucHIub3JnLzUxMDM2MC9wb2RjYXN0LnhtbD9zYz1nb29nbGVwb2RjYXN0cw",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510360/podcast.xml"
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},
"on-the-media": {
"id": "on-the-media",
"title": "On The Media",
"info": "Our weekly podcast explores how the media 'sausage' is made, casts an incisive eye on fluctuations in the marketplace of ideas, and examines threats to the freedom of information and expression in America and abroad. For one hour a week, the show tries to lift the veil from the process of \"making media,\" especially news media, because it's through that lens that we see the world and the world sees us",
"airtime": "SUN 2pm-3pm, MON 12am-1am",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/onTheMedia.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.wnycstudios.org/shows/otm",
"meta": {
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"source": "wnyc"
},
"link": "/radio/program/on-the-media",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-media/id73330715?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/radio/On-the-Media-p69/",
"rss": "http://feeds.wnyc.org/onthemedia"
}
},
"pbs-newshour": {
"id": "pbs-newshour",
"title": "PBS NewsHour",
"info": "Analysis, background reports and updates from the PBS NewsHour putting today's news in context.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 3pm-4pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PBS-News-Hour-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.pbs.org/newshour/",
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"source": "pbs"
},
"link": "/radio/program/pbs-newshour",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/pbs-newshour-full-show/id394432287?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/radio/PBS-NewsHour---Full-Show-p425698/",
"rss": "https://www.pbs.org/newshour/feeds/rss/podcasts/show"
}
},
"perspectives": {
"id": "perspectives",
"title": "Perspectives",
"tagline": "KQED's series of daily listener commentaries since 1991",
"info": "KQED's series of daily listener commentaries since 1991.",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Perspectives_Tile_Final.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Perspectives",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/perspectives/",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 14
},
"link": "/perspectives",
"subscribe": {
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"npr": "https://www.npr.org/podcasts/432309616/perspectives",
"rss": "https://ww2.kqed.org/perspectives/category/perspectives/feed/",
"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93dzIua3FlZC5vcmcvcGVyc3BlY3RpdmVzL2NhdGVnb3J5L3BlcnNwZWN0aXZlcy9mZWVkLw"
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},
"planet-money": {
"id": "planet-money",
"title": "Planet Money",
"info": "The economy explained. Imagine you could call up a friend and say, Meet me at the bar and tell me what's going on with the economy. Now imagine that's actually a fun evening.",
"airtime": "SUN 3pm-4pm",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/planetmoney.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/sections/money/",
"meta": {
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"source": "npr"
},
"link": "/radio/program/planet-money",
"subscribe": {
"npr": "https://rpb3r.app.goo.gl/M4f5",
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/planet-money/id290783428?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/podcasts/Business--Economics-Podcasts/Planet-Money-p164680/",
"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510289/podcast.xml"
}
},
"politicalbreakdown": {
"id": "politicalbreakdown",
"title": "Political Breakdown",
"tagline": "Politics from a personal perspective",
"info": "Political Breakdown is a new series that explores the political intersection of California and the nation. Each week hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos are joined with a new special guest to unpack politics -- with personality — and offer an insider’s glimpse at how politics happens.",
"airtime": "THU 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Political-Breakdown-2024-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Political Breakdown",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/politicalbreakdown",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 5
},
"link": "/podcasts/politicalbreakdown",
"subscribe": {
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"amazon": "https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e0c2d153-ad36-4c8d-901d-f1da6a724824/political-breakdown",
"npr": "https://www.npr.org/podcasts/572155894/political-breakdown",
"stitcher": "https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/kqed/political-breakdown",
"spotify": "https://open.spotify.com/show/07RVyIjIdk2WDuVehvBMoN",
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