The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest expansion team, have set a remarkable precedent by becoming the first in league history to sell 10,000 season tickets. This milestone underscores the Bay Area’s enthusiasm for women’s professional basketball and sets a promising trajectory for the team’s inaugural season.

Scheduled to commence play on May 16, 2025, the Valkyries will host the Los Angeles Sparks at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This venue, renowned for hosting the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, will serve as the Valkyries’ home court, with the team operating its own ticketing and practice facilities independently of the Warriors.

Team president Jess Smith expressed profound gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “This community has shown up, and then some to create this milestone. This is something that we knew was possible and really just signifies the beginning of our journey in a way that will set a trajectory for the WNBA moving forward.” ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/expansion-valkyries-first-wnba-team-hit-10k-season-tickets-2025-03-26/?utm_source=openai))

The Valkyries received an overwhelming response, with 22,000 deposits for season tickets. The team is currently finalizing these commitments and plans to open single-game sales soon, reflecting the high demand and excitement surrounding the new franchise.

In 2024, the WNBA experienced a significant surge in popularity, achieving its highest total attendance in 22 years with 2.35 million fans—a 48% increase from the previous season. This growth was marked by 54 sellouts and three games drawing over 20,000 fans, including a record-setting 20,711 attendees at the Indiana Fever vs. Washington Mystics matchup on September 19. ([wnba.com](https://www.wnba.com/webview/news/wnba-delivers-record-setting-2024-season?utm_source=openai))

The Valkyries’ expansion is part of the WNBA’s broader strategy to enhance the league’s national presence. The 2024 season also saw the addition of the Portland team, with plans for further expansion into cities like Toronto and potentially others by 2026. ([ticketnews.com](https://www.ticketnews.com/2024/10/wnba-reveals-highest-attendance-in-22-years/?utm_source=openai))

As the Valkyries prepare for their debut season, the team’s management is focused on building a competitive roster. In the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft, the Valkyries selected 11 players, including international talents such as Iliana Rupert from France and Maria Conde from Spain, as well as seasoned WNBA players like Temi Fagbenle and Cecilia Zandalasini. ([nba.com](https://www.nba.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-inaugural-roster-2024-wnba-expansion-draft?utm_source=openai))

Looking ahead, the Valkyries’ entry into the WNBA is poised to contribute significantly to the league’s growth and the promotion of women’s sports in the United States. The team’s success in ticket sales and community engagement sets a strong foundation for a promising inaugural season and beyond.

General Data

When does the Golden State Valkyries’ inaugural season begin?

The Valkyries’ inaugural season tips off on May 16, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center in San Francisco. ([valkyries.wnba.com](https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/2025-schedule-release-20241202?utm_source=openai))

Where will the Valkyries play their home games?

The Valkyries will play their home games at Chase Center in San Francisco, the same venue as the NBA’s Golden State Warriors.([valkyries.wnba.com](https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/2025-schedule-release-20241202?utm_source=openai))

how can I purchase tickets for the Valkyries’ games?

Tickets can be purchased through the official Valkyries website.single-game tickets for the preseason game on May 6, 2025, went on sale on March 11, 2025, with general public access starting on March 12, 2025. ([valkyries.wnba.com](https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-announce-2025-preseason-ticket-information-20250311?utm_source=openai))

What is the significance of the Valkyries’ 10,000 season tickets sold milestone?

The Valkyries have become the first team in WNBA history to sell 10,000 season tickets, highlighting the bay Area’s strong support for women’s professional basketball. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/expansion-valkyries-first-wnba-team-hit-10k-season-tickets-2025-03-26/?utm_source=openai))

Team Roster and Player Information

Who are some key players on the Valkyries’ roster?

Notable players include Tiffany Hayes, the 2024 WNBA Sixth Player of the Year, who signed with the Valkyries in February 2025. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/valkyries-sign-veteran-g-tiffany-hayes-2025-02-06/?utm_source=openai))

Which players were selected in the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft?

The Valkyries selected 11 players,including international talents such as Iliana Rupert from France and Maria Conde from Spain,as well as seasoned WNBA players like Temi Fagbenle and Cecilia Zandalasini. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/expansion-valkyries-first-wnba-team-hit-10k-season-tickets-2025-03-26/?utm_source=openai))

Season Schedule and Events

What is the Valkyries’ preseason schedule?

The Valkyries’ preseason schedule includes a game against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 6, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ([valkyries.wnba.com](https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/valkyries-announce-2025-preseason-schedule-presented-by-kaiser-permanente-20250218?utm_source=openai))

When will the full regular-season schedule be released?

The full regular-season schedule, including dates and opponents, is available on the official Valkyries website. ([valkyries.wnba.com](https://valkyries.wnba.com/news/2025-schedule-release-20241202?utm_source=openai))

Community Engagement and Support

How can fans get involved with the Valkyries?

Fans can engage with the team by attending games, purchasing merchandise, and participating in community events hosted by the Valkyries. For more information, visit the official Valkyries website.

What initiatives are the Valkyries undertaking to promote women’s sports?

the Valkyries are committed to promoting women’s sports through various community initiatives, including hosting events and collaborating with local organizations to empower women and girls in the Bay Area.