WNBA · Western Conference

Golden State Valkyries

The league's newest success story, the first true expansion team to reach the playoffs in its first season.

CitySan Francisco, California
Founded2025
ConferenceWestern
LeagueWNBA

The story

The expansion team that broke the mould

The Valkyries arrived in 2025 as the league's thirteenth team, owned by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, the same group behind the NBA's Golden State Warriors. They play at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Most expansion teams lose for years. The Valkyries did not. They went 23-21 and made the playoffs in year one, the first true expansion side in league history to manage it, and quickly became the most valuable team in the WNBA.

With a sharp front office and a packed arena, Golden State turned a brand-new franchise into an instant contender and a template for the teams that followed.

For the fans

You skipped the usual expansion pain. A playoff team in year one and a sold-out Chase Center, the Valkyries gave you something to shout about straight away.

For the punters

Expansion sides are usually easy fades, but the Valkyries proved they are not. Treat them as a real team, price the matchup, and do not assume the soft over or the lazy underdog.

See the Valkyries odds board → More WNBA: Aces · Storm

Roster