On Tuesday night, the Golden State Valkyries will officially kick off a new era of Bay Area basketball as they play their first pre-season game at Chase Center in San Francisco against the Los Angeles Sparks. This moment marks a significant milestone not only for the team but also for the WNBA, as the Valkyries are the league's latest expansion team, becoming its 13th franchise.
Excitement is palpable among fans, especially after the Valkyries announced they broke a record by selling more than 10,000 season tickets. This is a promising sign for the franchise as they look to establish a strong fan base right from the start. If you can't make it to Chase Center, fear not! The game will be broadcast live on PIX+ 44 cable 12, with a pre-game show starting at 6:30 p.m. featuring Vern Glenn and analyst Zena Keita, leading up to tipoff at 7 p.m.
The pre-game and post-game shows will also be available for streaming on CBS News Bay Area, ensuring fans have multiple ways to catch the action. With 37 games scheduled to be aired across KPIX and PIX+, the Valkyries are set to keep their supporters engaged throughout the season.
As the Valkyries prepare for their inaugural game, they are aware of the challenges that come with being an expansion team. Historically, expansion teams have struggled in their first seasons. For instance, the Atlanta Dream won only four of their 34 games in 2008, while the Chicago Sky managed a mere 14.7% win rate in their inaugural season back in 2006. However, the Valkyries are optimistic about their prospects.
Head coach Natalie Nakase has been instrumental in assembling a competitive roster through the expansion draft, which allowed the team to select non-protected players from other WNBA squads. Additionally, they signed three players during the 2025 WNBA Draft, aiming to bolster their lineup with fresh talent.
The team’s roster features a mix of promising young players and seasoned veterans. Among the key players to watch is 24-year-old guard Kate Martin, who is set to play a pivotal role in the Valkyries’ offense. Having previously spent five seasons under coach Lisa Bluder at the University of Iowa, Martin is familiar with high-pressure situations and is eager to prove herself in the WNBA after a limited opportunity with the Las Vegas Aces last year.
Another standout to keep an eye on is Julie Vanloo, who has made a name for herself as a talented guard after her stint with the Washington Mystics. Vanloo's impressive performance with the Belgium national team at the 2024 Summer Olympics has caught the attention of scouts, and she is expected to bring her international experience to the Valkyries.
The forward line is equally impressive, featuring experienced players like Cecilia Zandalasini and Kayla Thornton, who have a combined total of 346 WNBA games under their belts. Both players have shown their capabilities in previous seasons, and their leadership will be crucial as the team navigates its first season.
Golden State also boasts a formidable center in Temi Fágbénlé, who was a key figure for the Indiana Fever last season. Averaging 6.4 points and 4.7 rebounds, Fágbénlé's presence in the paint will be vital for the Valkyries as they look to establish a strong inside game.
As the Valkyries prepare to face their Southern California rivals, the Los Angeles Sparks, the stakes are high. Both teams are eager to start the season on a positive note, with the Valkyries aiming to develop a winning culture and the Sparks looking to bounce back from recent struggles.
In addition to the Valkyries' debut, the WNBA is showcasing a full week of preseason games, with three matchups on Tuesday and another on Wednesday. Every game is available to watch for free via WNBA League Pass, making it easier than ever for fans to engage with the league.
The Minnesota Lynx will also be in action on Tuesday, taking on the Chicago Sky in Chicago. After falling short in the WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty last season, the Lynx are eager to start strong and are expected to field a competitive lineup.
As the Golden State Valkyries step onto the court for the first time, they are not just playing for a win; they are writing the first chapter in their franchise's history. The excitement surrounding this new team is palpable, and fans are ready to support them through thick and thin.
With a promising roster and a passionate fan base, the Valkyries are poised to make their mark in the WNBA. As they tip off against the Sparks at 10 p.m. ET, all eyes will be on San Francisco to see how this new franchise begins its journey in the league.
