The Golden State Valkyries have pulled off one of the most remarkable stories in pro sports—winning a WNBA championship in just their second season.
A Dream Realized Sooner Than Expected
Owner Joe Lacob was nearly speechless as he addressed fans and the team after their thrilling Game 7 win over the Atlanta Dream, 68-63. “Two years, it’s insane,” Lacob said. “It’s just a lot of good decisions, a lot of good execution, a great coach… Those three women—President Jess Smith, GM Ohemaa Nyanin, and coach Natalie Nakase—were all spectacular.”
Lacob had promised a title within five years when the Bay Area franchise was born. The Valkyries, backed by an electric Chase Center crowd they dubbed “Ballhalla,” did it in two.
Star Performances and Pure Emotion
Veronica Burton, the Valkyries’ young point guard, was in tears of joy.
Veteran Tiffany Hayes, finally a champion after 14 seasons, made a passionate call: “This is just what happens when you invest in women’s sports… Valkyries, we here baby, and we ain’t going nowhere!”
Gabby Williams scored 28 of her 30 points in the second half and was named Finals MVP.
Guard Kaila Charles, who moved into the starting lineup when the team was facing elimination, spoke of the community and love in San Francisco: “We did this for the city because they pour into us and we want to pour back into them.”
Unrivaled Support and a Vision for the Future
Golden State sold out every game all season, instantly becoming the hottest ticket in the Bay Area. “What I’m so incredibly impressed by is ‘Ballhalla’ and our fan base… You just can’t buy that,” Lacob said.
Coach Natalie Nakase deflected credit, instead praising the organization and fans: “I didn’t score one basket… Without you guys, we wouldn’t be here.”
Dynasty Dreams and a Bay Area Parade
With four NBA titles as Warriors owner, Lacob now adds a WNBA trophy—one he says is just as meaningful—to the cabinet. And he’s thinking dynasty: “What else would I be thinking about? Of course! … We think there’s more to come.”
For now, the focus is on celebrating, with a parade along San Francisco’s bay front in the works. As Lacob said, “I’m just thinking about enjoying this a little bit… Winning’s fun. I don’t know if you noticed.”
Valkyries fans—rejoice. The Bay is truly ‘Ballhalla.’
