The Golden State Valkyries made history in 2025, finishing their inaugural WNBA season with a 23‑21 record and a playoff berth. For an expansion franchise, the achievement was unprecedented, and it quickly established the Bay Area’s newest team as one to watch.
Their debut campaign was marked not only by wins, but also by the atmosphere created at Ballhalla, where fans embraced the Golden State Valkyries with unmatched energy. That support, combined with a roster that showed cohesion beyond its years, has set the stage for even greater ambitions in 2026.
The offseason presents an opportunity for the Golden State Valkyries to strengthen its core. With free agency looming, the Valkyries are expected to retain much of their roster while also becoming an attractive destination for new talent. The chance to add one or two proven scorers could elevate the team further, while players such as Veronica Burton and Kayla Thornton may see expanded roles.
Expectations are already rising. ESPN’s Way‑Too‑Early 2026 WNBA Power Rankings placed the Golden State Valkyries seventh, ahead of several established franchises. The Seattle Storm, who edged Golden State in the final stretch of the season to finish higher in the standings, were ranked ninth. The Los Angeles Sparks, who narrowly missed the playoffs, also trailed the Valkyries in those projections.
Just above Golden State sit the New York Liberty, champions in 2024 but eliminated in the first round last season, and the Indiana Fever, who anticipate the return of Caitlin Clark for a full campaign. The Valkyries’ placement reflects how quickly they have earned respect across the league.
The team’s rise comes at a pivotal moment for the WNBA. With collective bargaining negotiations ongoing and a deep free agent class available, the Valkyries’ emphasis on character and culture could prove decisive. Head coach Natalie Nakase, honored as 2025 Coach of the Year, has already built a reputation for fostering unity and resilience.
Golden State’s players became accustomed to the underdog label in their first season. Now, with a playoff appearance behind them and a growing reputation, they enter 2026 as a team capable of challenging the league’s elite. Ballhalla’s energy will remain a driving force, and the Valkyries’ next chapter could see them transform from surprise contenders into genuine threats.
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