On May 16, 2025, more than 18,000 fans packed Chase Center for the inaugural game of the newest WNBA franchise, the Valkyries. This marked the highest attendance for any team in its debut game. Valkyries player Kayla Thornton had the honor of scoring the first points in team history at the game opener, and Tiffany ‘Tip’ Hayes led Valkyries with 19 points.
Hayes has an amazing WNBA history spanning over several years, with multiple accolades, including All-WNBA First Team (2018), WNBA All-Defensive Second Team (2018), Eastern Conference Player of the Month (May 2017), and WNBA All-Rookie Team (2012).
The game did not disappoint with the opening and half-time entertainment. Bay Area legend Goapele performed the National Anthem and hip-hop artist E-40 performed the halftime show. The crowd excitement was at indescribable sound level that continued throughout the entire inaugural game. While the game ended with a fall of the Valkyries to the Los Angeles Sparks (84-67), the future looks bright for the franchise team. The organization have created a team with diverse skills from former WNBA players to international talent and first time professional players.
Many notables attended the inaugural game including Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr and teammates Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney, and Buddy Hield. Also NBA Coach Doc Rivers attended the game to support his former assistant coach Natalie Nakase. The Valkyries are the WNBA's first expansion team in 17 years, and their head coach, Natalie Nakase, is the first Asian American coach in the league.
The momentum behind women's sports has been steadily rising, fueled by increasing media coverage, sponsorship deals, and fan engagement. Athletes like Coco Gauf, A’jaWilson, and Angel Reese have become household names, inspiring a new generation to invest in female athletics. Leagues and organizations are pushing for equal pay, better facilities, and greater visibility, showing that women's sports are no longer in the shadows. With social movements and advocacy amplifying the conversation, the future looks bright for women in sports—where talent, determination, and skill take center stage.