Golden State Valkyries: A Historic Inaugural Season Despite Playoff Exit

The Golden State Valkyries made history during the 2025 WNBA season, becoming the first expansion team to qualify for the playoffs in their inaugural year. Finishing with a 23-21 record, they secured the eighth seed, setting a record for the most wins by a first-year expansion team. Under the leadership of head coach Natalie Nakase, who was named WNBA Coach of the Year, the Valkyries showcased remarkable talent, including All-Star Kayla Thornton and Most Improved Player Veronica Burton. Their success was bolstered by strong fan support, as they led the league in average home attendance, selling out every game at Chase Center.

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Despite their historic season, the Valkyries faced a challenging playoff matchup against the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx. In their first home playoff game, held at SAP Center due to scheduling conflicts, the Valkyries initially surged to a 17-point lead. However, they ultimately lost the game, resulting in a first-round exit from the playoffs. This defeat did not overshadow their accomplishments, as players and fans alike recognized the significance of their inaugural campaign. Tiffany Hayes, a key player, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “We literally just lost the game by one point, and [because of the fans] we feel kind of like we won.”

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Natalie Nakase's coaching prowess was acknowledged when she received the WNBA Coach of the Year award, garnering 53 out of 72 votes from a national panel. Nakase emphasized that her award reflects the entire organization and its commitment to success. Under her guidance, the Valkyries ranked among the top five in several statistical categories, including rebounds per game and free throw percentage.

Nakase Named WNBA and Associated Press Coach of the Year

Looking ahead, the Valkyries have laid a solid foundation for future success. Their inaugural season has set a high standard for the six expansion teams joining the league by 2030. The combination of a talented roster, effective coaching, and passionate fan engagement positions the Valkyries as a promising contender in the coming seasons.

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The Valkyries' management and players have expressed optimism about the future. Coach Nakase remarked on the importance of building a championship-caliber team, stating, “If you take this job we’ve got to win a championship in five years. That’s the goal.” The team’s commitment to improvement and growth is evident as they reflect on their inaugural season.

Nakase Named WNBA and Associated Press Coach of the Year

• “We literally just lost the game by one point, and [because of the fans] we feel kind of like we won,” — Tiffany Hayes, Valkyries Player

Valkyries favorite's risky expansion team decision is a lesson to W vets

• “And that’s why I took this job, because [Valkyries owner Joe Lacob] was like, ‘If you take this job we’ve got to win a championship in five years.’ That’s the goal, so I just wanted to start with that. But what this does, is it reflects on (our) whole organization. It starts at the top.” — Natalie Nakase, Valkyries Head Coach

Nakase Named WNBA and Associated Press Coach of the Year

• “This place definitely feels like a second home to me and I hope it's like that for years to come.” — Tiffany Hayes, Valkyries Player

Valkyries favorite's risky expansion team decision is a lesson to W vets

The Golden State Valkyries' inaugural season, marked by historic achievements and a dedicated fan base, has set a promising trajectory for the franchise as they look to build on their success in the future.

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