Golden State Valkyries Make History with Record Season Ticket Sales
In a groundbreaking moment for the WNBA, the Golden State Valkyries have become the first team in the league’s history to sell 10,000 season tickets. This remarkable achievement was announced by the expansion team, marking a significant milestone not only for the Valkyries but for the WNBA as a whole.
The Valkyries are set to make their debut in the league as the first new team since 2008. Their inaugural game is scheduled for May 16, where they will face off against the Los Angeles Sparks at their home venue, the Chase Center. This arena is also home to the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, but despite sharing the space, the Valkyries operate their ticketing independently and have their own practice facility.
Jess Smith, the president of the Valkyries, expressed her excitement and gratitude in a video interview with Sportico. “This community has shown up, and then some, to create this milestone,” she said. “This is something that we knew was possible and really just signifies the beginning of our journey in a way that will set a trajectory for the WNBA moving forward.”
The enthusiasm for the Valkyries is evident, as the team reported receiving 22,000 deposits for season tickets. They are currently in the process of finalizing these sales, with single-game tickets expected to be available soon. This overwhelming response from fans highlights the growing interest and support for women’s basketball in the region.
The WNBA as a whole has been experiencing a surge in popularity. In 2024, the league recorded its highest total attendance in 22 years, with 2.35 million fans attending games. This figure represents a 48% increase from 2023 and included 54 sellouts, showcasing the league’s expanding fan base.
One of the standout moments from the 2024 season was the incredible draw of Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever. Three games featuring Clark attracted more than 20,000 fans each, including a record-breaking single-game attendance of 20,711 when the Fever played against the Washington Mystics on September 19.
- The Golden State Valkyries are the first WNBA team to sell 10,000 season tickets.
- The Valkyries will begin play on May 16 against the Los Angeles Sparks.
- In 2024, the WNBA had its highest total attendance in 22 years with 2.35 million fans.
- Three games featuring Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever drew more than 20,000 fans.
As the Valkyries prepare for their debut season, the excitement surrounding the team is palpable. The record-breaking ticket sales are a testament to the community’s support and the growing popularity of the WNBA. With the league experiencing a resurgence in attendance and interest, the Valkyries are poised to make a significant impact both on and off the court.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Valkyries will perform in their inaugural season. With a strong foundation of support and a dedicated fan base, the team is set to make waves in the WNBA. As the countdown to their first game continues, the Valkyries are ready to embark on a journey that promises to be both exciting and historic.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
