The Golden State Valkyries have quickly risen to become the most valuable franchise in the WNBA, surpassing the Indiana Fever despite the latter’s star guard Caitlin Clark’s immense popularity and impact. After only 13 games, the Valkyries have reached a franchise valuation of $500 million, significantly higher than the Fever’s estimated $335 million, highlighting the rapid financial growth of this new expansion team.
The Rise of Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever’s Value Surge
Caitlin Clark, recognized as one of the most outstanding players in women’s basketball, has dramatically increased interest in the Indiana Fever and the WNBA overall. A former No. 1 overall draft pick, Clark achieved historic accomplishments at the University of Iowa, including becoming the all-time leading scorer in Division I basketball and earning multiple accolades such as four AP All-American honors, two AP Player of the Year awards, three Big Ten Player of the Year titles, and two Naismith Awards.
Since Clark joined the Fever, the franchise’s value has more than tripled, rising from $90 million in 2024—below the league average—to $340 million by May, as analyzed by Ryan Brewer, a finance associate professor at Indiana University Columbus. Despite her immense influence, Clark’s popularity has not been enough to elevate the Fever to the top spot in franchise valuation within the league.
Golden State Valkyries Set New Standard for Franchise Valuation
The Golden State Valkyries have made an unprecedented entrance in the WNBA by becoming the first franchise valued at half a billion dollars. This milestone places them well ahead of the next most valuable team, the defending champions New York Liberty, who are valued at $420 million. The Indiana Fever currently hold third place with a $335 million valuation.
On the court, the Valkyries have exceeded typical expansion team expectations, sitting above a .500 win percentage in their maiden season. While they have yet to defeat the Liberty—falling 92-67 and 82-77 in two recent matchups—the Valkyries claimed a decisive 88-77 victory over the Fever in their initial meeting, asserting their competitive strength.
Fan Support and Attendance Milestones Fueling Franchise Value
Attendance numbers showcase the enthusiasm surrounding both teams. The Fever averaged 17,035 fans at home games last season, notably surpassing the NBA’s Indiana Pacers in attendance figures. The Valkyries pushed the bar even higher, becoming the first team to average over 18,000 fans for their first three home games. This early fan support has played a vital role in their soaring franchise value.
Golden State is scheduled to host the defending champions New York Liberty on Wednesday at 10 p.m., providing another opportunity to assert their dominance on home court and continue their remarkable debut season.