Stephen Curry has witnessed a remarkable shift among fans as the Golden State Valkyries, the newest WNBA team, have captured widespread attention during their debut season. On a stunning night at the Chase Center, Curry celebrated alongside 18,064 spectators as the Valkyries defeated the Seattle Storm in a commanding 84-57 victory, marking one of the most impressive starts by any expansion team in league history.
The Golden State Valkyries entered the 2024-25 WNBA season with a bold vision to establish themselves as a formidable presence, coinciding with the Warriors’ own NBA campaign. The team’s promotion efforts paid off quickly, filling the Chase Center to capacity for the opening game and maintaining sellout crowds through 10 consecutive home games, including the recent triumph over the Storm—who arrived at the matchup as a strong contender, riding a 7-2 run in their previous nine outings.
Stephen Curry’s Enthusiastic Support for the Valkyries’ Tenacity
Stephen Curry’s admiration for team-oriented play is well known from his experience with the Golden State Warriors, a team that has thrived on collective effort and secured four NBA titles over nine years. Similarly, the Valkyries’ success has come through a roster built from determined role players, many of whom were overlooked by other teams during the expansion draft.
The Valkyries’ lineup features Tiffany Hayes, the previous season’s 6th Player of the Year, as their driving force. Alongside Hayes, players such as Kate Martin, Kayla Thornton, and Temi Fagbenle have taken on the challenge of proving their value in the league. Martin, in particular, has stood out by outperforming expectations and stepping up as the emotional and strategic leader on the court.
Curry’s cheers throughout the game reflected his appreciation for the grit and hustle these players exhibited. Their effort-filled style reminded him of the teamwork it takes to succeed at the highest levels, a philosophy he has lived by during his career.
Valkyries Set for a Challenging 10-Game Road Stretch
Having built considerable momentum at home, the Golden State Valkyries now face their most demanding test: a 10-game road trip over the next month. This stretch will include four games in seven days to start, followed by a brief return to Chase Center, a stop in Phoenix, and then five more road games packed into nine days.
This extended road schedule will challenge the Valkyries against other playoff contenders, testing their resilience and ability to maintain their standing. If the team can sustain their performance amidst travel and hostile environments, they have a strong chance to secure a playoff position and build on the historic foundation laid in their inaugural season.
Significance of the Valkyries’ Debut Success and Future Prospects
The Golden State Valkyries’ early achievements carry historic weight, as their record-setting start as an expansion team speaks to the strength of their coaching and the determination of players labeled as misfits elsewhere. With a rookie head coach guiding the squad, the Valkyries have already matched or surpassed accomplishments of other new franchises in league history.
This success not only energizes the local fanbase but also signals the growing influence and competitiveness of women’s basketball in a city long dominated by the Warriors. Stephen Curry’s visible support strengthens the connection between the two teams, fostering a unified Golden State basketball culture that could inspire further investment and growth in the WNBA.
As the Valkyries prepare for their intensive road slate, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if the team can continue defying expectations and earn a playoff berth, potentially marking the start of a sustained era of success for the franchise and its passionate supporters.
Stephen Curry’s presence at these games, alongside the continued sellout crowds at Chase Center, underscores the excitement and optimism surrounding the Golden State Valkyries as they carve out their place in professional basketball.