In the Bay Area‘s sports scene, the energy and atmosphere at Chase Center in San Francisco have become a hot topic, especially when comparing the Golden State Warriors and the newer <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA team, the Golden State Valkyries. Brandin Podziemski, a guard for the Warriors, recently highlighted the exceptional home energy the Valkyries bring, contrasting it with the Warriors’ atmosphere since their move from Oakland.
Warriors’ Transition to Chase Center and Its Impact on Fan Atmosphere
The Golden State Warriors relocated to Chase Center during the 2019-2020 season after years at Oracle Arena in Oakland. This move coincided with a significant hike in ticket prices, which priced out many longtime and loyal fans. These fans had contributed immensely to the intimidating and passionate environment that made Oracle Arena a difficult venue for opposing teams.
Since settling into the new facility, many observers have noted a difference in vibe. The raw, fervent energy synonymous with the Warriors’ Oakland days has not fully translated to Chase Center. Although the Warriors’ 2022 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA title run sparked some renewed enthusiasm, the overall atmosphere during most home games has felt comparatively subdued.
Podziemski Highlights the Valkyries’ Unique Game-Day Energy
Brandin Podziemski, a rising member of the Warriors’ core alongside stars like Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, played a pivotal role in the team’s robust second-half performance in the 2024-2025 season. Despite some postseason struggles, he remains a key figure in the Warriors’ rotation.
Podziemski recently made a striking observation about the difference in crowd energy when the Golden State Valkyries play at home. He described the atmosphere as electrifying and distinct from what the Warriors usually experience at Chase Center.
“It’s electric… The noise in there is a different type of noise than what we have with our games. It almost feels louder, most of the time,” Brandin Podziemski on the energy at Valkyries games vs. Warriors —95.7 The Game
He also acknowledged the impressive support the Valkyries have garnered in their debut season.
“It’s really cool to see – I think we have fifteen home games so far, we’ve had all sellouts, all fifteen – so just to see the support that the Valkyries are getting in year one, it’s just really impressive,”
he added.
“Brandin Podziemski in 24-25-11.7 PPG-5.1 RPG-3.4 APG-44.5 FG%-3rd in charges drawnOne of the most underrated players in the league” —Warriors Lead (@DubsLead)
Golden State Valkyries Establishing Their Own Fanbase and Identity
The Golden State Valkyries have flourished since their inception, consistently selling out Chase Center for all their home games and achieving the highest average attendance across the WNBA. This success is significant given that less than five percent of Valkyries season ticket holders are also Warriors season ticket holders, indicating the Valkyries have cultivated an independent and enthusiastic fanbase.
The energy generated by the Valkyries‘ supporters has been praised widely. Fans and players alike have affectionately nicknamed the team‘s home vibe as “Ballhalla,” reflecting the enthusiastic and encouraging environment the team enjoys. This dynamic atmosphere has provided the Valkyries with a noticeable boost in confidence and performance at home games.
The Wider Bay Area Sports Context and What Lies Ahead
The contrast in crowd energy between two major Bay Area teams sharing the Chase Center highlights evolving fan dynamics and broader changes in local sports culture. The Warriors continue to manage challenges around high ticket prices and reconnecting with their Oakland-era passion, while the Valkyries have rapidly built a fresh, fervent following from the ground up.
As the Warriors and Valkyries advance through their seasons, Podziemski’s comments underscore an important conversation about fan engagement and the unique experiences each team offers. This discussion may influence future marketing strategies and efforts to rekindle the Warriors’ home court intimidation or sustain the Valkyries’ growing momentum in the Bay Area.