Golden State Valkyries supporters are preparing for a sea of violet in San Francisco as the second-year franchise begins its first WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream.
The Valkyries will host the opening two games of the best-of-seven series at Chase Center, with Game One on Saturday, October 17, followed by Game Two on Monday, October 19.
Fans in the Bay Area have embraced the team’s “Ballhalla” identity – a play on Valhalla, the mythical Norse hall associated with Valkyries and fallen warriors – as they organise outfits and merchandise for the historic occasion.
Golden State Valkyries prepare for first WNBA Finals
Golden State reached the championship series by sweeping the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, 3-0 in the semi-finals. Atlanta also advanced without losing a game in the post-season.
The Valkyries are the first expansion team in WNBA history to reach the Finals in only its second season. The franchise became the first expansion side to qualify for the playoffs in its debut campaign last year.
The Finals will also crown a first-time champion, with neither Golden State nor Atlanta having previously won the WNBA title.
Game One is scheduled to begin at 12.30pm local time on Saturday, with the second game tipping off at 5pm on Monday. The Dream will then host Games Three and Four in Atlanta.
Supporters attending the opening game will receive a violet “This is Ballhalla” Finals T-shirt, while the Valkyries have also announced watch parties at Chase Center for games played away from San Francisco.
If required, Golden State will host Games Five and Seven, giving its rapidly growing fanbase the possibility of seeing the franchise compete for the championship on home court later this month.
