The Golden State Valkyries have made history by winning their first WNBA championship in just their second season. The San Francisco-based team defeated the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7 of the WNBA Finals on Oct. 31, earning the title in front of their home crowd at Chase Center. The Valkyries joined the WNBA in 2025 and became a competitive team right away. In their first season, they made the playoffs, becoming the first expansion team in WNBA history to reach the postseason in its first year. They also gained many fans in the Bay Area very quickly, with all 22 of their regular-season home games selling out.
Golden State carried this success into the 2026 season, finishing with a 32-12 record and earning the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. The team continued to perform well in the playoffs, defeating the Dallas Wings before sweeping the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals.
The WNBA Finals against the Atlanta Dream were much more challenging. After a close series, the teams met for the best two words in sports: Game 7. The Valkyries entered halftime behind but were able to turn the game around in the second half. Gabby Williams led the way with 30 points, including 28 after halftime, helping Golden State secure the 68-63 victory.
After their championship win, the Valkyries and the city of San Francisco announced plans for a championship parade. The celebration will take place Wednesday, Nov. 4, from noon to 2 p.m. along the Embarcadero. The parade will begin near the Ferry Building at Mission Street and end at King and Second streets. Fans will have the chance to celebrate with the players, coaches and staff as they bring the championship trophy through San Francisco.
The championship is also a big moment for basketball fans in the Bay Area. Since the team first started, the Valkyries have brought more attention to women’s professional basketball in San Francisco. Their success has given local fans another team to cheer for and a reason to celebrate. Winning a championship in just their second season is an impressive start for the Valkyries. After making the playoffs in their first year, the team has already reached the top of the league. With their first championship under their belt, Golden State has given its fans plenty to look forward to in the seasons ahead.