The Golden State Valkyries are gearing up for their inaugural season, and every player from the existing 12 WNBA teams has at least a solid shot at making the roster. But before that, there’s a big elephant in the room that might raise questions about their operational capabilities and identity as a new franchise. 

While the crowd cheered enthusiastically for head coach Natalie Nakase, the Valkyries are facing a bigger challenge— they won’t have their own arena. A Twitter video featured the new team’s HC receiving immense support at the Chase Center with the caption, “Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase receives a warm welcome at Chase Center 💜.” 

Amidst it all, the reality behind the doors is that the Valkyries will share their home turf with one of the most successful franchises in the NBA, the Golden State Warriors. Although they’ll have access to designated locker rooms, it’s clear that the Valkyries are still in a tough spot. 

But on the brighter side, this facility will include a training room, player lounge, dining areas, and dedicated coaching and medical staff offices, all within a 6,800-square-foot space. The design emphasizes the Valkyries’ identity and incorporates elements of the Bay Bridge into the locker room’s aesthetics.​

They’ll have their practice facility exclusively in Oakland, with two full-size basketball courts, but sharing the Chase Center means, the arrangement could limit their autonomy and ability to create a unique team atmosphere. 

Jess Smith, the team’s president, acknowledged the complexities of sharing an arena but remained optimistic, saying, “We believe the excitement of being part of something new will draw fans and players alike.” Despite these hurdles, the Valkyries have secured sponsorships with Chase and Kaiser Permanente and have seen a surge in season ticket deposits. But can this still be a barrier in recruiting top players?

Golden State Valkyries’ expansion draft prospects

Even though the new team is facing considerable challenges, it has an opportunity to build a roster filled with potential talent from the existing WNBA teams. With the expansion draft coming up on December 6, 2024, the Valkyries are set to become the first expansion team since the Atlanta Dream joined the league in 2008​. 

The team can select one non-protected player from each of the existing 12 WNBA teams. Each team will protect six players, and the Valkyries can select one unrestricted free agent. One of the most possible athletes could be Courtney Vandersloot from New York Liberty.

At 35, she’s an unrestricted free agent and could bring invaluable experience and leadership to a young Valkyries squad​. Then, there is Diamond Miller from Minnesota. This young star was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft but has found herself in a bit of a rut in Minnesota. If the Valkyries can snag her, it could be a golden opportunity for Miller to revitalize her career​. 

Another potential addition is Kate Martin from Las Vegas Aces. Not only is she skilled, but she’s also popular, which could help with ticket sales​. The same goes for Nika Muhl from Seattle Storm. Bringing her on board would not only add talent but also boost attendance​.

From the 2025 WNBA Draft, there were rumors of Paige Bueckers getting rostered in Valkyries, but now the UConn shooter Azzi Fudd has entered the chat. Let us see how they overcome these troubles and bag talents!