WNBA's Golden State Valkyries Make History With 15,000 Season Ticket Deposits
The Golden State Valkyries have made history as the first women's sports team to exceed 15,000 season-ticket deposits prior to their first season. The rising excitement and support for the new San Francisco-based WNBA expansion franchise signifies a historic moment in women’s sports. The Valkyries will make their debut at the Chase Center for the 2025 WNBA season, as the first expansion team since the Atlanta Dream in 2008.
Announced as the 13th WNBA franchise on October 5, 2023, the Golden State Valkyries join the esteemed Golden State Warriors family, known for their seven NBA championships. The franchise reveal generated an immediate surge of interest, with over 2,000 season ticket deposits pouring in within hours. By April 16, the Valkyries had already exceeded 6,000 season ticket deposits.
Momentum continued to build with the appointment of Jess Smith, a former executive with Angel City FC of the NWSL, as president on January 30, 2024. Smith, known for her dynamic leadership and innovative approach to sports management, brings a wealth of experience in team operations and fan engagement. Her tenure at Angel City FC was marked by groundbreaking marketing strategies and community outreach programs that significantly boosted the club's profile and fan base.
Adding to the excitement, Ohemaa Nyanin was named general manager on May 7, bringing a wealth of experience and vision to the franchise. With her extensive background in sports management and player development, Nyanin is poised to lead the Valkyries to new heights, as her strategic insight and deep understanding of the game will be vital in shaping a competitive team. Nyanin’s expertise will guide the Valkyries through the expansion draft and their inaugural WNBA draft in 2025.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jennnelson/2024/07/25/golden-state-valkyries-make-history-with-15000-season-ticket-deposits/