A New Kind of Arena Vibe
When the Golden State Valkyries take the court at Chase Center, the energy is unlike anything seen in the Bay Area’s professional sports venues. Beer vendor Joseph Lewis, who has watched both the Valkyries and the Warriors, says the fans at Valkyries games are consistently more upbeat and energetic, turning each match into a celebration.
The team’s inaugural season ended with a 23‑21 record and a playoff berth, a feat that has only amplified the excitement surrounding the franchise. A new collective bargaining agreement has also delivered a significant pay increase for the players, a development that fans eagerly applaud as a sign of growing respect for the league.
Coach Natalie Nakase has cultivated a team culture that feels more like a family than a corporate enterprise. Players and supporters alike note the welcoming vibe, with fans often dressing in creative outfits — dyeing their hair, crafting tinsel jackets, and even adopting the nickname “Ballhalla” for the arena.
The atmosphere is deliberately inclusive. Non‑binary fan Carly highlights the intergenerational LGBTQ presence that fills the stands, while community members like Tom Solbert and his family describe the games as a rare space where they feel genuinely welcomed.
Even as the Valkyries open the season with a 2‑0 start, the primary draw remains the positive environment. The combination of joyful crowds, supportive staff and a culture that celebrates diversity has turned each home game into a gathering that many say surpasses the intensity of Warriors’ matches.