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The Golden State Valkyries are just in their first season in the WNBA, but they are expected to become the most valuable team next season. Fans online reacted to the possibility that the Valkyries will be worth more than the defending champions New York Liberty and Caitlin Clark's Indiana Fever.
According to Forbes, the Valkyries are set to have a positive balance sheet at the end of the season. Owners Joe Lacob and Peter Gruber reportedly paid $50 million to get a franchise, with the team expected to generate at least $55 million in sponsorship and ticket sales.
The figure is expected to grow once the money from the league, media rights, merchandise and other avenues comes in. League insiders estimate that the Valkyries will be valued at more than $400 million next season, and they are expected to be the most valuable WNBA franchise.
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WNBA fans reacted to the shocking news, with some pointing to the popularity of Kate Martin as one of the reasons for it. However, experts at Forbes explain that being based in the Silicon Valley helped the Golden State Valkyries.
Here are some of the best reactions.
Team president Jess Smith explained to Forbes that their main goal was to sell the franchise to the fans and not focus on just one player, though Kate Martin's fans will say otherwise. Bay Area fans embraced the team from the get-go, starting with their unique combination of black and purple.
The Golden State Valkyries marketed the experience of being in the Chase Center, having a great time and watching basketball. It also helped that Joe Lacob and Peter Gruber saw the potential, and they immediately invested in a WNBA team.
Valkyries outlast Sparks in overtime for 4th win of the season
The Golden State Valkyries are looking mightily impressive for a team in its maiden season in the WNBA. They outlasted the LA Sparks on Monday night at the Crypto.com Arena to get the 89-81 win in overtime. They improved to 4-5 for the season and are eighth in the standings.
Janelle Salaun led the way for Golden State, finishing with 21 points and eight rebounds. Kayla Thornton contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Temi Fagbenle also had a double-double of 14 points and 13 boards. Carla Leite came up huge off the bench with 15 points, five rebounds and three assists.
Golden State will be back home for their next game on Saturday against the Seattle Storm.
