The Golden State Valkyries are rewriting the WNBA expansion team playbook with their electrifying performance this season. In a stunning upset, the first-year team defeated the defending champion New York Liberty 66-58, putting themselves on the brink of making history.

No expansion team in the 29-year history of the WNBA has ever made the playoffs in their inaugural season - until potentially now. The Valkyries are just two wins away from shattering that record, with their current standings placing them firmly in the fifth playoff position.

The game against the Liberty was a masterclass in basketball strategy. After a competitive first quarter where the Liberty led 18-14, the Valkyries unleashed a dominant 23-7 run in the second quarter that completely transformed the game’s momentum. Center Temi Fágbénlé led the charge with an impressive 16-point performance.

The team’s success isn’t just about on-court performance - they’ve also captured the Bay Area’s heart with an unprecedented streak of 20 consecutive sold-out home games at Chase Center. This incredible fan support underscores the community’s excitement about their new hometown team.

Interestingly, while the Valkyries are poised for playoff success, they might face a logistical challenge. The potential first-round playoff games conflict with the Laver Cup tennis tournament, which could mean playing home games in Oakland or San Jose instead of their beloved Chase Center.

With just four regular-season games remaining, the Valkyries have a clear path to the playoffs. Their next crucial match is against the Dallas Wings, where they’re nine-point favorites. A win, combined with a Los Angeles Sparks loss, would secure their playoff spot and make WNBA history.

The Bay Area is watching and waiting, hoping this remarkable team can complete their extraordinary first-season journey.