History is about to be made in the Bay Area’s sports scene, and the Golden State Valkyries are leading the charge. In their inaugural season, the WNBA team has clinched a playoff berth, sparking excitement across San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.

The team is celebrating this milestone with a series of community flag-raising events that showcase their connection to the region. Starting with a San Francisco City Hall event featuring team forward Kayla Thornton and team president Jess Smith alongside Mayor Daniel Lurie, the Valkyries are making sure their community feels the playoff energy.

The celebration continues with appearances in Oakland and San Jose, where team mascot Violet - who dramatically hatched from a purple egg in August - will join local leadership to mark this significant moment. The team’s mascot symbolizes the fresh, vibrant spirit of this new franchise.

The Valkyries will play their first-round home game at SAP Center in San Jose on Wednesday, Sept. 17, due to a scheduling conflict at their usual home, Chase Center. The 7 p.m. game represents more than just a playoff match - it’s a statement about the team’s potential and the Bay Area’s growing women’s sports scene.

Local leaders like San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan have already expressed enthusiasm, welcoming the team to the playoff stage. This moment represents more than just a sports achievement; it’s a celebration of women’s athletic excellence and community spirit.

As the Valkyries prepare to take the court, they’re not just playing for a championship - they’re playing to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans across the Bay Area.