Overview

• The Golden State Valkyries face the Los Angeles Sparks in their first-ever preseason game at Chase Center, marking the team’s on-court debut after months of preparation.
• Head coach Natalie Nakase emphasizes a system built on pace, 3-point shooting, and defensive intensity, with a focus on controlling tempo rather than sheer speed.
• Point guard Julie Vanloo, shooting guard Tiffany Hayes, small forward Kayla Thornton, power forward Monique Billings, and center Temi Fagbenle are expected to start, though rotation decisions remain fluid.
• French forward Janelle Salaun has yet to report to camp, raising questions about her roster status as the Valkyries finalize their lineup ahead of the regular season.
• The game will be broadcast on CBS Bay Area, with Jacob Tobey, Morgan Ragan, and Derek Clark leading the commentary team and Vern Glenn hosting the studio show.