The WNBA is gearing up for an electrifying 2025 season, and the spotlight is on the Golden State Valkyries, the league’s first expansion team in over 15 years. Announced Monday, the WNBA schedule is packed with can’t-miss matchups, including the highly anticipated debuts of rookie sensations Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, alongside the Valkyries’ inaugural season opener.
A Historic Beginning
The Valkyries will officially make their mark on Friday, May 16, hosting the Los Angeles Sparks at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This momentous event sets the stage for a season of history-making basketball and represents a major milestone for the WNBA’s expansion efforts.
Adding to the excitement, the 2025 season is set to feature an expanded 44-game schedule, running from May 16 through September 11. Unlike previous seasons, there will be no interruptions for international tournaments, giving fans uninterrupted access to thrilling WNBA action.
Rookie Showdowns and Midwest Rivalries
In addition to the Valkyries’ debut, basketball fans will witness the resurgence of a classic Midwest rivalry when the Indiana Fever face the Chicago Sky on Saturday, May 17. Meanwhile, top rookies from the 2024 draft, including No. 2 overall pick Cameron Brink and No. 4 pick Rickea Jackson, are set to shine. Brink and Jackson will lead the Valkyries into their inaugural season with the support of an expansion draft set to shape their roster.
The Sparks, holding the No. 2 pick in the 2025 draft, bring an intriguing dynamic to the Valkyries’ opener. The stage is set for fierce competition as these teams vie for early-season dominance.
A Season of Milestones
The 2025 schedule also includes key highlights like the All-Star Game, hosted at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Saturday, July 19. Fans can expect action-packed weekends, unforgettable moments, and the continued growth of women’s professional basketball in the United States.
The Golden State Valkyries are not just a new team; they are a symbol of the WNBA’s bright future. Their inaugural season is a testament to the league’s ongoing commitment to expanding its reach and providing opportunities for emerging talent.
Mark your calendars, WNBA fans: May 16, 2025, is more than just opening night—it’s the beginning of a new chapter in basketball history.
