Golden State Valkyries achieve first franchise win: What does it mean for the WNBA's future?

The WNBA's newest expansion team made franchise history on Wednesday night by earning its first-ever victory, defeating the Washington Mystics 76-74. Fourth-year guard Veronica Burton was instrumental for the Valkyrie, scoring a team-high 22 points. She sank two crucial three-pointers, the first of which was a go-ahead shot with 1:38 remaining in the game. Burton then delivered a dagger shot with 29 seconds left, securing the Valkyries' inaugural win. The success of the Valkyries could have significant implications for the future of the WNBA as the league continues to promote and expand its brand.

The Valkyries are the first WNBA expansion team since 2008, when the Atlanta Dream had their inaugural season. In that season, the Dream won only four games and made WNBA history by recording seventeen straight losses at the start of the season. If the Valkyries can secure just three more wins, they will match the total number of wins that the last expansion team achieved in their first season.

This new franchise is particularly important for the WNBA's growth, especially as the league builds on the momentum generated by its increasing popularity over the past couple of years. With another expansion team expected to join the WNBA next season, the success of the Valkyries could further demonstrate the growing talent throughout the league.

The blend of experienced veterans and young talent on the team could play a significant role in the early success of the Valkyries. With an average player age of 27, the Valkyries have the potential to compete right from the start, even as a new franchise. As the popularity of the WNBA continues to rise, the league's growth will be further accelerated by the success of expansion teams like the Valkyries and the Toronto Tempo, which will debut next year.

Source: WNBA YouTube Channel