Golden State Valkyries Attracted Celebrity Crowd

The San Francisco team drew high-profile guests to Chase Center during recent postseason playoff victories.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Basketball

Golden State Valkyries Attracted Celebrity Crowd

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The Golden State Valkyries have hosted numerous celebrities at San Francisco's Chase Center during their playoff run. Notable figures, including filmmaker George Lucas and comedian Ali Wong, have attended games during the team's postseason series.

Why it matters

The presence of major cultural icons at Chase Center highlights the rapid growth and widespread appeal of the new WNBA franchise in the San Francisco market. These high-profile appearances underscore the team's integration into the local and national entertainment landscape.

The Valkyries secured a 71-60 win over the Aces and previously defeated the Dallas Wings 77-73 during their first-round playoff series. These results have propelled the team through the early postseason rounds.

The players

Golden State Valkyries

The Golden State Valkyries are a professional basketball team based in San Francisco and represent the newest franchise in the WNBA.

Ali Wong

Ali Wong is a comedian and actress who has frequently attended games and participated in ceremonial pre-game activities for the team.

George Lucas

George Lucas is an influential filmmaker and the founder of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.

Kehlani

Kehlani is a popular recording artist who was seen supporting the team at their recent home playoff game.

Too Short

Too Short is a legendary hip-hop artist from the Bay Area who performed for fans during the team's playoff run.

The details

The playoff games at Chase Center featured appearances by George Lucas, Mellody Hobson, Kehlani, and Ali Wong, who also performed a ceremonial drum routine. Musical artist Too Short previously provided halftime entertainment during the team's playoff opener against the Dallas Wings.

Sept. 27: Too Short performed at Game 1 vs. Dallas Wings.
Oct. 2: George Lucas attended Game 3 vs. Dallas Wings.
Oct. 4: Kehlani attended the game vs. Las Vegas Aces.
Oct. 6: Valkyries play Game 2 vs. Las Vegas Aces.
Oct. 17: WNBA Finals are scheduled to begin.

Season Trajectory

The Valkyries' successful postseason run and high-profile support have solidified their standing as a competitive force in the league. Their momentum influences the current playoff bracket and sets high expectations for the upcoming WNBA Finals.

The Valkyries' 71-60 victory over the Las Vegas Aces provides them with a critical advantage as they head into the next semifinal game. This win secures their path deeper into the postseason, affecting the overall playoff bracket dynamics.

The takeaway

The active support from Bay Area celebrities has helped build immediate local enthusiasm for the newest team in the league. Future game attendees can expect similar pre-game rituals and high-energy entertainment as the team continues its postseason journey.

What happens next

The Golden State Valkyries are scheduled to compete against the Las Vegas Aces in Game 2 of the semifinals on Oct. 6, followed by the start of the WNBA Finals on Oct. 17.