Sparks Spoil Valkyries' Debut Before Sellout Crowd

The Golden State Valkyries debuted as the WNBA's first expansion team since 2008, playing in front of a sellout crowd of 18,064 at San Francisco's Chase Center. Despite an energetic start and a promising 12-4 run entering the fourth quarter, the Valkyries lost 84-67 to the Los Angeles Sparks. Kayla Thornton scored the first basket in Valkyries history, while Tiffany Hayes led with 19 points. Kelsey Plum starred for the Sparks with 37 points, including 26 in the second half, helping secure the victory. The win marked the first for new Sparks coach Lynne Roberts, though the team lost guard Rae Burrell to a leg injury in the first quarter. The game highlighted excitement for women's pro basketball in the Bay Area, as the Valkyries seek their first win in upcoming matches.