How the Valkyries built a commercial juggernaut

The Golden State Valkyries made the playoffs in their inaugural season, have sold out every home game they’ve ever played, and are the first women’s sports franchise valued at $1 billion. Who’s responsible for this immediate success? How did the Valkyries shoot past their competitors to become the WNBA’s most valuable team? On "Section 415," reporter Jane Kenny discusses the evolution of the franchise since owner Joe Lacob paid $50 million back in 2023 to establish it. 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Jane's profile of Valkyries President Jess Smith 08:39 Owner Joe Lacob & The Valks' Billion-Dollar Valuation 13:22 The Valkyries Team Culture 16:50 The Fit of Gabby Williams 19:47 Juste Jocyte and the Valkyries Draft Strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices