Welcome to Ballhalla!

At last night's inaugural pre-season match-up (!) versus the Los Angeles Sparks, fans were introduced to a new WNBA basketball team, a new in-arena entertainment team, new team cheers, and a new moniker for Chase Center--Ballhalla.

We love a theme! And I love the ways the Golden State Valkyries organization has rolled out theirs. From the mystical nighttime backgrounds on the scoreboards, to the Purple Reign signature mocktails, to the Founding Guard jackets for season ticket holders, it was clear that high levels of care and attention were taken when planning all aspects of the introduction of this new team to the Bay Area.

One element central to the team's theme remains a surprise--the Valkyries' mascot, which was noticeably absent from last night's hard-fought battle against the Sparks. I expect the finishing touches are being put on the mascot's armor as we sit here, ensuring they are ready to take flight on next Friday's season opener. And, hopefully, to ensure they will be a worth adversary to one Ellie the Elephant!