The WNBA is in the middle of something big. Record attendance, national TV deals, and stars who are finally getting the spotlight are making women’s basketball more thrilling than ever. One of the storylines driving this rise is the emerging rivalry between the Minnesota Lynx and the newly formed Golden State Valkyries.
This matchup has become one of the most talked-about in the league, thanks to leaders like Napheesa Collier, the grit of Kate Martin, the promise of Janelle Salaün, and the veteran edge of Alanna Smith.
This blog dives into the history, the players, the atmosphere of a Valkyries game, and everything you need to know about where to watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx.
The WNBA’s Growing Popularity
Since its launch in 1996, the WNBA has grown steadily, but the past few seasons have been different. Viewership has skyrocketed, corporate sponsorships have increased, and arenas are filling up. Jerseys are selling out. Social media is buzzing. The league is finally getting recognition for the high level of talent it has always had.
The arrival of the Golden State Valkyries has only added to this surge. Backed by the Golden State Warriors organization, the Valkyries brought professional women’s basketball to the Bay Area—a region hungry for it. Every Valkyries game feels like a cultural event, blending sports with music, community, and a modern fan experience.
Minnesota Lynx: A WNBA Legacy
The MN Lynx are more than just a franchise. They are a dynasty. With four championships (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017), the Lynx WNBA team set the standard for sustained excellence.
The foundation was built by legends like Maya Moore, Lindsay Whalen, and Sylvia Fowles. Today, Napheesa Collier carries that torch. Known for her two-way dominance, Collier regularly fills up the stat sheet with double-doubles and defensive highlights. Fans checking the Lynx score after a game almost always see her name at the top.
Golden State Valkyries: The New Force
The Golden State Valkyries, often called GSV, are already making waves in their debut season. Their black, purple, and gold branding has become instantly recognizable, and their fan base is loud and loyal. Attendance numbers show just how much the Bay Area was craving a WNBA team.
Young talent like Janelle Salaün gives them a bright future, while veterans like Alanna Smith provide stability. Even though the Valkyries are new, they’ve proven they can compete, making every GSV vs MIN matchup must-watch basketball.
Key Player Profiles
Napheesa Collier – Minnesota Lynx
Napheesa Collier is the face of the Lynx WNBA franchise. A versatile forward, she can score inside, stretch the floor, and lock down opponents. Her leadership is invaluable as the Lynx balance veteran presence with young talent.
Janelle Salaün – Golden State Valkyries
Janelle Salaün is one of the league’s rising stars. She brings size, energy, and potential. Every Valkyries game feels like another step in her evolution as a future centerpiece of the team.
Kate Martin – Minnesota Lynx
Kate Martin doesn’t always top the Lynx score, but her hustle, defense, and momentum-shifting plays make her vital. She embodies the gritty identity of the MN Lynx.
Alanna Smith – Golden State Valkyries
A steady veteran, Alanna Smith adds shooting and size to the Valkyries’ lineup. Her ability to stretch defenses with her outside shot makes her a key weapon in matchups against physical teams like the Lynx.
GSV vs MIN: A Rivalry in the Making
When fans see GSV vs MIN on the schedule, they circle the date. These games deliver. From last-second shots to overtime thrillers, both teams have traded statement wins.
The Lynx WNBA team thrives on physical defense, while the Valkyries push the pace with speed and floor spacing. The clash of styles creates drama, and checking the Lynx score or Valkyries box score afterward often shows how evenly matched they are.
Target Center in Minnesota remains one of the hardest venues for visiting teams, but the Bay Area’s Valkyries game atmosphere is equally intimidating.
Where to Watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx
For fans asking where to watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx, here are the top options:
- WNBA League Pass – The most reliable way to catch every matchup, including GSV vs MIN.
- National Broadcasts – ESPN, ABC, and CBS Sports often air high-profile Valkyries game or Lynx matchups.
- Regional Sports Networks – Local broadcasts in Minnesota and the Bay Area carry select games.
- Streaming Services – Platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling include the right channels for live streaming.
Breaking Down a Recent GSV vs MIN Matchup
The last GSV vs MIN battle delivered everything fans hoped for.
- Napheesa Collier poured in 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds.
- Janelle Salaün showed her growth with clutch plays on both ends.
- Alanna Smith knocked down big threes to keep GSV close.
- Kate Martin gave the Lynx sparks of energy off the bench.
The final Lynx score was 92-88, with Minnesota winning in overtime. This kind of back-and-forth is what makes this rivalry so special.
The Future of Lynx WNBA vs Valkyries
What makes the WNBA fascinating is its blend of tradition and innovation. The MN Lynx embody championship legacy, while the Golden State Valkyries represent fresh energy.
This rivalry is more than a scoreboard battle. It symbolizes the past meeting the future. Expect more showdowns featuring Napheesa Collier, Alanna Smith, breakout performances from Janelle Salaün, and game-changing hustle plays from Kate Martin.
Fan Culture Around the Valkyries Game
The Valkyries game experience is unlike any other. Borrowing from the Warriors’ entertainment model, Golden State has turned games into spectacles—music, art, celebrity appearances, and nonstop energy.
The Minnesota Lynx fans bring a different but equally powerful vibe. Loyal through highs and lows, they make Target Center one of the loudest and toughest arenas in the WNBA.
This cultural contrast only adds fuel to every GSV vs MIN clash.
Why This Rivalry Matters for the WNBA
The WNBA has always thrived on stories, and this one is tailor-made. The Lynx bring history, rings, and established stars. The Valkyries bring new blood, bold branding, and a passionate fan base.
Every time someone checks the Lynx score, searches where to watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx, or tunes into a nationally televised Valkyries game, the league’s profile grows.
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Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx
The WNBA is at a turning point, and the rivalry between the Minnesota Lynx and Golden State Valkyries is central to its rise. With stars like Napheesa Collier, emerging talents like Janelle Salaün, and difference-makers like Kate Martin and Alanna Smith, this matchup has all the ingredients of a classic.
So next time you’re asking where to watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx, remember—you’re tuning in to one of the most important rivalries shaping the future of women’s basketball. The Lynx WNBA dynasty and the Valkyries’ new fire are rewriting the story of the league, one thrilling game at a time.
FAQs on WNBA, Minnesota Lynx, and Golden State Valkyries
Q1. Where can I watch Golden State Valkyries vs Minnesota Lynx games?
You can watch on WNBA League Pass, ESPN, ABC, CBS Sports, or through streaming platforms like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Local broadcasts also air select matchups.
Q2. Who is Napheesa Collier in the WNBA?
Napheesa Collier is the star forward for the Minnesota Lynx. She’s known for scoring, rebounding, defense, and leadership. Fans checking the Lynx score often see her leading the team.
Q3. What makes the Golden State Valkyries special?
The Golden State Valkyries bring fresh energy to the WNBA. Their games combine basketball with music, culture, and a Bay Area fan base that quickly embraced them.
Q4. Who is Janelle Salaün?
Janelle Salaün is a rising talent for the Valkyries. Her athleticism and versatility make her one of the most exciting young players in the league.
Q5. What is the Lynx WNBA legacy?
The Lynx WNBA team is one of the most successful franchises, with four championships and a long history of Hall of Fame-level players.
Q6. Who is Kate Martin and what role does she play?
Kate Martin is a defensive-minded player for the Lynx. She brings hustle and intensity, often shifting momentum even when she’s not leading the Lynx score.
Q7. How is Alanna Smith contributing to the Valkyries?
Alanna Smith is a veteran who provides shooting and rebounding for the Valkyries, helping them stay competitive against physical teams like the Lynx.
Q8. Why is GSV vs MIN considered a new rivalry?
The GSV vs MIN rivalry matters because it matches the Lynx’s legacy with the Valkyries’ fresh fire. Every game feels competitive, emotional, and crucial for the league’s future.
