Former US Soccer player Megan Rapinoe is introduced to the crowd before the game against the Seattle Storm at Chase Center. Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Megan Rapinoe Praises Golden State Valkyries 'Wild' Atmosphere

Originally posted on Golden State Valkyries on SI
By Jack Haslett | Last updated Oct 17, 2025 6:24 PM ET

The fan atmosphere that's been cultivated around the Golden State Valkyries since they debuted in the WNBA in 2025 has become legendary.

When the Valkyries are on the court at Chase Center and the stands are packed with violet-clad fans, the arena is no longer Chase Center, but "Ballhalla."

A play on Valhalla, the afterlife of fallen warriors in Norse mythology that connects with the Valkyries, similarly Norse-inspired namesake, the effect that the Valkyries have had on women's basketball in the Bay has been just one of several factors that made Golden State one of the most exciting teams in the WNBA in 2025.

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The fan experience around the Valkyries has caught the attention of not just the national media but some retired legends of women's sports. On Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe's podcast A Touch More, the pair announced their "Meggie" awards, Rapinoe's personal picks of her favorite moments from the past WNBA season.

Megan Rapinoe Shows Love to Ballhalla

Ballhalla received a shoutout from Rapinoe during the podcast, winning the "Meggie" for best in-arena atmosphere.

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"If you can hear the sounds in this building, it is unbelievable," Valkyries president Jess Smith said. "Our fans are supporting them through and through. The players are giving their all, and the fans are giving it right back."

Golden State has set the tone for what an Expansion Franchise can be, and in the same way, Ballhalla has set the tone for what a dedicated fanbase in women's basketball can be.

This article first appeared on Golden State Valkyries on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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