American pro basketball team in the WNBA, San Francisco Bay Area
Multiple WNBA games have been interrupted by thrown sex toys, with players and officials calling out perpetrators. Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream incidents are linked to ongoing protests; authorities warn of bans and legal action for offenders.
Engelbert has announced she is stepping down at the end of 2026 after seven years as the WNBA's first commissioner. The league has seen record growth under her leadership, including a historic CBA, a long-term media deal, and expansion plans, though criticism from players on leadership and responses to protests has persisted.
Golden State has advanced to the WNBA semifinals after a 77-73 win over Dallas, completing a three-game series comeback. Gabby Williams led a late surge, while A’ja Wilson dropped 36 in the Aces’ win to reach the semis. Both teams eye a title with cross-state playoffs heating up.
Natalie Nakase has led the Golden State Valkyries to a history-making 2025 season and is set to coach Game 1 of the WNBA semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces, after experiencing a medical episode on the court. She finished the game, is undergoing further monitoring, and will coach Sunday as the team pursues the title.
Enes Kanter Freedom has announced he will attend Game 3 of the WNBA Finals in Atlanta, despite prior ejections and security concerns. Reports indicate the arena has offered him a private luxury suite with enhanced security to address safety concerns as he plans to watch the game in person. The situation follows a history of disputes related to transgender participation in the league.
The WNBA Finals at State Farm Arena have again drawn national attention to anthem protests, with players leaving the court during the national anthem. Political figures have weighed in, while players focus on winning as Golden State takes a 1-0 series lead.
The WNBA Finals between the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries has forced venue changes and scheduling tweaks to maximize fan attendance and preserve the possibility of a Game 7. Games 3 and 4 moved to State Farm Arena in Atlanta have drawn sellouts, with Game 6 also set for a bigger venue if needed. The series is tied 2-2 with Game 5 in the Bay Area determining the path to a possible decisive contest.
The Golden State Valkyries have won their first WNBA championship, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7. Gabby Williams leads with 30 points in the second half and earns Finals MVP as the franchise becomes the fastest to claim a title by an expansion team. Natalie Nakase spearheads the win after guiding a roster built without stars to the top of the league.