Sparks vs Valkyries WNBA Pick: Golden State’s Franchise Debut (May 16)

• Los Angeles finished a league-worst 8-32 last season.
• Golden State is starting play for the first time this year.
• This will be the first matchup between these two teams.

The 2025 WNBA season kicks off this weekend with several key matchups. In our Sparks vs Valkyries WNBA pick we’ll analyze and predict the first rendition of this in-state rivalry clash.

Sparks Enter Season at Partial Strength

The Sparks are still without 2024 1st-round pick Cameron Brink, who is rehabbing from an ACL tear. However, that didn’t stop LA from bringing in some fresh faces to help bridge the gap. Most notably, they completed a blockbuster three-way trade that brought Kelsey Plum back home to LA. 2025 1st-round pick Sarah Ashlee Barker should also have an immediate impact.

Valkyries Look to Debut with a Victory

The Golden State Valkyries make their franchise debut at the Chase Center on Friday night. They’ll face what’s certain to be an excellent in-state rivalry. Analysts aren’t in agreement on Golden State’s outlook in 2025, but the release of 17th-overall pick Shyanne Sellers raised some red flags. 1st-round pick, 19-yr-old Juste Jocyte will eventually become the face of the franchise.

Los Angeles Sparks vs Golden State Valkyries Pick

Los Angeles is almost certain to improve on their league-worst record of 8-32. The question will be how quickly Plum will make them competitive while Brink continues to recover. I expect the Sparks to be the better of these two teams this season, but this will be a tough first game to win on the road. Expect the Chase Center to be rocking as the Valkyries start the season 1-0.