On Wednesday afternoon the Valkyries, fresh off their historic WNBA Finals win, staged a two‑city celebration that highlighted the team’s deep roots in Northern California. The parade began in Oakland’s Jack London Square, a short walk from the franchise’s downtown practice facility, before a ferry carried the festivities across the Bay to San Francisco’s iconic Ferry Building.
Fans, players and community leaders share the moment
Gabby Williams, the Finals MVP, stepped off a double‑decker bus in Oakland, waving a whistle and high‑fiving supporters while clutching the championship trophy. She soon called teammate Kiah Stokes to join her, and the pair popped champagne as they led the first wave of fans along the waterfront.
“I love this!” Stokes exclaimed, as the crowd chanted “MVP!” for Williams. The energy continued as the parade moved onto the ferry, where spectators on the water cheered the team’s arrival in San Francisco.
Family, resilience and local pride
Among the crowd was three‑year‑old Zaelani Fowler, who watched the procession with her mother, Brittanee, holding a bright “Girl Power” sign. “Making history,” Brittanee said, “to actually be here physically is amazing. It’s a beautiful thing that she’ll be able to look back and say, ‘Wow, I was there when the Valkyries made history.’”
The celebration also highlighted stories of personal triumph. Cynthia Cheak, a longtime Valkyries supporter who lost her left leg two years ago, rode in the parade dressed in violet sparkles. She distributed wristbands she’s crafted since July, saying, “It’s a humbling yet powerful experience. A simple wristband can bring people together, showing kindness, support, compassion and accessibility for all.”
Honoring the championship run
The parade culminated near Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, where manager Tony Vitello joined the route to applaud the women’s team. The Valkyries’ victory over the Atlanta Dream, 68‑63, marked the first Game 7 in WNBA Finals history.
Coach Natalie Nakase, who guided the expansion franchise to a title in just its second season, reflected on the rapid rise: “We believed early, kept improving, and it became real. We’re grateful for the community that lifted us up.”
Players also received personal congratulations from basketball legend Michael Jordan, and the team was honored on the court at the Chase Center during a Golden State Warriors game the night before.
Community impact and future outlook
The joint celebration underscored the Valkyries’ commitment to both Oakland and San Francisco, reinforcing the franchise’s role as a unifying force in the Bay Area. By involving local businesses, schools and nonprofit groups, the parade demonstrated how sports can inspire civic pride and encourage young fans, especially girls, to pursue athletics.
As the team looks ahead to defending its title, the organization plans to expand its community outreach, including youth clinics and mentorship programs that emphasize perseverance and teamwork—values that resonated strongly throughout the celebration.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
