The Golden State Valkyries are set to play their first home playoff game away from Chase Center due to a scheduling conflict with the Laver Cup, a team tennis tournament co-founded by Roger Federer. The likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz will be in action to represent Team Europe and Team World.
The Valkyries have made history as the first WNBA expansion team to reach the playoffs in its debut season, but will be forced to play their first home game elsewhere due to scheduling issues.
The Valkyries’ inaugural home playoff game has been relocated to a nearby arena due to eighth edition of the Laver Cup, this year featuring Frances Tiafoe and Alcaraz, who defeated Novak Djokovic in the US Open semi-finals. The Laver Cup, which has been held annually since 2017, is tennis’ answer to the Ryder Cup, pitting six of the top European players against six of the best players from the rest of the world.
Over three days, three singles matches and two doubles matches are played, with additional singles matches if needed. Each match carries a specific point value, with the first team to reach 13 points declared the winner.
If the score is tied 12-12 after 12 matches, a decisive doubles match determines the champion. The 2025 Laver Cup will take place from Friday, 19 September through Sunday, 21 September.
The tournament alternates between different host cities in Europe and the rest of the world, to give a home-and-away feel for the teams. This year, the prestigious Laver Cup will be hosted at San Francisco’s Chase Center, the home ground of the Valkyries.
The franchise recently secured a playoff berth in its debut season with a triumphant win over Paige Bueckers’ Dallas Wings, reports the Mirror US.
However, the Valkyries will have to postpone their home game. The second match of Golden State’s three-game series is scheduled for either Tuesday, 16th September, or Wednesday, 17th September, just a few days prior to the Laver Cup.
Given that preparations for the tennis tournament will already be underway, Golden State will host its home playoff game at the SAP Center in San Jose instead.
The SAP Center is situated 47 miles away from the Chase Center, equating to a 50-minute drive without traffic, which could potentially irk some fans.
“We can’t control it,” commented Valkyries guard Veronica Burton on the scheduling conflict. “We have faith in our fans that they are going to continue to show out for us.
“Wherever we play, we’re going to bring our basketball. We’re confident, we’re excited for the opportunity to compete. Regardless of where we’re at, we’re going to show up.”
Golden State has only three games left before the WNBA regular season wraps up. The 23-18 Valkyries are set to face off against the 32-9 Minnesota Lynx at Chase Center on Saturday, 6th September.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk