The Golden State Valkyries are a model of success in the WNBA, a league that has seen a surge in popularity. In just their second year of existence, the team has already become one of the best pro sports franchises we aren't talking enough about. This sudden popularity explosion is a testament to the team's ability to grab attention and support from fans, a feat that many expansion franchises struggle to achieve. The team's success can be attributed to various factors, including the owner's vision, the market's receptiveness to good basketball, and the way the team treats its players. The Golden State Valkyries are a shining example of how a new team can take over the W and become a stable, mega-popular franchise. This sudden popularity explosion is a double-edged sword, however. While it brings new lessons and opportunities, it also raises the question of whether this explosion will translate into staying power. The Golden State Valkyries are a model of this new reality, but the question remains: can they maintain their success and become a true powerhouse in the WNBA? The article also touches on FIFA president Gianni Infantino's self-inflicted crisis, which could lead to his ouster. The criticism of his FIFA Forward Enterprise plan has been nearly unanimous, and every finger is pointed at Infantino. The article also mentions other sports news, including the NFL, tennis, and soccer. The NFL has seen three big deals, including the Falcons and Bijan Robinson's three-year deal, the Bears and Darnell Wright's four-year extension, and the Ravens and Zay Flowers' four-year contract. In tennis, Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper have both been dealing with injuries, with Alcaraz pulling out of the Cincinnati Open and Draper losing to Térence Atmane at the ATP Masters 1000 Canadian Open. The article also mentions college football, with Ohio State taking the No. 1 ranking in the preseason Coaches Poll. In other news, the Cleveland WNBA expansion franchise has a name: the Sirens. The article concludes with a watch guide, including MLB, Leagues Cup, and WPBL games, and highlights a column by Shakeia Taylor on why we need to start enjoying basketball more than whatever happens off it.
