The Valkyries rallied from a 14-point halftime deficit and tied the score going into the fourth quarter, but couldn’t outpace the Sparks in the final 10 minutes in a 83-82 loss. Still, the crowd at Chase Center was vibrant, cheering on Golden State in their first look at the WNBA expansion team.

All eyes were on the Golden State Valkyries last night — and they didn't disappoint. Driving the news: In their inaugural game — a preseason match at a crowded Chase Center — the Valkyries nearly beat the Los Angeles Sparks despite trailing by as much as 14 points in the first half.

The Valkyries showed they have some grit in their first-ever game after mounting a comeback in the second half of their preseason match-up against the Sparks.