Amidst the anticipation surrounding the clash between the Knicks and the Warriors, fans were treated to an exhilarating announcement from Tara VanDerveer, a revered figure in the basketball world and a personal favorite of Stephen Curry. The buzz centered around the Golden State Warriors franchise’s groundbreaking $50 million move into the WNBA, a decision that has been eagerly awaited since reports surfaced in October 2023.
VanDerveer, a basketball legend in her own right, added fuel to the fire of excitement just moments before tip-off, as she shared her enthusiasm for the forthcoming addition to the Bay Area sports landscape during a segment on NBCS’s pregame show. “I am so, so excited to have a WNBA team in the Bay Area, and it will be a champion too,” she exclaimed, reflecting the collective sentiment of fans who have longed for such a development.
Tara VanDerveer is a big Warriors fan and can’t wait to watch Golden State’s WNBA team 🏀 pic.twitter.com/hlDdQqn4Kc
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) March 19, 2024
The prospect of a women’s team gracing the Bay Area has been a topic of discussion for some time, but hearing it reiterated by VanDerveer, with her storied history as both player and coach for Stanford’s women’s team, added a special significance to the announcement. Known for her numerous accolades and contributions to the sport, VanDerveer’s endorsement carries considerable weight, particularly given her connection to Curry through his godsister Cameron Brink, a standout player under her tutelage.
Indeed, Curry himself has expressed admiration for VanDerveer, describing her as a “legend” and “icon” and emphasizing her deep understanding and passion for the game. His endorsement serves to underscore the authenticity and significance of the WNBA update, resonating strongly with Bay Area fans who hold both Curry and VanDerveer in high regard.
Joining the chorus of excitement is George Kittle, star tight end for the San Francisco 49ers and a devoted supporter of the Warriors. Kittle’s enthusiastic confirmation of the team’s arrival earlier in the year further fueled anticipation, with the promise of thrilling basketball action to come at the Chase Center.
As fans eagerly await the debut of the women’s team, speculation abounds regarding who will helm the squad. With VanDerveer’s illustrious coaching career and three NCAA titles to her name, she stands as a formidable candidate to take on the role of head coach. Her track record of success and leadership qualities make her a compelling choice to lead the team to victory.
However, the possibility remains that current Warriors head coach Steve Kerr could play a role in shaping the team’s future. VanDerveer herself acknowledges Kerr’s prowess as a coach, describing him as “phenomenal” and expressing admiration for his leadership. The prospect of two basketball luminaries collaborating to guide the team is an enticing one for fans, who eagerly anticipate the magic they could create together on the court.
In conclusion, the announcement of the Golden State Warriors’ entry into the WNBA has ignited a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among fans, buoyed by endorsements from basketball icons such as Tara VanDerveer and Stephen Curry. As the Bay Area prepares to welcome its newest sports franchise, all eyes are on the future, filled with the promise of thrilling competition and unforgettable moments on the court.
