The run has sparked excitement well beyond the arena. Fans have been wearing Valkyries gear around the Bay Area and making plans to gather for the games, while sports bars prepare for crowds.

At Rikki’s, a women’s-sports-focused bar in San Francisco’s Castro district, the Valkyries’ postseason games have already brought the venue to capacity. Co-owner and general manager Danielle Thoe said staff expect lines during the Finals.

Thoe said she had hoped the team would reach this point, but was surprised it happened so quickly. She also credited the Valkyries with building a strong connection to the community and supporting local bars that host watch parties with team merchandise and other items.

The Finals appearance is another milestone for the franchise, now in its second season. The Valkyries sold out every home game they have played and, last year, became the first WNBA expansion team to reach the playoffs in its inaugural season.

Julie Dorf, a Berkeley season-ticket holder, said excitement has been building among people she knows. Tracey McNamara, who traveled from Mendocino County for Saturday’s opener, called the Finals a welcome moment for the Bay Area and California.

The team plans fan activities outside Thrive City on game days. Sports bars around the region are also organizing watch parties as the Valkyries pursue their first league championship.