What happened: The Golden State Valkyries issued a welcome message to the San Jose Sea Lions following the announcement of the PWHL franchise's official name. The greeting welcomed the women's hockey club into the regional sports community.

Why it matters: The exchange highlights the expanding footprint of women's professional sports in Northern California. The Valkyries debuted as an expansion franchise in the WNBA, while the Sea Lions represent one of the PWHL's new expansion teams.

What to watch: The Sea Lions will prepare for their upcoming PWHL expansion season as organizational and venue operations ramp up.