The Golden State Valkyries are a game away from winning the WNBA championship. They will play on Thursday against the Atlanta Dream, heading into the 12:30 p.m. ET game with a 3-2 series lead.
Much has been made about the time of the game. There is a conflict at the arena because the Atlanta Hawks are home that evening. Rather than go to the 3,500-seat venue the Dream play most of their games, the compromise was to start it at 12:30 p.m., which would be 9:30 a.m. on the West Coast.
That should do wonders -- not -- for the Valkyries' body clocks. But that aside, this is a second-year franchise seeking to win the league championship. And it makes one wonder: What is a valkyrie?
And here are some facts to know about the clever nickname:
What is a valkyrie?
Other than a player on the WNBA team in San Francisco, a Valkyrie is part of Norse mythology. Call it the "chooser of the slain." That's omininous. A valkyrie is considered a female figure chooses and leads souls of the dead to Valhalla. Don't confuse that with Ballhalla, which is what Chase Center becomes when the WNBA team plays.
Valkyrie tied to numerous animals
Valkyries are also described as daughters of royalty, sometimes accompanied by ravens and sometimes connected to swans, boars or wolves.
Were valkyries considered human?
Valkyries were supernatural beings, mythological figures with divine powers and ancestry.
What is the valkyrie symbol?
Their symbols have wings on either side, representing the idea of Valkyries flying through the air on horseback, with a double or single staff running. The root of the symbol is unknown.
Meaning of valkyrie emblem?
The Valkyrie symbol has come to represen courage, physical strength and the empowerment of women. Valkyries have followers who show their support through jewelery or tattoos.
What are the Golden State Valkyries' colors?
The team is represented by Valkyrie Violet, a stunning shade of purple. Throw in some gold and a little black and white and you have a powerful look. The court at Chase Center is particularly stunning.
More on the Valkyries look and design?
Per the team: The Valkyrie looks protectively over the team; the body is a dynamic and athletic posture, with sharp angular elements that mirror the team's design language; the Valkyrie is angled for a more statuesque posture; the Valkyrie’s wings and armor are inspired by key elements from the primary logo, with homage paid to the "V" shape and bridge cables that reflect the team’s deep connection to the Bay Area. She holds the same sword as is in the center of the primary logo. Additionally, her shield nods to basketball.
This article originally appeared on The List Wire: What is a valkyrie? The history behind the WNBA team nickname