6 Golden State Valkyries President Jess Smith speaks about leading the WNBA’s newest team
Women Mean Business: Jess Smith and the Golden State Valkyries
Taking the Leap
As the WNBA’s newest team, the Golden State Valkyries, get set to take the court for the first time since 2008, leading the charge is team president, Jess Smith. Smith’s journey to the forefront of women’s professional sports began when she designed a sales plan that landed her as the head of revenue for the Angel City Football Club, a national women’s soccer league team. She grew up in Auburn, New York, playing her favorite sport, basketball, and went on to study journalism at the State University of New York at Oswego.
From Student to Sports Leader
Smith’s resume now boasts a master’s in sports administration from Ohio University, alongside roles with MLB, NHL, and MLS. This robust career and track record earned her a spot on the "Leaders Under 40" list just last year. When she isn’t changing the landscape in women’s sports, Smith mentors aspiring young sports leaders through the Women’s Coaching Alliance.
A Female Warrior
As president of the Golden State Valkyries, Smith has taken on the challenge of building a team from scratch, with an all-female senior leadership team and strong partnerships with brands like JP Morgan Chase. Smith highlighted the importance of engaging with the community, explaining how fans have been actively involved in shaping the team’s brand and identity. 17,000 people have already bought season tickets before the team’s roster has even been announced!
Turning the Page on Women’s Sports
Jess Smith believes that the moment has finally arrived for women’s sports to move away from being a separate category and become just Sports – exciting and fun to watch. With brands, media, and players all investing heavily in the Valkyries, Smith believes this is the turning point she has been waiting for.
Advice for Women Entering the Sports Industry
Smith’s advice to women who want to enter the sports industry is to be themselves, don’t try to be like others, and show up. Smith emphasized the importance of authentic self-expression, citing that as a woman’s "superpower." She expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has had and encourages other women to take the leap.
Conclusion
Join us as we continue to follow the Golden State Valkyries and the game-changing impact they’re poised to make in women’s professional sports. We couldn’t be more excited for Jess Smith and her team, and we look forward to seeing the journey unfold.
