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Padres beat Giants 7-5, snapping San Francisco’s 3-game winning streak

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San Francisco Giants (#16) Rafael Devers is all smiles after hitting his ninth career grand slam and his 36th home run of the season in an MLB game against the San Diego Padres on Friday, September 11th, 2026, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, CA. (Photo credit to Jae Choi)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – After the San Francisco Giants’ 3-game winning sweep at home on the St. Louis Cardinals. The San Francisco Giants (62-86) hosted the San Diego Padres (79-68) on Friday night in San Francisco for game one out of three starting this weekend. However, it was the Padres taking game one 7-5, and San Diego’s starting pitcher, former San Francisco Giants pitcher as well, Robbie Ray would get the win. This gave Giants starter Anthony Molina his first loss.

This was the first time the San Francisco Giants faced off against LHP Robbie Ray since dealing him to San Diego at the trade deadline. Ray has gone 1-2 with a 4.71 ERA in his six starts with San Diego with the Padres losing four of the six games. Ray also posted a 6-1 record over 11 starts with San Francisco at Oracle Park earlier this year. This game was Robbie’s 100th career win as the winning pitcher.

The San Francisco Giants would strike first with Jonah Cox scoring. Cox would get on base with a single on a line drive to right field. Setting up his teammate Bryce Eldridge to bring him in, he delivers as Eldridge got himself a single and helped give the Giants their only lead of the night, 1-0.

Right after that, going into the top of the second inning, the San Diego Padres would respond. Padres Jackson Merrill hits a ground-rule double, his 24th of the season, to left-field. Then Dustin Harris would get a single on his turn at-bat and bring in Merrill to score and tie the game 1-1. Next, Freddy Fermin would also hit a double, his 12th of the season, and bring in Harris to score for San Diego 2-1.

After a quick three-out trip for San Francisco. The Padres weren’t done with their hitting spree. At the top of the third inning, Jake Cronenworth singles on a sharp line drive to right field. Luis Campusano would get a double, his 12th double of the season, and bring in Cronenworth to score for San Diego 3-1. Then Jackson Merrill comes back to hit and himself a single. With Campusano stealing to third base, and Merrill on first base. Padres Xander Bogaerts joins the fun with a double and brings in Campusano and Merrill to score, 5-1.

The Padres still weren’t done with the Giants; after Bogaerts’ double, Dustin Harris would get a triple to bring Bogaerts to score, 6-1. Then Freddy Fermin was still feeling hot as het would got another double at Oracle Park. So Harris would add on to the runs and change the score to 7-1, Padres leading through the third inning.

It wouldn’t take long for the Giants to get their hitting going. In the bottom of the fifth inning, Giants Andrew Knizner gets on base with a double, then Cox and Koss gets walked, getting the bases loaded and setting up big hitter Rafael Devers. So Devers delivers for San Francisco as he hits a grand slam to right field, also making this his 36th homer of the season. The score would get as close as 7-5 after Devers big hit in Oracle Park.

The Padres tallied up 12 hits in this game against the Giants bullpen. This was the team’s eleventh meeting this season, with the Padres extending their season series lead to 7-4. Losing pitcher Anthony Molina for San Francisco had a shot at becoming the team’s third pitcher to win his first four games with the Giants since the franchise moved to San Francisco.

In the last and final moments of the game, San Francisco did have a chance for a comeback win. With the bases loaded and two outs. Giants Bryce Eldridge stepped up to the plate with the team on his back, hoping for a miracle. Eldridge in the last series had five hits and seven RBI’s, so the fans were right behind him for a miracle. However, going against the Padres closer Mason Miller would be brutal, as Miller would strike out Eldridge and give the team and the fans a home loss in this Friday night game. The final score for the game would be 7-5.

With two more games still to play this weekend, the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres will come back tomorrow, here at Oracle Park, for game two. First pitch will be at 1:05 p.m. with the game being broadcast on NBCS BA. San Diego will send RHP Michael King (10-9, 3.00 ERA) to hopefully keep the wins coming for them on their seven game road trip. The Giants will bring out LHP Cesar Perdomo (0-0, 0.90 ERA), who’s looking for his first win as a starter for San Francisco.

Giants win 2-1, on 2-game Winning Streak

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San Francisco Giants (#50) Christian Koss hit his fourth home run this season against the St. Louis Cardinals in an MLB game on Tuesday, September 8th, 2026, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, CA. (Photo credit to Jae Choi)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – Tuesday morning, the San Francisco Giants learned the door to their postseason had closed. Due to tiebreaker procedures, the Giants are eliminated from the playoffs for the fifth straight year. So Tuesday evening, the Giants’ mentality was now just to have fun and win ball games. The Giants are in game two of three, hosting the St. Louis Cardinals. In Game 2 tonight at Oracle Park, the Giants (61-85) would get the win over the Cardinals (72-74), 2-1, and win this home series.

The Giants’ starting and winning pitcher of the game, Landen Roupp, would allow 2 hits, 0 runs, 4 BB, and 2 strikeouts in this game. This is also Roupp’s ninth win as a starter for San Francisco. St. Louis pitcher Quinn Mathews received his third loss as the starting pitcher for the Cardinals. Mathews would allow 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 ER, 4 strikeouts, and 2 homeruns.

San Francisco Giants first baseman Rafael Devers was named one of MLB Players of the Week. Devers batted .385 with six home runs, 13 RBI’s, and a 1.669 OPS from August 31st to September 6th. This is now his fifth career award and second straight for the Giants.

This game really off in San Francisco’s direction from early homers from Eldridge and Christian Koss. With one more win in tomorrow’s afternoon game, they can have the chance to sweep the Cardinals in this homestands. In the bottom of the first inning, Giants Bryce Eldridge would get the game started with his sixteenth homer of the season. Eldridge sent that ball to the left outfield and got the ballpark rocking early.

The Cardinals would have no response on their offensive side. So Giants Christian Koss decided to join in on the home run fun. In the bottom of the second inning, Koss would drill his third home run in the past four games. These two homers from Eldridge and Koss would be enough to give the Giants the lead and ultimately win this game.

St. Louis was able to find themselves in scoring positions. However, with smart pitching from Roupp and the Giants defense holding up. They were able to prevent the Cardinals from converting any runs. Especially by placing the ball low on his sinkers, forcing the Cardinals’ hitters to ground out.

It wouldn’t be until the top of the ninth inning that the game would see a drastic change. The St. Louis Cardinals weren’t gonna let up that easy against the Giants. With two outs, it was now or never to make a move. Cardinals Nathan Church would be able to get a single. On the next batter, Church would steal to second base on the first pitch. Leading up his teammate Bryan Torres to get a single, and bringing in Church to score.

With the score now being 2-1, but with two outs for the Cardinals. The Giants would just need one more stop to call the ballgame. So next batter, Cardinals Ivan Herrera would get grounded out, and that would conclude the ball game. With the Giants finding out this morning, there will be no playoffs. The team was all smiles after getting this Tuesday night win.

The San Francisco Giants won’t get a lot of rest as the team has to come back tomorrow afternoon to finish off this homestand with the Cardinals. Tomorrow’s win will give the Giants a sweep of the Cardinals. San Francisco will send out RHP Blade Tidwell (0-2), and St. Louis will go with RHP Andre Pallante (12-6). The game will be broadcast live on MLB.TV with first pitch at 12:45 p.m.

UCLA Bruins beat Cal Golden Bears in season home-opener, 45-24

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California Golden Bear quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele (#3) avoids the UCLA Bruins’ defense and throws an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mason Mini in Week 1 of an NCAA football game on Saturday, September 5th, 2026, at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, CA. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – A historic rivalry that began in 1993 and continues to this day. The matchup is known by many names: the Bear Bowl, the Sibling Rivalry, or even another variation of “NorCal vs SoCal”. This game was the home opener for Cal Berkeley as the UCLA Bruins visited the California Golden Bears, starting both teams’ 2026-27 NCAA football season in week 1. This sold-out Saturday night football game had the California Memorial Stadium at maximum capacity. This is Cal and UCLA’s 95th matchup of all-time. UCLA Bruins lead the series at 58-35-1. Last time the UCLA Bruins were in Berkeley, UCLA would get the win over Cal 35-28. However, in the last matchup, it was the Golden Bears getting the win over the Bruins 33-7 in Pasadena. Ultimately, tonight, it would be the UCLA Bruins (1-0) getting the victory on the road over the California Golden Bears (0-1) 45-24.

Both of these schools came into this game with new head coaches. Tosh Lupoi was announced as the Travers Family Head Football Coach of the Bears on Dec. 4, 2025. Lupoi won a pair of national championships during a five-year stint at Alabama, where he served as an outside linebackers coach and defensive coordinator, in addition to five conference championships (4 SEC, 1 Big 10). He is the 35th head coach in Cal football program history. Bob Chesney was hired as the 20th head coach in UCLA football history on Dec. 6, 2025. He arrives in Westwood after two successful seasons at James Madison from 2024-25, guiding the Dukes to a 21-6 record and numerous historic firsts.

The Golden Bears scored the first touchdown of the night and their season. Cal’s quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele gets a short pass to the left for a 9-yard touchdown to Chase Hendricks. Sagapolutele picked up where he left off last season in his freshman year. Sagapolutele completed 316-of-492 passes for 3,454 yards with 18 touchdown throws and nine interceptions while starting all 13 games in 2025. He was only the second true freshman to be named the Bears’ starting quarterback for a season opener and the first since Jared Goff arrived in Berkeley in 2013, on his way to becoming the No. 1 overall NFL draft pick in 2016.

On UCLA’s first offensive drive, they responded. The Bruins would get on the board by their quarterback, Nico Lamaleave. Lamaleave would do a fake handoff and keep the ball to run in a 9-yard touchdown. After that, the game would be tied at 7-7, halfway through the 1st quarter. Nico Iamaleava is back for his second season at UCLA. The Long Beach, Calif., native led the Bruins in rushing yards (505), carries (112), and rushing touchdowns (4) in addition to throwing for 1,928 yards and 13 touchdowns on 208 of 323 passes.

UCLA and California’s defense have been stellar throughout the first half. It wouldn’t be until three minutes into the second quarter that Cal would add more points on the scoreboard. Cal’s kicker Town McGough would make a 28-yard field goal to give the Golden Bears the lead, 10-7. After that, UCLA’s offense would catch Cal’s defense and score on back-to-back offensive possessions. UCLA running back Anthony Woods would rush for a 31-yard touchdown to give UCLA their first lead of the night, 10-14.

After UCLA’s defense held Cal’s offense. The Bruins would march down the field and score again on another rushing touchdown from Wayne Knight’s 8-yard run. The lead would go by 11 points for UCLA over California at 10-21. Then with three and a half minutes left, Cal is looking to score before halftime, but UCLA’s defense would have something to say. Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele would get sacked and lose the ball during that, and UCLA’s Amier Washington would recover the fumble.

However, with fifty-one seconds left of the second quarter, the Golden Bears weren’t gonna let this game get out of control. UCLA quarterback Nico Lamaleava would throw an interception to Cal’s defensive back, Kingston Lopa. Giving the ball back to Cal with less than a minute. However, that’s all the time Cal would need to get themselves back in the game. With the ball at the 8-yard line, Sagapolutele would throw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mason Mini to cut the lead to 4 points, 17-21.

With just two seconds left, UCLA would be able to get into field goal range and add three more points to the lead before halftime, 17-24. UCLA’s running game has been big for them in their Week 1 matchup. The Bruins were able to put up 123 rushing yards compared to the Golden Bears’ 34 rushing yards. These two sophomore quarterbacks have displayed that they could throw the ball and find their targets. UCLA would be able to finish the first half going 12-for-18 on passing, while California went 15-for-32 in their passing.

Heading into the third quarter, Cal took advantage of the game clock and emphasized it with a touchdown. The Golden Bears had the ball for basically the entire third quarter; they were on offense for over 11 minutes. Cal would march down the field and end the drive on a 1-yard touchdown from running back Adam Mohammed. That touchdown would tie the game and head into the final quarter.

Going into the final quarter of the game, with the score tied, the Golden Bears had the ball, and with ten minutes left, it was perfect for Cal to strike. However, UCLA’s defense would come up big for the Bruins. Cal quarterback Sagapolutele would throw two interceptions in the final minutes, and UCLA would capitalize on his mistakes. The first interception from the Bruins would follow up on a 31-yard rushing touchdown by Wayne Knight, 31-24. Then Sagapolutele would hop on the field to throw his second interception. Which, again, would lead to another UCLA touchdown by Wayne Knight, again, for his 3rd rushing touchdown of the night, 38-24.

With one minute and twenty seconds left, UCLA Bruins weren’t done with the Golden Bears. Bruins running back Anthony Woods would rush in a touchdown for 53 yards. The score would now go to 45-24. After that, it would be the Bruins doing the last dance on the field as UCLA wins the game, 45-24. UCLA Bruins would score 21 points alone in the fourth quarter.

After this crushing loss to the UCLA Bruins. The California Golden Bears are gonna hit the road for their next game. They’ll be facing the Syracuse Orange in Syracuse, New York. Syracuse got their win in week 1 against the New Hampshire Wildcats, 66-3. The game will be broadcast live on the ACC Network at 12:30 p.m.

Diamondbacks roll past the Giants, 10-6, on the team’s Native American Heritage Night

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San Francisco Giants (#0) Drew Gilbert at-bat against Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher (#68) Gerardo Carrillo in the bottom of the fifth inning of an MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco on Friday, August 28th, 2026. (Photo credit to editor Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – After winning Thursday night’s game over Arizona, the Giants now have won three of their last four games. The San Francisco Giants (55-80) failed to secure a split series against the Arizona Diamondbacks (72-64), losing Friday night’s game, 10-6. This is the Giants’ ninth loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, their most in a single season against the Diamondbacks since 2022.

The winning pitcher would go to Arizona Diamondback Gerardo Carrillo, his third of the season. The losing pitcher would go to San Francisco Giants Blade Tidwell, his first loss of the season. Tidwell finished the night with seven hits, six runs, four strikeouts, and three home runs.

First pitch of the game and Arizona was not playing around and taking last night’s loss easy. Arizona’s Lars Nootbaar gets his fifth homer of the season on a fly ball to center field. San Francisco Giants pitcher Blade Tidwell’s first pitch of his first start of the season was not what he expected, but he was able to shake it off and strike out the next two batters.

However, San Francisco Giants Bryce Eldridge took Nootbaar’s homer personally, so at his first at-bat of the game, Eldridge brings in his 15th homer of the season out to right field, and tying the ball game at 1-1 after the bottom of the first inning. Going into the second inning, Giants pitcher Blade Tidwell was able to shake off his first-inning performance and get the next three outs with ease.

The Giants were able to get a run in at the bottom of the second inning. Giants Jung Hoo Lee got himself a single, and then after that was able to get in scoring position for himself. Setting up his teammate, Giants Turner Hill, on a sacrifice out, and bringing in Lee to score, and taking the lead, 2-1. After that, going into the third inning, Arizona took over the game from here.

Arizona’s Lars Nootbaar strikes again and gets himself a double, his eleventh of the season. Then Arizona Corbin Carroll got himself his 19th homer of the season, to center field, and bringing in two runs and taking the lead at, 3-2. The Diamondbacks were not done with their hitting as Geraldo Perdomo gets a single. Next, Arizona’s Nolan Arenado gets his twenty-first double of the season. Setting up his teammate, Tim Tawa, to get his ninth homer of the season and bring in three runs, making the score 6-2.

After Arizona’s five runs scoring inning, the Giants were frustration was showing, especially from the bullpen. Giants manager Tony Vitello and RHP Logan Webb were both ejected from the ballgame in the bottom of the third. San Francisco was able to bounce back after losing their manager and get a run in from Bryce Eldridge on his 17th double of the season, which that had brought in Giants Rafael Devers to score, 6-3.

San Francisco was able to at least get a run in the first four innings of the game. At the bottom of the fourth, Giants Christian Koss joins the homerun party, as he would get himself his first of the season and bringing in a run as well. The Giants would be down by one run, 6-5. With Koss’s homer, the Giants were ready to do whatever it takes to get this home win. However, the Giants would mentally fall apart after San Francisco changed pitchers. The Giants would end Blade Tidwell’s night and bring in RHP Spencer Bivens.

With the Giants changing pitchers, that still didn’t stop Arizona from bringing in more runs. Spencer’s first batter was Arizona’s Tim Tawa; Tawa would get himself on base with a single, and then the next batter, James McCann, would hit a ground-rule double to left field, his sixth of the season. Ultimately setting up their teammate Lldemaro Vargas for a single and bringing in his teammates for two more runs. The score was now 8-5. Then, Vargas would score from Corbin Carroll’s sacrifice fly to left field, making the score 9-5.

Heading into the top of the seventh inning, Arizona was able to get one more run for the night from Geraldo Perdomo, who got walked and then was able to get himself into scoring position from James McCann’s single to left field. Arizona would now hold a five run lead over San Francisco, 10-5.

Arizona’s last run was ultimately the dagger in this ball game as the Giants were unable to get a comeback going in front of the home crowd. At most, San Francisco would be able to get one run in at the bottom of the eighth, and then after that it became a smooth night for the Diamondbacks as they would get the win.

The San Francisco Giants are gonna have themselves a long day Saturday as the team prepares for a doubleheader with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The first game will have the first pitch at 1:05 p.m., and the second game’s first pitch will be at 7:05 p.m.

Both of these games will be broadcast live on NBCS BA. Starting pitchers for the front game Arizona RHP Merrill Kelly (8-12 ERA 5.35) for San Francisco TBA. In the night cap for Arizona LHP Mitch Bratt (1-2 ERA 4.54) for San Francisco TBA.

Minnesota takes down Golden State, 77-66, snapping Valkyries 6-Game Winning Streak

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Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase argues with a referee in the second quarter of a WNBA game against the Minnesota Lynx at Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026. (Photo Credits to Ray Chavez/Bay Area News Group)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The best of the best battled each other on Wednesday night. The Golden State Valkyries, second place in the WNBA, hosted the Minnesota Lynx, first place in the WNBA, at Chase Center. Both teams have already clinched their spots in the playoffs. The matchup determined who would ultimately hold the first-place seed, and it went to Minnesota after the Gophers defeated the Valkyries 77-66. Golden State is also now 0-9 against Minnesota all-time.

Minnesota came into Ballhalla hoping to get their 30th win of the season. The Lynx have gone 19-2 against Western Conference teams. In their last ten games, the Lynx have gone 9-1, and are 15-2 on the road this season. Minnesota is also on a four-game winning streak, and not looking to slow down. So the Lynx started with guards Olivia Miles, Courtney Williams, forwards Kayla McBride, Napheesa Collier, and center Natasha Howard.

After Monday’s win over the Dallas Wings, Golden State have secured and clinched a spot for the postseason. The Valkyries are 10-6 against Western teams in the season so far. In the last ten games, the Valkyries have gone 8-2, and are 15-4 at home. So Golden State would send out guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and center Kiah Stokes. The team is also riding a six-game winning streak and is hoping to make it seven wins.

Minnesota’s Courtney Williams would score the first bucket of the night off of a 11-foot running jump shot. After that, Minnesota would have most control of the game over Golden State. The Valkyries would have a rough shooting start, but this isn’t anything new to the Valkyries. In their last three home games, Golden State would find themselves trailing going into the second quarter, and the highest they scored in the first quarter out of the three games was just 20 points. At the end of the first quarter, the Valkyries found themselves down by eight to the Lynx, 21-13.

Going into the second quarter, the Valkyries’ shooting on the floor was a low 22%, going 4-for-18 shooting as a team. While the Lynx were shooting comfortably in Ballhalla at 60% from the floor, going 9-for-15 shooting as a team. Minnesota’s passing has been all over Golden State’s defense, and the Lynx keep finding their players in the paint. The Lynx have scored 18 points compared to Valkyrie’s four points in the paint.

At the end of the second quarter, Minnesota’s lead would extend to 15 points over Golden State, 41-26. The Valkyries’ shooting still hasn’t improved, but the Lynx defense has been stellar on their close-out shots and covering the floor when they’re back on defense. Golden State is now shooting at a 24%, going 9-for-37 on the floor as a team.

At the start of the third quarter, the Lynx shooting in the paint didn’t slow down as Olivia Miles made a 15-foot step-back jump shot to start the second half of the game. In fact, Minnesota would make Golden State take an early timeout with not even two minutes in the third quarter due to the Lynx making their first three shots of the quarter. After that, Minnesota would start to slow down on their shooting, and the Valkyries were able to see some openings and shots to fall down. In the final three minutes of the quarter, Golden State was down by 18 points, and once the quarter was over, the lead would drop to 13 points, 54-41.

In the final quarter of the game, Golden State was able to get some life into them, and a lot of that had to do with their guard Tiffany Hayes and Janelle Salaun. Salaun would go on an 8-0 scoring run by herself, and then Hayes, showing off her toughness, was able to find her way to get in the paint for the easy buckets. In the final three minutes of the game, Minnesota had the lead by 8 points, 69-61. The Valkyries haven’t led the game once, while the Lynx held the lead the whole game.

Then Minnesota’s Kayla McBride would make a big-time three-pointer to push the lead back 11 points, 72-61. McBride would have herself a night, as she would set a new franchise record with 106 made three-pointers and counting. Then, with a minute and a half left in the game, Valkyries Gabby Williams would make a 26-foot three-pointer to cut the lead back to ten points, and hopefully find a way to come back and get the win. Unfortunately, with 30 seconds left and the score now at 77-66, the game was pretty much set and done in Ballhalla.

As the game time clock expired, the Minnesota Lynx would come into Ballhalla and take the win from the Valkyries, snapping their six-game winning streak. After a big adjustment in the second half, Golden State’s efforts weren’t enough. However, this is not the end of these two teams meeting. In five days, the Golden State Valkyries and Minnesota Lynx will face off one more time in the season. Golden State was led by Janelle Salaun with her 15 points, six rebounds, and three assists.

The Golden State Valkyries will begin their five-game road trip starting on Friday, August 21st. The Valkyries will start in Chicago and take on the Sky, once again at 4:30 p.m. in Wintrust Arena. The game will be broadcast live on ION. This game will also be the final game that Golden State and Chicago will play against this season, with the winner taking the season series between them.

Valkyries clinch the Playoffs on their 25th win of the season against the Dallas Wings, 78-70

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Golden State Valkyries’ Tiffany Hayes (15) celebrates a 3-point basket by Golden State Valkyries’ Veronica Burton (22) against the Dallas Wings in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, Aug. 17, 2026. (Photot credits to Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Valkyries started the week off with a win, and clinched their spot in the playoffs for the second time in the team’s second year in the WNBA. On Monday night, the Valkyries knew that with a win tonight, they could clinch a spot for the postseason, and they did. The team hosted and defeated the Dallas Wings in front of another sellout crowd with the final score of 78-70. The Valkyries are also now on a 6-game winning streak that will slowly secure their spot for the second seed in the playoff bracket.

The Dallas Wings came into this game holding on to the last spot of the playoffs, and trying to get as many wins as they can so they can hold on to it. However, Dallas just came back from a loss while on the first stop of their two-game road trip back in Indiana, and is so far 10-9 on the road. Also, in their last 10 games, they have gone 3-7. So they started guards Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, forwards Jessica Shepard, Alysha Clark, and center Alanna Smith.

Valkyries have been shocking the league and showing the WNBA world that they are ready and want to play in the postseason. Golden State was on a 5-game winning streak, now on a 6-game winning streak, and have gone 8-2 in their last 10 games. They also hold the second-place seed in the WNBA. So they went with guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and center Kiah Stokes.

The game would get going with some hot shooting from both teams. This game has so much meaning for both of these teams’ playoff hopes, so the Valkyries and Wings were locked in. Wings Alanna Smith and Valkyries Kayla Thornton start it off with 3-pointers for each other. After that, Dallas and Golden State’s defense picked up. However, Golden State would end the first on a 12-4 scoring run, and hold a 1-point lead at the end. That 1-point lead would come from Valkyries’ Tiffany Hayes by hitting a deep 3-pointer (33-foot) for Golden State.

In the 2nd quarter, the Valkyries and Wings didn’t slow down on their defensive plan. Both teams were starting to make every shot more difficult and contested each other. Especially Golden State started to take advantage of Dallas turnovers by stealing their passes and making it difficult for Dallas to spread the ball. With that, the Valkyries were able to find some momentum and go on an 11-2 scoring run halfway through the 2nd quarter.

At halftime, Golden State would extend their lead to 16 points over Dallas with the score at 44-28. Dallas’s second quarter performance was very poor, and they were able to score only 9-points in the second alone. While Golden State would go on and drop 24 points altogether, the Valkyries had already made eight 3-pointers so far.

At the start of the 3rd quarter, Dallas would come in with some energy, especially from Wings Alysha Clark, who would make a 25-foot three pointer jumper. After that, the Wings found a little offensive rhythm and would get the lead to 10-points from Golden State, 39-49. Then shortly, the Wings were able to cut it as low as 8 points, 46-54.

Though the Valkyries were not gonna let up, and kept giving the Wings no more optimism. Golden State would hit some tough shots and not slow down on their drives to the paint on transition breaks. At the start of the 4th quarter, the lead would jump to its largest of the night for Golden State with a 18-point lead over Dallas, 46-64.

All of the 4th quarter was Dallas’ last efforts to try and come back and win this game. The Wings would drop 24 points in the 4th, but it still wasn’t enough. Valkyries guard Gabby Williams would lead Golden State to a win with her 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. She got lots of help from her teammate Veronica Burton, who would drop 16 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals. Golden State has now gone 3-0 in the season series against Dallas.

Golden State will get a short rest, but have some comfort in their mind knowing they have clinched a spot in the postseason. The Valkyries return to Ballhalla on Wednesday, August 19th, to host the 1st place team in the WNBA, the Minnesota Lynx. The Lynx are coming off a win just two days ago against the Las Vegas Aces, 92-87. The game will be broadcast live on USA Network at 7 p.m.

Valkyries Win on Violet’s Birthday over Chicago Sky, 91-71

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Golden State Valkyries’ Tiffany Hayes, front, steals the ball from Chicago Sky’s Gabriela Jacquez in the first half of a WNBA basketball game in San Francisco, Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026. (Photo credit Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – Wednesday night was not just any ordinary night in Ballhalla. The Golden State Valkyries honored and celebrated their mascot Violet’s birthday. So the Valkyries wanted to get this win for Violet and extend their winning streak to five games, and they did. The Valkyries hosted the Chicago Sky and won by 20 points, 91-71.

Golden State Valkyries were riding a four-game winning streak but lost two key players who have been a huge part of the Valkyries’ success this season. The team lost Janelle Salaun (right knee) and Kiah Stokes (Concussion protocol) for this home game, with their return still questionable. So Golden State sent out guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Cecilia Zandalasini, Kayla Thornton, and center Laeticia Amihere.

Chicago came into Ballhalla riding a two-game losing streak, with their most recent loss to Seattle at the Storm’s home, with the final score being 97-88. Sky also announced yesterday that the team would play without their guard Sydney Taylor (groin). So Chicago went with guards Courtney Vandersloot, Jacy Sheldon, forwards Natasha Cloud, Azura Stevens, and center Kamilla Cardoso.

Chicago Sky Natasha Cloud would get the first bucket of the game, going inside the paint for a quick lay-up. Then, after another made jump shot from Sky, Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton hits a 27-foot three-pointer to give Golden State their first basket. Chicago has gone 6-for-9 and has taken an early 7-point lead. Sky is relying heavily on their midrange shots, and those shots are falling for them.

At the end of the 1st quarter, Sky found their offensive rhythm fast and collected nine team assists in the first ten minutes of play. The lead would extend for the Valkyries by eight points, 24-16. Chicago’s early offensive success was huge for Sky since they’ve seen season struggles on the road. Sky has gone 4-12 on the road, and the team uses 16 players, which is the 2nd most in the WNBA.

In the second quarter, it was a huge turnaround for the Golden State Valkyries. After just dropping 16 points in the 1st, the Valkyries would drop 27 points in the 2nd quarter alone. Valkyries Tiffany Hayes had a big contribution to that, coming off the bench. She also got help from her teammate, Gabby Williams. Their hustle and determination were necessary to take over this game. They both would drop 6 points each in this quarter.

At the end of the 2nd quarter, Golden State would hold the lead over Chicago at 43-40. Sky was only able to drop 16 points, compared to the hot start they had in the 1st when they dropped 24 points on the Valkyries. After that, the Valkyries took advantage of their home court and just locked in on their offensive plan, and their defense was starting to become a problem for Chicago.

Going into the 3rd quarter, we saw the Valkyries continue from where they left off in the 2nd quarter and just keep giving Chicago a hard time in Chase Center. This quarter would be another huge scoring quarter for Golden State, as this time, the team dropped 29 points in the 3rd. Again, Valkyries Tiffany Hayes had her foot on the gas the entire game, and really in the 3rd quarter. Hayes showed her mobility and athleticism as she kept attacking the basket and was getting sent to the free throw line because Chicago’s only response to stopping her was just fouling her.

Heading into the final quarter, it was all smooth sailing for Golden State. With Chicago struggling to get any points for themselves, the Valkyries’ defense was also a factor in that. Golden State would finish the game with 16 steals on Chicago. As the game clock would wind down, Golden State would get the win by 20 points at home, with the final score being 91-71. Tiffany Hayes would lead Golden State while coming off the bench with her 22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block. This was all done in less than 20 minutes, 17 minutes to be exact.

The Valkyries are gonna get a five-day rest before they return to action in Ballhalla. Golden State will host the Dallas Wings on Monday night, August 17th, with tip-off being at 7 p.m. Dallas is currently in 4th place in the Western Conference division. The game will be broadcast live on Peacock.

San Francisco takes flight on Detroit and gets the Win, 5-2 on Giant’s celebration of Top Gun Night

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San Francisco Giants Rafael Devers (#16) and Jung Hoo Lee (#51) celebrating after Rafael Devers got himself his 24th home run of the season, giving the Giants the lead over the Detroit Tigers in an MLB game on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, CA. (Photo credit to Jay Choi, SF Bay News Lab)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – This Friday night’s game was the start of the San Francisco Giants’ season-long nine-game homestand. The Giants (49-67) will host the Detroit Tigers (56-60) for the next three games, with the home team, the Giants, taking the first one Friday night, 5-2. The winning and starting pitcher of this ballgame was San Francisco Giants RHP Adrian Houser. This is Houser’s third win of the season, and he got his 43rd career win as a pitcher.

The losing pitcher for this game was Detroit Tigers RHP Keider Montero. Montero, coming into the game, was 8-6 and had an ERA of 3.17. This game was his 19th start in his 25th game of the season. This is also his fourth straight start after five consecutive relief outings.

The Giants returned home after a rough road trip in which San Francisco went (2-5), going (1-3) at San Diego and then (1-2) at Texas. These losses have now brought San Francisco to a season-low 19 games under .500 for the first time since 2017, ending 34 games under .500. Going into the game, the Giants were on a two-game losing streak. So the team was ready to come home and take advantage of their long homestand.

Detroit came into this game having great success on their road trip. The Tigers have won five of their six games in their West Coast trip. They stopped in three cities along the West Coast: Sacramento, Seattle, and now San Francisco. They went (3-0) in Sacramento, sweeping the Athletics, and then went (2-1) in Seattle. Detroit has outscored their opponents by 42 runs (53-11) in these first six games.

Tigers leadoff hitter Kevin McGonigle started the game off for Detroit with a single on a fly ball to right outfielder Jung Hoo Lee. Then the next batter, Gleyber Torres, also got himself a single on a sharp line drive back to right fielder Lee. Setting up McGonigle at third, so all Detroit needed was a hit, and that’s what they got. Tigers’ Dillon Dingler grounded into a force out, third baseman Christian Koss to second baseman Osleivis Basabe. Bringing in Kevin McGonigle to score early for the Tigers, 1-0.

Eventually, Giants pitcher JT Brubaker would end the top of the first with his first strikeout of the night. So with the Giants already down one run, they were trying to get their bats swinging and give their fans something to cheer for. So, Giants Rafael Devers’ first at-bat delivered with a home run to center field (401 feet). His homer would bring two runs, giving the Giants their first lead of the night, 2-1. His homer was his 24th of the season.

Just pitching one inning, with two hits, one run, and one strikeout. The Giants pull JT Brubaker, shortening his first start of the season. San Francisco brings in RHP Adrian Houser to replace him. However, Detroit still gets their bats swinging on him as well. The Tigers, in the top of the second, would be able to get another run on the Giants, tying the game, 2-2.

At the bottom of the second inning, with the Giants having two outs but bases loaded. Giants Jung Hoo Lee understood the assignment for them. Lee would get himself a single to center field, bringing in two runs for San Francisco. His two-run single would give the Giants the lead, 4-2. His hit would ignite and get the fans on their feet just after. The San Francisco Giants had a quick moment to honor and celebrate longtime Giants broadcaster Mike Brokow on his retirement.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Giants were seeing all the right pitches to their batting. Giants Willy Adames would add on and get his 19th home run of the season to left field, pushing San Francisco’s lead to 5-2. After that, the Giants defense stepped up and held off the Tigers. Detroit scored 76 runs in their last eight games, starting back on July 28th. So with the Tigers just being held to two runs, it makes the Giants defense stand out and shows some light into the season’s lows.

Heading into the top of the ninth inning, the Giants were holding the lead at 5-2. With San Francisco needing three more outs to call the game, they sent out RHP Dylan Smith. Smith is 0-4 and is still looking for his first win, and got his most recent loss on Tuesday. So with him determined to get his win and with help from the Giants’ defense. San Francisco holds off Detroit and took game one tonight. Smith would receive his first career save in this ballgame, and the Giants would get their 49th win of the season.

The San Francisco Giants and Detroit Tigers will come back Saturday for their second game out of three. The first pitch will be at 4:15 p.m. with the Giants sending out RHP Landen Roupp (7-10, 4.34 ERA). Detroit will send out and also will be making their season debut is RHP Jackson Jobe. The game will be broadcast on FOX.

Golden State gets the Win & Season Sweep on Toronto, 92-82, on South Asian Heritage Night

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Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton (#5) makes a 24-foot three-point jumper in a WNBA game at Chase Center on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, in San Francisco, CA. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Valkyries (21-9) ran it back with the Toronto Tempo (10-20) on Tuesday night just two days ago, on Sunday, after hosting and beating them by 17 points, 96-79. That win brought Golden State to a 2-0 season series lead on Toronto. So with that, once again, the Valkyries would beat Tempo, 92-82, as Chase Center and Ballhalla celebrated South Asian Heritage Night.

In their last game on Sunday, Valkyries Janelle Salaun would have herself a game. She would lead Golden State with her 24 points and three rebounds, and finish with two assists in the win over Toronto. Salaun’s effort coming off the bench was exactly what the Valkyries needed to win the game. Salaun shot nine for 15 with three-pointers, but just missed her career-high of 26 points on July 8th at Toronto.

Toronto entered this game on a six-game losing streak. Tempo was just, well, looking for their “tempo” and to turn things around this season. They were led by Nyara Sabally with her 19 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. Her presence and efforts in the paint were able to keep Toronto in the game, but not enough to overcome Golden State’s 29-point fourth quarter. Toronto started with guards Kiki Rice, Julie Allemand, forwards Laura Juskaite, Maria Conde, and center Nyara Sabally.

Valkyries guard Veronica Burton contributed to the team’s win with 17 points, two rebounds, and six assists. Valkyries were also perfect on the second chance points, going five for five, and finishing with 13 points in that category. So with that, head coach Natalie Nakase sent out guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Cecilia Zandalasini, Kayla Thornton, and center Kiah Stokes.

Just like Sunday’s game, Ballhalla had a different look for their fans. The Valkyries played on the Chase Freedom Custom Court, the first-ever Valkyries’ custom court and the only one dropped in the WNBA this season so far. For every made Valkyries shot, Chase Freedom will donate $1,000 to the Golden State Community Foundation to support youth development and education across the Bay Area. The Valkyries generated a $49,000 donation after 33 field goals and 16 free throws made.

Valkyries Cecilia Zandalasini would get the game going with a step-back three-pointer, giving an early spark to Golden State. Then teammate Kayla Thornton would knock down back-to-back three-pointers and push the score to 9-2. In fact, the first four baskets for Valkyries were all three-pointers. However, Toronto was determined to turn things around, and they did thanks to Tempo Marina Marbey, who would finish with ten points in the first quarter. At the end, it would be 25-24, Golden State holding onto a one-point lead.

Toronto, at the start of the second quarter, would knock down shots and focus more on their defense. In fact, the first five minutes of this quarter were all Toronto, as they would drop 14 points while Golden State had none in that time, to give Tempo the lead by 13 points, 38-25. However, with four minutes left, Golden State wasn’t gonna let Toronto go on a scoring run in their home. The Valkyries would cut Tempo’s lead down to four points, 40-33.

By halftime, it would be Toronto holding a one-point lead at 42-41. Tempo’s Maria Conde would lead her team with her 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists in this game. Valkyrie’s Janelle Salauan is once again playing great against Toronto so far, with her eight points and one rebound in this close one.

Coming into the third quarter, both teams were ready to make offensive moves and take control of the game. Although Toronto and Golden State would have impressive scoring runs, it would be Valkyries starting to take the lead with their 31-point performance. Especially Salaun, who is still going strong and attacking the paint. To end the third, she would see an opening and drive to the paint, with the foul and get the and-one, for a three-point play in the paint. Valkyries would take the lead, 72-68.

Going into the final quarter of the game, Valkyries’ defense would tighten up on Toronto’s offensive possessions to try and put this game away. With 5 minutes left in the game, the Valkyries held an eight-point lead on Tempo. Golden State would make some tough buckets to hold the lead. Valkyries Gabby Williams, trying her best to close this game out, drove to the paint and got her layup to go in.

With a minute left, no time outs for Tempo, and the lead at seven points for the Valkyries. One more clutch bucket would send Tempo back to Toronto with another loss. Then Tempo Marina Mabrey would foul Valkyries Kayla Thornton, and that would send her to the line for two free throws. Those free throws would ultimately be the dagger as time ran out for Toronto. Giving Golden State their second straight win, and the final score was 92-82. The Valkyries were led by Janelle Salaun again, with her 21 points on 4-for-6 at the three-point range.

The Golden State Valkyries will get a three-day rest before heading on to the road. They’ll head to the College Park Center and face off against the Dallas Wings. They’ll play against each other on Friday, August 7th, at 6:30 p.m. This will be the second time these two teams face each other, with Golden State winning the first one on June 17th, with the final score being 91-80.

Cal Berkeley Golden Bears Football Media Day: Bears head coach Lupoi meets the press

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Cal Berkeley’s football head coach Tosh Lupoi at the podium, discussing expectations for the upcoming Golden Bears football season at California Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, in Berkeley, California. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva-SRS)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – “Give me a C!, C!, give me a A!, A!, give me a L!, L!, what’s that spell? CAL!” On a nice Tuesday afternoon, the University of California, Berkeley welcomed everyone back to the California Memorial Stadium for the football team’s Media Day. The school revealed some new eateries coming to the season, head coach Tosh Lupoi shared some insight on himself and the team, and brought out players to talk and discuss the upcoming season and expectations.

The season starts one month from today. The Golden Bears are getting ready for their camp, staying sharp on their academics, and embracing the new culture from their former defensive coordinator to their new head coach, Tosh Lupoi. Coach Lupoi and the players came into their media day, practically ready and wanting the season to start now.

With Cal bringing in new players from the portal, this year is the most players the team got from the portal (38 players). It was only right that the Golden Bears bring in new eateries for their fans and all who come to their games. Starting the eateries, the Golden Bears introduced their new ‘OG Salt and Pepper Smoked Brisket with house-made sweet & spicy pickles’. They also showed and debuted their new vegetarian item, the Edamame Dumplings. Fans can grab these items at the stadium and cheer on their Bears as they fight for the win.

After that, Cal Berkeley brought out head coach Tosh Lupoi to the podium for his press conference. Coach Lupoi remained resilient and fired up for the season. He talked about how he prepares his players to become the best version of themselves, whether that’s being a player or just themselves. He also talked about his old defensive coordinator mentality and transferring that to the head coach role.

“To win every battle that is approaching and present,” said head coach Tosh Lupoi. Coach Lupoi would later on and explain how he wants his players to stay focused in every circumstance. Through the ups and downs of Cal football history. He wants his players to always be in the moment and to come out victorious. He understands the struggles and circumstances that will come with it being his first year as a head coach at Cal.

Coach Lupoi’s impact on Cal has already played a big factor. Especially when it came to the players in the portal choosing Cal to continue their education and play football. “Coach Lupoi’s legacy and what he brings to the table is why I chose Cal,” said linebacker Solomon Williams. Williams had spent two seasons at Texas A&M before choosing Cal to play at in the portal.

The players are getting ready to head to the camp. Some of the players are already wanting to suit up and play for Cal. “I’m excited to play week 1 because that’s what sets the tone and our expectations, especially getting the win… getting the win would most definitely set everything in the right direction,” said linebacker Jayden Wayne. So with that, it’s safe to say that Cal football is back and ready to get California Memorial Stadium rocking again.

The California Golden Bears will start off the season in week 1 hosting a familiar school, the UCLA Bruins. The Golden Bears and the Bruins share a long history, especially since these two schools used to be in the same conference, the Pac-12. A “Battle of the West Coast California” will start off the season for coach Lupoi and the Bears. Last year Cal went 7-6, and with new leadership, players, and mentality. This year’s squad looks ready and determined to put up a better record. This game will be on Saturday, September 5th, right back here in the stadium at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.