The Golden State Valkyries are facing the ultimate playoff pressure cooker, and honey, it’s getting hot in here.

Coach Natalie Nakase might be riding high on her fresh WNBA Coach of the Year title, but tonight’s game against the Minnesota Lynx is make-or-break for this rookie franchise. Despite being the first women’s sports team to hit a jaw-dropping $500 million valuation and selling out every single home game, the Valkyries are staring down potential elimination.

A David vs Goliath Playoff Showdown

Let’s break down the stats: The Lynx are the WNBA’s top dogs this season with a killer 34-10 record, and they’ve already trounced the Valkyries 101-72 in Game 1. Oh, and did we mention the Valkyries have lost all five of their previous matchups with the Lynx this year? Talk about an uphill battle.

Home Court… Sort Of

Adding insult to injury, their “home” playoff game isn’t even in San Francisco. Thanks to the Laver Cup tennis tournament, they’re playing at the SAP Center in San Jose. But don’t count them out just yet - Valkyries forward Janelle Salaün is confident the fans will bring the energy.

One Last Fight

With everything on the line, the Valkyries have one shot to keep their storybook first season alive. Game 2 tips off at 7 pm on ESPN, and Bay Area basketball fans will be glued to their screens, hoping for a miracle.