The Golden State Warriors are a professional basketball team based in San Francisco, California. While the organization has a rich history that includes periods playing in Philadelphia and Oakland, the team currently calls the Chase Center in San Francisco its home.
The Current Home: San Francisco
Since the 2019–20 NBA season, the Warriors have played their games in San Francisco at the Chase Center. This move marked a return to the city where the franchise was founded in 1946, although it is important to distinguish this from the team's earlier incarnation in Philadelphia. The modern franchise has been based in the San Francisco Bay Area since 2015, operating first from Oakland and now from San Francisco.
A Distinction Between City and Bay Area
One of the most common points of confusion is the difference between the city of San Francisco and the broader San Francisco Bay Area. When people ask "what city do the Warriors play in," the specific answer is San Francisco. However, the team's practice facilities and offices are located in nearby Oakland. Furthermore, the entire metropolitan region, including neighboring cities like San Jose and Berkeley, is often collectively referred to as the Bay Area. This can make it seem like the team is based in Oakland, but all official city limits and ticketing information point to San Francisco.
Historical Context: From Philadelphia to Oakland
To fully understand the current location, it is helpful to look at the team's history. The Warriors were originally founded in Philadelphia in 1946. They played there for over 50 years, winning several championships during that era. In 2015, the franchise relocated across the country to the Oracle Arena in Oakland, California, marking the end of a significant chapter in Philadelphia sports history.
The Chase Center: A Modern Venue
Built specifically for the Warriors, the Chase Center opened in 2019 and is located in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. The arena is a state-of-the-art facility that has become a landmark for the city. Its location along the waterfront provides a unique backdrop for game day, integrating the venue into the urban fabric of San Francisco rather than isolating it in a suburban stadium.
Why San Francisco Matters
Playing in San Francisco provides the Warriors with a distinct identity. The city is known for its culture, diversity, and progressive values, which align closely with the brand the team has cultivated. The move was not just a logistical change but a symbolic return to the roots of the franchise's original name, the Philadelphia Warriors, while establishing a new legacy on the West Coast.
Travel and Accessibility for Fans
For fans planning to attend a game, understanding the location is the first step. San Francisco is served by a robust public transportation system, including BART, MUNI, and Caltrain, making it accessible from throughout the region. The team's address is 1 Warriors Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94158, confirming the official municipal location of the franchise.
