The Golden State Valkyries have officially unveiled their inaugural roster following the WNBA Expansion Draft, selecting 11 players out of a possible 12. While the nature of expansion drafts limits access to established stars, as teams can protect up to six players, the Valkyries have curated a mix of youthful energy and seasoned experience. Fans and analysts are buzzing with anticipation, eager to see how this eclectic group of athletes will perform.
Among the headline picks were Kate Martin and Temi Fagbenle, whose ties to Indiana Fever standout and 2024 Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark generated plenty of attention. Martin, a former key player for the Iowa Hawkeyes, played a vital role in their back-to-back national championship appearances. While she didn’t find her footing with the Las Vegas Aces, she has the potential to become a prominent figure for the Valkyries. Fagbenle, returning to the league after a four-year hiatus, brought defensive grit to the Fever in 2024, helping to shape their identity. In Golden State, her veteran presence is expected to anchor a young team and foster a competitive culture.
Kayla Thornton, another notable addition, joins the Valkyries fresh off a championship with the New York Liberty. Known for her infectious energy and leadership, she will undoubtedly bring resilience and tenacity to this new franchise. General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin and Head Coach Natalie Nakase have received praise for their strategic approach to assembling the team. Nakase’s emphasis on sharpshooting, combined with the front office’s focus on athleticism and defensive toughness, sets the stage for a high-energy style of play that could yield surprising results as the team matures.
The public response to the Valkyries’ draft has been largely positive, though tempered with cautious optimism. Fans on social media commended the team’s mix of three-point shooters like Veronica Burton and Cecilia Zandalasini, alongside athletic bigs like Monique Billings and Iliana Rupert. Analysts highlighted the organization’s ability to think outside the box, balancing salary considerations with the need for floor spacing and defensive intensity. However, some skepticism remains, with critics noting the inherent limitations of expansion drafts and the challenges of building a competitive roster from the available talent pool.
In a surprising twist, the Valkyries opted not to select any players from the Seattle Storm. This decision follows reports of internal discord within the Storm organization, including All-Star Jewell Loyd’s recent trade request. While some viewed the move as a missed opportunity, others speculated it was a calculated choice to avoid inheriting off-court distractions. Regardless, the Valkyries have given their growing fan base much to discuss, and excitement is sure to build as they prepare for their first WNBA season and look toward free agency and the 2025 WNBA Draft.
