December 2024 marked a historic moment for professional women’s basketball as the Golden State Valkyries began their journey toward the WNBA, assembling a roster to debut in the 2025 season. The expansion draft has laid the foundation for a franchise aiming to integrate international talent, seasoned veterans, and emerging stars.
Building the Dream
The Golden State Valkyries, one of the WNBA’s newest franchises, were granted the opportunity to construct their inaugural roster through the 2024 Expansion Draft. As the first expansion team since the addition of the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream, the Valkyries are set to bring professional women’s basketball to the Bay Area for the first time. Their entry into the league represents a significant step forward in the WNBA’s growth and global outreach.
General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin expressed the franchise’s ambitions, stating, “Our goal was to construct a roster that embodies both versatility and depth. We wanted players who could lead, defend, and score, but also fit into the culture we’re building here at Golden State.” This vision was evident in their draft strategy, which emphasized balance across skill sets and global representation.
The Expansion Draft Strategy
The Valkyries’ roster now includes 11 players selected from a designated pool of unprotected players from the WNBA’s 12 existing teams. Under league rules, each franchise protected six players, leaving others available for selection. The Valkyries strategically chose players who brought a mix of championship experience, defensive prowess, and international pedigree.
Highlighted selections include:
Kayla Thornton (New York Liberty): A nine-year veteran and recent WNBA champion, Thornton’s leadership and tenacity on defense will anchor the Valkyries.
Stephanie Talbot (Los Angeles Sparks): With six years in the league and an international career with Australia, Talbot brings versatility and a sharp shooting touch.
Cecilia Zandalasini (Minnesota Lynx): A forward with international experience, Zandalasini has proven herself in both the WNBA and overseas.
Iliana Rupert (Atlanta Dream): The 2022 WNBA champion adds height, defense, and European flair to the roster.
The inclusion of international players such as Zandalasini, Rupert, and Carla Leite reflects the Valkyries’ commitment to building a global brand while tapping into the WNBA’s increasing international talent pool.
Rising Stars and Hidden Gems
In addition to veteran players, the Valkyries focused on securing younger talent to build a sustainable foundation for success. Picks like Veronica Burton (Connecticut Sun) and Carla Leite (Dallas Wings) highlight the team’s potential for long-term growth. Burton, a Northwestern alum, is known for her playmaking and defensive instincts, while Leite brings fresh energy and an impressive European resume.
Monique Billings, selected from the Phoenix Mercury, is another intriguing choice. Although an unrestricted free agent, the Valkyries have the exclusive right to designate her as a “Core” player, offering her a guaranteed maximum-salary contract. Billings’ athleticism and rebounding ability could make her a cornerstone for Golden State’s success.
Draft Picks and Future Moves
The Valkyries hold the 5th, 17th, and 30th overall picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft. With these selections, the team has an opportunity to complement their roster with young stars entering the league. Speculation surrounds potential top draft picks like Paige Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, and Angel Reese, but much depends on the Valkyries’ needs and scouting priorities.
Additionally, the WNBA free agency period, which begins in January 2025, will be critical for Golden State to finalize their roster. Nyanin and her staff have hinted at targeting free agents who can further bolster the team’s depth and experience.
Bay Area Excitement
The addition of the Valkyries has already generated immense enthusiasm in the Bay Area. Local basketball fans, accustomed to the Golden State Warriors’ dominance in the NBA, now have a WNBA team to rally behind. The franchise aims to capitalize on this excitement by creating a vibrant fan culture and fostering community engagement.
The Valkyries’ home opener against the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16, 2025, promises to be a marquee event, drawing attention to both the team’s debut and the broader growth of the WNBA.
A League on the Rise
The Valkyries are part of a broader WNBA expansion initiative, with new teams in Toronto and Portland set to join the league by 2026. These moves reflect the league’s growing popularity, increased viewership, and global appeal. The addition of teams also brings opportunities for more players to showcase their talents and for fans to connect with the sport.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has emphasized the importance of these expansions, stating, “We are committed to growing the game and providing more opportunities for women in sports. The addition of the Golden State Valkyries and future franchises is a testament to the demand and excitement for professional women’s basketball.”.
Challenges Ahead
While the Valkyries have made impressive strides in assembling their roster, challenges remain. Competing against established teams with well-developed systems will require time and strategic planning. Additionally, balancing international talent with domestic players presents logistical and stylistic hurdles.
Head Coach (to be announced) will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity and maximizing their potential. With a mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy, the Valkyries are poised to make an impact but must navigate the pressures of being a new franchise.
Conclusion
The Golden State Valkyries represent a new chapter for the WNBA, embodying the league’s growth and global aspirations. With a well-crafted roster, strategic vision, and the backing of a passionate fanbase, the team is set to make waves in their inaugural season. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Valkyries as they aim to cement their place in WNBA history.
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