The Golden State Valkyries have unveiled their inaugural roster, featuring standout players like Kate Martin. The expansion team’s selections signal a promising start in the WNBA.
Star Player Acquisition: Kate Martin’s Journey
Kate Martin’s move to the Valkyries is a headline-grabber. Selected in the 2025 expansion draft, Martin’s transition from the Las Vegas Aces marks a new chapter in her career.
Martin, drafted 18th overall in 2024 from Iowa, initially shone when the Aces faced injuries. Her early-season performance was a bright spot, but as the team regained health, her minutes dwindled. Last season, she averaged 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. Despite limited postseason play, Martin remains optimistic.
“This league is all about opportunity,” she shared with ESPN. “I’m excited for this new beginning with the Valkyries.” Her previous connection with head coach Natalie Nakase, who was an assistant with the Aces, could foster immediate chemistry within the team.
Diverse Talent: Valkyries’ Expansion Draft Selections
The Valkyries didn’t stop at Martin. They picked a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, aiming to build a well-rounded team. Here’s a quick rundown of their selections:
- Iliana Rupert, Atlanta Dream
- María Conde, Chicago Sky
- Veronica Burton, Connecticut Sun
- Carla Leite, Dallas Wings
- Temi Fagbenle, Indiana Fever
- Stephanie Talbot, Los Angeles Sparks
- Cecilia Zandalasini, Minnesota Lynx
- Kayla Thornton, New York Liberty
- Monique Billings, Phoenix Mercury
- Julie Vanloo, Washington Mystics
Notably, the Valkyries passed on selecting a player from the Seattle Storm. With the fifth overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and ample cap space, the team is well-positioned to enhance their roster through free agency.
Player Profiles: Strengths and Potential
Each selected player brings unique skills to the table. For instance, Iliana Rupert, a French center, offers championship experience from her time with the Aces. María Conde, though yet to play in the WNBA, has a strong European background that could translate well on the court.
Veronica Burton, a young point guard, adds defensive prowess, while Carla Leite’s international experience could provide versatility. Veteran Temi Fagbenle brings leadership, and Stephanie Talbot’s resilience after an ACL injury offers depth to the frontcourt.
| Player | Position | Last Season PPG | Rebounds | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kate Martin | Guard | 2.6 | 1.6 | 0.9 | 11:32 |
| Iliana Rupert | Center | 1.8 | 2.0 | 0.4 | 7:54 |
| Veronica Burton | Guard | 3.1 | 1.4 | 1.9 | 12:41 |
| Temi Fagbenle | Center | 6.4 | 4.7 | 0.5 | 18:52 |
This table highlights some key statistics, illustrating the diverse roles each player will play within the team.
Strategic Outlook: Building for the Future
The Valkyries are not just collecting talent; they’re crafting a strategy for long-term success. With Natalie Nakase at the helm as the first head coach, the team benefits from her experience with the Aces. Her familiarity with players like Martin could accelerate team cohesion.
The expansion draft rules allowed each of the 12 WNBA teams to protect up to six players, making the Valkyries’ selections a mix of opportunity and necessity. By acquiring players like Monique Billings and Julie Vanloo, the Valkyries are balancing experience with fresh talent.
Free Agency and Future Drafts
Looking ahead, the Valkyries hold significant cap space, which opens doors for potential free agent signings. Additionally, their fifth overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft could secure a high-impact player to further bolster the roster.
- Key Points:
- Ample Cap Space: Allows for strategic free agent acquisitions.
- Draft Pick: Fifth overall pick provides access to top-tier talent.
- Experienced Coaching: Natalie Nakase’s leadership is a cornerstone for the team’s development.
These elements combined suggest that the Valkyries are laying a solid foundation for competitive play in the coming seasons.
Community and Fan Engagement
The arrival of the Valkyries in Golden State has sparked excitement among local fans. Community outreach initiatives and fan events are already in the planning stages, aiming to build a strong supporter base from the ground up.
Many fans are particularly excited about seeing familiar faces like Kate Martin take on new challenges with the Valkyries. The team’s diverse roster also reflects the vibrant and multicultural spirit of the Golden State community, promising an inclusive and dynamic atmosphere at games.
