Breaking Down the Golden State Valkyries’ Expansion Draft: Hits, Misses, and Surprises
Friday night was a historic moment for the WNBA as the Golden State Valkyries took their first steps toward building a competitive roster for their inaugural 2025 season. During the expansion draft, broadcast live on ESPN, the Valkyries selected 11 players, and let’s just say, there were some unexpected twists. Chief among them? Golden State made no trades. That’s right—zero. For context, the last WNBA expansion draft in 2008 saw the Atlanta Dream make three trades. This time, the Valkyries opted to keep things simple, sticking with their picks.
One thing that stood out immediately was the international flavor of the Valkyries’ selections. Seven of their 11 picks hail from outside the United States, including two former draft picks, Maria Conde and Carla Leite, who have yet to play in the WNBA. This global approach could signal a unique strategy for the team as they prepare to make their mark in the league.
Another key takeaway? Golden State seems to be playing the long game when it comes to free agency. Only three of the players they selected are currently under contract for 2025, leaving the Valkyries with plenty of cap space to chase big-name stars next year. However, the team didn’t acquire any extra draft picks, which could have been a way to build a young, sustainable core. It’s a bold strategy, and only time will tell if it pays off.
Overall, I’d grade the Valkyries’ draft a B-. While they made some solid choices, their focus seemed to lean more toward assembling a competitive 2025 roster rather than prioritizing long-term development through younger talent or trades for future picks. Let’s dive into the 11 selections, ranked from my favorite to least favorite, and what they mean for Golden State’s future.
1. Temi Fagbenle, F/C
Indiana Fever
Restricted free agent
Fagbenle was a standout pick. During the Fever’s final game of the 2024 playoffs, she played 35 minutes and came just one point and one rebound shy of a double-double. Despite her strong performance, Indiana chose to protect other players under contract, leaving Fagbenle available as a restricted free agent. At 32, she brings international experience and a savvy game that should complement the Valkyries’ younger players.
2. Carla Leite, G
Dallas Wings
Unsigned draft pick
Leite might just be the hidden gem of this draft. The No. 9 pick by Dallas last year, she’s only 19 and already making waves in EuroLeague with Villeneuve d’Ascq, averaging 14.5 points and 3.8 assists per game. The big question is whether she’ll prioritize the WNBA over her commitments to the French national team. If she does, she could be a game-changer for Golden State.
3. Veronica Burton, G
Connecticut Sun
Reserved free agent
Burton’s defensive prowess and improved three-point shooting make her a solid addition. She’s a reserved free agent, meaning the Valkyries inherit her exclusive negotiating rights. At just 24, she has room to grow and could become a key piece of Golden State’s backcourt.
4. Kate Martin, G
Las Vegas Aces
Martin is the only expansion draft pick on a rookie contract, which gives the Valkyries some financial flexibility. Her connection to head coach Natalie Nakase, who was an assistant in Las Vegas, likely played a role in this selection. With two more non-protected seasons, Martin could be a valuable asset as the team grows.
5. Kayla Thornton, F
New York Liberty
Thornton is a defensive specialist who brings playoff experience, but at 32, her fit on an expansion team is questionable. If the Valkyries land a big-name free agent, Thornton’s presence will make more sense. Otherwise, she could be trade bait for another contender.
6. Stephanie Talbot, F
Los Angeles Sparks
Talbot is a 3-and-D wing with a proven track record, though her three-point shooting dipped last season. With plenty of cap space, the Valkyries can afford to take a chance on her bouncing back.
7. Cecilia Zandalasini, F
Minnesota Lynx
Reserved free agent
Zandalasini’s shooting and playoff experience make her a solid role player, but it’s surprising the Valkyries didn’t opt for a younger option from Minnesota’s roster.
8. Iliana Rupert, C
Atlanta Dream
Suspended — contract expired
Rupert has yet to make a significant impact in the WNBA but has shown promise in EuroLeague. Her exclusive negotiating rights give Golden State some leverage.
9. Maria Conde, F
Chicago Sky
Unsigned draft pick
Conde’s commitment to her national team raises questions about whether she’ll ever suit up for the Valkyries. This pick feels like a gamble.
10. Julie Vanloo, G
Washington Mystics
Reserved free agent
Vanloo’s shooting struggles make this pick a head-scratcher, especially with other, more promising options available from Washington.
11. Monique Billings, F
Phoenix Mercury
Unrestricted free agent
Billings was the one unrestricted free agent Golden State could select, but it’s unclear if she’s worth using a core designation. This pick feels more like a placeholder than a long-term solution.
Pass
Seattle Storm
Golden State opted not to select a player from Seattle, likely due to the lack of appealing options. This decision allows them to focus on their own draft picks in training camp.
Originally Written by: Kevin Pelton
