The Golden State Valkyries have taken center stage in the WNBA, representing an exciting new chapter for professional women’s basketball. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Valkyries are already building a promising roster following the WNBA Expansion Draft. Let’s dive into the players, the team’s vision, and the future of the league, exploring how the Golden State Valkyries are poised to make an impact in 2025 and beyond.
The WNBA Expansion: Why the Bay Area?
The WNBA’s decision to expand into the Bay Area reflects the league’s growing popularity and a strategic effort to tap into one of the most basketball-savvy regions in the country. San Francisco has long been a hub for sports enthusiasts, making it an ideal location for the Golden State Valkyries. The team’s name pays homage to the strength and resilience of Norse mythology while aligning with the region’s proud sports legacy.
Who’s On The Golden State Valkyries’ Roster
1. Iliana Rupert, C (Atlanta Dream)
Iliana Rupert is a towering presence at 6’4”, with a basketball lineage that has shaped her career. Born in 2001 in Sèvres, France, Rupert grew up immersed in the sport, as her father, Thierry Rupert, was a professional basketball player in Europe. Her professional journey began in the French leagues, where her defensive skills and rebounding prowess quickly earned her a reputation as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
Selected 12th overall by the Las Vegas Aces in the 2021 WNBA Draft, Rupert gained valuable experience on a championship-contending team before being traded to the Atlanta Dream. Her international experience has been invaluable; she has competed at the highest levels in the EuroLeague, helping her team, Tango Bourges Basket, secure championships. Rupert’s ability to read the game and contribute on both ends of the floor positions her as a cornerstone for the Golden State Valkyries.
2. María Conde, F (Chicago Sky)
María Conde is a highly decorated international star whose journey began in Madrid, Spain. A former standout at Florida State University, Conde was a key player for the Seminoles, showcasing versatility and leadership. After graduating, she returned to Europe, quickly becoming one of the top players in the EuroLeague.
Known for her smooth scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities, Conde has consistently averaged double-digit points while also serving as a defensive anchor. Her accolades include multiple MVP awards in European tournaments, further solidifying her as a premier talent. Despite not having played in the WNBA, her experience against elite competition makes her a high-value pick for the Valkyries. If she makes the transition to the WNBA, Conde could become one of the team’s foundational pieces.
3. Veronica Burton, G (Connecticut Sun)
A native of Newton, Massachusetts, Veronica Burton was a star at Northwestern University, where she earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors multiple times. Known for her relentless work ethic and high basketball IQ, Burton was selected seventh overall in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings.
While her offensive numbers have been modest, Burton’s defensive intensity and ability to facilitate make her a vital asset for any team. Her 107-game WNBA career has been highlighted by moments of brilliance, especially in disrupting opposing offenses and creating turnovers. For the Golden State Valkyries, Burton’s role as a steadying presence in the backcourt will be pivotal in building team chemistry and establishing a defensive identity.
4. Carla Leite, G (Dallas Wings)
Carla Leite is one of the most exciting young prospects in international basketball. Hailing from France, she gained global attention after leading her national team to victory in the 2023 FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship, where she was named MVP. Leite’s combination of speed, court vision, and shooting has made her a rising star in Europe.
Although she has yet to play in the WNBA, her potential is undeniable. Currently playing for ESB Villeneuve-d’Ascq, Leite has honed her skills against some of the best competition in Europe. Her ability to score from deep and create plays for her teammates will make her a valuable asset for the Golden State Valkyries as they aim to compete in their debut season.
5. Temi Fagbenle, C (Indiana Fever)
Born in Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in London, Temi Fagbenle’s basketball journey has taken her across continents. She played collegiate basketball at Harvard and later at USC, where she made a significant impact as a dominant post player. Fagbenle was drafted 35th overall in the 2016 WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx and has since built a reputation as a versatile and reliable center.
Her professional career has included stints in Europe, where she won several championships and solidified her reputation as a tenacious rebounder and scorer in the paint. At 32 years old, Fagbenle brings veteran leadership to the Valkyries, providing a stabilizing force for the young team.
6. Kate Martin, G (Las Vegas Aces)
Kate Martin gained national attention as Caitlin Clark’s running mate at the University of Iowa, where her defensive hustle and three-point shooting helped lead the Hawkeyes to deep tournament runs. Undrafted initially, Martin earned her spot with the Las Vegas Aces, making her presence felt in limited minutes during her rookie season.
While her offensive production was inconsistent, Martin demonstrated an ability to impact the game defensively and hit key shots in crunch time. As she transitions to a more significant role with the Golden State Valkyries, Martin’s experience playing alongside high-caliber talent will be invaluable.
7. Stephanie Talbot, F (Los Angeles Sparks)
Stephanie Talbot is an Australian basketball veteran who has been a mainstay in the WNBA and international basketball since 2014. A sharp shooter by trade, Talbot has represented Australia in multiple FIBA tournaments and the Olympics, earning a silver medal in 2021.
Her WNBA career has been marked by stretches of elite three-point shooting, with a career-high 36% from beyond the arc. Talbot’s versatility allows her to play multiple positions, making her a valuable weapon for the Valkyries. After a challenging 2024 season marred by injury, Talbot is determined to bounce back and reclaim her status as one of the league’s premier shooters.
8. Cecilia Zandalasini, F (Minnesota Lynx)
Cecilia Zandalasini has been one of Italy’s most celebrated basketball players, with a career that includes MVP honors in European leagues and a key role in the Italian national team. Her WNBA tenure, while limited, has been notable for her efficiency, particularly from three-point range, where she has shot 41.5% over her career.
Zandalasini’s ability to stretch the floor and provide instant offense off the bench makes her a valuable pick for the Golden State Valkyries. Her international experience and scoring ability will be critical in high-pressure situations.
9. Kayla Thornton, F (New York Liberty)
Kayla Thornton is a battle-tested veteran entering her 10th WNBA season. Known for her gritty defense and leadership, Thornton has been a reliable contributor for every team she has played for. Most recently, she helped the New York Liberty capture their first WNBA championship in 2024.
Thornton’s versatility on both ends of the court makes her an ideal candidate for a starting role with the Valkyries. Her experience and championship pedigree will be instrumental in guiding the team through its inaugural season.
10. Monique Billings, F (Phoenix Mercury)
Monique Billings has built her career on athleticism and defensive prowess. A standout at UCLA, Billings transitioned seamlessly to the WNBA, carving out a niche as a rebounder and rim protector.
At 6’4”, Billings has the physical tools to dominate in the paint. Her improved offensive game, including a newfound confidence in shooting threes, adds another dimension to her skill set. Billings’ presence will bolster the Valkyries’ interior defense and provide a reliable scoring option down low.
11. Julie Vanloo, G (Washington Mystics)
Julie Vanloo brings a wealth of international experience to the Golden State Valkyries. The 32-year-old Belgian guard has been a standout in European leagues for over a decade, earning accolades for her playmaking and shooting.
Vanloo’s WNBA debut with the Mystics in 2024 saw her starting a majority of games, where she averaged 7.4 points and 4.3 assists per game. Her leadership and ability to run an offense will be critical in establishing the Valkyries’ identity as a competitive team.
Meet the Head Coach: Natalie Nakase
The Golden State Valkyries have entrusted their inaugural season to Natalie Nakase, a trailblazer in basketball coaching. Known for her extensive experience and innovative approach to the game, Nakase is poised to make an immediate impact as the team’s head coach.
A History of Breaking Barriers
Natalie Nakase’s coaching journey is nothing short of inspiring. She began her basketball career as a standout point guard at UCLA, where her leadership and court vision set her apart. After playing professionally overseas, she transitioned into coaching, eventually becoming the first female assistant coach in the NBA for the Los Angeles Clippers. Her groundbreaking role in the NBA demonstrated her ability to excel in high-pressure environments and earned her widespread respect in the basketball community.
Coaching Philosophy
Nakase is renowned for her tactical expertise and player-first philosophy. Her coaching style emphasizes communication, adaptability, and fostering a positive team culture. She is known for tailoring her strategies to maximize each player’s strengths, making her an ideal leader for a newly-formed team like the Valkyries.
Her approach combines offensive creativity with defensive discipline, a blend that has proven successful in her previous roles. Nakase’s focus on fundamentals, combined with her ability to connect with players on a personal level, ensures that the Valkyries will have a cohesive and competitive unit on the court.
Building the Valkyries’ Identity
As the head coach of an expansion team, Nakase faces the unique challenge of building a team identity from scratch. She has already begun assembling a roster of young talent and seasoned veterans, each bringing their own strengths to the table. Under her guidance, the Valkyries are expected to develop a fast-paced, dynamic playing style that leverages the versatility and skill sets of their players.
Her international experience also gives her a unique perspective, particularly with a roster that includes global talent like María Conde and Iliana Rupert. Nakase’s ability to integrate players from diverse backgrounds will be crucial as the team navigates its first season in the competitive WNBA landscape.
Leadership Beyond the Court
Nakase’s leadership extends beyond X’s and O’s. She is deeply committed to mentorship, aiming to empower her players not only as athletes but as individuals. Her emphasis on mental toughness, teamwork, and resilience resonates with the core values of the WNBA. Nakase is also a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in sports, using her platform to inspire the next generation of female leaders in basketball.
Expectations for the Season
With Nakase at the helm, the Valkyries are set to defy the usual struggles of expansion teams. Her reputation for meticulous preparation and strategic ingenuity gives fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic. As she shapes the team’s culture and game plan, Nakase’s leadership will be instrumental in determining how quickly the Valkyries can establish themselves as a force in the WNBA.
The Golden State Valkyries couldn’t have chosen a better leader to guide them into this new chapter of the WNBA. Under Natalie Nakase’s stewardship, the team is poised to make history and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting debut season.
WNBA Expansion: How It Came About
The WNBA’s expansion to 12 teams, marked by the introduction of the Golden State Valkyries, is a monumental step in the league’s evolution. This decision reflects years of steady growth and a concerted effort to meet the increasing demand for women’s basketball, both domestically and internationally.
The Push for Expansion
For years, fans and analysts have called for an expanded WNBA to accommodate the growing pool of talented players. With only 144 roster spots across the league’s 12 teams, many promising athletes were often left without opportunities to showcase their skills. This bottleneck fueled discussions about the need for new franchises to absorb the talent surplus and enhance competition.
Market Growth and Fan Engagement
The decision to expand was driven by tangible signs of growth. Over the past decade, the WNBA has experienced a steady rise in viewership, with a particular surge in younger demographics. Social media engagement has also played a pivotal role, allowing players to build their brands and connect directly with fans. Sponsorship deals have reached all-time highs, with major companies recognizing the league’s value and committing to long-term partnerships.
Why the Bay Area?
The selection of the Bay Area as the location for the Golden State Valkyries was no accident. With its rich basketball culture, economic vibrancy, and passionate sports fan base, the Bay Area was a natural choice for expansion. The region’s history of supporting successful franchises, such as the Golden State Warriors, provided a strong foundation for the new team. The Valkyries aim to tap into this enthusiasm and carve out their niche in one of the most competitive sports markets in the country.
Financial Backing and Strategic Planning
The expansion process required significant financial commitments and strategic planning. Investors and local stakeholders collaborated to ensure the Valkyries were set up for success, from securing a state-of-the-art venue to establishing a robust marketing strategy. The team’s introduction aligns with the WNBA’s broader goals of increasing revenue streams and expanding its footprint in key markets.
Fan Base Expectations for the Golden State Valkyries
The Bay Area’s history of supporting the Golden State Warriors in the NBA bodes well for the Valkyries. With a strong culture of basketball fandom, the Valkyries are expected to draw enthusiastic crowds. The proximity to tech hubs also opens opportunities for innovative fan engagement through apps, live-streaming platforms, and virtual experiences.
What Can We Expect Next Year?
With a mix of veterans and young talent, the Valkyries are building for the future while staying competitive. Key storylines include:
- The integration of international stars like Conde and Leite.
- Whether seasoned players like Thornton and Billings can provide consistency.
- Potential in playoff contention in their debut season.
WNBA Gaming Format for 2025: What to Expect
The 2025 WNBA season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with an expanded schedule, new teams, and groundbreaking formats set to captivate fans around the globe. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s in store:
Number of Games and Season Structure
The WNBA is increasing its number of regular-season games to 42, up from the previous 40-game schedule. This expansion aims to provide fans with more opportunities to watch their favorite teams and players in action while creating additional revenue streams for the league.
The regular season will kick off in mid-May and run through September. The extended calendar allows for a better balance between games, travel, and rest, helping maintain the players’ physical and mental well-being throughout the grueling season.
The Role of the Unrivaled League
The Unrivaled League, a newer basketball league created to showcase elite talent during the WNBA offseason, has gained significant traction. While the WNBA and Unrivaled League remain separate entities, many WNBA stars use the offseason to participate in Unrivaled games. These appearances allow players to maintain their competitive edge, build their brand, and earn additional income.
For 2025, the leagues will not directly overlap, ensuring that the WNBA maintains its primacy during the regular season. However, fans can expect to see how players’ performances in the Unrivaled League influence their form and confidence heading into the WNBA campaign.
New Teams and Expanded Rivalries
The inclusion of the Golden State Valkyries as a new franchise has added a fresh dynamic to the league. As the Valkyries enter their inaugural season, fans can expect intense matchups as they establish rivalries with long-standing teams like the Los Angeles Sparks and Seattle Storm. This expansion symbolizes the league’s growth and commitment to reaching new markets.
Fan Engagement and Broadcast Enhancements
In 2025, the WNBA continues to prioritize fan engagement through live-streaming options and enhanced in-game experiences. The league plans to expand digital accessibility, allowing fans to watch games across multiple platforms. The schedule includes marquee matchups on prime-time slots to maximize visibility.
Playoff Structure
The playoffs will retain their current format, featuring the top eight teams, regardless of conference affiliation, battling it out in a single-elimination first round, followed by best-of-three semifinals and best-of-five finals. This system has proven to generate excitement and keep fans engaged throughout the postseason.
