The Golden State Valkyries officially laid the foundation for their team on Friday night, selecting 11 players in the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft. Among their notable picks were Las Vegas Aces guard Kate Martin and New York Liberty forward Kayla Thornton, both of whom bring unique strengths and experiences to the league’s newest franchise.
In the draft, each of the 12 existing WNBA teams was allowed to protect six players on its roster. The Valkyries were then given the opportunity to select one unprotected player from each team.
This pool included players from active rosters, international rights lists, or those whose draft rights were still owned by a team. Notably, the Valkyries were unable to select a player from the Seattle Storm, opting to pass on their pick from that roster.
The Valkyries’ 11 selections spanned a mix of guards, forwards, and centers, aiming to balance youth, experience, and versatility. Their picks included:
- Guards: Kate Martin, Julie Vanloo, Carla Leite, Veronica Buron
- Forwards: Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, Monique Billings, Stephanie Talbot, Maria Conde
- Centers: Temi Fagbenle, Iliana Rupert
Kate Martin: A Promising Prospect
Kate Martin, who joined the Aces as the No. 18 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, brings a mix of collegiate accolades and untapped potential to Golden State.
A standout at Iowa, Martin was a key teammate of Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in 2024, and attended the draft in New York to support Clark before unexpectedly hearing her own name called.
During her rookie season with Las Vegas, Martin appeared in 34 games, averaging 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game.
However, her role diminished as the deep Aces roster regained full health, leaving her with limited playoff minutes. While the Aces protected their core stars—A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray—they left Martin unprotected, paving the way for the Valkyries to bring her aboard.
Kayla Thornton: A Veteran Presence
In contrast to Martin’s rookie status, Kayla Thornton offers veteran leadership and championship experience. The 32-year-old forward was a key part of the New York Liberty’s historic 2024 season, which culminated in the franchise’s first-ever WNBA title.
Thornton contributed as a reliable role player, averaging 5.5 points and 2.6 rebounds in 20.2 minutes over 40 games. Her experience and work ethic will be valuable assets for the Valkyries as they establish their culture.
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Building Beyond the Draft
The expansion draft is only the beginning for the Valkyries, who will have additional opportunities to build their roster. They hold the No. 5 pick in the first round of the 2025 WNBA Draft, giving them a chance to add another top-tier young talent.
Additionally, the team will look to free agency and trades to complement their selections and create a competitive squad.
The inclusion of international players like Cecilia Zandalasini and Maria Conde, as well as versatile athletes like Monique Billings and Stephanie Talbot, highlights the Valkyries’ intent to assemble a diverse and dynamic roster capable of adapting to various playing styles.
Centers Temi Fagbenle and Iliana Rupert provide size and presence in the paint, balancing the team’s mix of youth and experience.
A New Era Begins
The Golden State Valkyries’ entry into the WNBA marks an exciting chapter for the league, as the team aims to make an immediate impact.
With a mix of promising young players and seasoned veterans, the Valkyries are poised to establish themselves as a competitive force in the league while laying the groundwork for future success.
Fans eagerly await the team’s debut in the 2025 season and the next steps in their journey toward building a championship contender.
