The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest franchise, officially began building their inaugural roster during the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft on Dec. 6.
The Valkyries selected 11 players, forming a team with a blend of championship experience, international talent, and emerging young stars.
Valkyries General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin emphasized the team’s focus on versatility and depth.
“Our goal was to construct a roster that embodies both versatility and depth,” Nyanin said. “These players were carefully chosen not only for their skills on the court but also for their ability to fit into the culture we’re working to build here at Golden State.”
The last time the WNBA held an expansion draft was in 2008, when the Atlanta Dream joined the league and went on to win a conference title just two seasons later in 2010.
Among the Valkyries’ selections were four players with WNBA championship experience:
Temi Fagbenle and Cecilia Zandalasini (Minnesota Lynx, 2017)
Iliana Rupert (Las Vegas Aces, 2022)
Kayla Thornton (New York Liberty, 2022)
The remaining players selected include:
Monique Billings (Phoenix Mercury)
Veronica Burton (Connecticut Sun)
Maria Conde (Chicago Sky)
Carla Leite (Dallas Wings)
Kate Martin (Las Vegas Aces)
Stephanie Talbot (Los Angeles Sparks)
Julie Vanloo (Washington Wizards)
Notably, the Valkyries did not select any players from the Seattle Storm in the expansion draft.
Fagbenle, who averaged 4 points and 2.6 rebounds in 2024, showed promising potential during the Indiana Fever’s playoff run, which ended with a first-round loss to the Connecticut Sun.
During her September exit interview, Fagbenle reflected on her time with the Fever.
“The moments people don’t see, behind-the-scenes, the funny, character-revealing moments, the personality-revealing moments and obviously on the court, the beautiful play,” Fagbenle said. “A bunch of things I am going to keep personal.”
The Valkyries will continue building their roster during the upcoming free agency period, starting Jan. 21. They also hold the fifth, 17th, and 30th picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft in April.
Golden State will make its league debut against the Los Angeles Sparks on May 16 at the Chase Center in San Francisco, the team’s new home.
