The WNBA’s newest franchise, the Golden State Valkyries, is already turning heads in its inaugural season—and not for the reasons most people expected. Rather than struggling to find their footing, the Valkyries are outperforming several well-established teams and proving they belong.
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Currently riding a three-game win streak, the Valkyries have knocked off the Seattle Storm, Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces—two of which are currently ranked above them in the standings. The Valkyries now sit at 5–5, a respectable mark for any new expansion team, especially compared to others hovering at just two or three wins.
While most expected growing pains, the Valkyries are defying those odds. They’ve had to build from scratch: a brand-new coaching staff, front office and roster made up of expansion draft selections, rookies and a few traded pieces. Still, they’re finding their rhythm—fast.
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Despite not having much time to build chemistry, the team is beginning to click. Players like Kayla Thornton, Veronica Burton and rookie standout Janelle Salaün are leading the way, with six players averaging double-digit points. Thornton, in particular, has been a force—leading the team in points, rebounds and steals, showcasing her all-around dominance.
It’s been a total team effort, and the Valkyries are already proving they can go toe-to-toe with the league.