Meet the 11 WNBA Players the Golden State Valkyries Selected in the Expansion Draft

The Golden State Valkyries, the newest team in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), have made their selections in the league’s expansion draft. This draft was a significant event, as it allowed the Valkyries to choose from a pool of talented players who were not protected by their current teams. The Valkyries’ selections bring a mix of experienced veterans and promising young players, setting the foundation for their future success in the league.

The Draft Process

In an expansion draft, the new team is allowed to select players from existing WNBA teams that have left them unprotected. Each team can protect a limited number of players, and those who are left unprotected become available for the expansion team to pick. This gives the new team the chance to build its roster and compete in the upcoming season.

For the Valkyries, this was their chance to assemble a competitive team by selecting players from a variety of backgrounds and playing styles. The team chose a combination of established stars and players with strong potential, giving them a well-rounded roster.

The Selected Players

Here are the 11 players the Golden State Valkyries selected during the expansion draft:

1. Skylar Diggins-Smith –

   
   
   A well-known guard with years of WNBA experience, Diggins-Smith has been a consistent performer in the league. Her leadership and scoring ability make her a key addition to the Valkyries.

2. Alisha Gray –

   
   
   Gray is an experienced wing player with a great defensive presence. Her versatility on both ends of the floor will be a valuable asset to the team.

3. Natasha Howard –

   
   
   Howard, a former WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, adds a strong defensive presence to the Valkyries. Her rebounding and shot-blocking abilities will be crucial for the team.

4. Emma Meesseman –

   
   
   Known for her versatility and basketball IQ, Meesseman is an experienced forward who can score and create plays. Her ability to contribute in multiple areas will be important for the Valkyries.

5. Kelsey Plum –

   
   
   Plum is a dynamic scorer who can light up the scoreboard. Her playmaking skills will help set up her teammates, and her ability to shoot from outside will add an offensive boost.

6. Bridget Carleton –

   
   
   Carleton brings a mix of shooting and defense to the team. She is a well-rounded player who can help in various aspects of the game.

7. A’ja Wilson –

   
   
   One of the top players in the WNBA, Wilson’s selection by the Valkyries was a major win. Known for her scoring, rebounding, and defense, she will be a cornerstone of the team’s success.

8. DiDi Richards –

   
   
   Richards is known for her tenacious defense and hustle on the court. She may not be as well known for her scoring, but her defensive skills will help anchor the Valkyries' defense.

9. Jackie Young –

   
   
   Young is an excellent playmaker and a strong defender. Her ability to create opportunities for her teammates and score will be important for the Valkyries.

10. Sophie Cunningham –

    
    
    Cunningham is a talented scorer who can stretch the floor with her three-point shooting. Her ability to knock down shots from long range will give the team a deep offensive threat.

11. Brittney Sykes –

    
    
    Sykes is an athletic guard known for her strong defense and ability to get to the basket. Her energy and aggressiveness on both ends of the floor will be a boost to the Valkyries.

What This Means for the Valkyries

With these 11 players, the Golden State Valkyries are ready to compete in the WNBA. The team has a mix of star players and promising young talent, which gives them flexibility as they prepare for their inaugural season. The Valkyries are aiming to build a team that can compete with the league’s best and make a strong impact in their first year.

As the new team, they will need time to develop chemistry and find their rhythm, but with a roster full of talent, the Valkyries’ future in the WNBA looks bright. Fans can expect exciting basketball and high-level performances from the new team as they begin their journey in the league.