Full Breakdown
Veronica Burton Named 2025 WNBA Most Improved Player
9/16/2025, 1:04:21 PM
Historic Achievement for the Golden State Valkyries
Veronica Burton, guard for the Golden State Valkyries, has been awarded the 2025 WNBA Most Improved Player title, marking a significant milestone for both her and the franchise. The league announced her selection on September 15, 2025, after she received 68 out of 72 first-place votes from a national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. This accolade comes in the wake of Burton's pivotal role in leading the Valkyries to the playoffs in their inaugural season, making them the first expansion team in WNBA history to achieve this feat.
Dramatic Improvement in Performance
Burton's performance this season has been remarkable. She averaged career highs of 11.9 points, 6.0 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game over 44 games, a stark contrast to her previous season with the Connecticut Sun, where she averaged just 3.1 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. Notably, she is the first player in WNBA history to increase her averages by at least five points, two rebounds, and two assists per game from one season to the next, provided both seasons included a minimum of 30 games.
Her contributions were particularly crucial after the Valkyries lost All-Star Kayla Thornton to a season-ending knee injury in July. Burton stepped up as a leader, taking on greater responsibilities and consistently leading the team in multiple statistical categories, including points and assists.
Official Statements & Responses
Burton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play and develop within the Valkyries' system. “Opportunity is a big thing, and it’s a big factor in this league, and I’ve been grateful to have an opportunity to play and compete,” she stated earlier in the season. Coach Natalie Nakase praised Burton's growth, noting, “She’s improved in so many ways... now she’s our voice.”
Criticism & Opposition
While Burton's improvement has been widely celebrated, some analysts have pointed out that her success raises questions about the Connecticut Sun's decision not to protect her during the expansion draft. Critics argue that this oversight reflects poorly on the Sun's evaluation process, as they failed to recognize her potential.
What's Next for the Valkyries
As the Valkyries continue their playoff journey, they face the Minnesota Lynx in a best-of-three series. After losing Game 1 with a score of 101-72, the team is set to host Game 2 at the SAP Center in San Jose on September 17, 2025. Burton's performance will be critical as the Valkyries aim to bounce back and advance further in the postseason.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think our team is full of most improved players, honestly.” — Veronica Burton
- “She's truly a big part of why we are winning and I've said she's our heartbeat, but she's also our leader, she is our solid leader right now.” — Natalie Nakase, Valkyries Coach
Burton's journey from being waived by the Dallas Wings to becoming a key player for the Valkyries exemplifies her resilience and determination, solidifying her status as a rising star in the WNBA.
