Full Breakdown
Golden State Valkyries Secure First All-Star Starter in Gabby Williams
7/3/2026, 1:49:29 PM
Defensive Identity and Season Snapshot
The Golden State Valkyries rank second in defensive rating (102.1) behind the Minnesota Lynx and lead the league in bench scoring (34.3 points per game). They allow the fewest paint points (31.2 per game) and limit opponents to 26.9 shots, the league’s lowest. When holding teams under 80 points, they are 8-1. The franchise is 13-7, third overall, 1.5 games behind the Las Vegas Aces and 2.5 behind the Lynx.
Statistical Highlights
- The team shoots 10.8 three-pointers per game, the most in the WNBA.
- Fourth-quarter scoring average of 5.3 points (ninth league).
Key Players
Gabby Williams, signed to a three-year, $3.7 million deal, averages 5.3 fourth-quarter points (ninth league) and 15.8 points overall, driving the team’s 10-1 record when leading entering the final period. Guard Veronica Burton anchors the backcourt and is praised for making the defense “hard to penetrate.” Center Kiah Stokes provides rim protection, while bench forward Janelle Salaun contributes 12.5 points per game, the second-highest bench total. Backup guard Kaitlyn Chen shoots 53.1 % from the field, ranking fifth among bench guards.
Why It Matters
The Valkyries’ defensive strength positions them as a potential playoff contender despite offensive volatility. Their All-Star representation underscores the franchise’s rapid rise in its second season and raises expectations for a deeper postseason run. Williams’ selection marks the first All-Star starter in Valkyries history, highlighting the team’s rapid development.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Natalie Nakase said the Valkyries’ defensive mindset is a source of pride and that Williams, though an All-Star, consistently acknowledges her teammates’ contributions. Point guard Veronica Burton described the defensive effort as a team-wide commitment that forces opponents into difficult situations.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts note offensive inconsistency: the Valkyries have endured a 1-for-12 fourth-quarter stretch in Seattle and a six-and-a-half-minute scoreless run in Las Vegas, and their three-point conversion has slipped below 30 % in recent weeks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She’s absolutely a star, she’s our star,” — Natalie Nakase, Head Coach, Golden State Valkyries
- “She’s definitely an All-Star, but she’s going to give credit to her teammates, because that’s who she is.” — Natalie Nakase, Head Coach
- “I think they just take pride on that side of the ball,” — Natalie Nakase, Head Coach
- “It genuinely is our entire team,” — Veronica Burton, Point Guard
What’s Next
The Valkyries begin a five-game road trip against Atlanta, Washington, Toronto, Connecticut, and Indiana. Williams will join the All-Star Game on July 25 in Chicago, where the league’s top performers will compete, and the team’s defensive strength will be a key factor as it pursues a playoff berth.
