Golden State Valkyries Take Flight: Meet the 11 Players Shaping History

Ohemaa Nyanin’s Vision: Building Beyond Basketball Golden State’s Big Picks

by: D’Joumbarey A. Moreau

Golden State Valkyries Make a Statement with 11 Expansion Draft Selections

The Golden State Valkyries are officially on the map, and they’re already making waves. During the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft, the league’s newest franchise took its first big step toward greatness, locking in 11 players to form the backbone of their inaugural roster.

Drafting a Vision: Ohemaa Nyanin’s Strategy

For General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin, this draft wasn’t just about stats—it was about setting a tone.

“Our goal was to construct a roster that embodies both versatility and depth,” Nyanin explained. “We sought players who bring leadership, defense, scoring ability, and most importantly, fit the culture we’re building here at Golden State.”

From veterans with championship experience to rising international stars, this roster is already turning heads.

Meet the First Valkyries

Here’s the first 11 players in Valkyries history:

• Iliana Rupert (C, Atlanta Dream): A 6’4” French center with championship credentials, Rupert brings size, versatility, and a 2022 WNBA title with the Las Vegas Aces.

• Maria Conde (F, Chicago Sky): A Spanish sharpshooter with defensive prowess, Conde is ready to make waves in Golden State.

• Veronica Burton (G, Connecticut Sun): A rising guard known for her playmaking and grit at Northwestern.

• Carla Leite (G, Dallas Wings): A young French guard with agility and a dangerous outside shot.

• Temi Fagbenle (C, Indiana Fever): A British powerhouse who contributed to the Minnesota Lynx’s 2017 championship run.

• Kate Martin (G, Las Vegas Aces): A versatile guard from Iowa who excels in both shooting and defense.

• Stephanie Talbot (F, Los Angeles Sparks): The Australian forward brings international and WNBA experience to the roster.

• Cecilia Zandalasini (F, Minnesota Lynx): An Italian forward known for her basketball IQ and 2017 championship run.

• Kayla Thornton (F, New York Liberty): A 2024 WNBA champion with leadership and grit to spare.

• Monique Billings (F, Phoenix Mercury): A versatile forward who could be designated as a “Core” player to anchor the team.

• Julie Vanloo (G, Washington Mystics): A skilled Belgian guard who adds flair and depth to the backcourt.

Global Reach and Championship Pedigree

Four Valkyries bring championship rings to the table: Fagbenle, Zandalasini, Rupert, and Thornton. Combine that with seven international players representing countries like France, Spain, and Belgium, and the Valkyries are already bringing a global edge to the WNBA.

What’s Next for the Valkyries?

Now that the draft is done, the team is turning its attention to free agency and the 2025 WNBA Draft. With three draft picks (fifth, 17th, and 30th overall) and the ability to lock in key players like Billings, the Valkyries are far from finished.

Mark your calendars because Golden State’s inaugural game tips off on Friday, May 16, against the Los Angeles Sparks. With star-studded opponents like Dearica Hamby and Rickea Jackson, the Valkyries will have a chance to show the league they mean business.

The Golden State Valkyries are just getting started, and they’re already looking like a team to watch.

Stay Tuned!

Follow Moreau Sports Media for exclusive updates, player interviews, and in-depth coverage of the Valkyries’ journey to WNBA stardom!