The Golden State Valkyries took the WNBA by storm in 2025. As an expansion team, they packed every home game, showcased a fast-paced brand of basketball under head coach Natalie Nakase, and punched a ticket to the postseason. It was a season that defied expectations.
But the real test begins now. In the world of pro sports, the sophomore slump is a very real threat. Can the Valkyries prove their breakout year wasn't a fluke? To do that, they'll need their core stars to elevate their game, their new additions to click, and the entire roster to take a collective step forward. Let's break down the key storylines for the 2026 season.
Can Burton Build on a Career Year?
Last season, guard Burton turned heads with a career-altering performance. She averaged 11.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game—all personal bests. Her breakout earned her the WNBA's Most Improved Player award and a spot on the All-Defense Second Team. It was proof that in the right system, she can be a star.
Now, that level of play is the expectation. To reach new heights, Burton will need to sharpen her efficiency, particularly around the rim and beyond the arc. She shot 42 percent on two-point attempts, a solid foundation that can improve with more aggressive drives to the basket. From deep, she connected on 34 percent of her 192 three-point attempts—respectable, but becoming a more consistent outside threat would unlock another dimension to her game.
If Burton can boost her scoring efficiency, an All-Star selection in 2026 isn't just possible—it's likely.
Gabby Williams Brings Star Power
The Valkyries made a major splash in free agency by signing Gabby Williams. The versatile forward is coming off a career year with the Seattle Storm, where she averaged 11.6 points and 4.2 assists per game. Her defensive versatility and all-around game earned her a first All-Star nod in 2025.
Williams brings a proven track record and a winning mentality to Golden State. Her ability to guard multiple positions and create offense will be a huge asset as the Valkyries look to build on last season's success. The question is how quickly she can mesh with the existing core.
The Bottom Line
The Valkyries have the talent and the culture to avoid a sophomore slump. But the WNBA is a league where every team gets better, and complacency is the enemy. If Burton continues her rise, Williams fits in seamlessly, and the supporting cast grows, Golden State could be more than just a one-season wonder—they could be a contender.