While Kayla Thornton may have been the last player picked for captain Caitlin Clark’s 2025 WNBA All-Star roster, her addition is anything but an afterthought.
Thornton has been a standout player for the Golden State Valkyries in their inaugural season, helping to turn the franchise into a force to be reckoned with.
A Stellar Inaugural Season for the Valkyries
Thornton’s All-Star selection is a testament to the Golden State Valkyries‘ success in their first year. Under the guidance of head coach Natalie Nakase, the Valkyries have made a name for themselves in the league.
While most expansion teams struggle in their debut seasons, the Valkyries have been rewriting the narrative, starting their season with a 10-9 record as the All-Star break approaches.
Clark expressed her admiration for Thornton’s contributions to the Valkyries’ unexpected success. “I wanted Kayla Thornton on my team.
I think you got to give her a lot of credit for what Golden State accomplished this year,” said Clark during the All-Star draft on July 8. “They’ve had an absolutely tremendous season, and she’s had a tremendous season.”
Thornton’s Breakout Season
Thornton, now in her 10th year in the league, was selected as an All-Star reserve by the WNBA’s 13 head coaches. Her selection marks a significant milestone in her career.
She’s been pivotal in the Valkyries’ rise, averaging 15.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. This performance is even more impressive considering her team’s early success.
“I’m just thankful for my teammates. Without them I wouldn’t be an All-Star, without my coaches I wouldn’t be an All-Star. I’m just grateful,” said Thornton, reflecting on her achievement.
Her All-Star nod also carries historical significance. Thornton became the first player to be named an All-Star while playing for a first-year team since Candice Dupree did so with the Chicago Sky in 2006, highlighting the Valkyries’ remarkable start to their WNBA journey.
Valkyries Set a New Standard for Expansion Teams
In the past, WNBA expansion teams have often struggled, with teams like the Atlanta Dream (4-30 in 2008) and Chicago Sky (5-29 in 2006) having rough inaugural seasons.
However, the Valkyries have shattered this trend, achieving their 10th win of the season in just 20 games—a feat only two other expansion teams in WNBA history have accomplished. Their victory over the Indiana Fever marked a key moment in their season.
Despite the recognition from the outside, Coach Nakase emphasizes that her team isn’t satisfied. “We set out to win every game,” Nakase said after the Valkyries’ win over the Fever.
Dominance on Defense and the Boards
The Valkyries have shown that a solid defense can go a long way in the league. They currently rank second in the WNBA in defensive rating, allowing just 97.3 points per 100 possessions, behind only the Minnesota Lynx.
Additionally, the Valkyries lead the league in rebounding, averaging 37.4 boards per game, and have allowed the fewest paint points per game (28.1).
Championship Experience Propels the Valkyries
One of the keys to Golden State’s early success has been its blend of veteran leadership and championship experience. The Valkyries’ roster includes four players who have previously won WNBA titles.
These players—Temi Fagbenle, Cecilia Zandalasini, Iliana Rupert, and Kayla Thornton—bring a wealth of experience that has been crucial to the team’s competitive edge.
A Bright Future for the Valkyries
Looking ahead, the Valkyries are aiming to make history by becoming the first expansion team to qualify for the playoffs in their inaugural season since the Detroit Shock did so in 1998.
With a strong defense, key leadership, and players like Thornton, the Valkyries are well on their way to achieving this goal, and their future in the league looks brighter than ever.
