Golden State Valkyries Stats, Analysis, Schedule & More
As the WNBA’s newest expansion team, the Valkyries are set to make a significant impact in the 2025 season. So far, they have assembled a roster of quality players and have proven themselves in practice games and scrimmages, and are eager to get the 2025 season underway.
On this page, we’ll delve into the team’s history, current roster, key statistics, and provide expert betting insights to help you make informed decisions.

Golden State Valkyries Picks
At ScoresandStats.com, our team is passionate about WNBA betting. Here, you’ll find our top picks for the Golden State Valkyries, backed by thorough analysis and the latest data.
Golden State Valkyries History
The Golden State Valkyries were officially announced as the WNBA’s 13th team in 2024, marking the league’s first expansion since 2008. The franchise is based in San Francisco, California, and aims to tap into the Bay Area’s rich basketball culture. The team’s name, “Valkyries,” draws inspiration from Norse mythology, symbolizing strength and leadership.
In October 2024, the Valkyries appointed Natalie Nakase as their inaugural head coach. Nakase, a former assistant coach with the Las Vegas Aces, brings a wealth of experience and a vision of building a competitive and dynamic team. The franchise also unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art performance center in Oakland, underscoring their commitment to player development and excellence.
The Valkyries began constructing their roster through the WNBA Expansion Draft in December 2024, selecting a mix of seasoned veterans and promising international talents. This strategic approach reflects the organization’s dedication to building a diverse and competitive team from the ground up.
Golden State Valkyries Timeline
- 2024: The Golden State Valkyries are announced as the WNBA’s 13th team.
- October 10, 2024: Natalie Nakase is hired as the team’s first head coach.
- December 6, 2024: The Valkyries participate in the WNBA Expansion Draft, selecting 11 players.
- February 3, 2025:The team signs forward Monique Billings.
- February 5, 2025: The Valkyries announce the signings of international players Janelle Salaün, Chloe Bibby, and Kyara Linskens.
- February 6, 2025: Veteran guard Tiffany Hayes joins the Valkyries.
- February 6, 2025: The team signs Laeticia Amihere and Elissa Cunane.
Golden State Valkyries Stats
As a new franchise, the Golden State Valkyries are gearing up for their inaugural 2025 season. While specific team statistics will develop as the season progresses, the organization has strategically assembled a roster blending experienced WNBA veterans with promising international talent. This approach aims to establish a competitive presence in the league from the outset.
The team’s performance metrics, such as shooting percentages, defensive stats, and other key indicators, will be closely monitored and analyzed once the season is underway. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Valkyries’ strategic planning and player development efforts translate into on-court success.
Golden State Valkyries Roster for 2025
The Golden State Valkyries have assembled a diverse and dynamic roster for their inaugural 2025 WNBA season, blending seasoned veterans with promising international talent. Leading the backcourt is veteran guard Tiffany Hayes, a 12-year WNBA stalwart known for her scoring prowess and defensive tenacity. Hayes, who recently played for the Las Vegas Aces, brings invaluable experience and is expected to be a key contributor on both ends of the floor.
Joining Hayes is forward Kayla Thornton, acquired from the New York Liberty during the expansion draft. Thornton is celebrated for her work ethic and defensive capabilities, attributes that will be instrumental in establishing the Valkyries’ identity. Her versatility allows her to guard multiple positions, providing the team with strategic flexibility.
The Valkyries have also secured international talents such as Belgian guard Julie Vanloo and Australian forward Stephanie Talbot. Vanloo, known for her playmaking skills, is anticipated to orchestrate the team’s offense effectively. Talbot, with her international experience and versatility, adds depth to the forward position, contributing both scoring and defense.
In the frontcourt, the team boasts players like center Temi Fagbenle from the United Kingdom and forward Monique Billings. Fagbenle’s presence in the paint is expected to bolster the team’s interior defense and rebounding efforts. Billings, known for her athleticism and energy, will provide additional strength in the forward rotation.
Rounding out the roster are promising international signees such as French forward Janelle Salaün, Australian forward Chloe Bibby, and Belgian center Kyara Linskens. These players bring a wealth of international experience and are poised to make significant contributions as the Valkyries embark on their inaugural season.
Golden State Valkyries Injury Report
Having played no regular season games yet, the Valkyries don’t have any players on the injured list. But, as the season progresses, be sure to check our dedicated injury report page for more details about player status:

Get the latest Golden State Valkyries injury updates here at ScoresandStats.com. With this report you’ll gain valuable betting insights for this season. For more betting advice you can also sign up and view even more information.
Golden State Valkyries Betting Outlook and Trends
As the Golden State Valkyries enter their inaugural WNBA season in 2025, sports bettors have a unique opportunity to capitalize on a team that is still finding its identity. Expansion teams often present value in the betting markets, particularly early in the season when sportsbooks may struggle to accurately price their games. Here are a few key betting trends and insights to watch for when betting on the Valkyries in 2025:
- Early Season Underdog Value: Expansion teams are frequently undervalued at the start of their first season, as oddsmakers and the public tend to assume they will struggle. While the Valkyries may face growing pains, their roster includes seasoned WNBA veterans like Tiffany Hayes and Monique Billings, along with proven international talent. This mix of experience and versatility could lead to the Valkyries covering the spread as underdogs, especially against mid-tier teams. Bettors should be alert for inflated point spreads early in the season, as sportsbooks adjust to the team’s true level of competitiveness.
- Defensive Battles and the Under: Head coach Natalie Nakase is known for emphasizing defensive intensity, a philosophy likely to shape the Valkyries’ playing style. With defensive-minded players like Kayla Thornton and Temi Fagbenle anchoring the paint, the Valkyries could become a team that thrives on low-scoring, gritty contests. This presents potential value for betting the under, particularly in matchups against other defensive-oriented teams or in games where their offensive chemistry is still developing.
- Player Prop Bets on Tiffany Hayes: Tiffany Hayes is expected to be the primary offensive weapon for the Valkyries. Her veteran leadership and scoring ability will likely result in a high usage rate, especially early in the season as younger players adjust to the WNBA. Bettors can find value in player prop bets, such as points over/under and three-pointers made. Hayes’ scoring output may be underestimated in the initial lines, creating favorable conditions for savvy bettors.
Key Players for Betting on the Golden State Valkyries
The Valkyries have assembled a formidable roster, including WNBA veterans, fresh draft picks, and international talent. Here are the five players we think you should be watching as the 2025 season gets underway:
- Tiffany Hayes: Hayes is the Valkyries’ most established offensive threat, and her scoring versatility makes her a prime target for prop bets. Bettors should consider her points and assists props, particularly against teams with weaker perimeter defenses. Hayes’ experience will likely lead to her playing heavy minutes, especially in tight games, enhancing her opportunities to fill the stat sheet.
- Monique Billing): Billings is a rebounding machine and energy player, making her a strong candidate for rebound-focused prop bets. Her athleticism often allows her to outperform expectations on the glass, particularly against teams that struggle with interior physicality. Bettors should keep an eye on her rebound totals and consider betting the over when facing smaller lineups.
- Kate Martin: As a rookie, Martin’s role may fluctuate, but she possesses the potential to contribute in multiple statistical categories. Bettors looking for value in lesser-known players could find opportunities in Martin’s points and assists props, particularly as she gains more playing time later in the season. Her three-point shooting ability could also make her a sleeper pick in games where the Valkyries need perimeter scoring.
- Julie Vanloo: The Belgian guard is an experienced playmaker, making her assists props particularly intriguing. If Vanloo establishes herself as the Valkyries’ primary facilitator, her assists totals could offer value, especially in matchups against teams with weaker perimeter defense. Bettors should monitor her role early in the season to identify when the market may be slow to adjust.
- Temi Fagbenle: Fagbenle’s size and international experience make her a reliable option for rebounds and blocks props. In matchups against teams with undersized frontcourts, Fagbenle could dominate the paint, creating opportunities for double-double bets or block-specific props. Her defensive presence will be crucial for the Valkyries, and bettors can find value by targeting her in defensive stat markets.
Golden State Valkyries 2025 Schedule
Don’t miss a single Valkyries game this season:
Regular Season
Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
---|---|---|---|
Week 1 | Date: Fri 16/05/2025 | Opponent: Los Angeles Sparks | Result: TBD |
Week 2 | Date: Wed 21/05/2025 | Opponent: Washington Mystics | Result: TBD |
Week 2 | Date: Fri 23/05/2025 | Opponent: Los Angeles Sparks | Result: TBD |
Week 3 | Date: Tue 27/05/2025 | Opponent: New York Liberty | Result: TBD |
Week 3 | Date: Thu 29/05/2025 | Opponent: New York Liberty | Result: TBD |
Week 3 | Date: Sun 01/06/2025 | Opponent: Minnesota Lynx | Result: TBD |
Week 4 | Date: Thu 05/06/2025 | Opponent: Phoenix Mercury | Result: TBD |
Week 4 | Date: Sat 07/06/2025 | Opponent: Las Vegas Aces | Result: TBD |
Week 5 | Date: Mon 09/06/2025 | Opponent: Los Angeles Sparks | Result: TBD |
Week 5 | Date: Sat 14/06/2025 | Opponent: Seattle Storm | Result: TBD |
Week 6 | Date: Tue 17/06/2025 | Opponent: Dallas Wings | Result: TBD |
Week 6 | Date: Thu 19/06/2025 | Opponent: Indiana Fever | Result: TBD |
Week 6 | Date: Sun 22/06/2025 | Opponent: Connecticut Sun | Result: TBD |
Week 7 | Date: Wed 25/06/2025 | Opponent: New York Liberty | Result: TBD |
Week 7 | Date: Fri 27/06/2025 | Opponent: Chicago Sky | Result: TBD |
Week 7 | Date: Sun 29/06/2025 | Opponent: Seattle Storm | Result: TBD |
Week 8 | Date: Sat 05/07/2025 | Opponent: Minnesota Lynx | Result: TBD |
Week 9 | Date: Mon 07/07/2025 | Opponent: Atlanta Dream | Result: TBD |
Week 9 | Date: Wed 09/07/2025 | Opponent: Indiana Fever | Result: TBD |
Week 9 | Date: Sat 12/07/2025 | Opponent: Las Vegas Aces | Result: TBD |
Week 10 | Date: Mon 14/07/2025 | Opponent: Phoenix Mercury | Result: TBD |
Week 10 | Date: Wed 16/07/2025 | Opponent: Seattle Storm | Result: TBD |
Week 11 | Date: Fri 25/07/2025 | Opponent: Dallas Wings | Result: TBD |
Week 11 | Date: Sun 27/07/2025 | Opponent: Connecticut Sun | Result: TBD |
Week 12 | Date: Tue 29/07/2025 | Opponent: Atlanta Dream | Result: TBD |
Week 12 | Date: Thu 31/07/2025 | Opponent: Washington Mystics | Result: TBD |
Week 12 | Date: Fri 01/08/2025 | Opponent: Chicago Sky | Result: TBD |
Week 12 | Date: Sun 03/08/2025 | Opponent: Las Vegas Aces | Result: TBD |
Week 13 | Date: Wed 06/08/2025 | Opponent: Las Vegas Aces | Result: TBD |
Week 13 | Date: Sat 09/08/2025 | Opponent: Los Angeles Sparks | Result: TBD |
Week 14 | Date: Mon 11/08/2025 | Opponent: Connecticut Sun | Result: TBD |
Week 14 | Date: Wed 13/08/2025 | Opponent: Washington Mystics | Result: TBD |
Week 14 | Date: Fri 15/08/2025 | Opponent: Chicago Sky | Result: TBD |
Week 14 | Date: Sun 17/08/2025 | Opponent: Atlanta Dream | Result: TBD |
Week 15 | Date: Tue 19/08/2025 | Opponent: Phoenix Mercury | Result: TBD |
Week 15 | Date: Fri 22/08/2025 | Opponent: Phoenix Mercury | Result: TBD |
Week 15 | Date: Sun 24/08/2025 | Opponent: Dallas Wings | Result: TBD |
Week 16 | Date: Sat 30/08/2025 | Opponent: Washington Mystics | Result: TBD |
Week 16 | Date: Sun 31/08/2025 | Opponent: Indiana Fever | Result: TBD |
Week 17 | Date: Tue 02/09/2025 | Opponent: New York Liberty | Result: TBD |
Week 17 | Date: Thu 04/09/2025 | Opponent: Dallas Wings | Result: TBD |
Week 17 | Date: Sat 06/09/2025 | Opponent: Minnesota Lynx | Result: TBD |
Week 18 | Date: Tue 09/09/2025 | Opponent: Seattle Storm | Result: TBD |
Week 18 | Date: Thu 11/09/2025 | Opponent: Minnesota Lynx | Result: TBD |
Week 19 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 20 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 21 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 22 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 23 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 24 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 25 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 26 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 27 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 28 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 29 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 30 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 31 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 32 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Week 33 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
Get Started Betting on the Golden State Valkyries Today
The Golden State Valkyries’ debut season offers sports bettors a unique blend of opportunity and uncertainty. From early-season underdog value to defensive matchups and player prop angles, there are numerous ways to find an edge when betting on this expansion team. Staying informed on the team’s development and monitoring key player performances will be crucial to maximizing profits.
For those looking to elevate their betting strategy, signing up for a trusted handicapper service like ScoresandStats.com can provide invaluable insights and expert picks.
Our team specializes in WNBA analysis, delivering accurate predictions and identifying profitable betting opportunities throughout the season.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bettor, having expert guidance can give you the confidence to make smarter wagers. Start your journey with the Golden State Valkyries today and gain an edge with ScoresandStats.com.