Golden State Valkyries General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin, left, announces their new head coach Natalie … [+]
San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images
The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s 13th franchise, are getting ready for their first season in 2025. To kick off their journey, the team will participate in the crucial 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. ET, airing live on ESPN. This event marks a significant moment for both the Valkyries and the league as they start building their team for the upcoming season.
What Is The WNBA Expansion Draft?
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 10: Head coach Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks (C) poses for … [+]
Getty Images
The WNBA Expansion Draft is a process where new teams in a sports league select players from existing teams to build their own rosters. It provides the Valkyries with the opportunity to create a competitive team by choosing players who are not safeguarded by their current teams. This draft ensures fairness and balance as the new team enters the league.
Key Facts About The 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft
When is it happening? The draft will take place on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. ET, broadcast live on ESPN.
Who can the Golden State Valkyries pick? The Valkyries can select one player from each of the 12 existing WNBA teams. Teams can protect up to six players, with the remaining players available for selection by the Valkyries.
Which players are eligible? Teams submitted their roster lists by November 25, 2024, and the Valkyries will choose from players left off the protected lists.
What if a player is not signed for 2025? The Valkyries acquire player rights, including negotiation rights, if the selected player is not signed for the upcoming season.
Can they choose unrestricted free agents? Yes, one unrestricted free agent can be selected by the Valkyries. This player can become their Core Player in January 2025.
Who’s in charge? Ohemaa Nyanin, the General Manager of the Golden State Valkyries, will lead the team in selecting their players during the WNBA Expansion Draft on Friday.
WNBA Expansion Draft: The Road Ahead for the Valkyries
PALMETTO, FLORIDA – AUGUST 29: A basketball sits near the WNBA logo during a timeout of a game … [+]
Getty Images
While the Expansion Draft is a significant step, it is just the beginning of the Valkyries’ roster-building journey. Following the draft, the team will focus on strengthening their lineup through the 2025 WNBA Draft in April and the free agency period starting in February.
In the 2025 WNBA Draft, Golden State holds the 5th overall pick, providing a strong foundation to build a competitive squad.
WNBA Expansion Draft: Flexibility In Player Selection
New Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase poses for a portrait during a press conference … [+]
San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images
The Valkyries have the flexibility to select players without positional constraints in the draft. This freedom allows them to pick the best talent available based on factors like potential, fit, and development. After the WNBA Expansion Draft, the team will focus on adding more talent through free agency and the draft to complete their roster before the 2025 season begins. Fans are eagerly anticipating the players who will form the foundation of the Valkyries’ inaugural season.
