The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s 13th franchise set to join the league in 2025, are hosting their Expansion Draft on December 6 at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Anticipation and speculation surround the Valkyries’ picks from the existing 12 teams, shaping the roster for Golden State post-Draft.
While some draft details were known, like teams protecting up to six players, more insights emerged on Tuesday, shedding light on the Valkyries’ roster composition.
The Valkyries’ press release on December 3 stated, “The Valkyries can only draft a single upcoming free agent, with the remaining picks under contract beyond this season. They may opt not to select from certain teams, allowing more roster flexibility for free agency and future drafts.”
Your guide to the Expansion Draft has officially arrived — rules, protected players, and more. Tap through for everything you need to know.@CarMax | Expansion Draft pic.twitter.com/lDTvNobNDP
— Golden State Valkyries (@wnbagoldenstate) December 3, 2024
It’s now clarified that the Valkyries may choose to skip selecting a player from each team, preserving spots for free agency or trades.
The release added, “Any unrestricted free agents not picked in the Draft and not core players may be signed by any team, including the Valkyries, in the upcoming free agency period.”
Regarding trades, the Valkyries can engage in trades up to the day before the Draft, facilitating player exchanges with active teams.
ICYMI: it’s Expansion Draft Week – and we’ve got all the information you’ll need to follow along.
Watch to see how the @WNBA Expansion Draft will work and be sure to tune in this Friday, December 6th at 3:30 pm PST on @ESPN.@CarMax | Expansion Draft pic.twitter.com/WQWzlSuZh0
— Golden State Valkyries (@wnbagoldenstate) December 3, 2024
As we await the Draft results on Friday, we anticipate the unveiling of the finalized Valkyries’ roster.
