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Veronica Burton received a life-changing phone call on the morning of the Golden State Valkyries expansion draft. The WNBA’s newest franchise in San Francisco planned to select her from the Connecticut Sun’s list of unprotected players.
Burton, currently playing professional basketball in Australia, found out she needed to move to the Bay Area, a place she had never visited before. Her time in Uncasville, Connecticut was coming to an abrupt end after just one season, which was only a few hours away from her hometown in Newton, Massachusetts.
The expansion draft took place on Dec. 7 and saw 11 players being selected to form the Valkyries’ inaugural roster. Among the 11 players chosen, 8 had played in the WNBA last season, including Burton who played for the Connecticut Sun after starting her career with the Dallas Wings.
The draft rules were simple, each team could protect six players, but they were not required to share their protected lists with the players. Any players left unprotected were eligible to be selected by Golden State.
Some players were aware in advance that they were unprotected and might be drafted, while others were caught off guard.
Behind-the-scenes in the WNBA expansion draft
While WNBA fans and media enjoyed making mock drafts and predictions, the expansion draft was a reality for the players. It was a rare opportunity for fans to play general manager after 16 years since the last expansion in the league.
For the players, the expansion draft meant facing real-life changes.
Veronica Burton shared her mixed emotions about the draft, with excitement being the prominent feeling. She described it as an incredible opportunity and a blessing to be part of history and play for the inaugural season in the Bay Area.
Burton, a hard-nosed defender, appreciated the transparency from the Connecticut Sun, informing her before the draft that she was not among their protected players. This insight helped her mentally prepare for the possibility of being drafted.
Not all franchises gave their unprotected players a heads up, as the WNBA did not require it, and the unprotected lists were not publicized.
Sun’s general manager Morgan Tuck shared the difficulty in selecting who to protect, highlighting the challenge of leaving certain players out in favor of others.
Burton, who landed in Connecticut after being waived by the Dallas Wings, reflected on her time with the Sun, appreciating the confidence and value they instilled in her.
Looking ahead, Burton acknowledged the changes in the Sun’s coaching staff and the different team dynamics she would face if she had returned to Connecticut.
Tuck expressed sadness at seeing Burton chosen and recognized her as a great person and player.
Veronica Burton shining in Australia
Currently excelling in the Women’s National Basketball League in Australia, Burton is having a standout season with the Bendigo Spirit, showcasing her skills on the court.
Burton explained her decision to play overseas in a competitive league for her career development in the early stages, opting for the experience and challenges it offers.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season with the Valkyries
Despite the distance separating the Valkyries’ incoming players, Burton has connected with some teammates and coaches, emphasizing the team’s competitive and hard-working ethos.
The globalized nature of women’s basketball is evident in the diverse locations where the Valkyries players are currently situated.
Burton emphasized the team’s mindset of being hungry and the underdog, setting high expectations for the upcoming season.
Head coach Nakase highlighted the players’ ridiculous work ethic and ultra-competitive mindset, essential qualities for success with the Valkyries.
Burton expressed her excitement to be part of the Valkyries and the winning culture they aim to establish.
This article is part of SB Nation’s “WNBA Explained” series, delving into various topics related to women’s basketball.
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