Golden State Valkyries Aim High with Expansion Draft Picks of Martin and Thornton

Golden State Valkyries Aim High with Expansion Draft Picks of Martin and Thornton

The Golden State Valkyries aim to strengthen their roster by selecting rookie Kate Martin and veteran Kayla Thornton ahead of the expansion draft.

Emilio Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros

Emimlio Juan Brignardello Vela

Emilio Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

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As anticipation builds around the upcoming expansion draft, the Golden State Valkyries have set their sights on bolstering their roster with the selections of Kate Martin and Kayla Thornton. Sources indicate that these players are poised to make significant contributions to the newly formed franchise as they aim to carve out their identity in the competitive landscape of the WNBA. Kate Martin, a promising rookie out of Iowa, is expected to be the highlight of Golden State's picks. Last season, she played a crucial role in supporting star Caitlin Clark, helping the Hawkeyes reach consecutive national title games. Throughout her initial stint with the Las Vegas Aces, Martin showcased her potential by averaging 19.3 minutes and hitting 37 percent of her three-point attempts during the first ten games of the season. However, her playing time diminished as the Aces regained their full roster, limiting her to just a few impactful appearances in the latter part of the season and playoffs. Despite being a valuable asset, Martin was ultimately left unprotected as Las Vegas chose to shield their core players, including A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum. With the Valkyries now securing Martin, they not only gain a player with immediate potential but also benefit from three seasons of cost-controlled play on her rookie contract. This move signals the Valkyries’ intention to build a young, agile team while capitalizing on the untapped talent of a player eager to prove herself in a new environment. In addition to Martin, the Valkyries are set to welcome veteran Kayla Thornton. The 32-year-old forward, known for her versatility and defensive prowess, played a pivotal role in the New York Liberty’s recent championship run. Her experience and reliability during the playoffs, particularly her standout performance in the semifinals, make her a strategic addition to Golden State’s lineup. General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin, who previously served as assistant GM for the Liberty, recognized Thornton's value and is excited to bring her leadership and competitive spirit to this new franchise. Thornton’s selection is a testament to the Valkyries’ strategy of blending youth with experience. With one year remaining on her contract extension from New York, she brings stability and depth to the roster, helping to mentor younger players while contributing immediately on the court. As the expansion draft approaches, the Valkyries are focused on establishing a solid foundation. By selecting both an emerging talent like Martin and a seasoned player like Thornton, the franchise is signaling its commitment to building a competitive team that can hold its own in the WNBA. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting journey for the Golden State Valkyries and their fans, as they begin crafting their legacy in women's professional basketball.

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