Gabby Williams joins Golden State Valkyries, citing ‘winning culture’ as key factor
Free Agency Move - The seven-year WNBA veteran and All-Star defender officially joined the Valkyries on a multiyear deal, bringing her elite two-way skills to the defending expansion franchise that made history by reaching the playoffs in their inaugural season.
Aug 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Storm forward Gabby Williams (5) dribbles the ball against the Chicago Sky at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
The Golden State Valkyries made their biggest splash in franchise history, officially introducing Gabby Williams as their marquee free agent signing ahead of their preseason matchup against the Seattle Storm. The multiyear deal, signed on April 12, represents a significant coup for the second-year franchise.
Williams, coming off a career-best season where she averaged 11.6 points and 4.2 assists while leading the WNBA in steals per game at 2.3, explained her decision centered on three crucial factors. « Where am I going to win? Where am I going to be a part of a winning culture? Even though this is a newer team, I feel the competitiveness and the want to win, » Williams said during Saturday’s introduction.
Perfect fit for Valkyries’ defensive identity
The seven-year veteran’s defensive prowess aligns perfectly with Golden State’s established identity. Williams finished last season with 99 steals, just one shy of Teresa Weatherspoon‘s longstanding record of 100 set in 1998. Her All-Defensive first team selection and maiden All-Star appearance underscore her elite two-way capabilities.
« To me, she is one of the best two-way players in the world, » Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase said. « We love ball movement. We love the ability that anyone could go off on any given game because that is really guard. We see it as a perfect fit. »
Williams believes the Valkyries’ tactical approach mirrors her basketball philosophy. « The way the [organization’s] brain works is how my brain works. This felt like a system that I would play well in. It’s a bit European, very tactical, the ball moves, everybody eats. That’s the kind of basketball I want to play, » she explained.
The personal connection runs deep for Williams, who grew up in nearby Alameda and hails from Reno, Nevada. « Knowing what women’s basketball means to the Bay Area and what it has meant for decades, I know up close and personal what it means to be a female athlete here. That played a huge role in my decision, as well. »
General manager Ohemaa Nyanin emphasized the franchise’s championship aspirations. « The journey of building a championship is what we are working towards daily. And as Mr. Joe [Lacob] says, we are on the clock… Who Gabby is as an individual is the epitome of what we look for in athletes. »
The Valkyries made WNBA history last season as the first expansion franchise to reach the playoffs in their inaugural year, with Nakase earning Coach of the Year honors and guard Veronica Burton claiming Most Improved Player of the Year.
Sylvain Sultat follows the NBA on a daily basis, covering individual performances, team dynamics, and the league's greatest stories. On Be-Basketball, he breaks down the latest American basketball news with passion and consistency, always on the lookout for the trends shaping the world of basketball.
Comments (0)