Kayla Thornton secures first-ever All-Star spot for Golden State Valkyries

The Golden State Valkyries, an expansion team in the WNBA, proudly announced that their forward, Kayla Thornton, has been chosen to represent the franchise in the 2025 All-Star Game held in Indianapolis. Selected as a reserve by WNBA coaches, this marks a historic moment for the Valkyries, who see Thornton becoming their first-ever player to secure an All-Star selection. The announcement came as a significant recognition of Thornton's outstanding performance throughout the season, where she has consistently led her team in points and rebounds per game. Her commendable stats include averaging 14.9 points and 7.1 rebounds, showcasing her skill and impact on the court. In addition to her scoring and rebounding prowess, she has made a mark defensively, currently ranking 10th in league-wide steals. Kayla Thornton's successful season follows a commendable tenure with the New York Liberty, where she played a crucial role in their Championship run prior to joining the Valkyries. Selected in the expansion draft, Thornton transitioned to the Valkyries this season and has been instrumental in helping the team start off strong. Her significance as a veteran player in her 10th season offers invaluable leadership on a roster of mostly younger talent. Her performance has not gone unnoticed; she was previously honored as the Western Conference Player of the Week in June after an impressive streak where she averaged 20 points and 11.5 rebounds, further solidifying her competence on both ends of the court. The 2025 All-Star Game also highlights the inclusion of other players, such as Gabby Williams, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron, who are all making their All-Star debuts. The format for selecting reserves involved WNBA coaches voting for players in various categories, reinforcing the competitive spirit within the league. The spotlight on Thornton also signifies a change in the narrative for players who may have previously been seen as role players, highlighting their ability to rise to prominence and earn recognition. Coaches and analysts alike praised Thornton's resilience and talent, reflecting on her hard work and commitment to the sport. As the All-Star game approaches, Thornton's achievement brings attention not only to her individual accomplishments but also to the expansion franchise, which has started to build its brand and fanbase in the competitive landscape of women’s basketball. With this selection, the team hopes to garner more interest and support, providing a platform for future athletes. The upcoming match for the Valkyries against the Atlanta Dream marks another chance for Thornton to showcase her skills before the All-Star Game, which will see captains Caitlin Clark and Napheesa Collier drafting their teams shortly. Overall, the excitement surrounding Thornton's All-Star selection encapsulates both personal triumph and the growth potential of the Golden State Valkyries franchise in the WNBA.