The Golden State Valkyries were one of the biggest winners in the 2025 season, with a playoff appearance and two of its representatives winning season-ending awards. In 2026, they were on the opposite side of the expansion draft and lost Carla Leite to the Portland Fire. Technically, the side lost its key rotational player but will have a reliable option in Kaitlyn Chen.
The Portland Fire chose first in the 2026 WNBA expansion draft and also the last to choose a player under the format. The selection of Carla Leite was not a shock following her performance in the season, but it could also hand the former UConn star a chance to prove her role.
Golden State Valkyries To Rely On Kaitlyn Chen Following Departure Of Carla Leite
After a productive season, the expectations are certainly high from the Golden State Valkyries side, and the front office will look to keep its core intact to achieve that goal. Two key players on the radar would be Veronica Burton and Janelle Salaün, and the side has only Kate Martin under contract.
But apart from these key decisions, the franchise’s option to keep Chen and waive Juliee Vanloo hints at a bright future for the 23-year-old guard. The third-round pick would be a very handy operator with her defensive skills and also playmaking ability.
Carla Leite was selected in the 2026 Expansion Draft by the Portland Fire.
— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) April 3, 2026
Thank you for everything, Carla 💜 pic.twitter.com/dsfDL6qSx2
Moreover, she is a fan favorite, which was evident throughout the 2025 season. The franchise also resigned her after waiving her early in June.
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As for the player, she is ready for the challenge and has already prepared herself with a busy offseason.
Kaitlyn Chen Possesses Required Skill Sets
Many Golden State Valkyries players were active during the offseason, with Molique Billings and Veronica Burton earning a senior national team call. Burton also played in the Unrivaled league season 2. Chen, though, stayed with the 5-on-5 action and played in the Euro League and Athletes Unlimited.
Kaitlyn Chen tonight 🔥
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) February 7, 2026
• 18 points
• 6 assists
• 7/7 FGpic.twitter.com/a7Gc4CgPfU
Playing for USK Praha in Czechia, Chen recorded her first double-double at the pro level playing in the EuroLeague and also delivered a career-high 18 points performance. Later playing in the Athletes Unlimited, she recorded at least 10 points in ten games and also dished out three assists minimum in eleven games.
With high ceiling and dedication, the player certainly deserves more chances on the floor for the Valkyries team.