The Golden State Valkyries underwent a host of changes this season. Looking to get themselves in a commanding position in the league, the franchise added some quality to its side. Likewise, bringing in Iliana Rupert while waiving off Stephanie Talbot. And now, it has taken just four games for Rupert to return the honors.
The Valkyries recently faced off against the Washington Mystics. Helping Golden State register a narrow victory, the 68-67 win might prove to be a big one. Surely, following the game, congratulations came pouring in for the youngster. Surprisingly, Rupert was not ready to join Golden State initially.
Iliana Rupert Drops Incredible Performance To Take Valkyries Over The Line
Iliana Rupert was busy representing her national team, France in EuroBasket. Thus, the Valkyries had to wait. Thankfully, the team stayed patient and finally signed her once she completed her national duties. But playing in her fourth game, Rupert was entrusted with the role of a starter.
And the chips were pretty much down for the Valkyries. They missed Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Monique Billings. Getting a game time of 33 minutes, Rupert soon became the driving force. Her all-around play included 11 points, a couple of steals, and seven rebounds. In fact, she was leading the team in terms of most rebounds in the game.
Iliana Rupert from downtown x2 🎯
— WNBA (@WNBA) July 31, 2025
She's shooting 45% from three this season and looking every bit the part!
GSV-WAS | Prime pic.twitter.com/uUO5Tdw33Q
Thanks to the 24-year-old, the Valkyries were off to a flier. Leading the game, the Golden State finished 46-34 after the first half. However, the Mystics closed down significantly in the last lap. Nine of Rupert’s eleven were scored in the first half. The Valkyries, too, had only 22 points to show for as they just managed to cross the line. Meanwhile, as the team was unprepared for the Kayla Thornton injury, coach Natalie Nakase kept her faith in Iliana Rupert.
Natalie Nakase Brought In Iliana Rupert In Place Of Kayla Thornton
Kayla Thornton was in red-hot form this season for the Valkyries. Playing as a regular, Thornton averaged a whopping 30.1 minutes per game. She also had a 5.8% offensive rebound rate. But a right knee injury put both her team and herself into a murky situation. However, despite the situation looking grim, Coach Natalie Nakase did not give up.
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As the team struggled to fight for a possible playoff spot, Nakase was busy exploring alternatives. And she came up with Janelle Salaun and Iliana Rupert’s name. Thankfully, she went ahead with the latter, and in turn, proved that the choice made was spot on.
Also Read: Kayla Thornton’s Season-Ending Injury Prompts Honest Admission From Coach Natalie Nakase