The Golden State Valkyries came into the season with some high hopes. Looking to clinch the championship this season, their run so far has been a bit wobbly. With 11 wins and 12 losses, the Valkyries are currently placed eighth. Unfortunately, all of their championship aspirations have seemingly taken a huge hit.
One of the mainstays of the team has been Kayla Thornton. Putting up a five-star performance for the Valkyries, Thornton was their best bet to WNBA glory. Sadly, now that she is out for the season, the Golden State will surely feel her absence.
Knee Injury Keeps Kayla Thornton Out Of WNBA Action
In one of the most heartbreaking moments, Kayla Thornton was ruled out of the rest of the WNBA season. The star player reportedly injured her right knee during a practice session earlier this week. And now, after the latest medical evaluations, the Valkyries have confirmed her absence from the remainder of the league.
Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton, who suffered an injury to her right knee earlier this week in practice, underwent a successful surgery earlier today in San Francisco.
— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) July 25, 2025
Thornton will be out for the remainder of the 2025 WNBA season and will begin the rehabilitation… pic.twitter.com/DTOvTNCml6
Till now, Thornton seemed to have been on top of her game. In the inaugural season, the 32-year-old started in 22 games for Golden State. And immediately, she was a star. Thornton had an average of 14 points per game, which was the highest for the team. She also led the team in terms of average rebounds (7) and assists (1.5).
Coming back to her injury, Thornton has successfully undergone her surgery. Now, she will be entering the rehabilitation process shortly. Joining the team last December, the 32-year-old has been an instant fan favorite. Meanwhile, with Kayla Thornton out, the team will be more careful in their approach. But that will only be possible if the officiating is consistent. Just like coach Natalie Nakase had pointed out earlier.
Golden State Valkyries Careful Without Kayla Thornton As Coach Laments Inconsistent Officiating
Kayla Thornton not being a part of the starting lineup will surely hurt the Valkyries. And thus, Nakase and co. are likely to follow a slightly defensive approach. Add to that the constant complaints about officiating. Coupled together, the Golden State are staring down a rocky path. Just the other day, Coach Natalie Nakase lashed out at the officials for an unfair foul call. And it cost them the game against the Phoenix Mercury.
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“It’s so unfortunate that they get a win off of a free throw with no defense. That’s tough. To sit there and watch someone win a game off of a free throw, that’s a disservice. I’m just asking for consistency. I’m begging for consistency. Hey, if it’s because I’m a rookie coach, then I’ll take the loss. So, if I have to be better with the refs, if there’s a badge of honor that I have to earn, then I’ll do it. I’ll blame myself,” she said(Via ESPN).
Thus, with hard times coming for the Golden State Valkyries, fans cannot wait to see how they take up the challenge.
Also Read: Caitlin Clark Makes ‘Worst’ WNBA History In Indiana Fever’s Loss To Golden State Valkyries