After finishing eighth in the regular season, the Golden State Valkyries qualified for the playoffs. The Valkyries proved they are not just another expansion team with a long-term plan but want to make an immediate impact. Many players walked through the rolling door, but a few remained constant in the team’s strategy, including Temi Fagbenle, and there is concerning news around the forward’s availability.
The team suffered a few injury setbacks in the regular season, and missing a key player during the playoffs could be a heavy blow. The Golden State Valkyries will play their first home playoff game away amid a scheduling conflict, and a roster change would add to their concerns.
Temi Fagbenle’s Injury Status
The Golden State Valkyries certainly made their mark on the league. Veronica Burton, the winner of the Most Improved Player of the Year, reflected on her award and how team unity plays a vital role in their success.
The team had limited absentees during the regular season games, allowing them to have most of the roster available. But after the first game of the playoffs, Valkyries center Fagbenle suffered from pain in her right knee. Sadly, she could miss the second game of the postseason.
As per the statement, “Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fagbenle has been ruled out ahead of tonight’s game against the Minnesota Lynx due to right knee pain. She will be evaluated at a further date.”
NEWS: Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fágbénlé has been ruled out ahead of tonight’s game against the Minnesota Lynx due to right knee pain. She will be evaluated at a further date. #WNBAPlayoffs
— Terrika (@SheKnowsSports) September 18, 2025
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The 2016 rookie started the opening game against the Lynx and scored 12 points in 20 minutes of gameplay. She was the top performer for the team, even though the Valkyries struggled at the Target Center.
Temi Fagbenle’s Absence Could Hurt Golden State Valkyries
The Golden State Valkyries rely heavily on their forward lineup, with Veronica Burton pulling the strings for the side. Kayla Thornton and Fagbenle are two regular starters for Nakase’s game plan, providing the team’s offensive and defensive stability.
While Thornton excelled at scoring, the Nigerian star provided rim protection. Playing against the Lynx, Natalie Nakase will once again look for heavy production from her forward lineup to counter the offensive duo of Kayla McBride and Napheesa Collier.
The 33-year-old star’s absence against the Lynx put pressure on Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Janelle Salaun, who will have to fill in with heavy minutes.