The Golden State Valkyries have multiple positives from its very first season in the WNBA. Apart from the being the most valuable franchise right away, the Bay Area team made it to the playoffs and is looking for a deeper run. Veronica Burton remained the top player for the side as the player excelled with the expansion team.
HC Natalie Nakase praised Burton for her Chris Paul-like performance, which is a big honor for any basketball player. And now the star has won the Most Improved Player award. Here is what the 25-year-old guar has to say about the accolade.
Veronica Burton Speaks About Team’s Reaction To Winning MIP Award
The Valkyries HC Nakase showed no interest in winning any individual awards, but they are certainly encouraging to players and coaches. The talented guard won the award after the opening game, and the star was preparing for game 2.
When asked about winning the accolade, she gracefully thanked the interviewer but didn’t forget to mention her teammates in her answer.
“Everyone’s so sweet. The best thing about this team is just how much we love each other [and] how encouraging we are. The support I have from [my teammates] means more than anything, so I was really grateful, and they were uplifting,” Burton told the media.
Valkyries’ Veronica Burton on her teammates’ reaction to her winning MIP:
— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) September 17, 2025
“The best thing about this team is how much we love each other and how encouraging we are. The support from them means more than anything.”
Also asked about the stamina element of her offensive burden. pic.twitter.com/O1fyEDggV7
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
“I think I’ve been able to reflect over the course of this entire season. Just understanding where I was and where I am now, and the joy I’m able to play with. And then right now, understanding obviously, I’m grateful for the award, but I don’t care too much about awards. The goal was to be in the playoffs, so all my attention is on that… my main focus is definitely the playoffs,” she added.
Veronica Burton And Valkyries Looking To Overcome Lynx Challenge
The playoff picture is set now, and the MIP winner will now look to overcome the game deficit to advance to the second round. The Lynx dominated the first game with three of its starters scoring in double digits, while the Valkyries had similar production from their starters, but the bench failed miserably against the strong defensive side.
Former Wings’ rookie played in 34 minutes in the game and finished with 14 points, dishing out seven assists in Game 1. Due to the scheduling conflict, the SAP Center will host the second game of the series, which is 40 miles away from their home court Chase Center. But the team will be looking to get a massive attendance for the game.