Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton’s promising season has been abruptly ended following a successful right knee surgery on July 25. The injury occurred during practice, marking a significant setback for the expansion team as they aimed to become the first in nearly 30 years to reach the playoffs in their debut season.
Thornton’s injury is especially poignant as it comes just days after she showcased her talents in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis. She made an impressive contribution to Team Caitlin Clark, scoring 15 points, pulling in 11 rebounds, and facilitating five assists — a performance that highlighted her first All-Star selection in her decade-long career. This achievement placed her alongside Candice Dupree, who was similarly recognized as an All-Star while playing for a first-year team back in 2006.
Previously a standout with the Washington Mystics and Dallas Wings, Thornton had recently found success with the New York Liberty, clinching a WNBA championship in both 2023 and 2024. After being drafted by the Valkyries in December, she quickly emerged as a critical player, averaging a career-high 14 points, 7 rebounds, and leading the team with a significant 30.1 minutes of play per game.
Her departure comes at a challenging time for the Valkyries, who have struggled recently with five losses in their last six games. Currently holding a 10-12 record, they stand ninth in the WNBA standings, which places them outside of playoff contention at present—but it’s important to note their historic 10-9 start, showcasing the team’s promising potential.
As the Valkyries prepare for their upcoming games, facing the Dallas Wings and embarking on a challenging five-game road trip, there is hope that the team can rally in Thornton’s absence. Although they face obstacles ahead, the resilience shown by Thornton and the team can serve as motivation for the players to continue striving towards their goal of making history as a successful expansion franchise.
Despite the loss, Thornton’s remarkable performance this season and her role as a leader exemplify the spirit of determination and teamwork, and fans remain optimistic about the Valkyries’ future prospects.