Overview

• The Valkyries played their first preseason game at Chase Center, narrowly losing 83-82 to the Los Angeles Sparks after a strong second-half comeback.
• Head coach Natalie Nakase emphasized a fast-paced, 3-point-heavy, and defensively focused playing style, though the team is still refining its pace and system.
• Third-round draftee Kaitlyn Chen was the only WNBA draft pick on the court, as first-rounder Justė Jocytė remains in Europe and second-rounder Shyanne Sellers was waived earlier in training camp.
• French forward Janelle Salaün has yet to report from Europe; her status remains uncertain as the team evaluates whether to suspend her or allocate a roster spot.
• With 17 players in camp, the Valkyries must finalize their 12-player roster by May 16, potentially exploring waiver wire additions to address depth concerns.