Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Valkyries Add Powers and Amihere as Four Stars Depart for EuroBasket

Coach Natalie Nakase is deploying hardship signings to offset the loss of four starters to international competition

Minnesota Lynx forward Aerial Powers (3) interacts with fans after a play during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Chicago Sky in Minneapolis, Wednesday, July 6, 2021. The Lynx won 81-78.
Golden State Valkyries forward Janelle Salaun, left, dribbles the ball against Phoenix Mercury guard Kitija Laksa (9) during the second half of a WNBA basketball game Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Phoenix.
Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fagbenle grabs a rebound against the Phoenix Mercury during the second half of a WNBA basketball game Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Phoenix.
Golden State Valkyries guard Julie Vanloo during a WNBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Sparks in San Francisco, Friday, May 16, 2025.

Overview

  • Julie Vanloo, Janelle Salaün, Temi Fagbenle and Cecilia Zandalasini have paused their Valkyries contracts to represent Belgium, France, Great Britain and Italy at EuroBasket, potentially missing games through early July.
  • Aerial Powers joined on a rest-of-season deal, drawing on her 2019 championship experience and floor-spacing capabilities despite a recent history of injuries.
  • Laeticia Amihere was signed from the preseason roster to reinforce the frontcourt following the release of center Kyara Linskens, with Monique Billings and Stephanie Talbot set for expanded roles.
  • Under WNBA hardship rules, the Valkyries can sign two players when their active roster drops to nine, giving the franchise salary cap flexibility for temporary fill-ins.
  • The expansion team has climbed to a 4–5 record with two consecutive wins, though it still leads the league in traveling calls and ranks second in turnovers per game.