Who Did the Valkyries Draft in 2025? Full Breakdown of Golden State’s Picks
SAN FRANCISCO — In their first-ever WNBA Draft, the Golden State Valkyries turned to a blend of youth, international experience, and collegiate versatility to shape the next phase of their expansion journey. With picks in all three rounds, the franchise came away with a promising trio that reflects the competitive spirit GM Ohemaa Nyanin and head coach Natalie Nakase have emphasized since day one.
No. 5 Overall: Justė Jocytė, G, Lithuania
Golden State made a statement early by selecting 19-year-old Justė Jocytė with the fifth overall pick. Already a veteran of Europe’s top leagues, Jocytė played this past season for Lyon ASVEL Féminin in France, where she averaged 11.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists while hitting nearly 34% from beyond the arc.
But her résumé stretches beyond the stat sheet. Jocytė debuted with Lithuania’s national team at just 13 years old and went on to dominate international tournaments, earning MVP honors at the 2022 FIBA U18 European Championship. With a mature game, refined shooting mechanics, and high-level court awareness, she could make an immediate impact.
“Justė is one of the best scorers and winners in this draft, and despite being just 19 years old, she brings a lot of experience playing at the highest level,” said Nyanin. “She’s very mature offensively, plays with a lot of composure, and makes the right plays. We are beyond thrilled to welcome her to the Bay Area.”
No. 17 Overall: Shyanne Sellers, G, Maryland
In the second round, the Valkyries picked up Maryland’s Shyanne Sellers — a do-it-all guard with an impressive collegiate résumé. The 6-foot-2 Ohio native became the first player in Terrapins history to notch 1,500 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists, earning back-to-back All-Big Ten First Team honors and AP All-American Honorable Mention in her senior season.
Sellers brings more than numbers to the table — her ability to guard multiple positions, control pace, and facilitate offense fits seamlessly into Golden State’s up-tempo style. She shot 83% from the free-throw line over four years and was a consistent leader on both ends.
“Sellers is a very well-rounded player both offensively and defensively,” Nyanin said. “In addition, she has high basketball IQ, reads the game well and is a willing passer. Her versatility and infectious positive energy will make our team better.”
No. 30 Overall: Kaitlyn Chen, G, UConn
Golden State closed out their draft night by selecting Kaitlyn Chen, fresh off a national title run with UConn. The 5-foot-9 guard is known for her quickness, strong decision-making, and defensive grit. She shot over 50% from the floor and 35% from three during the Huskies’ championship campaign, providing crucial minutes in big moments.
Before transferring to UConn, Chen starred at Princeton, where she earned Ivy League Player of the Year honors in 2023 and was a three-time Ivy League Tournament MVP. Her transition scoring and screen navigation make her an intriguing fit for a Valkyries team looking to push the tempo.
“We’re excited to add Kaitlyn to our training camp roster,” said Nyanin. “Her speed, defensive tenacity, and willingness to give 100% impressed us in this process. As a national champion and three-time Ivy League Tournament MVP, she’s proven she can elevate her game when it matters most.”
Looking Ahead
With Jocytė’s elite shooting, Sellers’ versatility, and Chen’s championship pedigree, the Valkyries enter training camp later this month with a promising infusion of talent. As they prepare for their inaugural tip-off on May 16 at Chase Center, the new kids on the WNBA block have made it clear: they didn’t come to ease in quietly — they came to compete.
