The WNBA landscape has shifted with the emergence of the Golden State Valkyries, the league's newest expansion team. One of the most talked-about stories in their pre-season journey centers around Kaitlyn Chen Valkyries — a pairing that many fans anticipated, but one that ultimately didn't make it past training camp. What does Kaitlyn Chen's release mean for both her career and the trajectory of the Valkyries as they embark on their inaugural season?

Kaitlyn Chen's WNBA Draft Journey

Kaitlyn Chen made waves in women’s college basketball, particularly with her contributions at UConn, where she helped secure a national championship. She was selected 30th overall by the Golden State Valkyries in the 2025 WNBA Draft, joining a mix of promising prospects and seasoned veterans (see full draft analysis). The draft selection was seen as a smart move by the Valkyries, as Chen’s playmaking ability and championship experience could have bolstered their young roster.

The Valkyries' Roster Decisions

However, as the team announced its final roster ahead of the season opener at Chase Center, Chen — along with other recent draft picks — did not survive the last round of cuts. The decision was unexpected for many, especially since most expansion teams use draft picks as building blocks (learn more about the team’s unique approach here).

Head coach Natalie Nakase prioritized chemistry and defensive versatility, opting to keep a blend of veterans like Tiffany Hayes and Monique Billings alongside international talents Carla Leite and Kate Martin. Notably, none of the Valkyries' three 2025 draftees will start the season on the roster — a rare move for any expansion team, let alone for one aiming to make an immediate impact in the WNBA.

Why Was Kaitlyn Chen Waived?

Cutting a promising rookie such as Kaitlyn Chen highlights the Valkyries' focus on immediate roster fit and established on-court connections. According to team sources, their final decisions came down to which players meshed best during training camp, both defensively and in executing game plans. For Chen, this meant her journey with the Valkyries ended before the season tipped off. She leaves the door open for future WNBA opportunities, as injuries and international tournaments may create openings later in the season (in-depth roster breakdown).

What’s Next for Chen and the Valkyries?

Kaitlyn Chen’s path remains full of potential. Her accomplishments at UConn and resilience during a competitive training camp ensure she’s on the radar for teams seeking guard depth in the months ahead. Meanwhile, the Valkyries are determined to carve out their identity with a roster heavy on experience and international flair, bypassing the usual emphasis on draft picks for a more unconventional start.

Fans of both Kaitlyn Chen and the Valkyries will want to watch how this strategy plays out over the season — and whether Chen might return to a WNBA roster if circumstances change.

Conclusion

The Kaitlyn Chen Valkyries story is just beginning. As the Valkyries embark on their inaugural season, tough roster calls like Chen’s waiver reflect the challenges expansion teams face in balancing present results with future development. Stay updated on the latest moves and performances; the landscape of women’s basketball is evolving quickly, and both Kaitlyn Chen and the Golden State Valkyries promise to play prominent roles in its next chapter.