Rising Stars of the Valkyries
The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA's newest expansion team, are making waves in fantasy women's basketball with standout performances from players like Veronica Burton and Kayla Thornton. As highlighted in recent coverage, both athletes have been named among the top streamers for the week of May 26, showcasing their potential to boost fantasy rosters with impressive stats and game-changing plays.
Veronica Burton has quickly emerged as a key player for the Valkyries, demonstrating her skills as a starting point guard. Her recent performance against the Washington Mystics, where she scored 22 points, including a crucial go-ahead 3-pointer with just over a minute remaining, underlines her value. With averages of 12.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and a league-leading 3.0 steals per game in over 26 minutes of play, Burton is a must-watch for fantasy managers.
Key Performances and Fantasy Impact
Kayla Thornton is another Valkyrie making a strong case for fantasy pickups. In the same game against the Mystics, Thornton contributed 18 points, including a critical four-point play with just over a minute left, helping secure the franchise's first-ever victory with a tight 76-74 scoreline. Her ability to deliver in clutch moments, combined with consistent double-digit scoring, as seen in her 14-point, 10-rebound performance against the Los Angeles Sparks, adds depth to fantasy lineups.
Thornton's versatility on both ends of the court has been evident throughout her career, with past games showing her knack for steals and three-point shooting. While some analyses on social platforms suggest her scoring might be inconsistent against tough defenses like the Mystics, her recent contributions to the Valkyries indicate she remains a valuable streaming option for the week of May 26.
Team Momentum and Future Outlook
The Valkyries are building momentum with recent wins, including an 82-73 triumph over the Sparks, driven by rookies Carla Leite and Janelle Salaun alongside Thornton's efforts. This team synergy, supported by a passionate fanbaseโincluding Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski cheering from the standsโsignals a promising trajectory for fantasy relevance.
However, challenges loom with injuries potentially impacting the roster. Updates on players like Tiffany Hayes and Cecilia Zandalasini remain critical as the Valkyries prepare to face tough opponents like the New York Liberty. Fantasy managers should monitor these developments closely, but for now, streaming Burton and Thornton offers a strategic edge for the current week.