The WNBA’s newest franchise just received a major setback.
The Golden State Valkyries, currently 10–12 in their inaugural season, will have to continue their playoff push without their best player. Forward Kayla Thornton, the team’s leader in points (14.0), rebounds (7.0) and steals (1.3) per game, has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025 season after undergoing surgery on her right knee.
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Thornton suffered the injury earlier this week during practice. On Thursday, the team announced she was being evaluated for a lower leg injury and would not be available for Friday night’s matchup against the Dallas Wings.
By Friday afternoon, the update was far more concerning: Thornton had undergone surgery in San Francisco and will miss the rest of the season.
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While the procedure was reportedly successful, the loss is a devastating blow to the Valkyries' momentum. As the team continues its inaugural campaign, it will now have to rely on its depth and leadership to navigate the remainder of the schedule without its star player.