Valkyries have shocked the world. What's next for the 2026 WNBA champs?

The Golden State Valkyries have claimed their first-ever WNBA championship, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7 of the WNBA Finals on October 31. The 2026 season for the Valkyries saw a 32-12 record and the team finished with the No. 2 seed in the league, boasting the best defense in the WNBA with a rating of 99.3 and allowing an average of 75.4 points per game.

Valkyries owner Joe Lacob praised his team's incredible performance, crediting Natalie Nakase, Ohemaa Nyanin, and Jess Smith for their pivotal roles. The Valkyries' success was driven by home-court advantage and a strong lineup that included Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, Kaila Charles, and Janelle Salaün, among others. As the team looks ahead to the 2027 season, they will need to address their roster, focusing on which players will return and who may leave.

With $3.64 million in cap space available, the Valkyries will evaluate potential free agents to bolster their team. Stars like Napheesa Collier, Kelsey Mitchell, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young could be on the market, adding talent to the already impressive roster.