How a Key Signing Shapes the Valkyries Playoff Push
The Golden State Valkyries made a late-season roster move earlier today, signing rookie center Liz Kitley to a seven-day hardship contract. The Virginia Tech product previously played on the Las Vegas Aces before ultimately being waived earlier this season, and joins the Valkyries as they attempt to resolve frontcourt depth issues. Notably, Valkyries’ Tiffany Hayes sustained a left knee injury during the August 22nd game against the Phoenix Mercury, leaving the Valkyries shorthanded at a pivotal moment, as the team fights to secure its first-ever postseason berth. The Valkyries are currently 22–18, holding the sixth spot in the Western Conference standings, with four games remaining.
For Kitley, this short-term deal is another chance to prove she belongs in the WNBA. At six-foot-six, her size and rebounding instincts provide Golden State with a reliable post option. This is especially valuable in late-season, possession-heavy games. She also brings length in the paint, with potential to disrupt shots and offer rim protection against more physical opponents. If she adapts to the team quickly, Kitley’s presence could help stabilize the Valkyries’ frontcourt during their push to clinch a historic playoff berth in their debut season. Beyond this week, a strong performance could lead to a longer contract for Kitley, either with Golden State or elsewhere in the league.
For the Valkyries, who have been riding a strong expansion-season surge, signing Kitley is about insurance and momentum. While it is unlikely that Kitley will command heavy minutes right away, rotating her into games will allow Valkyries’ top players, like Iliana Rupert and Temi Fagbenle, time to rest and recover. This short-term deal is a tryout for Kitley’s WNBA future, but, more importantly, it is a strategic depth move for a Valkyries team eager to make noise in its inaugural playoff run. The Golden State Valkyries' next game is on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, at 7:00 PM PT against the Dallas Wings at Chase Center in San Francisco. A win against the Wings, combined with a loss by the Los Angeles Sparks to the Atlanta Dream, would secure Golden State's place in the postseason.
