The Golden State Valkyries have officially selected Juste Jocyte as the team's first-ever draft pick.
Because the team is brand new, the front office has approached the 2025 WNBA Draft a little differently than most. Despite the fact that many have assumed the team will not be a dominant presence in the league this year, Head Coach Natalie Nakase has repeatedly — and pointedly — insisted otherwise.
While speaking to Her Playbook last week, Nakase admitted that so far, the journey was been a bit of a "roller coaster ride." As she explained, she was hired just before the Expansion Draft, then immediately had to navigate free agency, and just as she's able to come up for air, it's time for the WNBA Draft. But Nakase is the type of person to identify a challenge and be inspired, something that will serve Golden State well.
Being the new team on the block is an "advantage," Nakase said. Though plenty of people have advised her to keep her expectations low, she sees a lot of opportunity. "You actually get to hand pick players that are going to fit your culture," Nakase said. "Players are the culture... I've gotten to hand pick high-character players that work hard, players who love to play with a chip on their shoulder."
The Golden State Valkyries selected Juste Jocyte as the No. 5 overall draft pick
Several notable athletes have been drafted at the No. 5 spot in the WNBA Draft over the last 10 years. A lot of athletes were floated as potential picks this year, and in the end, the Valkyries chose Juste Jocyte. Some fans were surprised, but Jocyte brings a lot of European experience. She navigates the pick and roll well and can drive the ball, has a strong mental grip on the game, and at 6'0" she brings a lot of size to the team. The Valkyries entered the draft with a need for a big post player and a point guard, and there are still plenty of options in the 2nd and 3rd rounds.
The Lithuanian guard made her professional debut for her national team at the age of 14 — and that was after she played in a EuroBasket game when she was only 13. Jocytė is averaging 11.9 points, 2.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in Lyon.
Though the Valkyries have lofty ambitions for the team's first season, drafting a player like Jocyte makes sense in the long run. While Americans might not be as familiar with her game, that will change very soon — training camp officially begins in two weeks. With this selection, the Valkyries make it clear they are investing in young talent and truly building for the team's future.