Kayla Thornton brings a lot to the Golden State Valkyries: nine years of experience in the WNBA, a strong sense of humor that has repeatedly endeared her to New York Liberty fans, and a leadership mindset that will very likely help the Bay Area team navigate their inaugural season successfully.
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase didn't mince words when asked why the team drafted Thornton. "Championship experience," she said. "She played crucial minutes in the Finals and that to me is priceless. She steps up when her name is called."
GM Ohemaa Nyanin also agreed with the selection. "When Coach Natalie explained to me the type of athlete that she's looking for both on and off the court, K.T.[Thornton] is who came to mind, right away," she explained. "She is a defensive specialist. She has grown her game to be able to shoot the three. She's a ball of energy, a vet. She knows how to bring people together and I'm really excited."
Here are a few other things about Kayla Thornton that Valkyries fans can look forward to seeing in person.
She's a leader off the court
Thornton is a true asset on the court, but as Liberty fans know, she's also a relentless leader on the sidelines. Throughout the 2024 season, it was Thornton who was leading the team's pregame huddles, and it was Thornton who skillfully led the team through intense conversations. She's known for her ability to keep the ship steady, an invaluable skill for a championship-level team. Thornton and Jonquel Jones came up with the "We All We Got, We All We Need" chant that kept the Liberty focused throughout the playoffs and finals. In a lot of ways, Thornton was the heart of the Liberty — and it won't be at all surprising if she soon becomes the center of the Valkyries.
She's a fan favorite for a reason
Thornton only spent two seasons with the Liberty, but in that time she managed to become a true fan favorite. Whether it was her staunch support of Papa John's pizza over all else or the time Kennedy Burke managed to terrify her just in time for Halloween, Liberty fans made it clear that Thornton was cherished. While there's no doubt she will be deeply missed in New York, the Bay Area has the opportunity to get to know one of the league's true gems.
She doesn't back down from a challenge
Thornton wasn't drafted by the Liberty until 2023 and was even cut twice early in her career — something that didn't stop her from staying focused on her goals. She's explained, "When I set my mind on anything, I normally achieve it, so to be there on the biggest stage and have it taken away was very hard. My mom would remind me that whenever a door closes, God will always open another one."