The Golden State Valkyries, who are the WNBA's 13th expansion team and will begin their WNBA journey in 2025, are already dealing with injury trouble and they haven't even played a game yet. Valkyries forward Maria Conde reportedly suffered an injury during a EuroLeague game, Marc J. Spears of Andscape reports.
"Golden State Valkyries say forward María Conde sustained an Achillies injury on Jan. 8 while playing for USK Prague against Zaragoza in the EuroLeague. She has had surgery and there is no current timeline on her return to action," Spears wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Conde was selected by the Chicago Sky in the 2019 WNBA Draft. However, she has not played in the league, but the Sky had her rights until 2024. The Valkyries ended up selecting Conde in their expansion draft for the 2025 season.
Golden State Valkyries preparing for WNBA free agency
The Valkyries were already expected to be active in free agency. Now, Golden State may look to add further help with Conde expected to miss time after undergoing surgery. With that being said, it is worth noting that Spears reports there is no timeline for her return at the moment. Nevertheless, the situation will still be one to monitor.
The Valkyries may look to add a star this offseason, whether it is through free agency or a trade. Golden State has been mentioned as a potential suitor for Kelsey Plum. The Las Vegas Aces made the move to core Plum, but the star guard did not receive an extension yet. As a result, the Aces could look to move her via trade, and the Valkyries may have interest.
Satou Sabally is also expected to be traded from the Dallas Wings. Perhaps the Valkyries may look to acquire her. When healthy, Sabally is one of the best players in the entire WNBA.
Adding depth through trades and/or free agency will be important as well, especially amid Conde's injury.
Valkyries looking to make noise in first WNBA season
Golden State probably will not compete for a championship anytime soon. The Valkyries may be able to surprise some people around the WNBA world with a postseason run, though. If Golden State is able to add veteran help and a star or two before the 2025 season, they may end up playing a respectable brand of basketball.
Still, patience will be important as the Valkyries prepare for their debut WNBA season.