The Golden State Valkyries have made a significant move in bolstering their roster by officially signing guards Kaitlyn Chen and Chloe Bibby following their impressive performances during the preseason. The addition of these two dynamic players signals the Valkyries’ commitment to building a competitive and versatile squad as they prepare for their inaugural season in the WNBA. Both Chen and Bibby showcased their skills during the preseason, demonstrating why they were standout candidates for the team’s final roster spots.
Kaitlyn Chen, a former standout at Princeton University, brings a wealth of talent and leadership to the Valkyries. Known for her elite playmaking ability, scoring touch, and defensive tenacity, Chen was a driving force for the Tigers during her collegiate career. Her ability to control the tempo of the game, create opportunities for her teammates, and score in clutch moments made her one of the most exciting guards in the Ivy League. During the Valkyries’ preseason games, Chen displayed her adaptability to the professional level, proving she can compete against top-tier WNBA talent. Her quickness, basketball IQ, and relentless work ethic make her a valuable addition to the Valkyries’ backcourt.
Chloe Bibby, a versatile wing with international experience, also earned her spot on the Valkyries’ roster after a strong preseason showing. The Australian-born forward previously played for Maryland and Mississippi State in the NCAA before taking her talents overseas, where she honed her skills in Europe’s competitive leagues. Bibby’s combination of size, shooting, and defensive versatility makes her an ideal fit for the Valkyries’ system. During the preseason, she showcased her ability to stretch the floor with her three-point shooting while also contributing as a rebounder and secondary playmaker. Her experience playing in high-pressure environments, both in college and abroad, gives her an edge as she transitions to the WNBA.
The signings of Chen and Bibby highlight the Valkyries’ strategic approach to roster construction. Rather than relying solely on established stars, the franchise has placed an emphasis on identifying high-upside players who can grow within their system. Both Chen and Bibby embody the type of hardworking, team-first mentality that the Valkyries’ coaching staff values. Their ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game—whether it be scoring, defense, or playmaking—gives the team much-needed depth as they navigate the challenges of their debut season.
For Kaitlyn Chen, making a WNBA roster is the culmination of years of dedication to the game. After a stellar career at Princeton, where she earned All-Ivy League honors and led her team to multiple conference championships, Chen faced the daunting task of proving herself against more highly touted prospects. However, her performances in training camp and preseason games silenced any doubts about her ability to compete at the professional level. Her quick first step, crafty finishing around the rim, and ability to read defenses make her a constant threat on the court. The Valkyries’ coaching staff has praised her work ethic and willingness to learn, traits that will serve her well as she adjusts to the speed and physicality of the WNBA.
Chloe Bibby’s journey to the Valkyries has been equally impressive. After a successful college career that included deep NCAA Tournament runs with Mississippi State, Bibby took her talents to Europe, where she continued to refine her game. Her time overseas allowed her to develop a more well-rounded skill set, particularly as a shooter and defender. In the Valkyries’ preseason contests, Bibby’s ability to knock down perimeter shots and switch defensively on multiple positions stood out. Her experience playing in different systems has made her adaptable, a quality that will be crucial as the Valkyries establish their identity as a new franchise.
The Valkyries’ decision to sign Chen and Bibby also speaks to the evolving landscape of the WNBA. With the league expanding and talent pools deepening, teams are increasingly looking beyond just the top draft picks to find contributors. Undrafted players and those who have taken unconventional paths to the league are proving that hard work and perseverance can lead to opportunities. Both Chen and Bibby represent the next wave of WNBA players who may not have been household names coming out of college but have the potential to carve out meaningful roles in the league.
For the Valkyries, integrating these two players into their rotation will be key to their early success. Head coach and general management have emphasized a fast-paced, unselfish style of play, and both Chen and Bibby fit seamlessly into that philosophy. Chen’s ability to push the ball in transition and make smart decisions under pressure will be an asset, while Bibby’s floor-spacing and defensive versatility will allow the Valkyries to experiment with different lineup combinations.
Fans of the Valkyries have reason to be excited about these signings. Chen and Bibby bring energy, skill, and a hunger to prove themselves—qualities that often define successful expansion teams. While the Valkyries will undoubtedly face growing pains in their first season, the addition of under-the-radar talents like Chen and Bibby could pay dividends in the long run. Both players have the potential to develop into key pieces for the franchise as it looks to establish itself as a contender in the coming years.
Beyond their on-court contributions, Chen and Bibby also bring intangible qualities that will help shape the Valkyries’ culture. Their humility, professionalism, and team-first attitudes align with the values the organization is looking to instill. In a league where chemistry and cohesion often separate good teams from great ones, having players who buy into the system and support their teammates is invaluable.
As the Valkyries prepare for their regular-season debut, the signings of Kaitlyn Chen and Chloe Bibby serve as a reminder that success in the WNBA isn’t just about star power—it’s about finding the right pieces to build a complete team. Both players have overcome challenges to earn their spots, and their journeys will inspire others who aspire to reach the highest levels of women’s basketball.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but with emerging talents like Chen and Bibby in the fold, the Golden State Valkyries have taken another step toward building a foundation for sustained success. Fans will be watching closely as these two newcomers seize their opportunities and help write the first chapter in Valkyries history.
