Photo Credit: Lindsey Wasson
Gabby Williams has signed a multiyear contract with the Golden State Valkyries, the team confirmed on Sunday, marking a major addition to its roster.
The Valkyries are also set to bring back Kaila Charles on a two-year deal, according to reports. Both signings strengthen the team as it continues to build in its early years.
Williams arrives after an impressive 2025 season with the Seattle Storm, where she played a crucial role in helping the team secure a playoff spot. Known for her versatility, she earned the nickname “French Army Knife” due to her ability to contribute across multiple aspects of the game. The forward made her first All-Star appearance and was named to the All-Defensive first team.
She recorded career highs last season, averaging 11.6 points and 4.2 assists per game. Williams also led the league in steals with an average
of 2.3 per game, finishing with 99 total steals, just one short of matching the long-standing single-season record set by Teresa Weatherspoon in 1998.
Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin praised the signing, describing Williams as a world-class talent and one of the top defenders in the
game. She added that Williams’ presence will elevate those around her and signals confidence in the team’s direction.
Charles, 28, joined the Valkyries during the 2025 season after being released by the Dallas Wings. She appeared in 18 games and averaged 7.4 points and 4.5 rebounds, providing solid depth.
Williams began her WNBA career after being selected fourth overall in the 2018 draft by the Chicago Sky. She later moved to the Los Angeles Sparks before joining Seattle in 2022. She signed a one-year deal with the Storm ahead of the 2025 season.
Internationally, Williams has also enjoyed success, winning a silver medal with France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was named to the All-Star Five. She previously earned a bronze medal in 2020 and was part of championship-winning teams during her college career with UConn.
In a separate move, Kelsey Plum is returning to the Los Angeles Sparks on a one-year deal valued at $999,999. The four-time All-Star accepted a lower salary than the maximum available to give the team greater flexibility in building a competitive roster.
Plum averaged 19.5 points and 5.7 assists last season and remains a central figure in the Sparks’ efforts to return to playoff contention.
