Gabby Williams, a forward for the Golden State Valkyries, earned her second All-Star honor as she was named a starter for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game in Chicago on July 25. This achievement marks the first time Williams has been voted to start in an All-Star game throughout her career.
Concerns arose about Williams’ availability for the All-Star Game after she left the Valkyries’ victory over the Toronto Tempo on July 8. The team reported that Williams was sidelined for the remainder of the game due to a back contusion, as mentioned by Kenzo Fukuda.
Back injuries can be unpredictable, exemplified by Caitlin Clark’s struggles this season. However, Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase eased worries about any prolonged issues. “I actually did not check with medical, but she was smiling, so that’s all I can say,” Nakase stated, according to Madisyn Cunningham.
Williams leads the Valkyries this season with an average of 15.3 points per game. Her performances have been pivotal in the Valkyries’ rise as a formidable team in the WNBA. With the victory over Toronto, Golden State has secured six consecutive wins, achieving a 16-7 record. The Valkyries and the Minnesota Lynx, with a 16-6 record, are the only teams to reach 16 wins so far this season, trailed by the Las Vegas Aces, the defending champions, at 15-6.
The Valkyries made a remarkable entry into the WNBA during their inaugural season by becoming the first team to reach the playoffs in their debut year and setting a new WNBA record. Their performance this season solidifies their status as serious contenders for the title come fall.
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