WNBA All-Star Gabby Williams Signs Valkyries Contract, Updated Roster for GS amid 2026 Free Agency

Veteran wing Gabby Williams agreed to a deal with the Golden State Valkyries on Sunday.

ESPN's Andraya Carter first reported the deal.

Williams made her first All-Star appearance and was a first-team All-Defensive honoree in 2025. She averaged 11.6 points and 2.3 steals in 44 appearances for the Seattle Storm.

Golden State remains a blank slate roster-wise. Williams is the Valkyries' first outside signing, and this follows their re-signing of guard Veronica Burton. At the time of writing, they have six players under contract for 2026:

• Veronica Burton, G
• Kate Martin G
• Iliana Rupert, C
• Janelle Salaün, F
• Gabby Williams F
• Cecilia Zandalasini, F

Williams said her farewell to the Storm on Saturday, adding to the team's offseason exodus. Nneka Ogwumike confirmed she's heading back to the Los Angeles Sparks, while Diggins is signing with the Chicago Sky.

Seattle appears to be entering a full-scale rebuild with Dominique Malonga and whoever the team takes with the No. 3 overall pick at the fore.

In terms of her new team, Williams' arrival points to ambitions of a second straight playoff appearance for the Valkyries. Having the 29-year-old settle on Golden State carries some symbolism as well.

"For a player of Gabby's caliber to choose us in just our second year... means everything," general manager Ohemaa Nyanin said. "She is world-class. One of the best defenders in the world, an WNBA All-Star, and someone who makes everyone around her better. Honestly, what excites me most is who she is as a person. Gabby has deep roots in the Bay Area, and she is coming home. The community is going to love her, and I think she is going to love it here."

Carter reported Saturday that Williams was mulling offers from the Las Vegas Aces and Minnesota Lynx. The Aces have won three of the last four Finals, while the Lynx were runners-up in 2024.

Williams' decision reflects how much the Valkyries' reputation has improved in a short amount of time. She's unlikely to be the only big name who lands in the Bay Area this spring.