Valkyries Sign Veronica Burton to Multiyear Deal

WNBA's Most Improved Player last season re-signs with expansion franchise

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:26pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a WNBA basketball game in motion, with players and the court broken down into overlapping planes of vibrant blue, yellow, and red, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.The Valkyries' re-signing of Veronica Burton, the WNBA's Most Improved Player, signals the franchise's commitment to building a winning culture through continuity and character.Dallas Today

The Golden State Valkyries have re-signed Veronica Burton, the WNBA's Most Improved Player last season, to a multiyear contract. Burton, 25, posted career highs in several statistical categories while starting all 44 games for the expansion franchise in their inaugural season.

Why it matters

Retaining key players is crucial for expansion franchises like the Valkyries to build a competitive roster and establish a winning culture. Burton's leadership and production were instrumental to the team's success in their first year, and her continued presence will be vital as the franchise looks to build on that foundation.

The details

In her breakout 2025 season, Burton averaged 11.9 points, 6.0 assists, 4.4 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. She received 68 of 72 votes to win the WNBA's Most Improved Player award. Prior to joining the Valkyries, Burton had started just 20 games in her first three WNBA seasons with the Dallas Wings and Connecticut Sun.

  • Veronica Burton re-signed with the Valkyries on April 11, 2026.

The players

Veronica Burton

A 25-year-old point guard who was named the WNBA's Most Improved Player in 2025 after a breakout season with the expansion Golden State Valkyries.

Ohemaa Nyanin

The general manager of the Golden State Valkyries, who praised Burton's leadership and production as instrumental to the team's success in their inaugural season.

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What they’re saying

“Veronica was the backbone of this team in our inaugural season. She started every single game, led us in nearly every statistical category, and was the connective tissue between our locker room and our coaching staff.”

— Ohemaa Nyanin, Valkyries General Manager

What’s next

The Valkyries will look to build on their successful inaugural season with Burton leading the way. The team's focus will be on continuing to develop chemistry and cohesion as they aim to make the playoffs in their second year of existence.

The takeaway

Retaining young, talented players like Veronica Burton is crucial for expansion franchises in the WNBA. Her breakout season and leadership were instrumental to the Valkyries' success, and her continued presence will be vital as the team looks to build a winning culture and compete for a playoff spot.