The Golden State Valkyries have been making a buzz in the league ever since the franchise was announced two years back. The expansion team selected some key players in their first selections. They later added draft picks to add a young core. Speciality of the side? They have more foreign players, keeping the opposition and even fans guessing over the formation and playing style of the side. Cecilia Zandalasini is one such foreign player hailing from Italy.

With more than a decade of experience in competitive games and an eye for basketball from the range, Cecilia Zandalasini was their key addition in December 2024. Though she played in the WNBA with the Lynx for two seasons, she was more active in EuroBasketball. In 2024, she returned to the league, playing for Lynx once again. Representing Lynx in all 40 games, she averaged 4.6 points in 12 minutes of gameplay.

“Diana Taurasi refers to her as ‘that effing Italian,’” Lynx head coach and president of basketball operations Cheryl Reeve said. “[From] years ago, playing overseas. I didn’t have the heart to tell her at that time that we had signed her and that she was coming over. ‘That effing Italian’ was really good tonight.” Even though her numbers might not look flashy, it was her efficiency that mattered most for the championship-aspiring side. She shot above 44% beyond the arc and ranked sixth best.

The star was selected in the Expansion Draft, which granted the Valkyries her rights. While she was later added to the squad, she has yet to play a game for the side. Missed the first game due to injury. And as reported by ESPN, she will be out of the fixture against the Mystics also.

Check out the complete injury list of the Golden State Valkyries below.

Golden State Valkyries Injury Report

Cecilia Zandalasini: Out due to foot injury

Stephanie Talbit: Day-to-day following the quadriceps issue

Golden State Valkyries Starting Five Against Washington Mystics

While there is no specific history to be found between the Washington Mystics and Golden State Valkyries, the latter being the expansion team, the Washington side is in great form, winning both of their opening matches so far. The Valkyries, on the other hand, were beaten in their only game played in the 2025 WNBA season. Yet there were flashes of brilliance from a few players, keeping the fans on the edge of their seats.

Depending on the availability of players, HC Natalie Nakase is expected to field the following starting five for the game against the Washington Mystics: Temi Fagbenle, Kayla Thornton, Kate Martin, Veronica Burton, and Tiffany Hayes. The Golden State Valkyries vs Washington Mystics game will be played at Chase Center. The exciting match will start at 7:00 PM ET.