The Golden State Valkyries envisioned Gabby Williams becoming the centerpiece of their franchise when they signed the versatile forward during the offseason. Less than a year later, that decision has already produced one of the biggest milestones in the organization’s young history, as Williams has been voted a starter for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game.
The selection represents another major achievement for both Williams and the expansion franchise. It is her second consecutive All-Star appearance after earning reserve honors last season with the Seattle Storm, but this marks the first time she has been chosen as a starter by fans, players, and media members.
Williams’ accomplishment also carries historic significance for Golden State. She becomes the first player in franchise history to earn an All-Star starting nod and only the second Valkyries player ever selected to the league’s annual showcase, following teammate Kayla Thornton, who was named an All-Star reserve during the club’s inaugural campaign.
The recognition reflects both Williams’ individual excellence and the Valkyries’ rapid rise as one of the WNBA’s most competitive teams. Through the first half of the season, the veteran forward has established herself as one of the league’s premier two-way players while helping Golden State exceed expectations.
1. Williams Earns Recognition for Outstanding Season
The WNBA’s All-Star starters were determined through a combined voting process involving fans, current players, and a panel of media members. Fans accounted for 50 percent of the final vote, while players and media each contributed 25 percent, creating a balanced evaluation of the league’s top performers.
Williams stood out among that talented group thanks to her outstanding all-around play. She has become the offensive leader for the Valkyries while continuing to make a significant impact on the defensive end of the floor.
This season, Williams is averaging a career-high 15.8 points per game while also posting a personal best by shooting 35.3 percent from three-point range. Her improved perimeter shooting has made her an even more difficult player for opposing defenses to contain.
She has also remained one of the league’s top defenders, leading Golden State with 1.5 steals per game. That combination of scoring and defensive production places her among a select group of WNBA players averaging at least 15 points and 1.5 steals per contest this season.
2. Golden State’s Investment Pays Off
Williams’ arrival has transformed the Valkyries on both ends of the court. Her versatility has allowed Golden State to compete with the league’s best teams, contributing significantly to the franchise’s impressive 13-7 start and one of the WNBA’s top records.
Whether creating offense as the team’s leading scorer or defending an opponent’s top perimeter threat, Williams has consistently delivered in every area the organization envisioned when it signed her to a maximum contract during free agency.
Head coach Natalie Nakase has repeatedly praised Williams’ influence on the team, calling her one of the world’s best players. Nakase also highlighted the forward’s leadership qualities, describing her as an exceptionally humble star whose willingness to credit teammates strengthens the culture inside the locker room.
The combination of elite production and unselfish leadership has helped establish the identity Golden State hoped to build during its early years. Williams’ success has become a central reason why the Valkyries have emerged as legitimate contenders much sooner than many expected.
3. Shared Vision Continues to Drive Success
Williams’ All-Star selection represents more than individual recognition. It also validates the partnership formed between player and franchise when both committed to building something meaningful during the offseason.
Golden State sought a proven star capable of leading an expansion team toward long-term success, while Williams wanted an organization where she could help establish a lasting culture. Both sides believed their goals aligned, making the decision an easy one despite other opportunities that may have existed.
During training camp, Williams explained that the Valkyries were the only team she was willing to commit to on a three-year contract. She cited her confidence in the organization’s long-term vision and its commitment to sustainable success as key reasons behind her decision.
That confidence has already begun producing results. With Williams leading the way, the Valkyries have positioned themselves among the league’s strongest teams, and her historic All-Star starting selection serves as another milestone in what appears to be a promising future for both the player and the franchise.