Sowah’s Spark Earns Valkyries Spot as Suárez Saga Shifts to Phoenix

The Golden State Valkyries are beginning to bring clarity to their roster construction as the 2026 WNBA season approaches, particularly around the newly created developmental contract structure introduced under the latest collective bargaining agreement. With final roster decisions nearing, the franchise has started shaping its depth chart following a competitive training camp.

One of the earliest decisions involved Australian guard Miela Sowah, whose strong preseason performance and energy-filled style earned her a developmental spot with the team. Her return comes after initially being waived during final roster cuts over the weekend.

Sowah’s emergence has been one of the more notable early storylines for the expansion-influenced roster, especially after a standout preseason showing against the Seattle Storm. That performance helped solidify internal confidence in her ability to contribute in a limited but impactful role.

At the same time, the Valkyries are also navigating the conclusion of a more complicated roster situation involving 2026 draft pick Marta Suárez, whose departure to another franchise has shifted expectations around Golden State’s long-term return on draft-day moves.

1. Sowah’s Preseason Breakthrough

Sowah’s path back onto the Valkyries roster was built on a strong preseason performance that showcased her scoring ability and confidence under pressure. In Golden State’s lone exhibition game against the Seattle Storm, she delivered a notable offensive burst in the fourth quarter. During that stretch, she hit four consecutive three-pointers, energizing the crowd and shifting momentum late in the game. She finished the contest with 14 points on efficient 5-of-6 shooting, reinforcing her value as an offensive spark. Although she was initially waived as part of final training camp cuts, Sowah cleared waivers and remained in the organization’s plans. The decision to bring her back reflects mutual interest between player and franchise in continuing the relationship under the developmental contract structure. The new CBA provisions allow teams to retain emerging players more flexibly, and Golden State has taken advantage of that system to maintain depth while evaluating long-term roster fit.

2. Coaching Staff Cites Energy And Fit

Head coach Natalie Nakase highlighted Sowah’s intangibles when discussing the decision to bring her back into the fold. She emphasized the guard’s energy, professionalism, and willingness to embrace her role within the team structure. Nakase pointed to Sowah’s consistent effort in practice as a key factor, noting her positive presence and readiness to contribute in any capacity. The coaching staff valued her adaptability and willingness to fit into the team’s system-oriented approach. Her ability to provide instant offense also stood out, particularly given her confidence in high-pressure situations. The preseason performance against Seattle served as a clear example of her ability to step up in key moments. Under the developmental contract, Sowah will be eligible to appear in up to 12 games during the season, receiving prorated pay per appearance along with weekly stipends and benefits, making her role both flexible and structured within the roster framework.

3. Suárez Departure Raises Draft Strategy Questions

While Sowah’s return has been a positive development, it has been accompanied by the departure of Marta Suárez, a 2026 first-round selection acquired in a draft-night trade with the Seattle Storm. Her exit has introduced questions about the Valkyries’ broader roster strategy. Initially, there was speculation that Golden State might retain Suárez through a developmental contract after waiving her, preserving the investment made in selecting her at No. 16 overall. However, she ultimately moved on to sign with the Phoenix Mercury. Reports indicated that once Suárez cleared waivers, the Valkyries did not firmly commit to re-signing her, leaving her future open. That uncertainty allowed another team to secure her services. Team executives had previously noted that multiple players were being considered for the limited developmental spots, and coaching staff echoed that sentiment, emphasizing broad evaluation rather than guaranteed retention. With Suárez now in Phoenix, the return on Golden State’s draft-day maneuvering has shifted significantly, leaving the franchise with a second-round pick in 2028 and added salary flexibility as the primary assets from the transaction. How that decision ultimately grades out will depend on future roster performance and development outcomes.