In a shocking decision just days ahead of the WNBA’s 2025 regular season tip-off, the Golden State Valkyries waived Kaitlyn Chen, one of the most hyped prospects from this year’s NCAA crop. Chen, who was recently drafted 30th overall and became the first Taiwanese-American to play in a WNBA preseason game, is now a free agent again.
A Shocking Roster Cut from the Valkyries
Chen’s release was one of the Valkyries’ last 12-player roster trimmings. She was also joined by several other prominent players, including Laeticia Amihere and Chloe Bibby, as the team completed their roster for their first WNBA season.
As disappointing as it was, Chen’s short stint with the Valkyries marked a milestone event. She not only played, but she paved the way, breaking barriers for many in the Asian-American and Taiwanese communities.
From Ivy League to NCAA Champion
Kaitlyn Chen’s path to the WNBA was not your typical one. Having begun her college career at Princeton, she broke headlines with her keen basketball acumen and playmaking skills. But it was when she transferred to UConn — one of the top women’s college programs in the nation — that catapulted her career to new heights.
In her last year of eligibility, Chen played a role in leading UConn to their 12th NCAA National Championship, and she was a key player as well as a fan favorite. Her world-class court vision, rapid decision-making, and composure under pressure stood out on a team loaded with stars.
A History-Making Moment
Even though her professional entrance was made during a preseason game, it was historic. Kaitlyn Chen was the first Taiwanese player ever to participate in a WNBA game, although unofficially. The moment was widely celebrated by Asian-American news outlets and welcomed by basketball enthusiasts globally.
What Went Wrong?
From a strictly performance-oriented perspective, Chen was fighting an uphill battle. WNBA franchises have only 12 roster spots — a fraction of NBA teams — and available space is competitive.
Even if she possessed tremendous talent, her height and shorter adjustment time to WNBA-level tempo and physical play might have played a part in the Valkyries’ decision. And third-round draft picks usually face a fighting chance to make the last-cut roster.
What’s Next for Kaitlyn Chen?
Although her rookie contract — valued at $204,253 for three years — is now voided, Chen can be selected by another team within the next 48 hours. Her combination of high basketball IQ, championship pedigree, and crowd appeal make her an interesting free agent.
SportSnip Analysis: Don’t count Kaitlyn Chen out just yet. With her sterling college resume and appeal as a pioneer, it would not be surprising to find another WNBA team taking a flyer on her — or her venturing abroad where she can gain valuable minutes and development.
Why This Matters
Kaitlyn Chen’s narrative is larger than basketball. She’s a figure of representation, grit, and boundary-pushing. Even if her WNBA journey takes a detour, she’s already made history — and there’s every indication she’ll keep doing so, whether on or off the court.