In a stunning and unexpected turn, the Golden State Valkyries have released Shyanne Sellers—just weeks after selecting the gifted guard with the 17th pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The move has jolted the women’s basketball world, prompting questions regarding team strategy, treatment of rookies, and what the future holds for one of the draft’s brightest stars.
A Talented Prospect Dropped Too Soon?
Shyanne Sellers arrived on the WNBA stage with a decorated college career that showcased her versatility, leadership, and high basketball IQ. The University of Maryland alumna averaged 14.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game in her final year of college and shot more than 40% from outside the arc. She was ranked as one of the top-10 draft picks by many experts, with ESPN pegging her as high as No. 6.
However, concerns over a knee injury from her final college season caused her draft stock to slide slightly. Still, Sellers passed her physicals and looked ready to compete. Yet, despite her potential, she didn’t make it past the Valkyries’ initial training camp cuts.
Coach’s Decision: Fit Over Talent?
Said head coach Natalie Nakase, the move was not due to health or capacity but team composition and “overall fit.” Even though teams cut their rosters down to 12 players in advance of opening night, getting rid of first-year talent in the form of Sellers is considered suspect, much less for an expansion team building its identity, such as Golden State.
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Strategically, the Valkyries could have gone with more veteran guards or players more aligned with their current system. But on the part of fans and observers, cutting short a high-ceiling rookie and not providing her quality minutes in scrimmages appears to be a waste.
Contract Cut Short
Sellers signed a three-year rookie contract for $217,640, a base salary of $69,267 in 2025, but, like most WNBA rookie contracts, it was non-guaranteed. By waiving her prior to the final roster cut, Golden State is no longer contractually bound to pay that money—except if another team signs her off waivers within 48 hours.
What’s Next for Shyanne Sellers?
Sellers’ release isn’t a dead end—it could very well mark the start of a new chapter in her professional journey. A number of WNBA franchises—such as the Phoenix Mercury, Washington Mystics, and Seattle Storm—may be helped by her versatility, scoring punch, and defensive intensity. With rosters squeezing tight, she may also draw interest as a mid-season signee when injuries or vacancies inevitably arise.
Additionally, Sellers possesses excellent off-court appeal. Off the court, Sellers comes from basketball royalty as the daughter of former NBA player Brad Sellers. She recently made headlines off the hardwood too, joyfully announcing her engagement to her former Maryland teammate, Faith Masonius, proudly embracing her identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. She is a great marketable figure, a solid leader, and an excellent performer on the court, making her a valuable member of any team could be fortunate enough to have.
SportSnip Analysis: Was This a Mistake
At SportSnip, we think the Valkyries might have moved too fast. In a first-year season, building rookies should be a foundation approach, not a weakness. Shyanne Sellers not only has athleticism but also the type of character and fan attachment that expansion teams require.
Letting her go signals a troubling precedent—not just for fans, but for aspiring rookies who view the WNBA as a place to grow and prove themselves.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not this step turns into a cautionary tale or a turning point for Shyanne Sellers’ career is yet to be known. One thing is certain, though: the world of basketball has not seen the last of her—far from it. Look for her name to crop up soon—on a new team, with fresh zeal, and something to prove.