Golden State Valkyries have secured a multiyear contract with All‑Star forward Gabby Williams on Sunday, bringing the French Army Knife back to the WNBA after a brief stint in the States. The 29‑year‑old, who led the league in steals last season, will add depth to a squad that finished third in the West. Her arrival boosts the team's defensive firepower and veteran presence.

Williams posted career highs in 2025, averaging 11.6 points and 4.2 assists per game while posting 2.3 steals per contest. She finished with 99 steals, just one shy of Teresa Weatherspoon's 100‑steal record set in 1998. Her defensive acumen earned her All‑Defensive First Team honors and a spot on the All‑Star Five.

The move signals the Valkyries’ intent to challenge for a playoff berth in their second season. Williams’ experience—from bronze in 2020 and silver in 2024 Paris Olympics to UConn championships—adds leadership to a roster chasing its first postseason appearance since 2015. With her on board, the team now boasts a defensive anchor capable of changing games.

Valkyries GM Ohemaa Nyanin praised Williams as “world‑class” and noted her ability to elevate teammates. The contract, though undisclosed, reflects the league’s growing trend of multi‑year deals for defensive stalwarts. Fans in Oakland now anticipate a tighter rotation and a surge in steals per game.