Valkyries Star Veronica Burton: "Joy" Fuels Playoff Run

Veronica Burton has one word for her approach to the WNBA playoffs: joy.

The 26-year-old point guard is leading the Golden State Valkyries through their second consecutive postseason, proving that loving what you do can fuel championship-level performance. Burton leads the team in assists and ranks among their top scorers, but she's quick to share credit with her teammates.

"The beautiful thing about assists is that I can't get them unless my teammate makes the shot," she says, laughing. "My teammates have been incredible."

The Valkyries made history last season as the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their inaugural year. Now they're back, entering as the No. 2 seed and playing some of their best basketball yet.

After being named the league's Most Improved Player in 2025, all eyes turned to Burton this season. Instead of crumbling under pressure, she emerged as a leader. In their playoff opener, the Valkyries crushed the Dallas Wings 104-80, tying a franchise record with 18 three-pointers. Burton contributed 10 points and five assists.

"We're just trying to be our best selves heading into playoffs," she says. "We're approaching it in a very serious way, but also a confident way that reflects all the work we've been putting in."

The team's connection with fans has exploded beyond anyone's expectations. Playing at San Francisco's Chase Center (nicknamed "Ballhalla"), the Valkyries have sold out 46 consecutive games. Their most recent playoff game drew 18,064 fans in a sea of violet.

For Burton, seeing fans wear her number 22 jersey never gets old. "I grew up loving sports, but for the longest time, it was male athletes," she says. "Those were the jerseys that you see. But now it's such a shift."

Why This Inspires

Burton's story shows what happens when talent meets gratitude. She credits her teammates for every assist, her fans for their energy, and her partnership with Athleta for empowering women athletes. She's not just playing for wins—she's playing for the little girls who finally have jerseys they can see themselves in.

The Valkyries' success proves that expansion teams can compete at the highest level from day one. Their 46 consecutive sellouts show that when women's sports gets the support it deserves, fans show up.

No matter how far the Valkyries go this postseason, Burton says she's already won what matters most: "The impact that we've had off the court and the level of joy we've been able to play with is the thing I'm most proud of."