WNBA players have delivered a strong message following their release from the Golden State Valkyries, as highlighted in a feature on Athlon Sports. The WNBA scene has shifted recently with the return of several international athletes. During the season, the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 served as a qualifying tournament for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and welcomed WNBA talents.
One notable player temporarily stepping away from the WNBA was Julie Vanloo, a guard formerly with the Golden State Valkyries. She returned to play in her home country of Belgium, where she helped secure a consecutive EuroBasket championship. Vanloo was in her first season with the Valkyries before taking her temporary leave. Upon returning to the U.S., she was released by Golden State as she prepared for the EuroBasket tournament.
Soon after, the Los Angeles Sparks picked up Vanloo off the waiver wire. She expressed her astonishment and gratitude for the support during the whirlwind of events, promising to share a detailed video recounting her experience over the intense 48 hours. In her debut game for the Sparks, Vanloo played for only two minutes while adapting to the new team, which subsequently lost to the New York Liberty, 89-79.
Before joining the Sparks, Vanloo averaged 4.6 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game with the Valkyries. She now has another chance to establish her role with the Sparks in an upcoming game against the Indiana Fever scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m.
Fan Take: This update is significant for WNBA fans as it highlights the fluidity and international scope of the league, showcasing how players balance professional opportunities in both domestic and global competitions. Vanloo’s journey underscores the resilience and adaptability required in women’s professional basketball, signaling exciting developments for the sport’s growth and talent exchange worldwide.
