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Exciting Kaitlyn Chen News Features Paige Bueckers Twist

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 9:26 PM ET

Kaitlyn Chen is finally getting her shot at the WNBA, and it couldn't come at a better time for her.

On Sunday, the Golden State Valkyries signed Chen to a contract amid their need for more players. It comes after a number of their players — such as Janelle Salaun, Julie Vanloo, Cecilia Zandalasini and Temi Fagbenle — took a temporary leave to join their respective nations for EuroBasket 2025.

According to the Valkyries, the 23-year-old guard will be immediately available to play when they return to action on Tuesday.

What many fans quickly noticed about the announcement, however, was the team that the Valkyries will be facing in Chen's first game: the Dallas Wings.

The Wings have Paige Bueckers, whom they drafted No. 1 overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The star guard was also teammates with Chen with the UConn Huskies, and they both won the national championship together this past college basketball season.

With that said, fans couldn't help but get excited about Chen's signing and the timing of her first game with the Valkyries.

Roster Update: The Golden State Valkyries have signed guard Kaitlyn Chen.

Chen will join the team immediately and be available against Dallas on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/9OvuEGFHhF
— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) June 15, 2025

"Chen vs Paige, going to be so fun to watch," a commenter wrote. Another excited supporter said, "[Expletive] Kaitlyn!!! And we get our K&P reunion."

"Against Dallas. Lol," a follower noted, clearly seeing the Chen-Bueckers connection.

A fan remarked, "Nat thinks she’s slick. She wants her to guard Paige."

"Yay!! Her and Paige get to reunite.. so happy for her and the Valks," a social media user shared.

A sixth poster gushed, "JUST IN TIME FOR A UCONN REUNION."

It remains to be seen how much playing time Kaitlyn Chen will get and if she will have the chance to guard Paige Bueckers. One thing is certain, though: the Wings-Valkyries showdown is a must-watch with its UConn storyline.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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