Golden State Valkyries owner Joe Lacob has openly discussed the challenges his team faces as a new expansion franchise in the WNBA. He acknowledged that attracting free agents is particularly difficult for the Valkyries, as they are still establishing their identity and reputation in the league.
Lacob has candidly addressed the challenges his team faces as a new expansion franchise in the WNBA. With the Valkyries being a startup, attracting free agents has proven to be particularly difficult. He emphasized that the team is starting from scratch, lacking established players and assets that typically draw top talent to a franchise.
The Valkyries have made efforts to engage with potential free agents, including high-profile players like Kelsey Plum and Brionna Jones, but have yet to secure any major signings. Lacob noted that the team’s status as the first expansion team since 2008 adds to the difficulty of building a competitive roster. The Valkyries currently hold the fifth pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, which further complicates their ability to make significant moves in free agency.
To address these challenges, the Valkyries are focusing on building a strong foundation and creating a competitive environment that will appeal to players in the future. The organization is also exploring international talent to help fill out their roster as they work toward their goal of becoming a championship contender within five years.
Lacob addressed the reality of Golden State being an expansion team in the league. This can be seen in an article written by Kendra Andrews for ESPN.
“We have unlimited resources to make this the best place in the world, but I think it is challenging,” Valkyries owner Joe Lacob said Wednesday. “We are a startup. We have no players that we are starting with, so I think that in itself, not to mention we’re the first expansion team since 2008, it is challenging.”
As the Valkyries continue to navigate the complexities of being a new team, Lacob remains optimistic about their long-term prospects. He believes that with strategic planning and the right approach, the Valkyries can eventually attract the talent needed to succeed in the league.
Golden State faces significant hurdles as they attempt to establish themselves in the WNBA. However, with a clear vision and commitment to building a competitive team, they hope to overcome these challenges and make their mark in the league.
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