Gabby Williams Shines as All-Star Amid Injury Concerns

Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams achieved a milestone when she was announced as a starter for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game. The game will take place in Chicago on July 25. This marks her first time being selected as an All-Star starter.

Williams, who is 29 years old, raised doubts about her participation in the All-Star Game after leaving the Valkyries’ win over Toronto Tempo due to a back contusion on Wednesday, July 8. The team’s spokesperson, Kenzo Fukuda, confirmed she would not return for the remainder of the game.

Back injuries can be unpredictable, as seen with Caitlin Clark’s struggles this season. Despite this, Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase downplayed any severe issues, stating, “I actually did not check with medical, but she was smiling, so that’s all I can say,” according to Madisyn Cunningham.

Williams leads the Valkyries with an average of 15.3 points per game and has been instrumental in the team’s success. The Valkyries have become the hottest team in the WNBA, winning six consecutive games, and currently hold a 16-7 record.

Only the Valkyries and Minnesota Lynx, who stand at 16-6, have reached 16 wins this season. They are closely followed by the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, with a 15-6 record.

In their inaugural season last year, the Valkyries stunned the WNBA. They became the first team to reach the playoffs in their debut season, setting a new WNBA record. The current season highlights their potential as title contenders this fall.