Kate Martin praises former Valkyries player Chloe Bibby following her signing with the Indiana Fever, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the WNBA’s competitive environment. Bibby’s transition from Golden State to Indiana reflects the difficult roster decisions teams face amid league-wide limitations.
Roster Constraints Force Tough Decisions in WNBA Teams
The WNBA operates under a tight roster limit, compelling teams to make difficult choices that often involve waiving talented players. This business reality leaves some capable athletes without a spot, despite their potential contributions. The Golden State Valkyries have exemplified this struggle their inaugural season by frequently changing their lineup, releasing over a dozen players in attempts to optimize their squad.
Several of these former Valkyries have successfully found new teams, including guard Chloe Bibby, who now plays for the Indiana Fever. Despite the constant adjustments, the Valkyries maintain supportive connections with those who have moved on. This camaraderie became evident when Bibby shared photos on social media on August 11, prompting encouragement from ex-teammates like Kate Martin, who commented simply, “Baller.” Another former Valkyries guard, Kaitlin Chen, also expressed fondness by writing, “hi Chloe miss u.”
Chloe Bibby’s Impact with Indiana and Growing Role
Bibby was waived by Golden State on June 30 and has since contributed to the Fever in seven games, averaging 3.4 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 0.6 assists and steals per game. With key Indiana guard Caitlin Clark struggling with injuries this season, Bibby has stepped into a more prominent role, playing 21 minutes in a recent game against the Chicago Sky on August 9. Her increased playing time highlights both the Fever’s need for reliable backup talent and Bibby’s readiness to seize the opportunity.
Calls for Expanding WNBA Rosters Amid Player Movement
The difficulty teams face managing rosters with such limited spots has led to growing calls for expansion. Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase has been vocal in advocating for larger team rosters to better accommodate talented players. Nakase cited several former Valkyries, including Bibby, moving on to other teams as examples of the league retaining skilled athletes despite cuts.
Chloe [Bibby] got picked up by Indiana, Steph [Talbot] got picked up by New York, Mimi [Migna Touré] got picked up by Connecticut; am I proud parent that a lot of my players from training camp landed a job? Hell yeah,
—Natalie Nakase, Head Coach, Golden State Valkyries
I’ve said this almost every press conference really: we need more roster spots. These girls deserve roster spots.
—Natalie Nakase, Head Coach, Golden State Valkyries
Bibby Reflects Positively on Her Time with the Valkyries
Chloe Bibby has also expressed gratitude for her experience with Golden State, acknowledging the value of the opportunity. Her attitude demonstrates the perseverance required for athletes navigating the high-stakes environment of professional basketball.
[My] stint there at Golden State was a great time,â Bibby said. â⦠To be back in the W and have another crack is really exciting. Iâm grateful for this opportunity with the Fever, and just excited.
—Chloe Bibby, Indiana Fever Guard
Implications for the Future of the WNBA and Player Development
The constant roster turnover in the WNBA underscores the league’s competitive nature and the harsh realities faced by players on the fringe of rosters. Advocates like Nakase emphasize that expanding team rosters would help talented players like Bibby and others continue developing at the highest level. As the league evolves, the movement of players such as Bibby demonstrates resilience and adaptability, while also pointing to a need for structural changes to foster greater stability and opportunity for athletes.