Valkyries Cut Amihere, Chen as WNBA Teams Finalize Rosters

UNCASVILLE, Conn. — As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, teams finalized their rosters by Thursday, necessitating tough decisions about player cuts. Among the most surprising moves was the waiving of former No. 6 overall pick Laeticia Amihere by the new expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries.

Amihere, who averaged 20 points in a preseason game against the Sparks, was released along with Kaitlyn Chen as the Valkyries opted for seasoned players over potential. While Amihere made a strong impression in a single preseason game, the team’s front office decided to go in a different direction, reflecting their desire for immediate impact.

In addition to Amihere and Chen, the Valkyries also cut Shyanne Sellers, a second-round pick who was recently signed after her release from the Atlanta Dream. The Dream had also waived Haley Jones, another high-profile cut, demonstrating the tough nature of roster selections in the league as teams must balance talent with salary cap constraints.

Head coaches across the league faced similar dilemmas. Many teams, including the Dream and the Connecticut Sun, opted for a mix of experienced veterans and promising rookies. Teams are only allowed to carry 12 players, which often leads to difficult decisions regarding cuts.

While Amihere’s cut is notable, the Dream’s decision to waive Jones is particularly striking given her high draft status in 2023. The team’s management expressed they are focused on players who can contribute right away, rather than sticking with draft investments that haven’t yet shown the expected growth.

The WNBA’s roster cuts come as teams prepare for what promises to be a competitive season, with both rookie talent and seasoned players vying for plays on the court. The first games of the season will tip-off on Friday, marking the start of a new chapter for many teams within the league.