WNBA Player Kaitlyn Chen Says Waiver Was “Blessing in Disguise”

Golden State Valkyries guard Kaitlyn Chen revealed today that being waived by the team earlier this year ultimately allowed her to attend a significant personal event and return to the WNBA stronger.

Chen was drafted by the Valkyries in the third round of the 2025 WNBA Draft and participated in training camp, even appearing in two preseason games. However, on May 14, the team announced her release, a decision that drew criticism, including comments from Phoenix Mercury’s Satou Sabally who stated Chen “wasn’t good enough yet.” Rather than becoming discouraged, Chen signed with the 3XBA, a 3×3 basketball league, and subsequently received a call back from the Valkyries, re-signing with the team and making her regular-season debut on June 22 against the Connecticut Sun, where she scored five points in 21 minutes.

In a recent interview on former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd’s podcast, “Fudd Around and Find Out,” Chen explained that the timing of the waiver worked out perfectly with Princeton University’s annual alumni reunion. “Princeton does reunions every year, and it’s the highlight of my year,” Chen shared. “I was a little bummed that I might not be able to go if I were to make a team… I was like, ‘You know what? I’ll go to training camp, give it my all, and if I don’t, I get to go to reunions.’ And so, I got waived, and I was able to go to the reunion, had a blast, and got called back. Everything, honestly, worked out really well.” This experience highlights the challenges athletes face balancing professional commitments with personal life. Chen also told Princeton Alumni Weekly that being home after the waiver allowed her to recover after UConn’s run in March Madness.

Chen’s story demonstrates the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the importance of adaptability. The Valkyries have not commented on Chen’s recent statements, but team officials indicated they are pleased with her performance since rejoining the roster.