Kayla Thornton Returns to New York after 2024 WNBA Championship with Valkyries

Kayla Thornton, formerly a key bench player for the New York Liberty and a 2024 WNBA champion, made an emotional return to Barclays Center as a member of the Golden State Valkyries, who selected her in the recent expansion draft. Before the Liberty's 95-67 victory over the Valkyries, Thornton was honored with a championship ring and heartfelt receptions from former teammates and staff, highlighting the deep bonds she formed during her two seasons in New York. Despite the bittersweet nature of her homecoming, Thornton expressed gratitude and affection for New York, describing it as holding a "special place" in her heart. Transitioning from a defensive specialist in New York to a more offensively tasked veteran leader in Golden State, she is adjusting to new roles and responsibilities under head coach Natalie Nakase. The expansion draft move was personally challenging for Thornton, especially learning of it while overseas, but she embraces her new position and the chance to lead a nascent franchise. Overall, Thornton's return underscored both her significant impact on the Liberty's championship run and the emotional ties that endure despite team changes.