Jocytė’s Future With Champion Valkyries Uncertain

Jocyte, the fifth pick in the 2025 WNBA draft and the first player selected by the Valkyries, played sparingly in her first year in the league. Her averages were 3.1 points and 1.1 assists per 8.1 minutes across 16 regular-season appearances, then logged five minutes in the playoffs as Golden State won its first championship.

Speaking to media in Lithuania, Jocyte described mixed feelings about the season and uncertainty about returning to Golden State. She said she had not grasped the reason she had been excluded from the rotation and was frustrated by limited communication and explanations she found inconsistent. The interview was in Lithuanian, and its translated wording may not capture her comments precisely.

Valkyries owner Joe Lacob said he understood that Jocyte was disappointed not to play more, while noting the team had a deep roster. He said Golden State would like her back and expected her to earn more playing time in the future. Coach Natalie Nakase and general manager Ohemaa Nyanin had not publicly addressed the interview at the time of the account.

Jocyte is 20 and signed through 2028; the team holds an option for 2029. The Valkyries could bring her back, trade her or waive her; she could also sit out the 2027 season. Lithuania will host EuroBasket Women that year, and Jocyte was already expected to miss part of the WNBA season to play in the tournament.

Golden State must weigh her potential against her desire for a larger role as it builds on its title. Expansion drafts are scheduled ahead of the Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia teams joining the league in 2028, 2029 and 2030.