The Missing Piece: Why Napheesa Collier Could Elevate the Valkyries to Contender Status
The WNBA is a league where star power often dictates destiny. Teams with multiple All-Stars dominate headlines and championships, while those without are left scrambling for relevance. The Valkyries, a franchise still in its infancy, find themselves at a fascinating crossroads. They’ve built a solid foundation—a stingy defense, a scrappy identity, and a playoff appearance in just their second season. But as their recent losses to the Aces and Lynx have shown, they’re missing that it factor—a bona fide superstar who can take over games when it matters most.
Personally, I think the Valkyries’ situation is a perfect case study in the delicate balance between team chemistry and individual brilliance. They’ve done an admirable job assembling a roster of talented, hard-working players. Gabby Williams, for instance, is a fantastic addition who embodies the team’s grit. But in a league where the Aces boast a trio of A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray, the Valkyries need more than just grit. They need a player who can match that star power, and Napheesa Collier fits that bill perfectly.
The Valkyries’ Achilles’ Heel: The Lack of a Go-To Star
What makes this particularly fascinating is how close the Valkyries have come to toppling the league’s elite. Against the Aces, they erased a 12-point deficit and took the lead with under a minute left. Against the Lynx, they had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds. In both cases, they fell just short. Why? Because when the game is on the line, the Aces and Lynx have multiple players who can step up. The Valkyries, on the other hand, are left relying on Cecilia Zandalasini—a solid player, but not someone defenses fear in the same way.
From my perspective, this isn’t a knock on Zandalasini or the Valkyries’ current roster. It’s simply the reality of the WNBA’s hierarchy. To truly contend, you need a player who can create their own shot, draw double teams, and command respect in crunch time. Collier, with her 40.3% three-point shooting and proven ability to score in the paint, would provide that. Imagine the confidence the Valkyries would have in late-game situations if they could isolate Collier or run a play for her. It’s a game-changer.
Collier’s Fit: A Match Made in Defensive Heaven
One thing that immediately stands out is how seamlessly Collier would fit into the Valkyries’ system. Their identity is built on defense, and Collier is one of the league’s best. As the 2024 DPOY and a four-time All-Defensive Team selection, she’s not just a scorer—she’s a game-changer on both ends of the floor. What many people don’t realize is that her defensive prowess would elevate the entire team. With Collier anchoring the defense, the Valkyries could become even more relentless, forcing turnovers and turning defense into offense.
Offensively, Collier’s versatility is underrated. She’s not just a spot-up shooter or a post player—she’s a complete offensive threat. Her ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with her playmaking skills, would open up new possibilities for the Valkyries. If you take a step back and think about it, adding Collier would essentially give them two go-to options: her and Williams. That’s a recipe for success in a league where depth and versatility are critical.
The Broader Implications: From Playoff Team to Title Contender
This raises a deeper question: What does it take for a young franchise to transition from a playoff team to a championship contender? In my opinion, it’s not just about adding talent—it’s about adding the right talent. The Valkyries have already proven they can compete with the best. What they need now is a player who can elevate their ceiling. Collier isn’t just a star; she’s a proven winner with the experience and skill set to lead a team to the top.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Collier’s potential arrival could shift the power dynamics in the WNBA. The Aces and Lynx have dominated the conversation for years, but with Collier in the fold, the Valkyries could emerge as a legitimate threat. This isn’t just about one player—it’s about the ripple effect her presence would create. Teams would have to game plan for her, which would open up opportunities for her teammates. What this really suggests is that the Valkyries are one blockbuster move away from becoming a force to be reckoned with.
The Human Factor: Collier’s Potential Reunion with Williams
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential reunion of Collier and Gabby Williams, former UConn teammates. There’s something special about players who have a pre-existing chemistry, and these two have a history of success together. In a league where relationships matter, this could be a game-changer. It’s not just about on-court chemistry—it’s about the trust and understanding that comes from years of playing alongside each other.
If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the missing piece the Valkyries need to take the next step. Collier’s addition wouldn’t just make them better; it would transform their entire dynamic. They’d go from a team that’s fun to watch to a team that’s feared. And in a league as competitive as the WNBA, that’s the ultimate goal.
Final Thoughts: The Time to Act is Now
In my opinion, the Valkyries have a golden opportunity in front of them. Collier’s rumored availability isn’t just a pipe dream—it’s a chance to reshape the franchise’s trajectory. The question is whether they’re willing to make the bold move necessary to bring her in. Personally, I think they’d be foolish not to.
What this really suggests is that the WNBA is entering a new era, one where young franchises like the Valkyries can rise to challenge the established powers. But it won’t happen overnight. It requires vision, ambition, and a willingness to take risks. If the Valkyries can land Collier, they’ll send a clear message: they’re not here to just compete—they’re here to win. And in a league as competitive as the WNBA, that’s exactly the kind of mindset you need to succeed.
