Kaitlyn Chen’s transition from Ivy League standout to professional guard is unfolding under the bright lights of the Golden State Valkyries, a fresh face in the WNBA. Her signing signals not just new talent, but a strategic move.
As the franchise constructs its identity in the league, players like her offer court vision, defensive tenacity and basketball IQ. Her role is expected to expand rapidly as the team grows and tests its limits in a competitive environment.
The financial details of her contract hint at the team’s investment in potential rather than immediate star power. Her salary reflects a balance of rookie expectations and the team’s hope for long-term leadership.
What is Kaitlyn Chen’s salary with the Golden State Valkyries?
Kaitlyn Chen signed a rookie contract with the Golden State Valkyries worth $204,253 over three years, with a base salary of $66,079 for the 2025 season, according to Spotrac. The deal placed her among the lower tier of WNBA salaries, typical for third-round draft picks.
Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries dribbles the ball against the Chicago Sky during the first quarter at Wintrust Arena on August 01, 2025. (Source: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
However, her time with the Valkyries was short-lived. Despite her popularity—her jersey sales ranked among the league’s highest—she was waived before the regular season began. Because her contract was unprotected, she did not receive the full salary unless she remained on the active roster.
She later returned briefly under a hardship contract in June 2025, when several Valkyries players were away at EuroBasket. This temporary deal allowed her to earn a prorated portion of her salary for a few games, but it was not a long-term arrangement.
Kaitlyn Chen’s contract: How long does the deal last?
Kaitlyn Chen’s original contract with the Golden State Valkyries was a three-year deal running from 2025 to 2027, with a club option for 2028, as reported by Spotrac. The yearly breakdown was:
- 2025: $66,079
- 2026: $67,401
- 2027: $70,773
- 2028 (Club Option): $80,883
While her initial deal suggested long-term potential, the unprotected nature of WNBA rookie contracts—especially for third-round picks—makes them highly conditional. Her case is a reminder of how quickly a promising opportunity can shift in professional sports.
