Gabby Williams becomes first French All-Star starter for WNBA's Golden State Valkyries

Gabby Williams was announced as a starter for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, making her the first French player to start the event. The news was revealed in a surprise announcement by WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert and Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase, with Williams receiving an emotional response from teammates at the Valkyries' practice facility in Oakland.

Williams, a two‑way player who joined the Golden State Valkyries after stints with Chicago and Seattle, has become a leading scorer and defensive anchor for the Bay‑area team, which now holds one of the league’s best records. Her selection marks a historic milestone for France in the league, joining a growing contingent of French talent in the WNBA.