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Kayla Thornton Biography: Golden State Valkyries Forward, WNBA Champion & Defensive Stalwart

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Kayla Thornton is an American professional basketball player who currently plays forward for the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA. Known for her defensive versatility, toughness, and leadership, she is a veteran of the league and a champion with the New York Liberty.

Kayla-Thornton
Kayla-Thornton

Early Life and Background

  • Full Name: Kayla Thornton

  • Date of Birth: October 20, 1992

  • Hometown: El Paso, Texas

  • Height: 6’1″ (1.85 m)

  • Weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)

  • Position: Forward

  • High School: Burges High School (El Paso, TX)

    • Standout multi-sport athlete

    • Developed a strong work ethic and leadership skills

College Career: University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)

  • Four-year standout for the Miners

  • All-time leading scorer at UTEP

  • Led team to a record 29 wins in the 2011–12 season

  • Senior Year (2013–14):

    • Became first UTEP player to average a double-double: 19.5 points, 10.1 rebounds per game

    • Also averaged 2.0 assists, 2.6 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game

  • Career Stats:

    • 128 games, 13.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.7 steals per game

Professional Career

WNBA

  • Draft: Undrafted (2014), signed with Washington Mystics in 2015

  • Teams:

    • Washington Mystics (2015)

    • Dallas Wings (2017–2022)

    • New York Liberty (2023–2024)

    • Golden State Valkyries (2025–present, via expansion draft)

  • Career Highlights:

    • 2024 WNBA champion (New York Liberty)

    • Played in two WNBA Finals (2023, 2024)

    • Known for defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions

    • Key sixth player and locker room leader

  • Career Stats (through 2024):

    • 274 games, 143 starts

    • 7.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals per game

    • Career highs: 10.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.6 blocks per game in various seasons476

  • 2025 Season (Golden State Valkyries):

    • 13.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.3 steals, 1.1 assists, 1.4 made three-pointers per game (first 8 games)1

International

  • Played professionally in Australia, Egypt, Israel, Italy, Puerto Rico, Russia, and South Korea

    • Gained extensive overseas experience

Achievements & Honors

  • WNBA champion (2024)

  • WNBA Finals appearances (2023, 2024)

  • UTEP all-time leading scorer

  • First UTEP player to average a double-double

  • Veteran leader and defensive specialist

Playing Profile

  • Strengths:

    • Elite defender and versatile stopper

    • Strong rebounder and energy player

    • Reliable three-point shooter for her position

    • High basketball IQ and leadership

  • Style:

    • Tough, physical forward who excels in transition and half-court defense

    • Brings energy, championship experience, and a team-first mentality

FAQs About Kayla Thornton

What position does Kayla Thornton play?
Forward

Which team does she play for?
Golden State Valkyries (WNBA)

How old is Kayla Thornton?
32 (born October 20, 1992)

What are her main achievements?
WNBA champion, UTEP all-time leading scorer, first UTEP player to average a double-double, veteran leader

What is her playing style?
Versatile, defensive-minded forward with strong rebounding and leadership

Conclusion

Kayla Thornton is a proven leader and defensive stalwart whose career is highlighted by a WNBA championship, record-setting college achievements, and consistent contributions on both ends of the floor. Her toughness, versatility, and experience make her a cornerstone for the Golden State Valkyries and a respected figure in women’s basketball.

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