The Golden State Valkyries are gearing up for their debut season, and the WNBA Expansion Draft offers a golden opportunity to craft a team that could captivate fans. Among the potential picks, one towering figure has the basketball world buzzing—an athlete with immense talent and a global following. But who is this player poised to make history?

It’s none other than Han Xu, the 6’11 Chinese basketball sensation. Her arrival seems all but confirmed, with Chinese Women Hoops hinting at the move in an X post: “Han Xu to @wnbagoldenstate confirmed.” A star on the court and a cultural icon off it, Han brings not only elite skills but also a connection to the Bay Area’s vibrant Asian-American community—a perfect match for the Valkyries’ ambitions.

Han Xu’s return to the WNBA spotlight would be a story worth celebrating. Drafted 14th overall by the New York Liberty in 2019, she became the first Chinese player in 22 years to join the league. At just 19, she was also the youngest in her draft class.

Overcoming early challenges, Han’s breakout season came in 2022, when she rejoined the Liberty after two seasons away. She averaged 8.5 points, while grabbing 3.6 rebounds, and posted team-leading percentages like a 49.3% shooting percentage from the field and an astounding 44.4% from three-point range.

Her performance wasn’t just consistent—it was record-breaking. On July 7, 2022, Han etched her name in Liberty history by making 10 consecutive field goals in a single game during a 116–107 win over Las Vegas. Basketball analysts marveled at her versatility as a scorer, capable of dominating the post and stretching defenses with her range.

A Star for the Bay Area

Han Xu’s potential selection by the Valkyries is more than just a roster decision. As an international star, she would draw fans far beyond typical WNBA circles. Her presence resonates particularly with the large Asian-American community in the Bay Area, who would rally around the 25-year-old phenomenon.

“She’s incredibly tempting,” noted Richard Cohen from Her Hoopstats. “Unless her agent says she’s done with the WNBA, you’re adding a 6-foot-10 center who’s still only 25 and would be an enormous draw for the Bay Area.”

Han’s impact extends well beyond the WNBA. She has been a cornerstone of the Chinese Women’s National Basketball Team, earning back-to-back WCBA MVP awards in 2021 and 2022. A standout in FIBA competitions, Han led China to the semifinals of the U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup and earned a spot on the All-Star Five. These accolades solidify her reputation as one of the premier talents in international women’s basketball.

The Valkyries’ decision-making process is bound to be complex. Expansion draft rules allow the team to select one player from each of the existing 12 WNBA teams, with current teams able to protect six players. Golden State must weigh immediate impact against long-term potential, and Han Xu offers both.

With the draft just days away, all eyes are on how the Valkyries will shape their inaugural roster. For Xu, this could be the start of a thrilling new chapter—one where her towering presence inspires fans and players alike. Her story is not just about basketball; it’s about breaking barriers, uniting communities, and taking the WNBA to greater heights. How do you see Xu’s career panning out? Let us know in the comment section below!