Kayla Thornton signs with Unrivaled for 2027 offseason season

Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton has signed a multiyear contract with Unrivaled and will play in the league's 2027 season, adding another offseason commitment to her growing profile in the WNBA.

Thornton said in a statement that the league gives her another chance to develop as a player while continuing to show people who she is and what she stands for. The deal was reported on July 2, 2026.

What the signing means

The move keeps Thornton tied to one of the fastest-growing offseason options for WNBA players. Unrivaled is the 3-on-3 league founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier and based in Miami.

According to the reporting, Unrivaled offers offseason earnings and equity in the league, which has helped it attract active WNBA talent.

Thornton joins Valkyries teammate Gabby Williams among players who have committed to Unrivaled for the 2027 season.

Thornton's season in Golden State

Thornton is entering her second season with the Valkyries after joining the expansion team in the 2024 draft following her time with the New York Liberty. She helped New York win the 2024 WNBA championship before moving to Golden State.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Thornton is averaging 8.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game and was a 2025 WNBA All-Star.

Unrivaled's 2027 season is set to begin in January, giving Thornton another high-profile platform during the WNBA offseason as the league continues to line up more active players for future seasons.