Four former University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball players are central to the Golden State Valkyries’ surprising run to the 2024 WNBA Finals. Gabby Williams, Tiffany Hayes, Kaitlyn Chen, and Kiah Stokes each helped the Valkyries secure a sweep of the defending champion Las Vegas Aces on October 9, setting the stage for a championship bid in just the franchise’s second year.

The four athletes, who played for UConn across different eras, have made significant contributions both on and off the court throughout the season and playoffs. Their former coach, Geno Auriemma, who has closely followed the Valkyries, described their impact as a reflection of UConn’s longstanding tradition of excellence.

“This is a great win for UConn, for our program, as coaches and for our players,” Auriemma said following a practice session on October 12 in Storrs, Connecticut. “If those four were not on that team, they wouldn’t be where they are today.”

Tiffany Hayes was a key contributor on UConn’s undefeated national championship teams in 2009 and 2010, and later reached two additional Final Fours before moving to the WNBA, known for her scoring versatility. Kiah Stokes anchored UConn’s defense as a shot-blocking center during a tenure marked by three consecutive national titles from 2013 to 2015. Gabby Williams won championships in 2015 and 2016 and was instrumental in the Huskies’ Final Four appearances in 2017 and 2018, exhibiting a versatile two-way playing style. Meanwhile, Kaitlyn Chen, the most recent to join the professional ranks, played one season with UConn and was part of the 2025 national championship team.

Each player’s current performance highlights their evolving roles with the Valkyries. Williams has emerged as a premier two-way player, averaging 22.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over six playoff games. Stokes, initially signed as a backup center, assumed a larger role after starter Iliana Rupert announced a pregnancy shortly before the season began. Stokes delivered a standout performance in the closeout game against the Aces, recording a double-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals while effectively limiting Aces star A’ja Wilson.

Hayes and Chen have provided valuable support off the bench. At 37 years old, Hayes has maintained strong production throughout the playoffs, averaging 13.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists while shooting 43.1% from the field and 36% from three-point range. Chen has been a dynamic backup point guard under coach Natalie Nakase, contributing several critical shots during the postseason.

The Valkyries’ bench is among the league’s most productive, outscoring their closest competitor by 328 points this season. Senior UConn guard Ashlynn Shade praised Chen’s leadership and competitiveness, emphasizing her contribution to the team’s success.

The Golden State Valkyries are set to face the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Finals, with Game 1 scheduled for October 17 in San Francisco. The Dream are co-owned in part by former UConn player Renee Montgomery. Auriemma said he will be watching closely, expressing pride in his former players’ achievements.

“I’m really proud of all of them,” he said.