Golden State Valkyries point guard Veronica Burton is having a standout year, and it just got even better. After winning the WNBA Most Improved Player award three months ago, she is now taking part in the Team USA Women’s Basketball Training Camp at Duke University — her first call-up to the senior national team.
Rising Stars Join Team USA Camp
Burton, 25, is part of an exciting group of newcomers that includes big names like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and WNBA Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers. Former Stanford players Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen are also making their Team USA debuts. The young group has already been nicknamed the “Young and Turnt” squad.
Burton on the New Experience
Speaking from Duke University, Burton shared her excitement: “There’s a strong veteran presence here, and we can all learn from them. The younger players are bringing great energy and competition. It’s going to make this camp exciting for everyone.”
Burton’s Strong WNBA Season
In her fourth WNBA season — and first as a full-time starter — Burton averaged 11.9 points per game while shooting nearly 39% from the field. She was also selected for the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team, highlighting her impact on both ends of the court.
Valkyries Coach Natalie Nakase Also Joins Camp
Also attending the camp is Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase, the 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year. She is serving as an on-court coach for Team USA, marking her first time participating in a USA Basketball training environment.
“I love any extra time I get to work with Coach Nat,” Burton said. “She understands my game better than anyone and is helping me prepare. I’m also proud of her for being selected for this role — it means a lot.”
Experience in 3×3 Basketball Gives Burton an Edge
Burton recently won gold at the 3×3 AmeriCup alongside Allisha Gray, Naz Hillmon and Shakira Austin. That success makes her one of the few players competing in both Team USA’s 5-on-5 and 3×3 pools.
“3×3 basketball is played differently, but the mindset is the same,” Burton said. “The competitiveness and intentional play translate well into this camp. It’s also fun to play with people you normally play against in the WNBA.”
Veterans Leading the Squad
The camp also includes Olympic gold medalists Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Brittney Griner, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young. Their experience will help balance the younger talent as Team USA prepares for upcoming international competitions.
Upcoming Matches and Burton’s Future Plans
Team USA will compete in Puerto Rico in March as part of the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. They have already earned a spot in the World Cup, which will be held in Germany next year.
As for Burton’s future, she is set to become a restricted free agent once the new WNBA collective bargaining agreement is finalized. She will also play in the new Unrivaled 3×3 league in Miami starting January, founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. She’ll be joined by Valkyries teammates Kate Martin and Monique Billings.
Conclusion
Veronica Burton’s journey from breakout WNBA star to Team USA athlete is a testament to her hard work, talent and rapid growth. With a powerful season behind her and new opportunities ahead, Burton is proving she is one of the brightest rising stars in women’s basketball. As she continues to gain experience and take on bigger challenges, the future looks incredibly promising for both Burton and the Valkyries.
