Julie Vanloo gets heartbreaking news from Golden State Valkyries right after international flight touches down
Veteran guard Julie Vanloo landed in San Francisco with excitement, ready to reunite with the Golden State Valkyries after helping Belgium win the EuroBasket championship. But just moments after stepping off an 18-hour flight, she received devastating news as the team had waived her.
The announcement came without warning, catching Vanloo completely off guard and leaving fans stunned at the Valkyries' timing. The emotional fallout played out in real time on her Instagram Story, painting a picture of heartbreak that spread quickly across WNBA circles.
Julie Vanloo was left speechless after the Golden State Valkyries waived her just after stepping off the plane
Julie Vanloo had every reason to feel proud. Just one day prior, she helped Belgium secure another EuroBasket title and was named to the All-Tournament Second Team after averaging 9.8 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds.
She chose not to celebrate back home in favor of returning early to her WNBA team, only to be blindsided. 'Literally just touched down in the Bay,' Vanloo wrote. 'I need some time to process all of this man and put my feels into words.
I can't right now.'
Golden State confirmed the roster move shortly after Vanloo's arrival. 'Roster Update: The Golden State Valkyries have waived guard Julie Vanloo,' the team posted on social media.
'Thank you, Julie.'
The Valkyries' decision drew widespread criticism online, especially since Vanloo had been part of the team's inaugural roster and made notable contributions both on and off the court. Fluent in four languages, she also served as the team's interpreter and was beloved by teammates and fans alike.
During her nine-game run with Golden State, Vanloo averaged 4.6 points, 4.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds.
With the team going 5-2 during her absence and rookie guard Kaitlyn Chen stepping up, the Valkyries opted to make the move permanent.
Also Read:
Paige Bueckers gets exciting WNBA news from Curt Miller ahead of All-Star night
Still, the timing couldn't have been worse. From circling Chase Center mid-flight and posting 'Back in fog cityyyyy,' to discovering her release less than an hour later, Vanloo's journey turned from triumphant to traumatic. For now, she's left without a team and without the celebration she rightfully earned.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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