UConn guard Kaitlyn Chen attended the 2025 WNBA Draft to support teammate Paige Bueckers, who was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings. To her surprise, Chen was also drafted, becoming the 30th overall pick by the Golden State Valkyries in the third round. The unexpected selection brought joy to Chen, who expressed gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.
Chen's selection was met with cheers from her UConn teammates, who had anticipated the surprise. Her transfer to UConn for her senior year proved successful, contributing to the team's national championship win. Despite leaving Princeton, her former team supported her draft selection, and now Chen looks forward to joining the Valkyries alongside former Iowa guard Kate Martin for Golden State's inaugural season under head coach Natalie Nakase.