Laeticia Amihere is back in the WNBA.
After initially being cut during training camp due to the league’s tight roster limitations, the former South Carolina star has re-signed with the Golden State Valkyries. The team made the announcement on Sunday, confirming Amihere’s return just weeks after releasing her. She’ll be available as early as Monday when the Valkyries face the Los Angeles Sparks.
Amihere impressed during preseason action, averaging 12.5 points per game in just 17 minutes while shooting an efficient 60% from the field and finishing with a positive plus-minus. With Golden State currently ranking 11th out of 13 teams in scoring and sitting last in shooting efficiency, Amihere’s offensive spark and athleticism could be a much-needed boost.
Before her first stint with the Valkyries, Amihere had a standout overseas campaign with the Perth Lynx in Australia’s WNBL. She was named an All-Pro, averaging 15.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. Her performance placed her among the league’s top ten in scoring, rebounding, steals, blocks, and field goal percentage.
The Valkyries’ upcoming matchup with the Sparks will be a reunion of sorts, as Amihere will go up against fellow South Carolina alum Sania Feagin. A rookie, Feagin secured a roster spot with LA after being selected in the second round of the WNBA Draft and has contributed as a reserve this season.
Amihere’s opportunity could expand quickly. Cecilia Zandalasani, one of Golden State’s key bench players, will be away from the team while representing Italy in the EuroBasket tournament, potentially opening the door for Amihere to step into a larger role right away.
