Gabby Williams, once a standout for the University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball program, is now making waves in the professional ranks with the Golden State Valkyries. The 2026 season has seen the guard deliver a career‑high average of 15 points per game, a milestone underscored by a 19‑point performance against the Phoenix Mercury on May 10.
A Star on the Rise
Beyond her on‑court achievements, Williams is set to step into the world of film with a starring role in the upcoming WNBA‑themed romantic comedy titled Courtside. The movie, being developed by the production company Run‑A‑Muck, follows a talented player who must reconcile championship ambitions with an unexpected romance with a teammate.
The project has already attracted veteran WNBA figure Syd Colson, who will serve as an executive producer. Colson, known for her longstanding contributions to the league, brings a player‑first perspective to the film’s narrative, which also explores the challenges of injury recovery and personal growth.
Behind the Camera
Williams’s involvement comes at a time when the sport’s cultural footprint is expanding. Earlier this year, Apple TV announced a separate women’s basketball initiative, Jess & Pearl, in which Paige Bueckers, another UConn alumna, will appear both as a lead actor and executive producer. The two projects together signal a growing convergence of athletics and entertainment.
The filming locations span the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest, with scenes shot in Seattle, Washington, and Phoenix, Arizona. These cities, both represented in the Valkyries’ schedule, provide a backdrop that ties the story to real‑world matchups, including the recent contest against Phoenix that highlighted Williams’s scoring burst.
Industry observers note that the crossover could pave the way for more athlete‑driven narratives, offering audiences a fresh lens on the lives of professional women athletes. As Williams continues to excel on the court and now on the silver screen, her journey reflects a broader shift toward celebrating female sports stories in diverse media formats.