From The San Francisco Standard · · 1m 20s
Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase ready for WNBA Finals
Natalie Nakase, WNBA coach, leads Golden State Valkyries to Finals after two years of growth.
In brief
Natalie Nakase, WNBA coach, leads Golden State Valkyries to Finals after two years of growth. Natalie Nakase's Golden State Valkyries reach WNBA Finals after two years of building a championship culture. Originally reported by The San Francisco Standard.
Natalie Nakase
Natalie Nakase won two championships as an assistant with the Las Vegas Aces.
Valkyries coach
Natalie Nakase became head coach for Golden State Valkyries in 2025.
WNBA Finals
Valkyries reach WNBA Finals after sweeping Atlanta Dream in best-of-seven series.
Championship history
Nakase won two championships as assistant with Las Vegas Aces from 2022 to 2024.
2025 season
Valkyries had 23 wins in debut season and earned first expansion team playoff berth.
2026 season
Valkyries won 32 regular-season games and earned No. 2 playoff seed.
Coaching partnership
Nakase and Becky Hammon coached against each other after working together in Las Vegas.
Culture building
Nakase built a locker room culture of high-character players who support each other.
Championship focus
Nakase described championship culture as 'win or die' mentality with no room for failure.
Player praise
A'ja Wilson called Nakase's coaching 'a tribute to her' for her effort and leadership.
Next step
Valkyries face Atlanta Dream in best-of-seven WNBA Finals series.
The essence
Natalie Nakase's Golden State Valkyries reach WNBA Finals after two years of building a championship culture.
