# Valkyries fans meet coach Natalie Nakase's expectations in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals

> Valkyries fans cheer for team, not opponents, in WNBA Finals Game 1 win.
- Title: Valkyries fans meet coach Natalie Nakase's expectations in…
- Summary: Valkyries fans cheer for team, not opponents, in WNBA Finals Game 1 win. Valkyries beat Atlanta Dream 68-64 in WNBA Finals Game 1 with strong defense and…
- Keywords: valkyries, natalie nakase, wnba finals, game 1, atlanta dream, gabby williams, defensive play, free throws, news, local, fans, meet
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/wnba/2026/10/17/valkyries-fans-meet-coach-natalie-nakases-expectations-in-game-1-of-the-wnba-finals
- Published: 2026-10-17T23:55:37.909+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: valkyries, natalie nakase, wnba finals, game 1, atlanta dream, gabby williams, defensive play, free throws, news, local
## Valkyries fans meet coach expectations
Valkyries fans cheer for team, not opponents, in WNBA Finals Game 1 win.
## Nakase's fan challenge
Nakase asked fans to boo opponents during game announcements and challenges.
## Fans' inclusive style
Fans wear lavender wigs and sparkly accessories to support WNBA's inclusivity.
## Game 1 result
Valkyries beat Atlanta Dream 68-64 in franchise history first Finals game.
## Game flow
First half was hustle and layups until Gabby Williams scored 16 points in second quarter.
## Nakase's praise
Nakase called Gabby Williams 'one of the best players in the world'.

> At this point in the season and in the Finals, Gabby is one of the best players in the world, like, hands down
## Shooting issues
Valkyries made only seven of 33 three-point attempts, Williams 3-for-11.
## Team depth problem
No Valkyries player besides Williams scored in double digits.
## Nakase's game plan
Nakase said staff did great job calling switches and coverage for Dream.

> We know it’s effort. We know it’s the details. I thought our staff did a great job calling when to switch the coverage, how to finish the coverage
## Williams' free throws
Williams made all six free throws in final two minutes to seal victory.
## Fan reactions
Fans booed officials and chanted 'Ref, you suck' during game.
## Nakase's satisfaction
Nakase said fans lived up to her challenge with loud support.

> I think so. Once I get out there and start to write my notes on the board, I kind of actually block everything out. But I did feel a different roar
## Next game focus
Nakase said Game 2 must be better than Game 1 with more effort.

> But, hey, level up. Like, for Game 2, it has to be better. We’re gonna ask more from our players
## Key takeaway

Valkyries beat Atlanta Dream 68-64 in WNBA Finals Game 1 with strong defense and Gabby Williams' 26 points.