Natalie Nakase Navigates Historic inaugural Season as Golden State Valkyries Head Coach
October 26, 2024
A Trailblazing Start in the WNBA
The WNBA’s rapid expansion, both in terms of fan base and the number of teams, presents unique challenges and opportunities for its newest franchises. Leading the charge for the Golden State Valkyries is head coach Natalie Nakase, who is navigating the team’s inaugural season with a blend of experience and forward-thinking strategy.
Early Season Performance and Beliefs
The Valkyries have started their first WNBA season with a record of 2-2. Nakase emphasizes a patient, process-oriented approach, focusing on incremental improvement.
We are a brand-new team, it’s going to take time and so I’m really allowing our girls space to process the season day by day. I’m trying to get them to get the mindset of, let’s just get 1% better every single day, just be in control of what we can control.Natalie Nakase,ESPN
Championship Pedigree and Influences
Nakase’s coaching journey includes a successful stint as an assistant coach with the Las Vegas Aces,where she contributed to back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. She credits several key figures for shaping her coaching style and philosophy.
- Becky hammon: A mentor and role model in the coaching world.
- A’ja Wilson: Experience working with a superstar player.
- Gary Nakase: Her father, a source of guidance and support.
Even Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla offered some characteristically blunt advice before her first head coaching gig.
I actually hit up [Boston Celtics coach] Joe Mazzula as well, and his line is: “Don’t be afraid to die.”Natalie Nakase
Working with Elite Talent
Prior to her head coaching role, Nakase honed her skills working alongside elite players. Her time as an assistant coach for the clippers allowed her to collaborate with Chris Paul, while her experience with A’ja Wilson further prepared her for leading a WNBA team.
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Future generations
Nakase’s appointment as head coach also carries historical significance, as she is the first Asian-American person to coach a WNBA game.This milestone is not lost on her, and she embraces the duty that comes with it.
It means the world to me. I actually never really voiced that, but it does mean the world.and I felt that during the first preseason game. You think about it, but when it actually comes to fruition and you’re looking around and you see 17,000 fans that you get to impact in two hours, that’s pretty iconic in a way. But I’ve learned that’s really not why I’m the first. I got to make sure I’m not the last.Natalie Nakase, ESPN
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is the Valkyries’ current record?
A: 2-2. -
Q: Who did Nakase coach with before?
A: Las Vegas Aces and the Clippers. -
Q: What is nakase’s coaching philosophy?
A: Focus on 1% daily improvement and controlling what they can control.