The Golden State Valkyries are entering the WNBA with high expectations, and the team’s head coach, Natalie Nakase, is leading the charge as they build their roster. On Friday, the Valkyries participated in the WNBA Expansion Draft, where they made key selections like Temi Fagbenle from the Indiana Fever and Kate Martin from the Las Vegas Aces. Before announcing these picks, Nakase sat down for an interview with ESPN to share her vision for the team’s inaugural season.
Nakase emphasized her goal of fostering a competitive and fast-paced culture for the Valkyries. She plans to implement an aggressive playing style that focuses on speed and three-point shooting. “We’re aiming to build a highly competitive culture,” Nakase explained. “Our game will be fast, and we’ll be focusing heavily on the three-point shot.” This reflects her broader vision of creating a dynamic and resilient team, where players’ commitment to winning will be at the core of their play.
When discussing the type of players she wanted to draft, Nakase shared her three non-negotiables. First, she seeks players who are intensely competitive and have a deep passion for winning. Second, high character is essential, with an emphasis on teamwork and sacrifice for the collective good. Lastly, Nakase is drawn to players with a “never satisfied” mindset—those who constantly strive to improve and bring a chip on their shoulder to every game. These traits are fundamental in her strategy to build a successful team culture from the ground up.
Nakase, who was an assistant coach with the Las Vegas Aces for two years, brings valuable experience to the Valkyries. During her tenure, she helped the Aces win back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. Now, as head coach of an expansion team, Nakase faces the challenge of leading a fresh squad with no established chemistry. Despite this, she is confident in her ability to build a competitive team. She reflected on her time with Aces head coach Becky Hammon, noting the profound influence Hammon had on the Aces’ success. “Becky coached with her heart, and that created a culture of authenticity and mutual respect, which is why we won those championships,” Nakase shared.
As the Valkyries build their roster, including the addition of players like Kate Martin, who has prior experience playing under Nakase, there are still opportunities to strengthen the team. While the team may not immediately contend for a championship in its first year, Nakase’s leadership and emphasis on hard work, competitiveness, and self-improvement will be pivotal. The Valkyries are in the process of assembling a roster that might evolve further through free agency and trades, and Nakase’s strategic approach could set the tone for future success.
In the early stages of their WNBA journey, the Valkyries might not be championship contenders, but with Nakase’s leadership, the team will look to establish a reputation for relentless energy, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to growth. Their first season will be about laying the foundation for future success, with a competitive spirit at the heart of everything they do.
