Golden State Valkyries Welcome Natalie Nakase as Inaugural Head Coach
Natalie Nakase’s appointment as head coach of the Golden State Valkyries represents a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the team’s 2025 WNBA debut. Known for her extensive experience in professional basketball and her recent successes as an assistant coach with the Las Vegas Aces, Nakase is set to bring her leadership and unique vision to the Valkyries.
Supported by general manager Ohemaa Nyanin and team president Jess Smith, Nakase is focused on building a team culture that emphasizes unity, diversity, and trust. With the Valkyries’ roster construction beginning at the WNBA expansion draft on December 6, Nakase’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter in California’s basketball history.
Nakase’s Leadership and Vision
Natalie Nakase has been named the first-ever head coach of the Golden State Valkyries, marking the latest step in the team’s preparation for its 2025 WNBA debut. Nakase, a former Las Vegas Aces assistant, will join general manager Ohemaa Nyanin and team president Jess Smith in leading the Valkyries as they gear up for their inaugural season. The team’s roster-building process will kick off on Dec. 6 with the WNBA expansion draft.
A Journey Rooted in California
Nyanin emphasized Nakase’s leadership qualities and determination, stating that Nakase is “a unifier” with a strong commitment to building a diverse coaching staff and fostering trust among the athletes. She praised her inquisitiveness, highlighting Nakase’s ability to ask thoughtful questions and her drive to build a solid foundation for the new franchise.
Impact and Success with the Las Vegas Aces
With deep roots in California basketball, Nakase brings a wealth of experience, from playing at UCLA to coaching in Japan, Germany, and the NBA with the LA Clippers. Most recently, she helped the Aces secure two WNBA championships. As the Valkyries’ first head coach, Nakase is poised to lead the team into a new era of professional women’s basketball.
