The Golden State Valkyries are a rookie team, just like their rookie coach. Ever since the latest WNBA franchise stepped into the pro league, it’s been getting good hype. The Bay Area team recently lost a closely contested game against the Phoenix Mercury.
While the defeat came like a gut punch for the team, the Valkyries’ coach, Natalie Nakase, had telling comments to make. She took the opportunity and shot the allegations for an unfair foul call on the refs.
Natalie Nakase Sends Message To Refs After Valkyries’ Close Defeat To Mercury
A particular moment in the game, much of which played out because of a questionable foul call, led to Nakase taking on the refs directly. With just seconds left, Janelle Salaun hit a clutch jumper to tie the game at 77.
Just when it seemed like the Valkyries were about to steal a win, Alyssa Thomas from the Mercury drove to the basket and drew a somewhat questionable foul on Cecilia Zandalasini. Thomas hit one of two crucial free throws, putting Phoenix ahead 78–77 and sealing the win with only a second on the clock.
After the game, it prompted Nakase to make her feelings clear on the matter.
“It’s so unfortunate that they get a win off of a free throw with no defense. That’s tough. To sit there and watch someone win a game off of a free throw, that’s a disservice. I’m just asking for consistency. I’m begging for consistency. Hey, if it’s because I’m a rookie coach, then I’ll take the loss. So, if I have to be better with the refs, if there’s a badge of honor that I have to earn, then I’ll do it. I’ll blame myself,” she said(Via ESPN).
Valkyries’ Natalie Nakase doubled down on the game ending on a free throw:
— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) July 15, 2025
“Watching someone win a game off of a free throw, I think it’s a disservice somehow. I’m asking for consistency, I’m begging for consistency. If it’s because I’m a rookie coach, I’ll take the loss.” https://t.co/KFh9ZR8Imw pic.twitter.com/HEH3YqTtGg
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However, the Valkyries are currently sitting in fourth place in the Western Conference with a 10–11 record. Despite a handsome standing in the league, their recent game against the Mercury ended in a nail-biter and left them many questions to answer.
Valkyries Faced With Growing Physicality In The League
While it was brave of the Valkyries’ head coach to talk about he nuances of her coaching experience, they are faced with something that’s been widely going on in the league. This season has lately been witnessing a surge in physical play.
Even unaddressed, it has led to refs getting a hard time blowing out the whistle. The same was the case during the Golden State’s game. With the outburst, it has fueled the ongoing conversation about officiating in the league.
Additionally, stars like Angel Reese and Kelsey Plum also expressed concerns about inconsistent calls. Despite this setback, the Valkyries are showing they can compete at high levels, and fans are excited to see how they’ll bounce back in their next match!