The Golden State Valkyries pulled off something special just a good 24 hours ago. They clinched a WNBA playoff spot in their very first season. That’s a big deal for an expansion team, and the players were pumped, throwing on playoff T-shirts and soaking in the moment on the court.
But their head coach wasn’t about to let the party go any further. Natalie Nakase recently got honest about the WNBA’s injury issue, and knows how crucial it is to stay grounded even if you are bringing on stars to the earth.
Natalie Nakase Wants Players To Delay Celebration
If we zoom out a little bit, the Valkyries look like a team going through a dreamy season. However fancy it may sound, that did not come as easily. Nakase’s team went through a tough phase battling through WNBA officiating, which even cost them a game at worst.
However, the California-born basketball coach is made of guts and glory. Only in her first year coaching the Valkyries, she had her eyes on the bigger picture. She’s already thinking about their next game against the Minnesota Lynx on September 6 and how to manage player minutes and recovery.
When asked the most obvious question about the latest expansion team, she had a deep answer prepared.
“We’re not done yet… I really don’t allow them to celebrate. They can, obviously. They can enjoy this, but I also keep them humble. … I’m a party pooper. Yes, I am,” Nakase said.
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“I really don't allow them to celebrate. They can enjoy this, but I also keep them humble. I'm a party pooper. Yes, I am.”
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) September 5, 2025
Natalie Nakase says she’s not advocating for team celebrations until the Valkyries win it all 🔥 pic.twitter.com/UJzLtiUdwq
Although she’s okay with her players enjoying the moment briefly, she wants them to stay humble and keep working. That mindset led the Valkyries to this point, and the strict coach is not about to let them lose it.
Natalie Nakase Deserves All The Praise
While some might argue the Bay Area team’s journey was relatively easier, this isn’t just any team. The Valkyries are the WNBA’s newest franchise, and making the playoffs in year one is a rare feat.
Nakase, who’s worked as an assistant with the Las Vegas Aces and in the NBA with the Clippers, has built a team that’s clicking with players like DeWanna Bonner and some promising young talent.
They locked in their playoff spot with a 78-74 win over the Chicago Sky, and with a few games left, they’re still pushing hard. Nakase’s no-nonsense style is all about staying focused. However, with the playoffs coming up, Nakase’s decision to skip the celebration could be a smart move. The Valkyries have shown they can hang with the league’s best, and her “we’re not done yet” attitude might just carry them far.