Natalie Nakase Gives Her Honest Take On Golden State Valkyries Impressive Valuation

Last year, not many gave the Golden State Valkyries a chance. But under the able leadership of Natalie Nakase, the team not only clinched the playoff berth but also dropped some incredible games. And one of the biggest reasons for the team’s success was the head coach’s involvement with the team. While the team celebrated the victories, Nakase also shouldered the blame in cases of defeats. 

Owing to a stellar showing throughout the season, Nakase won the WNBA Coach of the Year Award. Now, coming back to her second year with the Golden State, the 46-year-old is now focused on delivering a better performance. But ahead of the season, pleasant team news had the head coach utterly excited.

Natalie Nakase Remains Humble As Golden State Valkyries Make History

The Valkyries are having a pleasant time at the moment. While their performance within the paint is impressive, things have been looking rosy outside of the WNBA court, too. According to a recent report from Sportico, the Valkyries have emerged as the WNBA’s most valuable franchise for a second consecutive year. Valued at a whopping $850 million, the team is surely dreaming of some more golden days to come in the future. 

Following the news, reporters questioned Nakase about her team’s latest achievement. And while she looked excited, the team’s head coach was humble and pointed out that all of the credits were deserved by the ownership. 

“A testament to, obviously, Joe Lacob, our ownership, our leadership. Jess Smith. I mean, that’s them. I have nothing to do with that,” said Nakase. 

Natalie Nakase on the news today that the Valkyries being evaluated at $850 million, the most in the WNBA, in just their second season:

“A testament to, obviously, Joe Lacob, our ownership, our leadership. Jess Smith. I mean, that's them. I have nothing to do with that.” pic.twitter.com/aNDOLq4VEd

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) May 1, 2026

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Meanwhile, this was not the only instance of the Valkyries making history in terms of finances. Last year, playing in their inaugural season, the team raised $78 million in revenue. One of the major reasons for the Golden State’s success is its 10000+ season-ticket fanbase. Moreover, they also have sponsorships with United Airlines, Kaiser Permanente, AT&T, Chase, and others. 

Now, while the franchise leadership is taking care of business, Nakase is ready to rock on the field once again.

What Are Natalie Nakase’s Plans For 2026?

Recently, the Valkyries’ head coach shrugged off any additional pressure this year. But that does not mean that the 46-year-old is taking the season lightly. Speaking about her goals for the season, Nakase came up with a realistic statement.

“So for year 2, we understand that after a successful year one, nothing carries over. Not one basket, not one award, Nothing. So, for us, our goal for the season is to win the championship. Here at Golden State, that’s the standard, that’s the expectation,” said the Valkyries head coach.

Natalie Nakase has one goal for the @valkyries this season 👀 pic.twitter.com/wcgzkNwTcr

— WNBA (@WNBA) April 30, 2026

Thus, with things looking rosy, fans will be eager to see what’s next.