Golden State Valkyries Head Coach Natalie Nakase Named AP Coach Of The Year
She has coached an expansion team that seems to have done everything correctly right from the start. From their branding to their merchandising and everything in between the franchise has racked up a string of W’s. So it comes as no surprise that the coach has been recognized for her accomplishments. Today Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase has been named AP Coach of the Year. In addition, guard Veronica Burton was awarded Most Improved Player. Another event that could be credited to Nakase.
Nakase has been credited with forming the identity of the team that of being tough and gritty. That is no small feat considering that just 10 months ago there was no team. As they didn’t have a single player on the roster yet. But they did select Kate Martin for the team last December which turned out to be a very good choice. She had previous experience playing under Nakase with the Las Vegas Aces who was an assistant coach. Regarding Nakase Martin had this to say:
“I mean, Coach Nakase is somebody you’re going to want to run through a brick wall for. She’s a truth teller, and she’s going to be honest with you. But she balances that with unwavering love and support 100%. Those are the kinds of coaches you just want to give your all for, and I’m sincerely thankful we built a relationship in Las Vegas, which we’ll continue in San Francisco.”
That’s high praise to want to run through a brick wall for a coach. And that kind of loyalty and dedication has paid off for the Valkyries. Nakase led the franchise to a 23-21 record, the most wins in WNBA history by an expansion team. They have clinched a spot in the playoffs in their inaugural season, the first team to ever do that.
Golden State Valkyries Head Coach Natalie Nakase Named AP Coach Of The Year
Regarding Burton, she was acquired in the team’s expansion draft from the Connecticut Sun. Burton started in all 44 games for the Valkyries this season. She averaged 11.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game, averaging over eight points, two rebounds and four assists a game from a season ago. However, the team has become accustomed to being recognized for their achievements. Forward Janelle Salaün was named to the AP All-Rookie team. And Nakase earned the WNBA Coach of the Month in June. Excellence abounds.
But the team will face their greatest challenge yet when the playoffs begin. They will meet up with the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx. The Game 1 tip-off will be at 10 a.m. Sunday on ESPN. In the meantime, congratulations to coach Nakase for the Coach of the Year award, Ballhalla!
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