Natalie Nakase Named First Head Coach of Golden State Valkyries

Nakase becomes the first Asian American head coach in WNBA history as she leads the new expansion team set to debut in 2025.

The Golden State Valkyries are the first WNBA expansion team since 2008 and will begin play in the 2025 season.
Natalie Nakase, with 16 years of coaching experience, previously served as the first assistant coach for the Las Vegas Aces, winning back-to-back championships.
The Valkyries will share the Chase Center with the Golden State Warriors but will have their own practice facility in Oakland.
The expansion draft is scheduled for December 6, where the Valkyries can select unprotected players from existing WNBA teams.
Nakase's appointment is seen as a significant step, bringing her extensive NBA and WNBA experience to build a competitive team culture.