“We Hang Our Hats on Defense” — Nakase Looks Ahead to Game 3 in Atlanta

Head Coach Natalie Nakase spoke after Game 2 of the WNBA Finals, where Atlanta evened the series at one game apiece. Nakase gave credit to the Dream for sprinting back, getting into the gaps, and cutting off the driving lanes, which created Golden State’s turnovers. She called the turnovers controllable and said the Valkyries need to be in the right spots to receive passes and see the next layer of driving lanes.

Nakase took accountability, saying defense is the team’s identity and the Valkyries hang their hats on it. She said she will have conversations and listen over the next 48 hours to understand how her message about the game plan, fight, and physicality can be delivered better. She noted that both teams shot below 34 percent from the field, that Atlanta was in the gaps better, and that the Valkyries can be more creative in creating turnovers. On Angel Reese’s 30 points, Nakase said Atlanta found her touches around the elbow, and that her rebounding and fight were at a high level. On the free throw gap, the staff will review film to see how close the fouls were, and the Valkyries need to play hard and play smarter. She also said Gabby Williams’ looks were the same as usual and that her limp from Game 1 was not a factor.

With a quick turnaround to Game 3 in Atlanta, Nakase said rest, recovery, and mental rest are the priority. She also spoke about leaning on her mentors, Chris Paul and Armond Hill, who sat courtside, with Hill reminding her to be patient and Paul encouraging confidence. Nakase said this is what the Finals is about, and the focus is getting more connected after losses and being on the same game plan in Game 3.

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Press Conference | Natalie Nakase, Gabby Williams | Atlanta Dream | 2026

00:00 — Atlanta’s Gaps, Driving Lanes, and the Turnovers
01:08 — Accountability and the Valkyries’ Defensive Identity
02:10 — Angel Reese’s 30 Points and Atlanta’s Approach
03:28 — Free Throws, Film Review, and Gabby’s Shooting
05:15 — Preparing for Game 3 in Atlanta
06:34 — Leaning on Mentors Chris Paul and Armond Hill