“I Listen More After Losses” — Nakase on How the Valkyries Respond to Adversity

Head Coach Natalie Nakase spoke after the Valkyries’ 67-62 win in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals, which evened the series at 2-2, and she began with how the team responds to losses. Nakase said she listens more after losses to understand what her players are thinking and feeling, and that the team gets even closer after losses because it learns from them. She credited the group for being vulnerable and selfless, saying the key is that the players want to see success in their teammates more than themselves.

Nakase explained the starting lineup change, saying the team is selfless enough that it does not matter who starts or comes off the bench, and she credited Kaila Charles for bringing energy as a starter. She said few teams could change the lineup and still fight and play together the same way, and that the Valkyries did not miss a beat. Nakase pointed to accountability through film sessions and conversations after Games 2 and 3, saying the team took a breath, locked into the details, and communicated with eyes and looks in a loud arena. She said mixing up coverages created more turnovers, and highlighted Cecilia Zandalasini, Kayla Thornton, and Janelle Salaün for their spacing and comfort.

Nakase praised Kiah Stokes as a pro who leads by example and ignores outside noise, saying she feels connected to the team in her first year. She called Veronica Burton the heart and soul of the team, saying she kept getting back up after getting knocked around and took the isolation for two big shots in the clutch. Nakase also said Gabby Williams led by example with elite defense, and that the team’s identity is keeping opponents to a number like 62. For a long series, her keys are staying healthy, rest and recovery, blocking out the noise, and being ready to fight.

🔔 .
Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Press Conference | Natalie Nakase, Veronica Burton, Kiah Stokes | Atlanta Dream | 2026

00:00 — Listening After Losses and the Starting Lineup Change
01:21 — Defensive Details and Connectivity in a Loud Arena
02:34 — Accountability After Games 2 and 3
04:46 — Second Quarter Turnovers and Offensive Contributions
05:35 — Kiah Stokes’ Leadership and Star Mentality
08:00 — Keys to a Long Series and Burton’s Resilience
10:15 — Gabby Williams Leading by Example