"That's Why We're Dangerous" — Nakase on Selfless Shooting and Ball Movement

Head Coach Natalie Nakase spoke after Golden State's dominant win over New York, and the conversation highlighted Veronica Burton's elite evolution and the Valkyries' defensive identity. Nakase called Burton resilient and relentless, noting how she constantly learns angles and reads defenses before finding the hot hand. With 13 assists and zero turnovers in a physical game where she got knocked down multiple times, Nakase said Burton's composure has reached an elite level as she grows into one of the best point guards in the league.

On the team's defensive strength, Nakase pointed to Kiah Stokes as the anchor and Gabby Williams as a havoc causer on the ball. Both have elite quick feet and length that allows them to maneuver at any angle. Nakase also highlighted Veronica Burton as part of the elite defensive conversation, noting the three players lead by example through studying film, sacrificing their bodies, and demanding discipline from the entire lineup.

Nakase emphasized Cecilia Zandalasini's willingness to feed teammates even when she's hot, calling that selflessness the key to why Golden State is so dangerous in the playoffs. She also noted that no other team has won 10 games while scoring under 80 points, crediting strength in numbers and all 14 players being ready to go. The team's collective effort over three games in four days showed discipline and sacrifice, with the bench unit playing crucial minutes to rest starters.

Finally, Nakase reflected on how the entire team rallied around Burton when she took a hard hit on the court, boosting their energy and showing the unity that defines this group.

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Press Conference | Natalie Nakase, Veronica Burton | New York Liberty | 2026

00:00 — Veronica Burton's Elite Evolution and Composure
00:44 — 13 Assists, Zero Turnovers and Resilience
01:32 — Defensive Identity: Kiah and Gabby as Elite Defenders
02:13 — Veronica's Role in the All Defensive Team Conversation
03:36 — Kiah's Growth and Empty Tank Mentality
04:38 — Sacrifice, Discipline and the Three-Game-in-Four-Days Challenge
05:47 — Team Rallying Around Burton's Toughness
06:33 — Cecilia's Selflessness Despite Getting Hot
07:11 — Winning With Grit and Strength in Numbers