"It Actually Worked Out in Our Favor" — Nakase on Her Depth Getting Live Playoff Reps

Head Coach Natalie Nakase spoke after Golden State's win over Seattle, capping off a back-to-back with the team's reserves once again stepping up in the absence of key players. Nakase praised her group for being prepared for the moment and taking full advantage of the opportunity, saying the growing confidence across the roster is trending in the right direction heading into the playoffs.

On defense, Nakase was candid that she wasn't fully satisfied despite extending the streak to six straight games holding opponents under 70 points, saying she liked the start but wants a higher level of communication and help defense moving forward. She praised Kayla Thornton's elite two-way ability, calling her a beast who can guard multiple positions and never gets fatigued, while also crediting her growth as a playmaker who can now attack closeouts and make reads in addition to her defensive impact.

Nakase also highlighted Laeticia Amihere's continued rise in confidence, pointing to her ability to block shots and immediately push the pace in transition for easy offense. She explained that having several key players out over recent games actually worked in the team's favor, giving Golden State valuable game film and physical playoff-level reps that are difficult to replicate in practice.

The conversation closed on a reflective note, with Nakase expressing genuine gratitude for the franchise becoming the first in WNBA history to sell out every home game in its first two seasons. She credited team president Jess Smith's tireless work behind the scenes and reaffirmed the team's commitment to playing for Ballhalla, the fans, and the community that continues to show up in full force, even filling the ferries that bring supporters to the games.

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Press Conference | Natalie Nakase, Kayla Thornton, Laeticia Amihere | Seattle Storm | 2026

00:00 — Confidence Heading Into the Playoffs
00:44 — Defensive Communication and Room for Growth
01:44 — Preparing for Playoff-Style Back-to-Backs
02:03 — Kayla Thornton's Two-Way Beast Mode
03:08 — Laeticia Amihere's Rising Confidence
03:48 — Rotation Balance With Starters Returning
04:45 — Describing the Valkyries' Brand of Basketball
05:33 — Mini Camp Bonding and Depth Paying Off
05:50 — Back-to-Back Sellout Seasons and Franchise Gratitude
06:37 — Crediting Jess Smith and Playing for the Community