"Complete Composure and Connectivity" — Nakase on the Game 2 Win

Head Coach Natalie Nakase spoke after Golden State's Game 2 win over the Las Vegas Aces, and her message centered on complete composure and connectivity. Nakase explained how the staff calculated timeouts, set a clear plan for fouling up three, and made sure every player knew exactly where to go in the final seconds. She credited Veronica Burton for knocking down a big shot late after Gabby Williams found her wide open, saying it shows the value of having multiple closers.

Nakase also reflected on Tiffany Hayes, recalling the leap of faith the two took together when Nakase became head coach and what it means to see Hayes thriving with a community behind her. She praised Hayes' growing skill around the rim, her film study, and her constant desire to be pushed to improve.

On defense, Nakase said the focus is keeping Las Vegas off rhythm with ball pressure, shifts, and fresh bodies. She explained the careful approach to rest and recovery late in a long season, putting film sessions ahead of full practices so the players could recharge. In the final seconds, the Valkyries stayed disciplined, defended without fouling, and let a Kiah Stokes block and a Veronica Burton rebound close it out.

Nakase also opened up about a wake-up call on her own health during the playoff run, saying she cannot do this alone and is leaning on her family, friends, and staff. With a short turnaround and travel to Las Vegas ahead, her focus is rest, recovery, and a clear plan for the next tip.

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Press Conference | Natalie Nakase, Veronica Burton, Tiffany Hayes | Las Vegas Aces | 2026

00:00 — Complete Composure and Connectivity
00:24 — Veronica Burton's Late Shot and Multiple Closers
01:11 — Tip Hayes' Leap of Faith and Thriving
02:12 — Keeping Las Vegas Off Rhythm
03:24 — Recharging Batteries on a Calculated Schedule
05:25 — The Foul Up Three Plan and Execution
06:26 — Travel, Hydration, and Rest Before Game 3
07:08 — Tip Hayes' Burst Off the Bench
08:20 — The Final Sequence: Stay Composed, Defend Without Fouling
09:34 — Nakase's Health Wake-Up Call and Leaning on Support
11:48 — Why the Staff Chose to Foul Up Three