Coach Nakase Knows Ballhalla Could Make the Difference

Coach Natalie Nakase has a message for Ballhalla before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals: make Chase Center LOUD. From hostile free throws to an electric atmosphere, the moment Atlanta is announced, the Valkyries are preparing their game plan. Now it's time for the fans to prepare theirs.

But behind the Finals hype is a story of mentorship, resilience, and the connections that brought this team together. Nakase reflects on the 12-year relationship with her mentor, Armond Hill, who believed in her dream of becoming a head coach when she was just a video intern with the Clippers. His guidance still shapes her today, from trusting herself to staying composed under pressure.

Nakase also opens up about losing her father and how that experience changed her perspective on basketball. For her, the game is an opportunity and a gift. That same appreciation carries into a Valkyries locker room where players share their stories, support one another, and build relationships that go beyond basketball.

With Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream standing in their way, the Valkyries know the challenge ahead. Kiah Stokes is recovering after battling the league's MVP, and the team is focused on what comes next.

Two hoops. One court. One game plan.

**Ballhalla, it's your turn. Make them feel it.**

🔔 .
Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Finals Prep Presser | Coach Natalie Nakase| Atlanta Dream | WNBA Finals | October 13, 2025

00:00 — Game Plan Valhalla: Coach Natalie Calls Out the Sixth Man Directly
00:20 — Armond Hill Is in the Room: The Mentor Who Said Let's Get to It
01:30 — Grasshopper: What Armond Hill Still Tells Her Heading Into the Finals
02:00 — Players Who Were Overlooked: Coach Natalie Goes Personal
03:20 — The Bond Built From Shared Stories and Shared Trauma
03:58 — Angel Reese: The Ultimate Competitor and Why Atlanta Is in the Finals
04:30 — Kia Stokes Is Resting: She Played Her Heart Out Against the MVP
05:00 — Venue Change, Tighter Schedule: We've Already Done Three in Five Days
05:45 — Two Hoops That's All I Need: The Finals Game Plan Philosophy
06:15 — Valhalla Always Watching: They Will Do Whatever It Takes