Okay, so picture this: Game 3 of a playoff series, final two minutes ticking down, and Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase is in a heated discussion with an official. Next thing you know, she’s collapsed to her knees, head to the ground, right there on the sideline. Talk about a heart-stopping moment in a 77-73 Valkyries win that clinched their first-ever playoff series.
What Went Down in the Final Minutes
It happened on Friday, in the wildest part of the game. Nakase, looking visibly uncomfortable, was quickly helped off to the bench. But here’s the kicker: she stayed in the game. Seconds later, she was back in the huddle, calling plays like a champ. The Valkyries fought tooth and nail, coming back from a 16-point third-quarter deficit. Gabby Williams absolutely went off, dropping 17 of her team-high 19 points in the second half to seal that historic win. It was a thriller for the ages, securing the franchise’s first playoff series win in only their second season.
“Exhausted and Light-Headed” or More?
So, what exactly happened? The Valkyries told ESPN after the game that Nakase was simply exhausted and got light-headed, but was fine. Star player Gabby Williams echoed that, saying, “We’re glad she’s alright.” But here’s where it gets interesting. Assistant coach Kasib Powell spoke to reporters in Nakase’s place, saying she was “fine,” in great spirits, talking and laughing back in the locker room. Yet, Powell “couldn’t provide specifics” beyond that. It makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Just “exhausted”? Or is there more to the story? Powell did say Nakase would be ready to roll for Game 1 of the WNBA semifinals on Sunday, so that’s a huge relief.
A Historic Win and a Familiar Foe Ahead
This isn’t just any coach, either. Nakase has been the Valkyries’ leader for both their seasons, even snagging WNBA Coach of the Year honors last season after guiding them to the league’s second-best regular season record at 32-12. Now, they’re heading into the WNBA semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces. And get this: Nakase actually won two titles as an assistant coach with the Aces under Becky Hammon. That’s a serious full-circle moment! Game 1 is Sunday, and you know there’s going to be some extra fire on that sideline. Can the Valkyries keep that intensity going, especially with their coach bouncing back like a warrior? We’re about to find out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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