Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase collapses but returns to lead playoff victory
Natalie Nakase fainted late in the fourth quarter of Game 3, yet recovered to coach the Valkyries as they clinched a 77-73 win and their first series triumph.
In the final moments of Game 3 of the WNBA first-round series, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase collapsed after reporting dizziness and fatigue. Two staff members and a player helped her to her feet, where she examined her forehead before returning to the bench. Despite the unsettling episode, Nakase immediately rejoined the huddle and called the next play, keeping the team focused.
Golden State rallied with a six-point surge as part of an 8-0 run, overturning a third-quarter deficit to win 77-73, marking the franchise’s first playoff series victory in its second season. Assistant coach Kasib Powell confirmed Nakase was in good spirits afterward. The Valkyries now face defending champion Aces in the semifinals, with Game 1 scheduled for Sunday in San Francisco.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the physical demands on coaches and the team's resilience as they advance in the playoffs.
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