Valkyries coach Nakase goes down on sideline late in Golden State’s playoff-clinching win over Wings

Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase collapsed to the floor with her head and hands on the court with just 1:40 remaining in a crucial 77-73 victory over the Dallas Wings on Friday. The dramatic moment occurred late in the game, as the Valkyries secured a series-clinching win. Nakase was promptly assisted by athletic trainer Katelin Knox and returned to the bench after the final buzzer, where her team celebrated at midcourt.

In a postgame interview, assistant coach Kasib Powell confirmed Nakase was feeling fine, though the circumstances were new for everyone. The Valkyries, who made history as the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their inaugural season, will face the Las Vegas Aces in the best-of-five semifinals. Despite the scare, the team rallied and celebrated Nakase's quick return to the game, with guard Gabby Williams stating that everyone just stepped up and continued to play.