Natalie Nakase's strategy helps Valkyries secure vital Game 2 win
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 5:20 PM
Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Head coach Natalie Nakase of the Golden State Valkyries executed a notable late-game strategy in Game 2 of the WNBA semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces on October 7, 2026. With a three-point lead nearing the end of the fourth quarter, the Valkyries opted to foul instead of defending, successfully managing the final seconds to protect their lead. This decision followed a previous incident where they had lost a late lead in an earlier series. The victory places the Valkyries one win away from the WNBA Finals in their second season.
- •Valkyries lead series 2-0 following Game 2 win.
- •Golden State committed fouls strategically in the final minute.
- •Aces attempted to tie the game but fell short on a last shot.
- •Golden State aims for a Finals berth in franchise's second year.
- 5:20 PMYahoo Sports — Natalie Nakase put on a late-game coaching master class to lead Valkyries to win
"The Valkyries tripled down on a highly debated strategic move. It worked.
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