League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

WNBA coaching talent raises questions for NBA teams

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 25, 2026, 12:31 PM

Last updated Oct 25, 2026

WNBA coaching talent raises questions for NBA teams

Summary

As the 2026 WNBA Finals unfold, the successful coaching of Natalie Nakase and others sparks discussions about WNBA coaches transitioning to the NBA. Nakase, who guided the Golden State Valkyries to the finals, stands out after winning Coach of the Year. Her team has made a strong postseason run, eliminating the defending champions and showcasing exceptional defensive skills despite offensive struggles. The coaching trend favors movement from the NBA to the WNBA, prompting speculation about why top WNBA coaches aren't considered for NBA opportunities. Observers consider the implications for future coaching hires as the gap between the leagues narrows.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Natalie Nakase led Golden State to the WNBA Finals in 2026.
•Nakase won Coach of the Year in 2025 and was runner-up in 2026.
•The Valkyries' strong defense is noted despite offensive weaknesses.
•Coaching talent in the WNBA poses questions for NBA hiring trends.
•Success in the finals may impact future coaching searches in the NBA.

Latest Updates

12:31 PMYahoo Sports — Is it time for the NBA to start looking at the WNBA’s coaches?

What they're saying

"
ATLANTA — OK, I’ll ask the question: At what point does the stream start running in the other direction? I’m referring to the WNBA coaching carousel, which in the last few years has basically become a one-way thoroughfare from NBA benches to the lead seat in the W. Becky Hammon was the first and most prominent of these, but in the years since we’ve seen Nate Tibbets, Chris DeMarco, Natalie Nakase and Tyler Marsh, among others, all make the same move. But at some point, shouldn’t this street star
— Yahoo Sports

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