Natalie Nakase’s Full-Circle Moment: From Warriors Intern to Valkyries Trailblazer
Natalie Nakase’s Full-Circle Moment: From Warriors Intern to Valkyries Trailblazer
On Monday night, the hardwood floor of the Chase Center felt like home for Natalie Nakase in more ways than one. The Golden State Valkyries head coach took a seat at the announcer’s table as part of a historic, all-female broadcast team for the Golden State Warriors' clash with the Los Angeles Clippers. For Nakase, who was hired as the first head coach in Valkyries history in late 2024, the evening was a “full-circle moment.” Long before she was the WNBA Coach of the Year, she was a video intern for the Clippers and a student of the game in the very same Bay Area ecosystem she now commands.
Nakase’s presence on the broadcast is just one facet of the Valkyries' month-long celebration of Women’s History Month. Since the expansion franchise tipped off its inaugural season in 2025, Nakase has transformed the team into a defensive powerhouse. In her first year, she led the Valkyries to a remarkably competitive debut, securing her the 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year honors—the first expansion coach ever to achieve the feat in year one. Under her leadership, the Valkyries have established “Ballhalla” as one of the most electric atmospheres in the league, driven by a roster that prioritizes high-character, selfless play.
The Valkyries' 2025 campaign was anchored by breakout performances from stars like Veronica Burton, who earned Most Improved Player honors while averaging 11.9 points and 6.0 assists per game. Alongside Burton, the interior presence of Kayla Thornton (14.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG) and the versatile scoring of Janelle Salaün (11.3 PPG) allowed Golden State to exceed all external expectations. As the team looks toward the 2026 season, Nakase remains focused on building a “family-first” culture, a philosophy that saw her assistant coaches regularly lead post-game huddles to prepare them for future head-coaching opportunities.
Beyond the Bay Area, Nakase’s influence is reaching the international stage. In mid-February, she was named to the USA Basketball Women’s National Team coaching staff for the upcoming 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This appointment, which begins on March 11, cements her status as one of the most respected tactical minds in the sport. Her ability to juggle expansion team building with national team duties highlights the relentless work ethic that saw her rise through the ranks of the NBA’s Clippers and the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces.
As the WNBA enters a pivotal week of Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, the Valkyries find themselves at the center of the league’s economic evolution. A new proposal sent by the league on March 1, 2026, suggests a massive salary cap jump to $5.75 million, which would allow franchises like Golden State to aggressively pursue the 80% of players currently in free agency. With stars like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers potentially eligible for accelerated maximum contracts under the new deal, Nakase and General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin are positioned to turn their expansion success into a long-term dynasty. For now, Nakase is enjoying the journey, proving that whether she is on the sidelines or behind a microphone, her vision for the game is transforming the WNBA.
Aces Punch Playoff Ticket with Gritty Win Over Mercury
Aces Overcome Mercury in Offensive Battle to Secure Playoff Spot
The Las Vegas Aces have officially clinched their spot in the 2025 WNBA Playoffs after a hard-fought 105-95 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Thursday night. In a game defined by explosive offensive performances on both sides, it was the Aces' championship pedigree that ultimately shone through, allowing them to pull away in a tense fourth quarter. The sellout crowd at Michelob ULTRA Arena was treated to a spectacular duel between superstars, as the game remained tight until the final minutes. With the win, the Aces not only secured their postseason berth but also solidified their position as a top contender for the championship title.
Las Vegas was powered by its formidable "Big Three," with A'ja Wilson leading the charge. The reigning MVP delivered a dominant performance, pouring in 31 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, proving to be an unstoppable force in the paint. She was flanked by stellar outings from guards Jackie Young, who contributed 18 points and 8 assists, and Chelsea Gray, who added 18 points of her own. Their combined effort was crucial in weathering the storm from a resilient Mercury squad that refused to back down. The Aces' offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting an efficient 52% from the field and showcasing the ball movement and chemistry that has defined their season. The victory improves their season record to an impressive 28-10.
The Phoenix Mercury, despite the loss, showed incredible fight, largely thanks to a heroic effort from superstar Kahleah Copper. Copper was electric, dropping a game-high 30 points and keeping the Mercury within striking distance for much of the contest. She was complemented by a historic performance from Alyssa Thomas, who recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, demonstrating her all-around impact on the court. DeWanna Bonner also added a double-double, further highlighting the offensive firepower the Mercury possess. However, their efforts weren't enough to overcome the Aces' late-game execution. Phoenix's record now stands at 19-19, and they will need to fight hard in their remaining games to secure a favorable playoff seed.
A'ja Wilson's 31-Point Masterclass Leads Aces Past Mercury
Wilson Puts on an MVP Performance in Crucial Victory
In a statement performance that echoed her MVP credentials, A'ja Wilson delivered a stunning 31-point, 12-rebound double-double to lead the Las Vegas Aces to a pivotal 105-95 win over the Phoenix Mercury. Wilson was simply unstoppable, asserting her dominance from the opening tip and carrying her team to victory while officially securing their place in the 2025 WNBA Playoffs. She attacked the rim with ferocity, knocked down mid-range jumpers, and controlled the glass on both ends of the floor. Her performance was not just about the numbers; it was a clear message to the rest of the league that the road to the championship runs through Las Vegas. Whenever the Mercury threatened to close the gap, it was Wilson who responded with a crucial basket or a defensive stop.
Currently playing for the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson has been the cornerstone of the franchise since being drafted first overall in 2018. Her latest masterclass against Phoenix is just another chapter in what has been a remarkable season. She has consistently been a double-double threat, averaging near the top of the league in both points and rebounds. Her ability to score efficiently while also anchoring the defense makes her one of the most complete players in the WNBA. Thursday's game was a microcosm of her season-long brilliance, showcasing her versatile skill set and unwavering leadership when the stakes were highest.
While Wilson was the star of the show, the Aces' victory was a full team effort. The Las Vegas roster, filled with talent like Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray, provides the perfect support system for Wilson to thrive. In their latest game, the Aces shot over 50% from the field, a testament to their offensive cohesion. The team's stats for the season reflect this dominance, as they rank among the top in offensive rating and points per game. This well-oiled machine, built around Wilson's immense talent, is what makes the Aces a formidable favorite as the postseason approaches. Their recent win streak has positioned them perfectly for another deep playoff run.
Aces' 'Big Three' Fires on All Cylinders in Playoff-Clinching Win
Wilson, Young, and Gray Combine for 67 Points in Offensive Showcase
The Las Vegas Aces' superstar trio of A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray proved once again why they are one of the most feared combinations in the WNBA, combining for a staggering 67 points in a 105-95 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Their collective brilliance was on full display as they methodically dismantled the Mercury defense, securing a playoff berth for the Aces in the process. Jackie Young was particularly impressive, orchestrating the offense with precision while pouring in 18 points and dishing out 8 assists. Her ability to control the tempo and create opportunities for her teammates was instrumental in the Aces' offensive flow, demonstrating her growth into one of the league's elite point guards. This win highlighted the incredible chemistry and firepower that the Aces' backcourt and frontcourt leaders possess.
A'ja Wilson, the team's anchor, delivered a powerful 31-point double-double, while Chelsea Gray, the unflappable floor general, added 18 points of her own, hitting clutch shots in critical moments. The synergy between the three stars was palpable. Young's speed and court vision, Gray's high basketball IQ, and Wilson's sheer dominance in the paint created a matchup nightmare for Phoenix. The trio, all currently playing for the Las Vegas Aces, have been the driving force behind the team's successful season. Their consistent excellence is reflected in the team's impressive 28-10 record and their status as a top-tier offensive team in the league.
The Las Vegas roster is built for moments like these. Surrounding their "Big Three" with sharpshooters and tenacious defenders has created a balanced and deep team. In the win against the Mercury, the Aces' ball movement was crisp, leading to a high field goal percentage and demonstrating a team that is peaking at the right time. While the Mercury's stars, Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas, had outstanding games, they were ultimately overwhelmed by the Aces' multi-faceted attack. As Las Vegas heads into the postseason, the performance of Wilson, Young, and Gray serves as a powerful reminder of their championship aspirations and their capability to outgun any opponent on any given night.
Copper's 30-Point Explosion Not Enough as Mercury Fall to Aces
Kahleah Copper Shines Bright in Hard-Fought Battle Against Las Vegas
Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper put on a scoring clinic Thursday night, erupting for 30 points in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort against the Las Vegas Aces. The Mercury fell 105-95 in a high-octane thriller, but Copper's performance was a major bright spot, showcasing her status as one of the league's most dynamic and unstoppable scorers. From the opening minutes, Copper was in attack mode, relentlessly driving to the basket, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, and connecting from beyond the arc. She single-handedly kept the Mercury in the game for long stretches, answering every run the Aces made with a scoring burst of her own. Her brilliant offensive display underscored her importance to the Mercury and her reputation as a player who thrives in big moments.
Copper, who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury, has been the team's offensive engine all season. Her ability to create her own shot and score in bunches has made her the focal point of the Mercury's game plan. Against a tough defensive team like the Aces, her 30-point outing was even more impressive. This performance is part of a trend for Copper, who has consistently delivered high-scoring games throughout the 2025 season, firmly establishing herself in the league's MVP conversation. Despite the loss, her leadership and competitive fire were on full display.
The Phoenix Mercury's roster, built around the offensive talents of Copper and the all-around brilliance of Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, showed its potential in the matchup. The team's offense was potent, with Thomas recording a spectacular triple-double. However, the Mercury's overall team stats show a squad that has struggled with defensive consistency, which was evident in the final quarter as the Aces pulled away. Phoenix's last game result, a loss, drops them to a 19-19 record, placing them in a precarious position in the playoff standings. They will need more heroic performances from Copper, coupled with a stronger team-wide defensive effort, to make a deep run in the postseason.
REPORT: Alyssa Thomas Records Historic Triple-Double in Mercury Debut
Thomas Makes Immediate Impact with 17-12-10 Performance for Phoenix
In what appears to be a stunning mid-season trade, veteran forward Alyssa Thomas reportedly made her debut for the Phoenix Mercury, delivering a historic triple-double in a hard-fought game against the Las Vegas Aces. Thomas, a player synonymous with the Connecticut Sun for her entire career, allegedly took the court in a Mercury uniform and did not miss a beat, posting an incredible stat line of 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. While the Mercury ultimately fell to the Aces 105-95, Thomas's performance was the talk of the league, showcasing her unique and relentless playing style that has earned her the title of the WNBA's triple-double queen. Her passing vision was on full display as she masterfully set up teammates, and her tenacity on the boards was immediately felt.
This reported move to the Phoenix Mercury would mark a monumental shift in the WNBA landscape. Thomas has been the heart and soul of the Connecticut Sun, leading them to numerous playoff appearances with her all-around game and unparalleled motor. Her arrival in Phoenix instantly transforms the Mercury's frontcourt, pairing her with other stars like Kahleah Copper and DeWanna Bonner. This move would signal a clear "win-now" mentality for the Phoenix front office. Her ability to defend multiple positions, facilitate the offense from the forward spot, and dominate the glass addresses several needs for the Mercury roster. The initial performance suggests she will be a cornerstone of their system moving forward.
The Mercury's team stats have shown a high-powered offense but, at times, a lack of defensive cohesion, and adding a perennial All-Defensive player like Thomas could be the key to balancing their squad. In the game against the Aces, Phoenix was able to keep pace offensively, with Kahleah Copper scoring 30 points, but struggled to get the necessary stops down the stretch. The loss brings the Mercury's record to 19-19. If the reports of Thomas's acquisition are accurate, her integration into the team will be the most critical storyline for Phoenix as they head into the final stretch of the season and prepare for a competitive playoff run. Her presence could be the missing piece that elevates them from a good team to a true championship contender.
Aces Overpower Mercury in Fiery WNBA Finals Game 1 Showdown
Aces Draw First Blood in WNBA Finals with Dominant Win Over Mercury
The 2025 WNBA Finals kicked off with a bang as the Las Vegas Aces secured a commanding 98-82 victory over the Phoenix Mercury in Game 1. The defending champions wasted no time asserting their authority, using a decisive second-quarter surge to build a lead that the Mercury could never overcome. The atmosphere in Las Vegas was electric as the Aces showcased the depth and championship DNA that has defined their season, setting a powerful tone for what promises to be an intense series.
The game was a tale of two halves, with the Mercury initially keeping pace. Kahleah Copper, a consistent force for Phoenix all season, led the charge with her aggressive drives and clutch shooting. However, the Aces' defense tightened in the second quarter, fueling a transition offense that left the Mercury scrambling. By halftime, Las Vegas had established a comfortable cushion, which they methodically extended through the remainder of the contest. The victory gives the Aces a crucial 1-0 series lead as they look to defend their title.
For the Aces, the win was a total team effort. While their star players delivered, contributions came from across the roster. Their offensive efficiency was on full display, shooting an impressive percentage from the field while controlling the boards. The victory underscores their status as favorites in the series, but the Mercury have proven to be a resilient group throughout the playoffs, and a response in Game 2 is all but certain.
Looking at the broader picture, the Las Vegas Aces have been a powerhouse all season. Their roster is a blend of veteran leadership and explosive talent, featuring stars like A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Kelsey Plum. They finished the regular season with the best record in the league, dominating opponents with a high-powered offense that led the WNBA in scoring. Their journey to the finals included hard-fought series victories where their experience under pressure was evident. Their championship pedigree makes them a formidable opponent for any team.
The Phoenix Mercury, on the other hand, have been the surprise of the postseason. After a solid but not spectacular regular season, they caught fire in the playoffs, upsetting higher-seeded teams on their way to the Finals. Led by the dynamic scoring of Kahleah Copper and the veteran presence of players like Natasha Cloud, the Mercury have played with a chip on their shoulder. Their tenacity and ability to win tough road games have been the hallmarks of their playoff run, making them a dangerous underdog in this championship series.
A'ja Wilson's Double-Double Dominance Sets the Tone for Las Vegas
Wilson's MVP Form on Full Display in Finals Opener
A'ja Wilson reminded everyone why she is a perennial MVP candidate, delivering a masterful performance in the Las Vegas Aces' Game 1 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Wilson was simply unstoppable, pouring in 21 points and grabbing 10 rebounds to record a crucial double-double. Her ability to score from all over the floor, combined with her relentless work on the glass, anchored the Aces' dominant performance and sent a clear message to the Mercury for the rest of the series. Her highlights from the night showed a player at the peak of her powers, scoring through contact, hitting mid-range jumpers, and controlling the paint on both ends.
From the opening tip, Wilson established her presence. She was the focal point of the Aces' offense, and the Mercury had no answer for her combination of size, skill, and determination. Whether she was posting up smaller defenders or facing up and driving to the rim, Wilson consistently created high-percentage looks for herself and her teammates. Her 10 rebounds were equally important, limiting Phoenix's second-chance opportunities and sparking the Aces' lethal transition game. It was a complete, two-way performance from the superstar forward.
This kind of performance has become expected from Wilson, who plays for the Las Vegas Aces. Throughout the 2025 season, she has been the team's undisputed leader. She finished the regular season averaging a double-double and was a finalist for both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. Her consistency is her greatest asset; she brings the same level of intensity and production every single night, which is the engine that drives the Aces' success. Her leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in building the Aces' championship culture.
The Aces' roster is built to complement Wilson's talents perfectly. With guards like Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum running the offense, Wilson is consistently put in positions to succeed. The team's up-tempo style allows her to thrive in transition, while their half-court sets are designed to get her favorable matchups in the post. This symbiotic relationship between Wilson and her teammates is a key reason why the Aces' offense is so difficult to contain. They are a well-oiled machine, and Wilson is the main gear that makes it all run smoothly.
As the series progresses, the Mercury's primary challenge will be finding a way to slow down A'ja Wilson. They threw multiple defenders at her in Game 1 to no avail. If Phoenix hopes to make this a competitive series, they will need to devise a new strategy to limit her impact. However, as Wilson has proven time and time again, that is far easier said than done. Her Game 1 performance was a statement, and it has put the Aces in the driver's seat for their second consecutive WNBA title.
Kahleah Copper's 21-Point Effort Not Enough for Mercury in Game 1
Copper's Valiant Effort Falls Short as Mercury Drop Finals Opener
In a hard-fought battle against the Las Vegas Aces, Phoenix Mercury star Kahleah Copper put on a dazzling offensive display, scoring a team-high 21 points in the 98-82 loss. Despite the outcome, Copper was a bright spot for the Mercury, relentlessly attacking the basket and keeping her team within striking distance for much of the first half. Her performance was a testament to her scoring prowess and her role as the undisputed leader of this Phoenix team, showcasing the firepower that propelled them to the WNBA Finals.
Copper, who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury, was aggressive from the start, using her quick first step and strength to get to the rim against a formidable Aces defense. She scored from multiple levels, hitting tough layups in traffic and connecting on mid-range jumpers. For long stretches, it seemed like Copper was single-handedly keeping the Mercury's offense afloat. However, as the Aces' defense intensified, her supporting cast struggled to provide consistent scoring, and the burden on Copper became too much to overcome.
This performance was characteristic of Copper's entire season. Since joining the Mercury, she has embraced the role of primary scorer and emotional leader. She has had a career year, consistently delivering high-scoring games and coming up big in clutch moments throughout the playoffs. Her fierce competitiveness and never-say-die attitude have been the driving force behind the Mercury's underdog run to the Finals. She has proven to be one of the league's elite scorers and a player who thrives on the big stage.
The Phoenix Mercury's roster is built around Copper's dynamic scoring ability. With playmakers like Natasha Cloud setting the table, the offense is designed to create opportunities for Copper to isolate her defender and attack. The team's success is often directly tied to her ability to generate offense efficiently. While they have other capable scorers, no one on the roster possesses the same ability to create their own shot and take over a game like Copper can. Her leadership is not just vocal; it is demonstrated through her relentless effort on every possession.
As the Mercury look ahead to Game 2, finding more offensive support for Copper will be paramount. The Aces have demonstrated that they are content to let Copper get her points as long as they can shut down everyone else. Phoenix will need other players to step up and make shots to alleviate the pressure on their star player. While the Game 1 loss is a setback, Copper's performance is a clear indication that the Mercury have the star power to compete in this series. If they can make the necessary adjustments, they have a fighting chance to even the series.
Point Gawdd! Chelsea Gray's 10-Assist Masterclass Steers Aces to Victory
Chelsea Gray Orchestrates Aces' Offense to Perfection in Game 1
While A'ja Wilson's scoring grabbed the headlines, it was Chelsea Gray's masterful control of the game that truly powered the Las Vegas Aces to their Game 1 victory. The veteran point guard, aptly nicknamed the "Point Gawdd," put on a playmaking clinic, dishing out 10 assists and commanding the floor with poise and precision. Gray meticulously picked apart the Phoenix Mercury's defense, demonstrating why she is considered the engine of the Aces' high-powered offense and one of the best floor generals in WNBA history.
Gray, a cornerstone for the Las Vegas Aces, was in complete control from the outset. Her 10 assists were a testament to her incredible court vision and her ability to anticipate plays before they happened. She created easy scoring opportunities for her teammates, whether it was finding A'ja Wilson in the post, hitting Kelsey Plum for an open three, or setting up cutters for easy layups. Beyond the assists, Gray's leadership was invaluable. She controlled the tempo of the game, slowing it down when needed and pushing the pace to exploit the Aces' advantage in transition. She committed very few turnovers, ensuring the offense ran smoothly and efficiently all night.
Her performance in Game 1 is a continuation of the exceptional play she has displayed throughout her tenure with the Aces. Gray is the steady hand that guides the team, a true coach on the floor. Her basketball IQ is off the charts, and her calm demeanor under pressure is contagious. She has a knack for making the right play at the right time, and her clutch shooting in critical moments has been a hallmark of her career. Her synergy with head coach Becky Hammon has been a key factor in the Aces' sustained success and their back-to-back Finals appearances.
The Aces' roster is filled with offensive weapons, but it is Gray who unlocks their full potential. Her ability to penetrate the defense and draw help creates open looks for shooters like Plum and Jackie Young. Her pick-and-roll chemistry with A'ja Wilson is arguably the most dangerous in the league. The trust her teammates and coaches have in her to make the right decision with the ball in her hands is absolute. This allows everyone else on the floor to focus on their roles, confident that Gray will put them in a position to succeed.
For the Phoenix Mercury, dealing with Chelsea Gray presents a significant strategic problem. Focusing too much defensive attention on her opens up opportunities for the Aces' other stars. However, allowing her to operate freely means she will systematically dismantle their defense with her passing. As the series moves forward, the Mercury must find a way to disrupt Gray's rhythm without compromising their entire defensive structure. If they can't, the "Point Gawdd" is likely to orchestrate another championship run for the Las Vegas Aces.
Clash of Titans: Aces and Mercury Set Physical Tone in Finals Opener
Aces and Mercury Deliver Physical, High-Energy Start to WNBA Finals
The opening game of the 2025 WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury was a showcase of high-level basketball, defined by its physicality and intense pace from the opening tip. The highlights from the Aces' 98-82 victory painted a picture of a championship battle already in full swing, with both teams trading metaphorical and literal blows. Las Vegas ultimately proved to be the more composed and deeper team, leveraging a dominant second quarter to seize control and protect their home court in a crucial Game 1.
The game began as a back-and-forth affair, with both teams executing their offenses effectively. Phoenix, led by the aggressive scoring of Kahleah Copper, showed no fear in attacking the defending champions. However, the Aces weathered the early storm. Their defense, a hallmark of their championship identity, began to impose its will late in the first quarter and into the second. This defensive intensity created turnovers and led to easy baskets in transition, sparking the run that ultimately decided the game. The Aces' ability to turn defense into instant offense was on full display and proved to be a weapon the Mercury struggled to contain.
The Las Vegas Aces came into the Finals as the top seed, having compiled the best record in the WNBA during the regular season. Their roster, a formidable collection of All-Stars, includes A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young. Coached by Becky Hammon, the Aces play a modern, up-tempo style of basketball, leading the league in pace and offensive rating. Their path to the Finals was a dominant one, as they dispatched their opponents with a combination of overwhelming offensive firepower and clutch defensive plays, solidifying their status as the team to beat.
The Phoenix Mercury entered the Finals as a battle-tested and resilient squad. After navigating a competitive Western Conference, they have been fueled by an "us against the world" mentality throughout the playoffs. Their roster is led by superstar scorer Kahleah Copper, with key contributions from veteran point guard Natasha Cloud and a solid supporting cast. The Mercury's journey to the championship round has been defined by their toughness and ability to execute in high-pressure situations, making them a formidable and dangerous opponent despite their underdog status.
As the dust settles on Game 1, the narrative for the series is set. The Aces have demonstrated their championship mettle and the depth of their talent. The Mercury, while defeated, have shown they have the top-end star power to challenge Las Vegas. Game 2 will be a critical test of Phoenix's ability to adjust and respond. They will need a more balanced scoring attack and a better defensive plan to slow down the Aces' juggernaut offense. For Las Vegas, the goal will be to maintain their focus and intensity, knowing that one win is just the first step toward their ultimate goal of repeating as WNBA champions.