With a coaching career spanning 16 years, Natalie Mitsue Nakase has made her mark in the world of basketball, including a decade spent as an assistant coach with the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers. Recently, the newly formed Golden State Valkyries announced that Nakase will take the reins as head coach for the team’s inaugural WNBA season in 2025. As a third-generation Japanese-American born in the United States, Nakase has made history as the first Asian American head coach in the WNBA.
Previously serving as an assistant coach for the Las Vegas Aces, Nakase expressed her excitement during a press conference, stating, “Becoming the head coach for the Golden State team has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I’m thrilled to see it come to fruition.”
Reflecting on her journey, Nakase shared, “I remember telling myself that I wanted to work for the Golden State team, that I wanted to be a part of it. Fast forward nine years, and here I am, right in Golden State. If you focus and work really hard on your goals, great dreams can become a reality. I am living proof of that.”
During her three seasons with the Aces, Nakase played a pivotal role alongside renowned coach Becky Hammon, contributing to two championship wins. Her departure from the team has been met with a mix of pride and sadness from players and staff alike.
In a heartfelt message shared on the Aces’ social media, Hammon acknowledged Nakase’s influence, stating, “She played an integral role in everything we achieved. I clearly learned a lot from her, and I hope she learned some things from me too. Her empathy, attention to detail, and infectious laughter will undoubtedly make her an exceptional head coach.”
Tyler March, an assistant coach with the Aces, also took to X to express his support: “Though you’re now an opponent, you will always be my sister. I’m proud of you; the Golden State team couldn’t have chosen a better coach to lead them. Keep breaking barriers, and know that I’ll always support you!”
Born in 1980 in Anaheim, California, Nakase developed a passion for basketball early on, inspired and encouraged by her father. She was recognized as a top player in high school, earning the title of Player of the Year in 1998. However, at only 5 feet 2 inches tall, she was not a top choice for collegiate teams. After turning down a full scholarship to UC Irvine, she opted for UCLA, where she initially played as a backup before becoming the starting point guard in her sophomore year.
After earning her degree, Nakase played two seasons in the National Women’s Basketball League, becoming the first Asian player in that league. Following knee injuries that led her to pivot towards coaching, she has built an impressive coaching career, which includes ten seasons as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers.
