Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase delivered a pointed message to her players ahead of a historic Game 7 against the Connecticut Sun on August 26, 2026, at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Nakase, in her first season leading the expansion franchise, urged the team to "play like your life depends on it" as they faced a winner-take-all playoff contest.
The Valkyries, making their postseason debut, had forced a decisive seventh game in the series. The matchup marked the first Game 7 in the franchise's history and a significant moment for the WNBA's newest team.
Nakase, a former player and longtime assistant coach, has been credited with establishing a competitive culture in Golden State's inaugural campaign. Her direct approach before the pivotal game underscored the high stakes for the young roster.
