Golden State Coach Natalie Nakase Collapses During WNBA Playoff Game
Coach Nakase experienced a concerning collapse on the sideline but is reported to be recovering.
Golden State Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase experienced a frightening moment Friday night when she collapsed on the sideline during her team's WNBA playoff victory over the Dallas Wings.
The incident occurred with approximately 1:40 remaining in the game, which Golden State won 77-73 to advance.
Nakase was attended to by athletic trainer Katelin Knox and was able to get up. She remained on the bench and finished the game, but she was escorted off the court by a staff member immediately after the final buzzer while her team celebrated.
Assistant coach Kasib Powell addressed the media postgame, stating that Nakase was "fine" and in "great spirits."
"She wouldn't miss it for anything," Powell said of Nakase's status for the upcoming Game 1 of the semifinals. "We look forward to preparing and getting ready for Sunday."
Guard Gabby Williams echoed the sentiment, telling reporters, "We just tried to step up ourselves. We're just happy that she's OK."
Nakase, 46, guided the Valkyries to a historic inaugural season, becoming the first expansion team to reach the playoffs.
Despite the scare, Nakase reportedly did not miss a beat, drawing up the next play and addressing her team in the huddle.
The Valkyries are set to host the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of their semifinal series on Sunday.
