Natalie Nakase
Awards & Honours
3
Awards Won
4
Honours
1
Covers
3
Records
Natalie Nakase's career is a testament to breaking barriers and redefining what is possible in professional sports. She holds the distinction of being the first Asian American to play in the NWBL, the first female head coach in Japan's B.League, and the first Asian American head coach in WNBA history. Her two WNBA championships as an assistant coach and her immediate success as a head coach with the Valkyries highlight her exceptional leadership skills. She has become a symbol of resilience and progress for Asian Americans and women in sports.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
First Asian American to play in the NWBL
Historic achievement as the first player of Asian descent in the league.
First Female Head Coach in B.League
Breaking the gender barrier in Japan's top men's professional league.
First Asian American Assistant Coach to Win WNBA Title
Winning a championship with the Las Vegas Aces.
First Asian American Head Coach in WNBA History
Hired as the inaugural head coach for the Golden State Valkyries.
Magazine Covers
SLAM Magazine
2025
Trust the Process: Natalie Nakase
Records & Feats
First Asian American WNBA Head Coach
Hired as the inaugural head coach for the Golden State Valkyries in 2024.
First Female Head Coach in Japan's B.League
Coached the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the top tier of men's professional basketball.
First Asian American to Play in the NWBL
Pioneered representation in the National Women's Basketball League.