Natalie Nakase, assistant coach of the Golden State Valkyries, earned a gold medal with Team USA at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup following a 97-79 victory over France in Berlin. Team USA went undefeated at 6-0 to secure their fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup title, clinching automatic qualification for the 2028 Olympics.
Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams, playing for France, was named Best Defensive Player and selected to the FIBA All-Star Five. Williams averaged 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.8 steals per game, playing a key role in France’s best-ever achievement of a silver medal. Her teammate, Janelle Salaün, also representing France, averaged 11.2 points per game and shot 46.4 percent from three-point range, earning a spot on the All-Second Team.
Other Golden State Valkyries players made significant contributions for their respective national teams. Forward Cecilia Zandalasini represented Italy, scoring in double figures in all group phase games and earning TCL Player of the Game honors against Czechia. Guard Miela Sowah appeared in five games for Australia, including scoring six points in the quarterfinal matchup. Guard Kokoro Tanaka, drafted by the Valkyries, led Japan in scoring with 14.8 points per game and helped Japan advance to the quarterfinal qualification.
The Golden State Valkyries will return to WNBA action at home against Portland on September 18 at 7 p.m., with broadcast coverage on ION, 95.7 The Game, ESPN 1320, and the Audacy App.
CSB Take
Natalie Nakase’s gold medal as an assistant coach and the prominent international performances by multiple Golden State Valkyries players highlight the program’s global influence and success in developing talent. Their contributions on several national teams emphasize the Valkyries’ important role in women’s basketball internationally. This impressive World Cup showing sets an encouraging tone for the Valkyries as they head into the upcoming WNBA season and future international competitions.
Source: Original report
