Meet the Golden State Valkyries: Natalie Nakase and Ohemaa Nyanin Talk Roster and Mentality
If you could pick an anthem for your favorite WNBA team, what would it be? Think critically. What captures their vibe, their aura, the way they compete on the floor and make an impact off the hardwood? When Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase and general manager Ohemaa Nyanin pulled up to our office shortly after the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft, we knew we had to ask the Ws newest franchise that very question, which well admit was inspired by the fact that Kendricks new album had just dropped, too.
Their answers might surprise you. For Nyanin, its a soulful jam: Rise Up by Andra Day. Its a spiritual experience when I hear that song, she says. I think theres something to be said about embracing the unknown and just rising. We talk about the Valkyries ascending, and I think a synonym of ascending is rising. So, I think that the Valkyries will rise to the occasion and I cant wait for everybody else to see what weve got going on.
Nakases pick is just as soulful, but with a little more swagger.
My number one go-to when I walk into the gym, what I want to hear is Rihanna. I need to hear
Im going to say it [and] yall can bleep it: B-tch Better Have My Money. Let me emphasize: B-tch Better Have My Money. Lets get paid, ladies.
https://www.slamonline.com/the-magazine/2025-nba-all-star/meet-the-golden-state-valkyries/