Golden State Valkyries' suffocating defense fuels surprising 3-1 WNBA start
The Golden State Valkyries have started the WNBA season with a strong 3-1 record. Their success so far comes despite losing key players and draft picks before the campaign began. Defense has become the team’s defining strength under head coach Natalie Nakase. The Valkyries made history as the first expansion team to reach the playoffs last year. However, they failed to win a single game in the opening round. This season, their defensive approach has set them apart.
They lead the league in limiting opponent field goal attempts and enforce the slowest pace per 40 minutes. This style disrupts even high-powered offenses, as seen in their 87-70 victory over the New York Liberty—the league’s top-scoring team. In that game, the Valkyries restricted the Liberty to a season-low 62 shot attempts and a noticeably sluggish tempo.
Coach Nakase has stressed that defense is the team’s identity. Their ability to control the game’s rhythm gives them a chance to win, even when their own offense struggles. Offensively, they rank third in field goal attempts per game and second in offensive rebounds, showing balance despite roster challenges.
Before the season, the Valkyries signed star forward Gabby Williams but lost center Iliana Rupert for the year. They also entered 2026 without any draft picks, adding to the hurdles. With a 3-1 start, the Valkyries have proven their defensive system can stifle elite opponents. Their disciplined play and rebounding strength provide a solid foundation. The team now aims to build on this momentum as the season progresses.
