In the final 10 minutes of Game 2, the Valkyries were outscored 26-17 by the Aces. Natalie Nakase traced the collapse to exhaustion, which she tried to address ahead of the game.

After winning Game 1 71-60, Nakase scaled back intensity, prioritizing rest over practice. The veteran coach wanted her team to rest. Despite that, her team was off the pace in the fourth quarter of Game 2. 

"No matter how you say we had a break or not, we're still a little bit exhausted," Nakase said. "No matter how you look at it. I mean, look at me. I'm a complete example of emptying the tank." 

Nakase does have a reputation for giving her all. After sealing the series against Dallas in the first-round playoffs, the veteran coach collapsed on the court from intense exhaustion. 

Her team shares that relentless drive. Yet Nakase took an unorthodox approach for Game 2, opting to keep physical training to a minimum during the two days ahead of Game 2.

"It was really calculated because now I understand what each individual player needs," Nakase added, as reported by the Athletic's Brian Hamilton. "And so, that's why within those two days, it's like, okay, what do you need? Would you guys like more rest?" 

The approach paid off, keeping them on the front foot at the end of the third quarter with a 66-55 lead. 

The exhaustion kicked in the final 10 minutes. The Valkyries scored just 17 points in the fourth quarter, while the Aces scored 26. Despite the late push, the Valkyries held on, 83-81.

Valkyries guard Vertina Burton also praised her coach’s relentless attitude. 

How Burton answered Nakase's intensity

Vertina Burton reflected on Nakase's work ethic and commitment to the team.

“We appreciate all that she’s willing to do for us — the time, the energy, the discipline, the details that she puts into it,” Burton said, per the same report by the Athletic's Brian Hamilton. “It takes a lot out of you. She’s someone that probably won’t stop herself.” 

Burton returned the favor to her coach in the final moments of the game. When it looked like the Aces were going to run away with the game, the Valkyries guard closed the door on a comeback.

Being 0-for-2 from the field all night, Burton landed a stunning 3-pointer, putting the Valkyries up 79-76. Following that, she scored two critical free throws as the game finished 83-81 to the Valkyries.

Written by

Avishek Sarkar