SAN FRANCISCO – The star energy of the Valkyries’ closing homestand has dimmed, however the pleasure of a surprising playoff push stays vivid and unabated.
Golden State entered Sunday’s matchup in opposition to the Fever with a magic variety of 4, which is the mixed variety of Valkyries wins and the trailing Los Angeles Sparks losses wanted for the growth franchise to clinch a playoff spot.
The stakes is perhaps excessive, however that won’t change how the Valkyries’ coach approaches the essential stretch in comparison with the remainder of the season.
“That’s gambling, that’s Vegas stuff,” Nakase stated when requested in regards to the magic quantity. “Like, I don’t know if any of the other teams are going to lose. That’s why I stay focused on us.”
That mentality has trickled right down to the gamers.
The Valkyries are enjoying of their final string of video games at Chase Middle, going through New York, Dallas and Minnesota within the Bay Space this week earlier than ending the season on the highway.
None of these upcoming three opponents is anticipated to be at full energy, although.
Caitlin Clark has not performed since July, the Liberty are coping with a slew of accidents, and Paige Bueckers has been saddled with again and calf accidents on a Dallas crew that has had half the roster both out or questionable for weeks.
What has been the reason for this leaguewide harm disaster?
“Shoot, if I had that answer, I’d be a millionaire,” Nakase remarked sarcastically earlier than including, “It’s part of basketball, and it happens, but you guys see how important it is, and how (and why) I am so focused on taking care of my players.”
Minnesota, the highest crew within the league, may be resting gamers similar to Napheesa Collier if it has clinched the No. 1 seed.
Originally of the season, seeing marquee names similar to Clark, Bueckers and Walnut Creek’s Sabrina Ionescu on the injured checklist could be trigger for concern so far as ticket gross sales are involved.
However this season has confirmed that fan curiosity will not be tied to who’s visiting city.
The Valkyries have bought out every of their 18 dwelling video games this season, 18,064 packing out Chase Middle no matter how mighty or feeble the opposition is.
Such unconditionally sturdy assist on the venue informally dubbed “Ballhalla” has not gone unnoticed by the Valkyries gamers or coaches.
“I think it’s exciting that our players really are excited to play at home,” Nakase stated. “You can see how our pregame is one of the most unique shows in basketball.”
And no matter who’s enjoying for the opposite crew, the Valkyries know they are going to get assist.
Initially Printed: August 31, 2025 at 4:52 PM PDT
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