Caitlin Clark's Praise for WNBA Coach Sparks Buzz

The Indiana Fever star's comment on Natalie Nakase's post draws attention from fans.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:34pm

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Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, the MVP of the recent FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament, praised Natalie Nakase, an assistant coach for Team USA, in a social media comment. Clark's positive words about Nakase, who also coaches the Golden State Valkyries, have generated excitement among fans who speculate about a potential coaching connection between the two.

Why it matters

Clark's comment on Nakase's post suggests a positive relationship between the two, which could have implications for Clark's future if Nakase were to become a head coach in the WNBA. Fans are eager to see how this dynamic plays out, especially since the Fever and Valkyries are scheduled to face off early in the upcoming WNBA season.

The details

Clark, 24, led Team USA to a perfect 5-0 record at the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament, averaging 11.6 points, 6.4 assists, 1.6 rebounds, and 2.0 3-pointers per game. She was named the tournament's MVP. Nakase, an assistant coach for Team USA, took over head coaching duties when Kara Lawson had to leave mid-tournament to prepare for the NCAA women's tournament with Duke. Nakase was assisted by Fever head coach Stephanie White and other elite coaches.

  • Clark led Team USA to a 5-0 record at the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament in March 2026.
  • Nakase took over as head coach of Team USA in the middle of the tournament.
  • The Fever and Valkyries are scheduled to face off on May 22, 2026 in Indianapolis.

The players

Caitlin Clark

A 24-year-old guard for the Indiana Fever who was named MVP of the recent FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament while playing for Team USA.

Natalie Nakase

An assistant coach for Team USA who took over as head coach during the middle of the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament, and is also the head coach of the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA.

Kara Lawson

The head coach of Team USA who had to leave the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament mid-way to prepare for the NCAA women's tournament with Duke.

Stephanie White

The head coach of the Indiana Fever who was an assistant coach for Team USA during the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“goatttttt. Guard group”

— Caitlin Clark

What’s next

The first matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Golden State Valkyries is scheduled for May 22, 2026 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

The takeaway

Clark's positive comments about Nakase have sparked speculation among fans about a potential coaching connection between the two, especially given Nakase's success as an assistant with Team USA. This relationship will be closely watched as the new WNBA season begins, with the Fever and Valkyries set to face off early on.