Japanese American women’s basketball coach Natalie Nakase made history on Friday.
Nakase is the first Asian American female head coach in the WNBA. On Friday, she coached the Golden State Valkyries in their first regular season game against the Los Angeles Sparks.
The 45-year-old told KCRA Sacramento that growing up she did not think she would be a role model.
“I didn’t grow up thinking like, ‘Hey, let’s be a role model.’ Or, ‘Let’s be someone who inspires people.’ I’m honestly just following my passion.” Nakase said. “I’m actually just showing the world that when you have a passion and you work really, really hard, you can do anything.”
Unfortunately, the Valkyries’ historic night ended in a loss. The Sparks, despite an early injury, defeated the Valkyries 84-67.
According to San Francisco Chronicle columnist Anne Killion, the team still received a standing ovation at the end of the game.
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