A trio of Valkyries earned national recognition on Friday for their contributions to the team’s success in its inaugural season.

Coach Natalie Nakase was named the Associated Press WNBA coach of the year, point guard Veronica Burton was tabbed as the most improved player and forward Janelle Salaün was named to the all-rookie team.

Nakase led the Valkyries to a 23-21 record in their first season and led the Golden State to the playoffs, becoming the first expansion team in league history to make the postseason in its first year. Under Nakase, the Valkyries established themselves as one of the best defenses in the league, holding opponents to a league-best 76.3 points per game.

The first-time head coach was hired last year by Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin and has created a cultu

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