No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show

Jaksot

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  Gold Again: Team USA Makes It Five Straight 14.09.2026 39min

  Chantel and Annie react to the U.S. capturing its fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup gold medal, breaking down how Team USA overcame the challenges of the gold medal game and what ultimately made the difference in another championship run.The duo also spotlight Sue Bird’s leadership as Managing Director of the USA Basketball Women’s National Team and the impact she has had on a program that continues to set the standard on the international stage.They also break down Breanna Stewart’s standout performance and leadership, while also highlighting the contributions of the roster’s “young and turnt” group and the veterans who stepped up when Team USA needed them most.With another gold medal secured, the duo looks ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and explores how USA Basketball will balance its emerging young stars with the veteran leaders who have set the standard.REFERENCES:Team USA takes down France for fifth consecutive World Cup gold medal by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Can Spain Finally Stop Team USA? 11.09.2026 43min

  With a spot in Sunday’s gold medal game on the line, Chantel and Annie preview Team USA’s highly anticipated World Cup semifinal against Spain. They break down Spain’s strengths, the challenges this matchup presents and what the U.S. will need to do to keep its championship run alive.The duo also look ahead to Sunday’s gold medal game and who could be waiting for Team USA if the U.S. advances.REFERENCES: Team USA moves on to World Cup semifinals after blowout win over Hungary by Annie CostabileTeam USA helped raise the bar on worldwide competition. Now it must stay ahead by Chantel Jennings__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Behind the Scenes of The Dynasty: UConn Huskies 10.09.2026 1t 2min

  Team USA is finding its footing at the World Cup, while one of the most iconic stories in women’s basketball gets the documentary treatment. We kick things off with Chantel and Annie breaking down Team USA’s World Cup run, taking a closer look at their matchups against China, Italy and Czechia. They examine the team’s evolving chemistry, the challenges it has faced and the players emerging as leaders.Then, Annie and Sabreena go behind the scenes of The Dynasty: UConn Huskies with co-directors Matthew Hamachek and Erica Sashin. They reveal what went into capturing the history and legacy of UConn women’s basketball, from the complexities of telling Geno Auriemma’s story to his relationships with players like Paige Bueckers. The directors also open up about their creative process, building trust with their subjects and finding the emotional moments that helped shape the series.REFERENCES: Team USA dominates China to open FIBA Women’s World Cup by Jenna WestTeam USA struggles and survives World Cup scare from Italy by Chantel Jennings Team USA bounces back from rough outing by dominating Czechia by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Emergency Pod: Cathy Engelbert era ends after 2026 Season 04.09.2026 36min

  Chantel, Annie and Sabreena go LIVE to discuss WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s tenure coming to an end after the 2026 season. They look back at Engelbert’s impact on the league, as well as the biggest moments and challenges of her tenure. Plus, they discuss potential candidates who could be in the mix to become the WNBA’s next commissioner.REFERENCES:WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert retiring at end of 2026 by Annie CostabileWho should be the next WNBA commissioner? Potential candidates to replace Cathy Engelbert by Sabreena Merchant and Annie CostabileCathy Engelbert did her job. Now the WNBA needs a true visionary as commissioner by Brian Hamilton__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Is France Team USA’s Biggest World Cup Threat? 04.09.2026 48min

  French talent is making a major impact in the WNBA — and now some of those same players could stand in Team USA’s way at the FIBA World Cup. Sabreena and Annie are joined by Eden Laase to break down the growing pipeline of French players to the WNBA, what’s made the league an increasingly attractive destination, and whether that experience could help France pull off a World Cup upset.Before Eden joins, Sabreena and Annie discuss the latest developments surrounding Kate Koval’s departure from LSU following the program’s recruitment of a Russian player, which left Koval without a new landing spot as the NCAA transfer window closed before she could make her move. They also break down the passport issue that has kept Li Yueru from playing for Team China, before turning to Satou Sabally being ruled out for the remainder of the season and what that could mean for her future and the New York Liberty.Finally, the trio look beyond Team USA and France to preview the rest of the FIBA World Cup field, highlighting the teams and players they’ll be watching closely throughout the tournament.REFERENCES: Ukrainian center Kate Koval details leaving LSU after recruitment of Russian player by Annie Costabile and Chantel JenningsWings center Li Yueru can’t play with China in World Cup due to lost passport by Sabreena MerchantThe WNBA has experienced a French influence. It could also cause chaos in the World Cup by Eden LaaseWhat to know about Team USA and the World Cup women's basketball field as play begins by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Can Team USA Still Win Gold Without A’ja Wilson? 03.09.2026 50min

  The FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup tips off Friday, and Team USA is chasing its fifth consecutive gold medal. Sabreena, Annie and Chantel preview the tournament and take a closer look at a new-look Team USA without leading scorer A’ja Wilson. With seven World Cup debutants on the roster, what will the roster changes mean for Team USA’s strategy, chemistry and chances of staying on top? Plus, France could be one of the biggest threats to the U.S. with an experienced roster.But first, we kick off our conversation with the second annual Players Era Women’s Showcase coming to Las Vegas this December. We break down the loaded matchups, what’s at stake and what this event means for women’s college basketball.Then, we discuss Skylar Diggins being placed on the Chicago Sky’s season-ending injury list and what it means for both Diggins and the Sky moving forward.And to wrap things up, we play another round of “Something in Common.”REFERENCES: UCLA, USC, South Carolina among women’s basketball teams in Players Era showcase by SabreenaSky guard Skylar Diggins done for season, calls effort to get healthy an ‘uphill battle’ by Annie Costabile Why isn’t the WNBA playing for 2 weeks? Here’s what to know about the FIBA World Cup by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Teams Poised To Shake Up The Playoff Seeding 01.09.2026 58min

  The WNBA is taking a 17-day pause for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, but there’s still plenty to sort out before the playoffs. With just four games remaining when the league returns, Zena and Sabreena break down the current standings, potential playoff matchups, and which teams have the most at stake down the stretch. They look at the biggest strengths and weaknesses across the playoff field, the defensive adjustments that could make a difference, and the players and rivalries that could shape the postseason.Before getting into the playoff race, the duo reacts to the news that A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will miss the FIBA World Cup, with Plum also set to miss the remainder of the WNBA season. They then turn to another major blow for the Las Vegas Aces, as NaLyssa Smith is officially out for the rest of the season with a leg injury. What does her absence mean for the defending champions heading into the playoffs?Plus, Zena and Sabreena discuss Angel Reese’s rescinded technical foul and what the original ruling could have meant for the Atlanta Dream.And finally, they open up the mailbag to break down temporary suspensions in the WNBA and how they can impact a team’s roster.WNBA stars A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum out for FIBA Women’s World Cup by Annie CostabileNaLyssa Smith has been ruled out for the season. What now for the Aces’ lineup? By Sabreena MerchantAngel Reese avoids automatic suspension after technical foul quickly rescinded by Sabreena MerchantCan Valkyries overtake Lynx’s top playoff seed? Our WNBA playoff picture forecast by Sabreena MerchantChapters(00:00) Intro(01:51) A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum to miss FIBA Women’s World Cup(04:11) Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron added to Team USA roster(07:14) NaLyssa Smith suffers season-ending injury(13:27) WNBA rescinds Angel Reese’s technical foul(18:17) WNBA playoff structure(19:48) How WNBA playoff home-court advantage works(20:09) WNBA tiebreaker scenario explained(25:43) Exploring the Wing’s playoff approach(31:02) Inside the Valkyries and Mystics defensive styles(32:57) Examining the Valkyries and Mystics offense(38:35) Could the Liberty be trouble for the Aces?(45:35) What gives the Dream an edge over the Fever?(50:56) The impact of the FIBA World Cup break on teams(54:36) Mailbag Question__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  How Paige Bueckers and Jose Fernandez Revived Dallas 28.08.2026 57min

  How did the Dallas Wings go from last place to playoff contender in just one season? Sabreena and Annie are joined by Brian Hamilton to take a closer look at one of the WNBA’s biggest turnarounds.Brian shares insight into head coach Jose Fernandez’s journey from college basketball to the WNBA, why the timing was right for the move, and how his relationship with Paige Bueckers has shaped his approach to coaching her. The trio also breaks down what has changed in Dallas and how the Wings went from a team searching for answers to one now positioned for the playoffs.Plus, Sabreena and Annie break down DeWanna Bonner officially joining the Atlanta Dream, how she fits into Atlanta’s playoff push, and the roster move the Dream made to bring her in. They also discuss Unrivaled’s latest funding and plans to bring games to cities across the country.And they dive into the Chicago Sky’s decision to ban Enes Kanter Freedom from Wintrust Arena and what it means for the team and the WNBA.Finally, as we head into the weekend, we’ll tell you where to set your screens for the biggest games this weekend.REFERENCES: DeWanna Bonner signing with Atlanta Dream for playoff run: Sources by Annie CostabileUnrivaled announces new funding that sets league valuation at $650 million by Annie CostabileEnes Kanter Freedom banned by Chicago Sky after altercation with Natasha Cloud by Annie CostabileCoach star Paige Bueckers? Resurrect the Dallas Wings? It’s all ‘just basketball’ to Jose Fernandez by Jose Fernandez__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why the Dream Are Peaking at the Perfect Time 27.08.2026 1t 18min

  **Correction: In this episode, we incorrectly stated that Olivia Miles holds the all-time assists record for a Rookie. Caitlin Clark currently holds that record.Note: This episode was recorded before the Atlanta Dream signed DeWanna Bonner, so some of the discussion and analysis reflects the roster situation at the time of recording.DESCRIPTION: The playoff field is officially set, and we’re breaking down the biggest questions facing every team as the postseason approaches!Zena is joined by Atlanta Dream sideline reporter Autumn Johnson to take a closer look at the playoff picture, including why the Dream are hitting their stride at the perfect time and how head coach Karl Smesko has built trust and confidence within the team.Before diving into the postseason, we look at the record-breaking performances shaping the league. From Angel Reese’s historic rebounding numbers and Kelsey Mitchell’s scoring streak to Kayla McBride’s record-setting 3-point performance.Plus, Sabreena sits down with Charlotte Crown guard Deja Kelly of the UPSHOT league to discuss the league’s impact on women’s basketball, the opportunities it provides, her growth as a player, and the competitive environment the league creates.REFERENCES: Angel Reese breaks WNBA single-game and single-season rebounding records by Sabreena MerchantUPSHOT LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why Off-Court Drama is Consuming the WNBA 25.08.2026 51min

  The WNBA continues to navigate a growing number of distractions and controversies, sparking important conversations. Zena and Annie dive into the recent confrontation between former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom and Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud. What led to the incident, and why are WNBA players so often caught in the crossfire of cultural and  political debates? The duo discusses how these moments impact the league and wonder what the WNBA can do to ensure off-court distractions don’t continue to overshadow the game.But first, Zena and Annie break down some of the biggest moments from the weekend, including the introduction of the Portland Fire’s new mascot, Sydney Taylor’s impact on the Chicago Sky and the Toronto Tempo’s ongoing injury woes.Then, they turned attention to the Phoenix Mercury and veteran forward DeWanna Bonner, who mutually agreed to part ways. Could the move open the door for Bonner to join another team in playoff contention?Finally, they share their thoughts on Apple TV+’s new three-part docuseries, The Dynasty: UConn Huskies, which chronicles the rise of one of the most dominant programs in women’s college basketball history.REFERENCES: Mercury buy out DeWanna Bonner’s contract, freeing 6-time All-Star to pursue title run by Annie CostabileWNBA power rankings: Dallas Wings, Atlanta Dream bounce back at perfect time by Sabreena MerchantFormer NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom ejected from Sky-Fever game after confrontation by Brian HamiltonSky-Valkyries game disrupted by multiple sex toys thrown on court; Cloud calls culprits ‘weak’ by The Athletic StaffEnes Kanter Freedom isn’t protecting women. He’s out to instigate, divide, marginalize by Jerry Brewer__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  A’ja, Olivia or Caitlin: Who Deserves MVP? 21.08.2026 54min

  The WNBA’s award races are heating up as the regular season winds down. Sabreena and Annie kick things off by breaking down the impact of Azzi Fudd’s injury on the Dallas Wings and what it could mean for her development moving forward. Then, they dive into the MVP race featuring A’ja Wilson, Olivia Miles, Kelsey Mitchell and Caitlin Clark, while also discussing the possibility of co-MVPs and the growing influence of guards in the conversation.They also discuss the Coach of the Year race, including Cheryl Reeve and Natalie Nakase, and take a closer look at the Defensive Player of the Year debate, with Gabby Williams and A’ja Wilson among the names in the mix. With individual performance, team success and voting transparency all part of the conversation, the final games of the season could have a major impact on who takes home the hardware.Finally, the duo tells you which games to keep an eye on this weekend.REFERENCES: Dallas Wings’ top pick Azzi Fudd to undergo season-ending knee surgery by Sabreena Merchant and Brian HamiltonCaitlin Clark is having a banner season, so why isn't she in MVP conversations? by Sabreena Merchant and Annie CostabileOlivia Miles twists ankle, exits Lynx’s win over Valkyries in fourth quarter by Marcus Thompson II__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  5 Plays That Win WNBA Games 20.08.2026 57min

  Ever wonder what goes into some of the WNBA’s most creative and effective actions on the court? Zena and Sabreena are joined by Nekias Duncan, host of The Dunker Spot, for a deep dive into the X’s and O’s shaping the league right now. They break down everything from the Washington Mystics’ high-low action and the Liberty’s press-to-zone defense to the growing use of double drag, the Fever’s dead-ball actions, and some of the league’s most dynamic pick-and-roll partnerships.Plus, the crew reacts to the Golden State Valkyries being awarded the 2027 WNBA All-Star Game, including how players have been eager to see All-Star Weekend come to the Bay Area. They also discuss the Toronto Tempo’s new mascots, Dot the Arctic Hare and Dez the Snapping Turtle.And finally, they reflect on the incredible career of Nneka Ogwumike, who announced she will retire at the end of the season after 15 seasons in the WNBA.REFERENCES: Golden State to host 2027 WNBA All-Star Game by Sabreena Merchant and Annie CostabileWNBA veteran Nneka Ogwumike announces retirement by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Did the Fever Find Their Playoff Formula? 18.08.2026 58min

  The playoff race is heating up, and the standings are getting tighter by the day! Zena and Sabreena break down the biggest performances and storylines from the weekend, starting with the Lynx-Aces matchup, which showcased the strengths of two of the league’s top contenders and what each team could bring to the postseason.Then, they turn their attention to the Fever and how their recent surge has propelled them up the standings — and whether they’ve finally found an identity at the right time. Plus, how will injuries impact the Wings’ playoff hopes, and can the Atlanta Dream overcome their inconsistency and missed opportunities in close games as the postseason approaches?To wrap things up, we answer a mailbag question about overseas play and the development opportunities it creates for WNBA players.REFERENCES: Point guard showdown in Indy ends in Caitlin Clark’s favor: Fever-Wings takeaways by James Boyd and Brian HamiltonWNBA power rankings: Will Clark-Bueckers become the next Wilson-Stewart rivalry? by Sabreena MerchantFever show championship mettle in win over Dream: ‘We’ve grown up’ by Brian HamiltonMercury retire Diana Taurasi’s No. 3, welcome WNBA legend to Ring of Honor by Annie CostabileCandace Parker and Elena Delle Donne changed basketball with help from Chicago by Shakeia Taylor__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Is the Next WNBA Dynasty Already Here? 14.08.2026 52min

  What defines a dynasty in the WNBA? Sabreena and Annie dive into what it takes to build sustained success in the league and explore which teams could be poised to become the next great dynasty. How long can the Aces’ dominance last? Could Napheesa Collier explore other options after the season? And should the Golden State Valkyries already be in the dynasty conversation? The duo breaks it all down while also looking ahead at the next wave of talent coming into the WNBA.Before that, they discuss the outcome of Cathy Engelbert’s meeting with the task force addressing the ongoing issues within the league. Then, we celebrate Diana Taurasi’s legacy as the Phoenix Mercury honor her legendary career.To close, we tell you where to set your screens this weekend.REFERENCES: WNBA condemns online ‘bad-faith efforts’ to toxify league amid divisive conversations by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Which WNBA Teams Need a Reset? 13.08.2026 59min

  How does a team know when it’s time to rebuild? Zena and Sabreena dive into the complexities of rebuilding in the WNBA, looking at teams that have gotten it right — including how the Washington Mystics stumbled into a rebuild that’s moving faster than expected. They also examine teams that have been forced into rebuilding, like the Seattle Storm after key free-agency losses.But first, the duo discusses Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White’s strong response to online criticism and how Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell are making history together.To wrap things up, we brainstorm ways to make Rivals Week even bigger and more compelling in the WNBA.REFERENCES: Fever coach Stephanie White fires back at online criticism: ‘Everybody else can go to hell’ By Brian Hamilton__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Rivals Weekend Heat: Techs, Ejections & Tensions 11.08.2026 52min

  Rivals Week tipped off over the weekend, and the WNBA brought plenty of drama, big performances and storylines to unpack.Zena and Annie break down Caitlin Clark’s quick rescinding of what would have been her eighth technical foul of the season, the fallout from DiJonai Carrington’s ejection after a hard foul on Sophie Cunningham, and whether load management could become a necessary strategy in the WNBA. They also discuss Kayla McBride making WNBA history by setting a new three-point record.But first, the duo dives into the Washington Mystics’ acquisition of veteran forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton and what the move means for their playoff push. Then, they discuss Sabrina Ionescu being left off the Team USA roster, her reaction to the decision and whether injuries could open the door for her to get another opportunity. From there, they unpack WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s league-wide memo and what it says about the league’s approach to inclusion.Plus, we wrap things up with a special shoutout to the listeners who continue to tune in, share their feedback and support the show.REFERENCES: Washington Mystics claim former Liberty forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton off waivers by Annie Costabile WNBA commissioner stresses integrity, respect on topic of transgender athletes in league-wide memo by Sabreena MerchantBreanna Stewart ‘surprised’ by Sabrina Ionescu’s omission from Team USA World Cup roster by Annie CostabileCaitlin Clark earns 1-game suspension after her eighth technical foul by Brian HamiltonSophie Cunningham says DiJonai Carrington ‘just trying to get attention’ with flagrant foul by Brian HamiltonSky’s DiJonai Carrington cites White privilege after ejection for flagrant foul on Sophie Cunningham by Brian HamiltonWNBA has spiraled into a rinse-and-repeat drama, and it's taking a mind-numbing toll by Candace Buckner__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why the Valkyries are Winning On and Off the Court 07.08.2026 54min

  The Golden State Valkyries have quickly established themselves as a successful franchise in the WNBA. Brian Hamilton returns to join Sabreena for a closer look at the team’s rapid rise and the blueprint behind their immediate impact.The duo breaks down the many factors fueling the Valkyries’ success — from prioritizing the player experience and creating an electric home-court atmosphere at Ballhalla to building a competitive roster featuring lesser-known players who have made a major impact. They also examine how Golden State has maximized its talent and why All-Star Gabby Williams chose to join the franchise in free agency.Before diving into the Valkyries, Sabreena and Brian discuss Team USA’s roster for the FIBA World Cup, the balance between veteran leadership and emerging young talent, and what the next generation of the program could look like.Finally, we wrap with the must-watch matchups of the  weekend.REFERENCES: Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers lead USA Basketball’s necessary youth movement by Sabreena MerchantCaitlin Clark, Angel Reese to make FIBA World Cup debuts with U.S. women’s national team by Annie CostabileInside the Golden State Valkyries’ billion-dollar success that’s setting a new WNBA bar by Brian HamiltonCaitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers lead USA Basketball’s necessary youth movement by Sabreena MerchantCaitlin Clark, Angel Reese to make FIBA World Cup debuts with U.S. women’s national team by Annie CostabileInside the Golden State Valkyries’ billion-dollar success that’s setting a new WNBA bar by Brian Hamilton__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  A Deeper Conversation About Inclusion in Women’s Sports 06.08.2026 1t 7min

  Exclusionary practices in sports can have a lasting impact on athletes, communities, and the way we think about fairness, opportunity, and belonging.. To help unpack this complex and often divisive topic, Zena is joined by Dr. Anna Baeth, author of Fair Game: Trans Athletes and the Future of Sports.Dr. Baeth takes a closer look at the conversation around trans athletes in women’s sports, addressing common questions, examining the data, and providing context around the concerns and misconceptions driving much of the debate.But first, we start with the newest addition to the WNBA. The Cleveland Sirens have officially unveiled their team name and branding, and Zena and Sabreena take a closer look at the inspiration behind the identity, the reaction to the new look, and how Cleveland’s newest franchise connects to the legacy of the Cleveland Rockers.REFERENCES: Cleveland Sirens reveal name and logo as 2028 WNBA expansion team by Sabreena Merchant Sophie Cunningham wants to put focus back on basketball: ‘What are we doing?’ by Zach Powell__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Can Kelsey Plum Push the Mercury Into Contention? 04.08.2026 1t 2min

  The WNBA trade deadline has come and gone, and while the league didn’t see a flood of moves, one blockbuster trade changed the conversation. Zena and Sabreena break down the Phoenix Mercury’s acquisition of Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks and discuss what this move means for Phoenix’s playoff hopes and the race for the postseason.Before diving into the trade deadline fallout, the duo opens the show with the ongoing controversy surrounding Sophie Cunningham’s comments on transgender girls in youth sports,  which sparked rallies and counter-rallies WNBA games. Sabreena breaks down what happened at those rallies, the conversations happening around the league, and Cheryl Reeve’s call for leadership, accountability, and inclusivity within the WNBA.To close out the episode, we look ahead to the future of All-Star Weekend and discuss which cities could be strong contenders to host the 2027 WNBA All-Star Game.REFERENCES: Cheryl Reeve: WNBA must be ‘safe space for everyone,’ regardless of viewpoint by Devon HendersonWNBA power rankings: Olivia Miles has Minnesota Lynx soaring by Sabreena MerchantDallas Wings to play home games at American Airlines Center in 2027 by Sabreena MerchantConnecticut Sun trade Aneesah Morrow to Toronto Tempo by Annie Coastabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  LIVE: Kelsey Plum traded to the Phoenix Mercury 02.08.2026 25min

  Sabreena and Annie share their live reactions to Kelsey Plum's trade to the Phoenix Mercury and what it means for both franchise.REFERENCES:Los Angeles Sparks deal Kelsey Plum to Phoenix Mercury in a blockbuster move by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: [email protected] up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.