Podcasts about sabreena

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena break down a big weekend of games in the WNBA – highlighting the Aces big win over the Fever, the Storm's victory over an injury-laden Liberty, and the Valkyries' hot streak. They also check in on the Sabreena Scale, which has a new top team this week. Then, the crew digs into our deep dive for the week – the dominance of the power forward position in the WNBA. When did this position rise to such importance? How has it evolved? And will it continue to hold the same value on the court? Plus, a game about sporting siblings. _________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA power rankings: What's behind the Golden State Valkyries' surge? by Sabreena MerchantWNBA files trademarks for the name ‘Portland Fire' and stylized ‘P' logo by Sabreena MerchantNaLyssa Smith and DiJonai Carrington on the Power Forward in the WNBA via TikTok @itscwaysworldesq_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The scuffle between the Indiana Fever and Connecticut Sun has sparked questions about officiating consistency and transparency. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena share thoughts about how that situation was handled and what challenges persist with WNBA refereeing, as well as why Caitlin Clark finds herself in so many dust-ups. Then, the crew give their All-Star locks, first-time All-Stars, and potential surprises, including how many rookies will make the team, and which 2024 All-Stars have dropped out of consideration. And to wrap -we tell you where to set your screens this weekend._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Caitlin Clark in scuffle as Fever advance to Commissioner's Cup final: Takeaways by James Boyd and Sabreena MerchantThe latest WNBA controversy makes it clear that officiating has to be better by Shannon RyanDoes the WNBA have an officiating problem? Coaches cite high turnover, inconsistency by Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was quite a weekend in the WNBA – and we're here to break it down. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena dig into the details of Caitlin Clark's return on Saturday afternoon, when she led the Indiana Fever to victory against a previously undefeated New York Liberty. Then, the crew discusses Angel Reese's career-first triple-double, the Dallas Wings' blown opportunity against the Aces, and the Minnesota Lynx's continued leadership on matters of social importance. Plus, an update on the Sabreena Scale and the impact of recent games on the race for the Commissioner's Cup. Later on, Ben is joined by Shana Stephenson, Chief Brand Officer for the New York Liberty, who shares the inside story on the origins of Ellie the Elephant, and what makes her such an icon. The crew wraps with Two Takes and a Fake._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA power rankings: Why the Indiana Fever's small lineup is working by Sabreena MerchantA classic Caitlin Clark performance showed the Fever's ceiling: Watch out, WNBA by Ben PickmanCaitlin Clark shines in return as Indiana Fever hand New York Liberty first loss of season by Sabreena Merchant and Ben PickmanLynx hold moment of silence in wake of Minnesota lawmaker's assassination by Chantel JenningsAngel Reese records first triple-double of career as Chicago tops Connecticut by Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This season in the WNBA, there are seven new head coaches making their debut (not counting Stephanie White, who has held that title before at the Connecticut Sun). Some of those individuals and their respective teams are faring better than others. So, one month into the 2025 season, Zena, Ben, and Sabreena sit down to discuss these coaches – their programs, their backgrounds, their unique styles – and to take stock of who's meeting expectations, who's beating expectations, and who's missing them altogether. Plus, the crew discusses Ariel Atkins' comments about Angel Reese during the Chicago Sky's post-game press conference Tuesday night, following their loss to the New York Liberty – as well as Reese's on-court performance._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Despite no Caitlin Clark, Fever-Sky broadcast drew nearly 2 million viewers by Richard DeitschSky's Ariel Atkins says Angel Reese's ‘crown is heavy,' urges media to show more respect by Mark PuleoWhy is it so hard to find a WNBA coach? The reasons behind the lack of candidates by Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben brings us behind-the-scenes inside the United Center this past weekend, when the Indiana Fever handed the Chicago Sky another big loss – and veteran guard Courtney Vandersloot went down with a season-ending ACL tear. Then, Zena brings us over to the Bay Area, to detail the Valkyries first blowout win – against a frustrated Aces team. Next up, Chantel breaks down everything you need to know about the landmark House Settlement case, which will allow colleges to officially pay student athletes. And finally, as part of our Pride Month interview series, one of the all-time greats, Sue Bird, stops by to talk podcasting, WNBA ownership, sports collectibles, and why Caitlin Clark is such a good passer._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Fever balance scoring, rout Sky 79-52 without Caitlin Clark, coach Stephanie White by Ben PickmanAnother loss to the Fever. Courtney Vandersloot's injured. Can the Chicago Sky recover? by Ben PickmanSky guard Courtney Vandersloot tears ACL, will miss rest of 2025 season by Ben PickmanWNBA power rankings: Are undefeated Liberty headed for Commissioner's Cup championship? by Sabreena MerchantCan women's basketball teams catch up with UConn or South Carolina in changing sports era? by Chantel JenningsSue Bird's “Dream Draft” picks at ebay.com/DreamDraft _________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Commissioner's Cup is underway – and Zena, Ben, and Sabreena are here to help you understand how the in-season tournament works and which teams and players might be set for a big payday come July 1. Next, the crew checks in on some injury updates about Paige Bueckers and Cailtin Clark, before getting into their picks for best “familiar face in a new place” – ie veteran players who've moved teams this season. Then, the crew digs into why so many international players are heading to the WNBA, and details how this generational shift might impact gameplay and roster spots both domestically and overseas. Plus, a new game: Something in Common._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Paige Bueckers enters concussion protocol, will miss next 2 Dallas Wings games by Sabreena MerchantFever's Caitlin Clark taking quad injury rehab ‘day by day,' could possibly return Tuesday vs. Dream by Ben PickmanWNBA's familiar faces in new places: Assessing Kelsey Plum, DeWanna Bonner and more by Sabreena Merchant and Ben PickmanWhy are international players flocking to the WNBA? by Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the greatest of all time, Candace Parker, joins the No Offseason crew to discuss her new memoir and dig into topics affecting the WNBA today like cultivating diverse coaching staffs and how the media can break away from “gentle commentating.” And to help us kick off Pride Month, Candace shares her journey to self-acceptance and embracing her sexuality._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA power rankings: Are the New York Liberty destined to repeat? by Sabreena MerchantWhy Brittney Griner has been ‘rejuvenated' since joining Atlanta Dream by Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With two more guards injured on the Indiana Fever, Zena, Ben, and Sabreena discuss the intricacies of hardship contracts and roster spots – and what the near-future might look like for the Fever. Plus, they get into the latest rendition of the Sabreena Scale. Then, one of the greatest of all time, Candace Parker, joins the crew to discuss her new memoir and dig into topics affecting the WNBA today – like how to cultivate diverse coaching staffs and how the media can break away from “gentle commentating.” And to help us kick off Pride Month, Candace shares her journey to self-acceptance and embracing her sexuality. _________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA power rankings: Are the New York Liberty destined to repeat? by Sabreena MerchantWhy Brittney Griner has been ‘rejuvenated' since joining Atlanta Dream by Ben Pickman_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Caitlin Clark out the Fever are forced to make adjustments. How will the Fever fare over the next couple weeks without Clark? Zena, Ben and Sabreena discuss Clark's overall impact and how it affects things in the W on and off the court. Then- the rookie ladder! Who's climbing up the ladder with just a few weeks into the season? The crew tells us who their rookie of the year is. And to wrap -games to have your eye on this weekend during the Commissioner's Cup._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Without Caitlin Clark, what will the Indiana Fever look like? by Ben PickmanWithout Caitlin Clark, the Fever must avoid spiraling. Here are 3 pieces of advice by Sabreena Merchant_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've got questions; we've got answers! Zena, Ben, and Sabreena get together to chat through your inquiries about the 2025 WNBA season and beyond. What makes someone a bucket? What exactly is a technical foul? Is the era of the “core four” over? And will any of the league's big stars move teams next year with all that free agency? Tune in to find out._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also reach out on on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retired WNBA star Diana Taurasi sits down with Ben Pickman as she shares her thoughts on Paige Bueckers adjusting in the WNBA, upcoming CBA negotiations and her future plans in retirement._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:What are WNBA players seeking in the next collective bargaining agreement? by Ben PickmanWNBA's New York Liberty have raised capital at a record valuation of $450 million: Sources by Ben PickmanPaige Bueckers' pro debut in Minnesota was a reflection of her roots and inspiration by Chantel JenningsQ&A: Dawn Staley says Charlamagne tha God convinced her to write her memoir by Chantel Jennings_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the story hovering over this entire WNBA season: the CBA, or collective bargaining agreement, is being renegotiated. Whatever document comes out on the other side is set to remake life in the W for years to come. But how exactly? Ben, Sabreena, and Chantel break down everything you need to know to wrap your mind around it all. Plus, the crew discusses Paige Bueckers' Minnesota homecoming, Sue Bird's new role at USA Basketball, and the Liberty's record-breaking valuation. Then, Diana Taurasi sits down with Ben to talk about fellow UConn alum, Paige Bueckers' adjustment to the WNBA, her own life in retirement, and what might be next in her basketball future._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:What are WNBA players seeking in the next collective bargaining agreement? by Ben PickmanWNBA's New York Liberty have raised capital at a record valuation of $450 million: Sources by Ben PickmanPaige Bueckers' pro debut in Minnesota was a reflection of her roots and inspiration by Chantel Jennings_________________Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comYou can also find us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2025 WNBA season is underway, and off to an intense start. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena talk opening weekend - including Paige Bueckers' big debut and the Indiana Fever's dominant win over the Chicago Sky. The crew then gets deep into the explosive aftermath surrounding Caitlin Clark's flagrant foul against Angel Reese, amidst the landscape of the WNBA's No Space for Hate campaign. Plus, it's never too early for some way too early half-baked takes, which the crew dishes out based on this opening weekend of games. To wrap, Zena tests Ben and Sabreena's knowledge of record-making players and their stats._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Sabreena's Power RankingsWNBA looking into allegations of hateful comments toward Angel Reese by Ben PickmanMatch That Player trivia created by Erin Shupe _________________Send us a question for our mailbag episode!Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comOr reach out on on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2025 WNBA regular season is finally here and in this episode, we're sharing our predictions for how we think the year will shape out. We tell you who we're picking for MVP, who we think will be on the All-WNBA teams, who we think will win the title, and which teams are going to surprise people. Also, we share our thoughts on recent developments involving Connecticut Sun ownership, roster cutdowns, and news that impacts upcoming international competitions._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA predictions: Who will win the 2025 championship? Who will win MVP? by Sabreena Merchant, Ben Pickman and Chantel JenningsAll-WNBA preseason teams: A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, Caitlin Clark and more by Sabreena Merchant, Ben Pickman, Chantel Jennings, Zena Keita, and Shannon RyanConnecticut Sun ownership exploring sale of team: ‘All options are on the table' by Ben PickmanWNBA Schedule_________________Send us a question for our mailbag episode!Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comOr reach out on on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's our big Indiana Fever preview pod! Zena, Ben, and Sabreena break down everything you need to know about the upcoming WNBA season for Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, including: Caitlin Clark's offseason training regimen, new head coach Steph White's strategic moves and Indiana roots, the depth of the roster, how far this team could go, and more. Plus, the inaugural rendition of the Sabreena Scales - aka Sabreena's Weekly Power Rankings, and a whopper of a game called “Name That Clark!”_________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:Sabreena's WNBA Preseason Power RankingsTakeaways from Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever's preseason: Will her quad injury linger? by Ben PickmanNo Offseason Interview with Stephanie White and Kelly Krauskopf - from November 2024_________________Send us a question for our mailbag episode!Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.comOr reach out on on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we're stepping off the court and into the culture – to discuss all the ways in which the WNBA, and women's basketball in general, impact our society at large. We're talking: what's the purpose of rivalries? Do they exist in the W? Is Caitlin vs Angel even real? And we're also talking style, fashion, and brands – downloading on the Met Gala, those iconic A'ja Wilson A'One ads, and the W references popping up all over TV. Then, Zena chats with stylist and fashion designer, Brittany Hampton, who shares the inside story on crafting Paige Bueckers' looks for the recent WNBA Draft, as well as her takes on the fits from the Met Gala and the unique fire of WNBA Tunnel Style._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________References:WNBA 2025 Rivalry Week Match-upsWNBA players, WNBPA say Cathy Engelbert's comments on Clark-Reese rivalry were a ‘fumble' by Ben Pickman and Lukas WeeseA'ja Wilson A'One Nike Ads: Here and HereBrittany Hampton featured in: Paige Bueckers: A Basketball Star is Born by Abigail Covington_________________Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.comFollow us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena check in on the first few preseason WNBA games, then turn their attention to the league's first expansion team in over 15 years: the Golden State Valkyries. How did this team come together? What might the Valks' first season look like? And who will be their starting five? Next, they dive into the future of expansion in the W – Toronto, Portland, and beyond. Which cities are rumored to be the league's next team – or teams? What's the going rate for a WNBA team? And why do so many ownership groups have ties to the NBA? The crew rounds out the show with another rendition of Two Takes and a Lie._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.comFollow us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena turn their attention toward the Western Conference of the WNBA, and ask some pressing questions about the upcoming WNBA season. Is the Aces dynasty over? Can Napheesa Collier and the Lynx take the title this year? Will the LA Sparks ever be good again? Then, Sabreena and Ben attempt to blind rank some of Zena's dynamic duos of the West. _________________ Visit our YouTube page! _________________ Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.com Follow us on social media: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita -Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena turn their attention toward the Western Conference of the WNBA, and ask some pressing questions about the upcoming WNBA season. Is the Aces dynasty over? Can Napheesa Collier and the Lynx take the title this year? Will the LA Sparks ever be good again? Then, Sabreena and Ben attempt to blind rank some of Zena's dynamic duos of the West._________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.comFollow us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena get together to answer some burning questions about the teams of the Eastern Conference for the 2025 WNBA season. Can the Liberty repeat as champions? What's the ceiling for Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever? Which teams, outside of NY and Indiana, are closest to winning their next title? They wrap up the episode with “Out of Context” – where Ben recites a quote, out of context, to Zena and Sabreena, and they need to guess who said it. Can they figure it out?_________________Visit our YouTube page!_________________Articles mentioned in this episode:Women's college basketball transfer portal winners and losers: LSU, South Carolina and TCU by Chantel Jennings__________________Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.comFollow us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena get together to answer some burning questions about the teams of the Eastern Conference for the 2025 WNBA season. Can the Liberty repeat as champions? What's the ceiling for Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever? Which teams, outside of NY and Indiana, are closest to winning their next title? They wrap up the episode with “Out of Context” – where Ben recites a quote, out of context, to Zena and Sabreena, and they need to guess who said it. Can they figure it out? _________________ Visit our YouTube page! _________________ Articles mentioned in this episode: Women's college basketball transfer portal winners and losers: LSU, South Carolina and TCU by Chantel Jennings __________________ Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.com Follow us on social media: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita -Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers headed to Dallas – plus a whole host of other roster and coaching changes, the Wings are set to have an interesting season, to say the least. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena sit down to talk about where the franchise has been, where it's headed, and how Paige Bueckers fits into it all – including a Dallas basketball scene that's reeling from a Luka-sized hole. Then, Sabreena is joined by Wings GM Curt Miller, to get an inside look at the team's potentially transformative season.__________________Visit our YouTube page! __________________Articles mentioned in this episode:Paige Bueckers' arrival to the Dallas Wings as No. 1 WNBA Draft pick marks a new era by Ben Pickman__________________Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.comFollow us on social media:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajmVisit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers headed to Dallas – plus a whole host of other roster and coaching changes, the Wings are set to have an interesting season, to say the least. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena sit down to talk about where the franchise has been, where it's headed, and how Paige Bueckers fits into it all – including a Dallas basketball scene that's reeling from a Luka-sized hole. Then, Sabreena is joined by Wings GM Curt Miller, to get an inside look at the team's potentially transformative season. __________________ Visit our YouTube page! __________________ Articles mentioned in this episode: Paige Bueckers' arrival to the Dallas Wings as No. 1 WNBA Draft pick marks a new era by Ben Pickman __________________ Get in touch: NoOffseason@theathletic.com Follow us on social media: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chantel stops by to chat with Zena about all the action happening inside the NCAA Transfer portal – the biggest names on the move, the schools set to benefit from it all, and the programs that are losing out. Then, Zena is joined by Ben and Sabreena to go name for name on some of the most intriguing players in the WNBA this year – the athletes who could make a big difference in helping their teams go the distance. The team wraps by playing Two Truths and a Lie – No Offseason style.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @ChantelJennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chantel stops by to chat with Zena about all the action happening inside the NCAA Transfer portal – the biggest names on the move, the schools set to benefit from it all, and the programs that are losing out. Then, Zena is joined by Ben and Sabreena to go name for name on some of the most intriguing players in the WNBA this year – the athletes who could make a big difference in helping their teams go the distance. The team wraps by playing Two Truths and a Lie – No Offseason style. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @ChantelJennings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the retirement of players like Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, Candace Parker, and Elena Delle Donne – and the ascension of a new crop of talent in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, and more – a new era is upon us in the WNBA. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena gather to talk about this moment in the W – what it means for gameplay and for the business side of things, and the notable differences in the types of players joining the league. Then, Ben speaks to Washington Mystics GM – and former Stanford and WNBA baller – Jamila Wideman, whose team drafted 3 out of the top 6 picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the retirement of players like Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, Candace Parker, and Elena Delle Donne – and the ascension of a new crop of talent in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, and more – a new era is upon us in the WNBA. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena gather to talk about this moment in the W – what it means for gameplay and for the business side of things, and the notable differences in the types of players joining the league. Then, Ben speaks to Washington Mystics GM – and former Stanford and WNBA baller – Jamila Wideman, whose team drafted 3 out of the top 6 picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena talks to Sabreena and Ben – who was in person at the event in NYC – about the 2025 WNBA Draft: the biggest winners and losers of the night, the most surprising and least surprising moments (like Paige going No. 1 to the Dallas Wings), and the best fits – both on the orange carpet and with their new teams. The crew also discusses Paige Bueckers' new 3-year deal with Unrivaled and WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's response. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena talks to Sabreena and Ben – who was in person at the event in NYC – about the 2025 WNBA Draft: the biggest winners and losers of the night, the most surprising and least surprising moments (like Paige going No. 1 to the Dallas Wings), and the best fits – both on the orange carpet and with their new teams. The crew also discusses Paige Bueckers' new 3-year deal with Unrivaled and WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's response. –Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 495 of the Sports Media Podcast with Richard Deitsch features Sabreena Merchant, a staff writer covering women's basketball at The Athletic and one of the hosts of "No Offseason," the Athletic Women's Basketball podcast. In this podcast we discuss ESPN televising the 2025 WNBA Draft; whether we think it's a good television production; Holly Rowe interviewing at the WNBA Draft; who we think goes after Bueckers in the Draft; how Bueckers projects in year one in the WNBA; why we both like Serena Sundell and Georgia Amore as roster selections; why Sabreena has UConn, South Carolina and Texas as her Top 3 for next year in college basketball and more. You can subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony found himself in a crunch and, as they tend to do, Sabreena and Raj stepped up. First, Anthony talks to Sabreena about the more human elements of Luka's return to Dallas, the west playoffs and, of course, women's basketball. Their draft schedule has broken Anthony's brain. Then, after Anthony answered a couple listener questions, Raj stops by to talk about the basketball part of that Lakers-Mavericks game, the west playoffs, and his fresh new haircut. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony was blown away by the experience of watching Luka Doncic play in Dallas for the first time. So was Sabreena. They talk about what they saw, how ESPN covered it and whether Dallas can ever recover from this betrayal. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony couldn't let Sabreena go without talking to her about women's basketball, and boy was there a ton to talk about. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zena is joined by Ben and Sabreena to talk through all the insider info you need to know ahead of Monday night's WNBA draft. In addition to some Draft 101 talk, they get into the intricacies of the recruiting process, including the new opportunities for lesser-known players to get seen and the challenging timeline NCAA recruits face. Then, they go beyond the easy picks to bring you deeper insight into who teams might select and why as the draft progresses on Monday night, and shine a light on some standout international stars, like the coming French phenom, Dominique Malonga. The crew wraps with predictions for the “Big Story of the 2025 Draft.”–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena is joined by Ben and Sabreena to talk through all the insider info you need to know ahead of Monday night's WNBA draft. In addition to some Draft 101 talk, they get into the intricacies of the recruiting process, including the new opportunities for lesser-known players to get seen and the challenging timeline NCAA recruits face. Then, they go beyond the easy picks to bring you deeper insight into who teams might select and why as the draft progresses on Monday night, and shine a light on some standout international stars, like the coming French phenom, Dominique Malonga. The crew wraps with predictions for the “Big Story of the 2025 Draft.” – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the offseason for NCAA women's basketball gets underway, it's never too early to speculate on who the big teams and star players will be for the 2025-2026 season. Zena is joined by Chantel to discuss it all – which teams could be on top next year? Which players can fill the void left by Paige Buecker's exit and JuJu Watkins' injury? What surprises await in the transfer portal? Plus, a primer on the upcoming decision in the landmark House vs NCAA lawsuit, which could spell big changes for revenue sharing, NIL, and more.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the offseason for NCAA women's basketball gets underway, it's never too early to speculate on who the big teams and star players will be for the 2025-2026 season. Zena is joined by Chantel to discuss it all – which teams could be on top next year? Which players can fill the void left by Paige Buecker's exit and JuJu Watkins' injury? What surprises await in the transfer portal? Plus, a primer on the upcoming decision in the landmark House vs NCAA lawsuit, which could spell big changes for revenue sharing, NIL, and more. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena, Ben, Chantel, and Sabreena are together in Tampa to discuss the 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball C hampionship game: UConn's decisive victory over defending champs, South Carolina. They talk about the mood in the arena, the dominance of Bueckers, Strong, and Fudd, the way sarcasm bonds Geno and Paige, and where Dawn Staley might look to shore up South Carolina's roster. –Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, Chantel, and Sabreena are together in Tampa to discuss the 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball C hampionship game: UConn's decisive victory over defending champs, South Carolina. They talk about the mood in the arena, the dominance of Bueckers, Strong, and Fudd, the way sarcasm bonds Geno and Paige, and where Dawn Staley might look to shore up South Carolina's roster. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2025 Women's NCAA Final Four is upon us - and we're bringing you everything you need to know about the impending match-ups – debate style. Sabreena and Ben face off - arguing for Texas and South Carolina, respectively. Then, Zena and Chantel go toe to toe, debating UConn vs UCLA. Who's the winner? You decide! Comment wherever you're listening with your pick, or find us on social media (details below) – before these four teams make their cases on the court tonight.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2025 Women's NCAA Final Four is upon us - and we're bringing you everything you need to know about the impending match-ups – debate style. Sabreena and Ben face off - arguing for Texas and South Carolina, respectively. Then, Zena and Chantel go toe to toe, debating UConn vs UCLA. Who's the winner? You decide! Comment wherever you're listening with your pick, or find us on social media (details below) – before these four teams make their cases on the court tonight. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -TikTok: @no_offseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena is joined by Ben and fellow writer for The Athletic, Grace Raynor, to talk through the games of the Elite Eight. Then, Sabreena and Chantel come into the mix for a deep dive into the NCAA's decision-making around certain key issues: what's up with the super-regional sites? Why did they open the transfer portal smack dab in the middle of March Madness? And how does all of this affect players and coaches? They wrap the show with their personal picks for NCAA players whose stock has risen for the WNBA draft as a result of their tournament play.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Ben on X: @benpickman-Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings-Grace on X: @gmraynor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena is joined by Ben and fellow writer for The Athletic, Grace Raynor, to talk through the games of the Elite Eight. Then, Sabreena and Chantel come into the mix for a deep dive into the NCAA's decision-making around certain key issues: what's up with the super-regional sites? Why did they open the transfer portal smack dab in the middle of March Madness? And how does all of this affect players and coaches? They wrap the show with their personal picks for NCAA players whose stock has risen for the WNBA draft as a result of their tournament play. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Ben on X: @benpickman -Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings -Grace on X: @gmraynor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena is joined by Sabreena and Ben to get into the match-ups coming up Friday and Saturday in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA women's tournament. First up, Sabreena talks through the games out of Spokane - what are USC's chances of beating KS State without JuJu Watkins? Can UConn keep up their momentum against Oklahoma? And does the same apply for LSU vs NC State? Will UCLA stay strong against Ole Miss? Then, Ben brings things over to Birmingham – can Texas make up for their lack of 3s against Tennessee? What will happen when two North Carolina powerhouses meet in UNC vs Duke? Will TCU vs Notre Dame be as close as everyone thinks? Can 2024 champions South Carolina keep their streak going with a win against Maryland? Ben and Zena wrap up by talking through their bracket regrets and do-overs.–Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm-Ben on X: @benpickman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena is joined by Sabreena and Ben to get into the match-ups coming up Friday and Saturday in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA women's tournament. First up, Sabreena talks through the games out of Spokane - what are USC's chances of beating KS State without JuJu Watkins? Can UConn keep up their momentum against Oklahoma? And does the same apply for LSU vs NC State? Will UCLA stay strong against Ole Miss? Then, Ben brings things over to Birmingham – can Texas make up for their lack of 3s against Tennessee? What will happen when two North Carolina powerhouses meet in UNC vs Duke? Will TCU vs Notre Dame be as close as everyone thinks? Can 2024 champions South Carolina keep their streak going with a win against Maryland? Ben and Zena wrap up by talking through their bracket regrets and do-overs. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm -Ben on X: @benpickman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

USC superstar JuJu Watkins' sustains a season-ending knee injury in the second-round of the NCAA Tournament. Zena talks to Sabreena Merchant, who was in the building when Watkins went down in last night's second-round USC / Mississippi State game. She takes us inside the moment, and spins forward what this could mean for USC and the tournament in general. Then, Ben and Chantel join Zena to break down what they saw in the first and second rounds – the best match-ups, the most impactful players, and the teams that got off to some shaky starts. –Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-OffseasonFind us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings-Ben on X: @benpickman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

USC superstar JuJu Watkins' sustains a season-ending knee injury in the second-round of the NCAA Tournament. Zena talks to Sabreena Merchant, who was in the building when Watkins went down in last night's second-round USC / Mississippi State game. She takes us inside the moment, and spins forward what this could mean for USC and the tournament in general. Then, Ben and Chantel join Zena to break down what they saw in the first and second rounds – the best match-ups, the most impactful players, and the teams that got off to some shaky starts. – Visit our YouTube page! https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings -Ben on X: @benpickman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What will be the biggest surprise of the tournament? Can UConn make it back to the championship game? How crazy is it to have Tennessee winning it all? Zena, Chantel, Sabreena, and Ben take your most pressing March Madness questions. Plus, with its inaugural season in the books, the crew checks in on Unrivaled. Then, Chantel talks to legendary coach Tara VanDerveer, for an inside look at the NCAA Tournament - and she takes some listener questions. Zena, Sabreena, and Chantel wrap up with a look-ahead to the first weekend of March Madness.–Join our community bracket group - final day is Friday 3/21! Follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/2wpm3jzv, or head on over to the Yahoo Fantasy Sports Hub / Women's Bracket Mayhem and search for “No Offseason Bracket Challenge” / ID #2519.Find us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings-Ben on X: @benpickman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What will be the biggest surprise of the tournament? Can UConn make it back to the championship game? How crazy is it to have Tennessee winning it all? Zena, Chantel, Sabreena, and Ben take your most pressing March Madness questions. Plus, with its inaugural season in the books, the crew checks in on Unrivaled. Then, Chantel talks to legendary coach Tara VanDerveer, for an inside look at the NCAA Tournament - and she takes some listener questions. Zena, Sabreena, and Chantel wrap up with a look-ahead to the first weekend of March Madness. – Join our community bracket group - final day is Friday 3/21! Follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/2wpm3jzv, or head on over to the Yahoo Fantasy Sports Hub / Women's Bracket Mayhem and search for “No Offseason Bracket Challenge” / ID #2519. Find us on socials: -Instagram: @tanooffseason -Zena on X: @itszenakeita -Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm -Chantel on X: @chanteljennings -Ben on X: @benpickman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zena is joined by Ben Pickman and resident bracketologist Mark Schindler to give you all the top tips you need to own your bracket pool. Then, they travel down some potential paths to the Final Four for several of the top-seeded teams in the tournament, and give a special call-out to some of the more under-the-radar teams they think can go the distance to the Sweet Sixteen or Elite Eight.–Join our community bracket group! Follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/2wpm3jzv, or head on over to the Yahoo Fantasy Sports Hub / Women's Bracket Mayhem and search for “No Offseason Bracket Challenge” / ID #2519.Send in your bracket questions for our Friday pod! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.com. You can also find us on socials:-Instagram: @tanooffseason-Zena on X: @itszenakeita-Sabreena on X: @sabreenajm-Chantel on X: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.