No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show

Chantel and Sabreena break down the massive impact of the college basketball transfer portal, where more than 1,200 Division I players have entered their names. But where will Audi Crooks go? Can South Carolina Gamecocks land Kymora Johnson? And how will the UCLA Bruins approach the portal? The duo also discuss how coaches are adapting to this new reality and examine which programs are feeling the greatest impact.We close out with predictions for who will go No. 1 in the WNBA Draft.REFERENCES: Virginia, Amaka Agugua-Hamilton part ways after ending 8-year NCAA Tournament drought by Grace RaynorVirginia hires Richmond’s Aaron Roussell as new women’s basketball coach by Sabreena MerchantEight Tennessee women’s basketball players are transferring. None are returning by Rebecca TauberWomen’s basketball portal rankings: With more than 1,000 names in, who can make the most impact? by Chantel Jennings__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Huge WNBA trade news! Zena and Layshia kick things off with the blockbuster trade of Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream, breaking down how she’ll fit with the team.From there, the duo dives into the Washington Mystics’ recent changes, including the departure of GM Jamila Wideman over strategic differences, with head coach Sydney Johnson stepping in to take on GM responsibilities as well. With the WNBA Draft coming up next week, Zena and Layshia break down which players boosted their stock during the tournament and which ones left lingering questions. They also highlight the lack of a clear favorite for the number one pick, putting players like Lauren Betts, Olivia Miles, and Azzi Fudd in the mix for number one.They wrap it all up with a fun round of “Match That Player.”REFERENCES: Chicago Sky trade Angel Reese to Atlanta Dream for 2 first-round picks by Sabreena MerchantAngel Reese’s trade another example of Chicago Sky’s inability to hold onto stars by Shakeia Taylor__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together in Phoenix after the national championship game, the whole No Offseason crew dives deep into UCLA’s decisive win over South Carolina. With a spotlight on UCLA’s six seniors — including Most Outstanding Player, Lauren Betts, and star guard, Gabriela Jaquez — Zena, Layshia, Sabreena and Chantel dissect UCLA head coach Cori Close’s incisive game plan to take down South Carolina, and her players’ elite execution of that plan. They also break down what went wrong for South Carolina, outside of not getting their shots to drop. Then, the crew speculates on what might come next for UCLA, with so many roster spots to fill next year and a newly open transfer portal.REFERENCES: UCLA clobbers South Carolina for first NCAA national title in program history by Cameron Teague RobinsonHow UCLA’s super senior class, led by Lauren Betts, set the championship standard by Sabreena MerchantFor UCLA, a championship lesson came from losing by Jerry BrewerDawn Staley isn’t here for the drama. She’s here to protect the game by Jerry BrewerSacrifice and selflessness define coach Cori Close’s UCLA championship run by Chantel Jennings What went wrong for South Carolina? The main thing: UCLA’s dominating defense by Grace Raynor__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What exactly happened between Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley at the end of UConn-South Carolina game? The No Offseason crew are live to dive into the behind-the-scenes of that moment, plus all the moments from last night's Final Four. Then, a look-ahead to the title game, where UCLA and South Carolina will meet for all the glory on Sunday afternoon. Plus, thoughts on the WNBA Expansion Draft.REFERENCES: The night Geno Auriemma snapped — and Dawn Staley showed the game has changed by Jerry BrewerGeno Auriemma apologizes for behavior after heated exchange with Dawn Staley  by Shannon RyanUConn’s chase for perfection ends with imperfect Final Four loss to South Carolina by Chantel JenningsUCLA women’s basketball regained its focus to set sights on national championship by Sabreena MerchantFirst look at the women’s national championship: Who will win? South Carolina or UCLA? by Cameron Teague Robinson  WNBA expansion draft winners and losers: Portland’s depth, Toronto’s future scoring by Sabreena Merchant __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chantel and Sabreena kick off their discussion by exploring potential strategies for the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo in the expansion draft—who might be protected, and which players could come as surprises?Then the duo get us ready  for the Final Four by breaking down the South Carolina–UConn rematch and the potential pressure for UCLA and Texas as they chase a championship. They discuss what this moment means for players and coaches, the influence of new faces, and the expectations surrounding these games. The conversation also highlights the quest for redemption for teams that fell short in previous tournaments and the excitement of these matchups, even amid predictions of chalk outcomes.Finally, they share their predictions for the national title game.REFERENCES: First look at the Final Four: Who has the edge? South Carolina or UConn? Texas or UCLA? by Sabreena Merchant How Dawn Staley reinvented South Carolina without losing its edge by Jerry BrewerTexas is 2 wins from Vic Schaefer’s first title and him saying it’s his best team by Chantel JenningsLack of parity isn’t a problem. Goliaths in women’s Final Four is good for the sport by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Layshia open their conversation with the return of A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier to USA Basketball, discussing how Team USA is shifting its focus toward developing younger talent and moving away from a more exclusionary approach. They then dive into the transition of the Connecticut Sun to the Houston Comets, highlighting the excitement surrounding the Comets’ return and the challenges facing the Sun’s fanbase. The duo also explores the role of NBA ownership in providing resources and stability, along with the cultural differences between Connecticut and Houston. We wrap things with a story on how WNBA players connected with a key figure in negotiations.REFERENCES: A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier head to Team USA camp; Caitlin Clark to sit out session by Sabreena MerchantRockets owners to purchase Connecticut Sun, relocate team to Houston: Sources by Mike VorkunovHouston Comets expected to return after WNBA’s Connecticut Sun relocate to Texas  by Mike Vorkunov__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Chantel break down the Elite Eight games of the NCAA women’s tournament, taking a look at key moments and the players that made all the difference – from Blanca Quiñonez to Lauren Betts, and from Madison Booker to Madina Okot. Then, they turn their attention to the games of the Final Four, previewing what could happen on Friday in Phoenix. REFERENCES: UConn advances to 25th Final Four with win over Notre Dame  by Cameron Teague RobinsonLeave the nets … for now. UConn, as always, plans for bigger Final Four celebrations by Chantel Jennings How Angela Dugalić set the tone for UCLA’s Final Four run by Sabreena Merchant UCLA headed back to Final Four after comeback against Duke by Grace RayonerLauren Betts and UCLA return to Final Four with unfinished business by Jerry BrewerTexas decimates Michigan for return trip to Final Four  by Cameron Teague RobinsonTexas is 2 wins from Vic Schaefer’s first title and him saying it’s his best team by Chantel Jennings Final Four field is set: South Carolina joins fellow No. 1 seeds UConn, UCLA and Texas  by Grace RayonerFirst look at the Final Four: Who has the edge? South Carolina or UConn? Texas or UCLA?  by Sabreena Merchant __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Sabreena react LIVE to the Sweet 16’s biggest moments, then break down the key matchups and players to watch heading into the Elite 8.REFERENCES:Women’s Sweet 16 takeaways: Duke’s buzzer-beater 3-pointer stuns LSU in epic finish by Cameron Teague Robinson, Chantel Jennings, Grace Raynor and Sabreena MerchantNotre Dame’s unlikely run to the Elite Eight started with offseason dedication to Niele Ivey by Cameron Teague RobinsonDuke’s NCAA Tournament revenge tour continues. Up next: UCLA in the Elite Eight by Sabreena MerchantA shot, a season, a stand: Duke and Ashlon Jackson refuse to fall against LSU by Jerry BrewerFlau’jae Johnson’s final moment at LSU doesn’t define her storied career by: Devon HendersonKim Mulkey denies rumors she’s retiring after LSU’s Sweet 16 loss: ‘It’s just a lie’ by Grace RaynorWomen’s Sweet 16 takeaways: Michigan beats Louisville; TCU ends Virginia’s Cinderella bid by The Athletic College Basketball StaffGeno Auriemma airs frustration with NCAA Tournament’s two-site regional format by Devon Henderson__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Layshia begin by discussing the uncertain future of WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert before turning to the upcoming expansion draft, where they analyze potential player selections and the strategic decisions facing new teams. They then explore the vital role of coaching, particularly under high-pressure circumstances, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication between coaches and players. Drawing on memorable game moments, they highlight the impact of player-coach interactions and the balance between intensity and care, showing how trust is crucial in challenging situations.We close things out with Layshia’s Lens, featuring a buzzer-beater moment.REFERENCES: Adam Silver praises Cathy Engelbert, but hasn’t discussed her future with WNBA board by Mike VorkunovWNBA sets expansion draft for April 3 as Toronto and Portland begin to build rosters by Curt AndersonWNBA expansion draft big board: Who will Toronto and Portland select? by Sabreena MerchantMaryland coach Brenda Frese went viral for yelling at Oluchi Okananwa. There’s more to the story  by Elise Devlin__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chantel and Sabreena dive into the implications of the newly ratified WNBA CBA, exploring its impact on player contracts and how teams may approach free agency moving forward.Then the duo take an in-depth look at the Sweet 16, analyzing the matchups and standout player performances while examining how crowd dynamics influence outcomes. They also explore the representation of different conferences in the tournament, highlighting trends, surprises, and potential upsets, giving fans a comprehensive view of what makes this stage of March Madness so exciting.Lastly, they wrap things up with “And One More Thing,” discussing the hiring of Tammi Reiss at Florida and how she might go about restoring the program.REFERENCES: What will Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and more WNBA stars on rookie contracts now make? by Sabreena MerchantWNBA’s Board of Governors joins players in unanimously ratifying new CBA by Sabreena Merchant WNBA term sheet reveals CBA details on schedule, facilities standards, more by Sabreena Merchant and Chantel Jennings First look at women’s Sweet 16: Predictions and breakdowns for each matchup by Sabreena Merchant, Chantel Jennings, Grace Raynor, and Cameron Teague Robinson How much to become Cinderella? Virginia's March Madness run fueled in part by Reddit co-founder gift by Chantel Jennings__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The WNBA players have unanimously approved the 2026 CBA agreement, and Zena, Chantel, and Sabreena kick off the episode by walking through the first steps of the CBA becoming official—and what happens next. They then break down the defining moments from the weekend in the women’s tournament.Next, they dive into who could emerge as the next star of March Madness, exploring how personality, leadership, and team success shape the tournament’s rising faces. They highlight the legacy of established players like Flau'jae Johnson, the rise of stars such as Madison Booker, and the importance of clutch performances.Finally, the crew dips into the mailbag to discuss the surprising lack of upsets in the women’s tournament.REFERENCES: WNBA players approve new CBA in unanimous vote by Sabreena MerchantIowa avoids meltdown in stifling Carver-Hawkeye Arena for NCAA Tournament first-round win by Scott DochternanFairleigh Dickinson coach calls for neutral NCAA sites following close call at Iowa by Scott DochternanTennessee’s lost its edge. Can the Lady Vols get it back? by Chantel JenningsWomen’s NCAA Tournament first round takeaways: Clemson falls in OT after controversial call by Chantel Jennings, Grace Raynor, Cameron Teague Robinson, Sabreena Merchant and Scott DochtermanAmaya Battle sends Minnesota to Sweet 16 with last-second jumper vs. Ole Miss by Chantel JenningsMaryland coach Brenda Frese gives intense coaching moment to Oluchi Okananwa by Devon HendersonWomen’s March Madness second-round takeaways: Can Minnesota keep its March magic going? by Sabreena MerchantWho will become women’s March Madness stars? Watch these standouts become famous by Eden Laase__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As more news emerges about the WNBA CBA deal, Chantel and Sabreena break down the biggest wins for both sides.Then with March Madness in full swing, they preview the weekend’s biggest matchups, diving into the storylines, potential upsets, and chaos that define the tournament. They break down teams like TCU and West Virginia, examine why South Dakota State could shake up brackets, and debate whether the Big East is deeper than expected—and how that could impact the field.Finally, they wrap things up with ‘Something In Common.’REFERENCES: WNBA’s historic labor agreement is worth toasting … for now by Chantel JenningsWho are the top WNBA free agents? Get ready for a wild offseason after a new CBA deal by Sabreena MerchantWomen’s NCAA Tournament power rankings: Can Vanderbilt stay alive long enough to face UConn? by Eden LaaseCheck out The Athletic's Interactive Bracket__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From negotiations to victory — the WNBA and its players reach a historic CBA deal. Zena and Layshia, joined by Sabreena, break down key changes in revenue sharing, salary caps, and player benefits, as well as the timeline for the upcoming season.Next, Zena and Layshia explore the evolution of CBA negotiations, the influence of star power, and the players’ fight for dignity, representation, and equality.Finally, we wrap up with a new segment, ‘And One More Thing,’ highlighting a story or idea worth your attention.REFERENCES: What’s next for the WNBA after reaching a historic CBA deal? by Sabreena MerchantWNBA, players reach verbal agreement on new CBA after marathon negotiations by Mike Vorkunov, Sabreena Merchant and The Athletic StaffCheck out The Athletic's Interactive Bracket__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena Keita, Sabreena Merchant, Chantel Jennings, and our newest co-host—former WNBA star Layshia Clarendon—react LIVE to the seedings, snubs, and surprises revealed in the Women’s NCAA Tournament bracket, breaking down their March Madness picks in real time. Our resident bracketologist, Eden Laase, also joins the show to share her insights and analysis of the bracket.REFERENCES: UCLA’s path to the Final Four requires getting through the tough Sacramento 2 Region The Athletic2026 women’s March Madness bracket picks: Why Chantel Jennings picked UConn to win it all by Chantel JenningsDownload The Athletic's printable bracket__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The WNBA CBA negotiations are still ongoing, with no deal reached yet. Zena and Chantel break down the latest developments in the talks before diving into the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament and the dynamics of the current Team USA roster. Then, our resident bracketologist Eden Laase joins to dig into the biggest bracket storylines — from the battle between UConn and UCLA for the overall No. 1 seed to the bubble drama surrounding Colorado and Clemson. They unpack how conference tournament results are shaking up the field, what it means for teams fighting to get in, and why programs like USC and Tennessee could slip a bit lower than expected in the seeding.REFERENCES: Overnight WNBA, players’ union talks fail to result in collective bargaining agreement: Reports by Sabreena MerchantWNBA proposes higher salary cap in latest CBA offer, but still no deal by Chantel JenningsCaitlin Clark shines with double-double in dominant Team USA victory by Sabreena MerchantWomen’s NCAA Tournament Bubble Watch: Will Clemson, Iowa State, Virginia make the field? By Eden LaaseCatch us live this Sunday at 6:30 PM PT / 9:30 PM ET on YouTube  for our bracket reactions!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No Offseason is expanding to three episodes a week with the addition of new co-host former WNBA star Layshia Clarendon. Find us Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays wherever you get your podcasts.__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

USA Women’s Basketball tips off Wednesday in Puerto Rico. Zena, Chantel and Sabreena dive into how Team USA is preparing for the World Cup, plus the return of Caitlin Clark to game action. They also break down the latest in the CBA talks as the drop-deadline approaches.From there, they share their conference tournament takeaways from around the association—debating whether UCLA has done enough for the overall No. 1 seed, if West Virginia improved its seeding, and which mid-majors caught their attention this weekend, plus more.We wrap things up with Two Takes and A FakeREFERENCES: Caitlin Clark preparing for Team USA debut, feels ‘even better’ than start of last season by Chantel JenningsWomen’s conference tournament takeaways: Texas takes down South Carolina by Chantel Jennings,  Cameron Teague Robinson, Sabreena Merchant and Grace RaynorWomen’s basketball power rankings: If LSU can’t beat South Carolina, is it a tournament threat? by Sabreena MerchantCheck out Zena’s exclusive interview with WNBA star Napheesa Collier here!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNBA superstar Napheesa Collier joins Zena Keita to talk about how Unrivaled is giving players the ultimate power move: options. She also shares her thoughts on the WNBA’s CBA negotiations and more.REFERENCES: Check out the full episode on YouTube: The Athletic Show __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The WNBPA issued a statement emphasizing unity among players as negotiations continue with the league on a new CBA. Zena, Chantel, and Sabreena discuss the implications of the statement and where the players’ union and the league stand ahead of the drop-dead deadline. They also recap the Unrivaled championship, highlighting standout performances and the league’s continued growth.From there, they share their predictions for the major national awards in college basketball, including Coach of the Year, Freshman of the Year, and Player of the Year. They begin by breaking down Shea Ralph’s impressive coaching success at Vanderbilt and why it makes her a strong Coach of the Year candidate. From there, they spotlight some of the most impactful freshmen across the sport before wrapping up with a debate over their Player of the Year selections, weighing each candidate’s stats and influence on their team’s success.Finally, we wrap things up with a question from the mailbag.REFERENCES: WNBA player union emphasizes unity as fissures exposed in CBA negotiations by Sabreena MerchantBreanna Stewart outduels Kelsey Plum as Mist claim Unrivaled championship by Sabreena Merchant UConn's Sarah Strong: The Athletic's women's basketball Player of the Year by Chantel JenningsVanderbilt’s Shea Ralph earns The Athletic’s women’s basketball Coach of the Year  by Chantel JenningsThe Athletic’s women’s college basketball All-America team by Sabreena Merchant, Chantel Jennings, Zena Keita and Eden LaaseCheck out The Athletic Show on March 8th for an exclusive interview with Napheesa Collier__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Chantel, and Sabreena look ahead around the association, beginning their conversation with Rutgers parting ways with head coach Coquese Washington and highlighting the growing pressure to win in women’s college basketball. From there, they dive into the Sabreena Scale, focusing on some of the tight matchups from the weekend.Next, the crew break down predictions and insights for women’s college basketball conference tournaments, including the Big Ten, SEC, ACC, Big 12, and key mid-major conferences. They discuss team performances, potential upsets, and standout players, offering a comprehensive look at what the tournaments mean heading into the NCAA Tournament.To close things out, we play one of our recurring favorites: Something in Common.REFERENCES: Women's basketball power rankings: Vanderbilt, Texas will fight for No. 1 seed in SEC tourney by Sabreena MerchantTexas jumps to No. 4 as last year’s Final Four lead updated NCAA top-16 rankings by Chantel JenningsUConn completes 11th unbeaten regular season with rout of St. John’s by Chantel Jennings__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkGet in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.comShow Links:-YouTube:  @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason-TikTok: @no_offseasonCredits:-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings-Layshia on Instagram: @layshiac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.