No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show

Dallas snagged the top pick—now the real decisions begin. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena kick things off with the New York Liberty’s set to hire Chris DeMarco as their next head coach, unpacking what it means and the ripple effect it could have on coaching diversity across the league. Then they break down one of the season’s best showdowns: UConn vs. Michigan. From there, it’s all WNBA Draft talk—how the lottery works, the top prospects to watch, and the delicate balance between filling immediate needs and betting on long-term upside.And to close it out, a Thanksgiving twist: pairing our favorite holiday dishes with the players whose games match them best.REFERENCES: Liberty hire Warriors’ assistant Chris DeMarco as franchise’s new coach: Sources by Sabreena MerchantUConn survives its toughest test after challenge from Michigan by Ben PickmanDallas Wings win WNBA Draft Lottery for second straight year: Who will join Paige Bueckers? by Ben Pickman2026 WNBA mock draft: Who will Dallas Wings take with No. 1 pick? by Sabreena Merchant Don't sleep on Michigan: Women's college basketball power rankings by Ben PickmanWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.com__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big money, big moves, big debates. Zena, Ben, and Sabreena unpack the WNBA’s proposed salary increase—potentially exceeding $1.1 million—and what it means for the ongoing CBA negotiations, from revenue sharing to prioritization rules and the core system. They also dive into Project B, the emerging global women’s league aiming to offer the highest average salaries in the sport.Then the crew breaks down the 2024 vs. 2025 WNBA rookie classes and debates who would win in a game to 21. And finally, they wrap up with where you should be setting your screens this weekend.REFERENCES: WNBA proposes max salary above $1.1 million in latest proposal to players union: Sources by Ben PickmanWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.comWe want to hear from you! Take a minute to fill out our quick listener survey and tell us what you think about the show. Your feedback helps us grow! Check out our show survey here: No Offseason listener survey__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena are back and diving into all the latest around the association! They discuss Sarah Strong and UConn’s impressive depth, Marta Suárez’s huge impact in TCU’s win over NC State, and South Carolina already settling into its identity. They also spotlight other storylines—including Duke’s concerning offensive issues and the rise of mid-majors like Richmond.Then it’s on to the big question: What makes for a great women’s sports city? They dig into the factors that make certain cities hotspots for women’s sports and highlight emerging markets that could crack a top-10 list.And to close things out, they debut a brand-new segment: “A Penny for Your Thoughts.”REFERENCES: Women’s college basketball power rankings: What makes TCU a top-10 team? by Sabreena Merchant Shorthanded West Virginia women upset No. 15 Duke after melee triggers 7 ejections by Denny AlfonsoIs UConn even more dominant than last season’s national championship team? By Ben PickmanFresh faces help South Carolina win battle for ‘The Real SC’ over USC: Takeaways by Sabreena MerchantThe Athletic's: Top 10 Women’s Sports Cites fan pollWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.comWe want to hear from you! Take a minute to fill out our quick listener survey and tell us what you think about the show. Your feedback helps us grow! Check out our show survey here: No Offseason listener survey__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a week in women’s college hoops! Zena and Sabreena open up with the week’s wildest stat lines  — Hannah Hidalgo swiping 16 steals, Audi Crooks pouring in 43, and Grace College exploding for 172 points. They unpack all these record-breaking performances and just how impressive they were to watch. Then they pivot to JuJu Watkins’ investment in Boston Legacy FC and what might be behind the move. From there, it’s on to WNBA All-Star talk and why so few teams are willing to host it.Later, Zena and Sabreena are joined by The Athletic’s Ira Gorwara to dig into our biggest overreactions in women’s college hoops. From hyping a mid-major to claiming a Top 10 team can’t fall, our takes can either make us look brilliant… or just leave us with classic overreactions. We’re serving up hot-take heat that’ll leave you wondering!Plus, we tell you exactly where to set your screens.REFERENCES: Grace College scores 172 points to set women’s college basketball scoring record by Alex ValdesNotre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo’s sets school and NCAA records with 16 steals by Alex ValdesWhen sorority influencers meet Alabama football, game days turn into a campus-wide catwalk by Ira GorawaraWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.comWe want to hear from you! Take a minute to fill out our quick listener survey and tell us what you think about the show. Your feedback helps us grow! Check out our show survey here: No Offseason listener survey__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Ben kick things off by diving into college women’s hoops — breaking down the standout performances from Week One, the nail-biting finishes, and just how deep some of these teams really are. From there, they shift gears to golf, exploring how WNBA players like Caitlin Clark are getting into the sport. The Athletic’s golf writer, Gabby Herzig, joins the conversation to discuss the growing appeal of golf among athletes and the shared mental challenges between the two sports.Plus, Set Your Screens is back — we’ve got your guide to the must-watch games of the week.REFERENCES: Which women’s college basketball teams are showing signs for concern in Week 1? by Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman Women’s college basketball power rankings: USC, Notre Dame, Iowa take huge leaps by Sabreena MerchantCaitlin Clark to run it back at LPGA event. WNBA star will compete in The Annika pro-am by The Athletic StaffWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.comWe want to hear from you! Take a minute to fill out our quick listener survey and tell us what you think about the show. Your feedback helps us grow! Check out our show survey here: No Offseason listener survey__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Sabreena, and Ben dive into the latest Unrivaled news — from roster reshuffles and reveals (featuring 2025 No. 1 draft pick, Paige Bueckers and 2025 No. 2 draft pick Dom Malonga teaming up on the Breeze), to nearly 30 players signing multi-year deals in the ascendant league. Then they break down the buzz around Project B, exploring Seattle Storm star – and WNBPA President – Nneka Ogwumike’s involvement, what the league brings to the table, and the major investment group backing it.After that, the crew debuts a brand-new segment: This or That – Women’s College Hoops Edition! Who can end South Carolina’s dominant run at the top of the SEC, which team has the best young core, and which mid-major is ready to make noise this season?Finally, we wrap things up with recaps of and reactions to the introductory press conferences from the new head coaches around the WNBA.REFERENCES: What is Project B? The latest on a new global league recruiting basketball stars by Sam Amick, Mike Vorkunov and Joe VardonNneka Ogwumike signs with Project B, becomes first player publicly associated with new league by Sabreena Merchant Paige Bueckers joins expansion team as Unrivaled reveals rosters for 2026 season by Sabreena Merchant We’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.comWe want to hear from you! Take a minute to fill out our quick listener survey and tell us what you think about the show. Your feedback helps us grow! Check out our show survey here: No Offseason listener survey__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The women’s college basketball season is officially underway! Zena, Sabreena, and Ben dive into their way-too-early predictions: Which teams are poised to dominate ?Who will be the freshman to rise above the rest? And which team will surprise everyone this season? Get ready for unexpected takes, surprising picks and thought-provoking predictions!Plus — Ben rolls out a new game called “She Traveled”REFERENCES: Perfect day at New York City Marathon: Photo finish, record run, classic competition by Devon Henderson and Matthew FuttermanNew York City Marathon: Eliud Kipchoge and Kenenisa Bekele set for possible last dance by Liam TharmeWatch Zena + Sabreena talk WNBA CBA negotiations on: The Athletic ShowWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.com__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s CBA deadline day! Or at least it was. Zena, Sabreena, and Ben discuss the news that the WNBA and WNBPA agreed to a 30-day extension of the CBA and what it means going forward. They also touch on some Unrivaled news and a Paige Bueckers movie project before moving onto college basketball, as the 2025-26 season tips off Monday. In the absence of Bueckers and JuJu Watkins, the trio discusses who is poised to be the face of college basketball and what qualifies a player for that moniker. REFERENCES: WNBA offers players extension on CBA negotiations: Sources by Sabreena Merchant and Ben PickmanIf the WNBA doesn’t reach a CBA agreement by Friday’s deadline, what’s next? by Ben PickmanHow LSU coach Kim Mulkey built a brand, a program and perennial title contenders by Sabreena Merchant Women’s college basketball All-America team: Madison Booker, Hannah Hidalgo and more by Chantel Jennings We’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.com__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s gut-check time for the WNBA and its players, as less than a week remains until the current collective bargaining agreement expires. After catching up on the latest coaching hires in Dallas and Seattle, Zena, Sabreena, and Ben set the stage for the CBA deadline, explaining why the players opted out, what issues are at play, and how tensions have risen. Then, Sabreena and Ben speak with Erin D. Drake, senior advisor and legal counsel for the players’ union, the WNBPA, for a peek behind the curtains on negotiations – discussing where things currently stand, and what pathways exist if a deal is not reached by Friday. REFERENCES: More than 70 legislators, including Zohran Mamdani, sign letter in support of WNBA players union by Ben PickmanSonia Raman agrees to deal to become Seattle Storm’s head coach: Sources by Ben PickmanWNBA mailbag: CBA negotiation, free agency and expansion draft answers by Ben PickmanWe’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email us at NoOffseason@theathletic.com__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena talk through the latest developments in WNBA coaching news and CBA negotiations, including Sandy Brondello’s likely hire as the first ever coach of the Toronto Tempo and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s comments regarding salaries and revenue-sharing in the W.Then, they turn their attention to some burning questions for the upcoming NCAA women’s basketball season: can anyone catch reigning champs UConn? How will USC fare without superstar JuJu Watkins? Who are the freshmen and transfers to keep an eye on? And, when all is said and done, who might move on from college ball to become the No. 1 draft pick in 2026?_________________References:Toronto Tempo expected to hire Sandy Brondello as franchise’s first head coach: Source by Ben PickmanWNBA players union director criticizes NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s statements by Ben PickmanWhy haven’t the WNBA and players union reached a deal? by Sabreena MerchantDallas Wings working to hire Jose Fernandez as franchise’s next head coach: Sources by Ben Pickman_________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________We’re putting together a couple of mailbag episodes! Got thoughts or questions about the CBA? Curious about college hoops? Send them our way — we want to hear from you! Email 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2019 class became a bridge between eras, combining the tail end of the old guard with a new wave of dynamic, skilled players ready to lead franchises. Zena, Sabreena, and Ben kick things off with updates on current coaching vacancies, diving into how some teams are using search firms to fill front office roles — moves that often set the stage for the next head coach hire. Then, it's time to revisit the 2019 WNBA Draft — a class that helped shape the league as we know it today. Who went too high? Who got overlooked? Which players have surprised us the most? And how did this class become a true turning point for the W? With the benefit of hindsight, the crew re-drafts the 2019 class to figure out who really should’ve gone where._________________References:WNBA’s Portland Fire name Cavs’ assistant Alex Sarama first coach in team history by Sabreena Merchant WNBA coaching carousel: What I’m hearing about the Liberty, Storm and other jobs by Ben Pickman_________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Due to the AWS outage our full episode will be released later this week. Thanks for your patience!_________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Sabreena, and Ben kick things off with an unintentional announcement — the Portland Fire’s head coach was announced via a deleted, unexplained post. They dive into the resulting awkwardness and debate whether the announcement was meant for another time.Then, the conversation shifts to the NBA’s announcement of three new referees advancing into its ranks — a move that raises questions about officiating standards in the WNBA.From there, free agency explained. The crew breaks down team strategies and shifting rosters, asking the big questions: Will Angel Reese stay in Chicago? How will the Fever build around Caitlin Clark? And is the Arike Ogunbowale era in Dallas nearing its end?Finally, they wrap things up with some head-scratching social media moments that leave the crew — and listeners — wondering what exactly is going on._________________References:WNBA season is most viewed ever on ESPN networks by Richard Deitsch2025 WNBA free agency: Which players could make the biggest moves? by Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After one more look back on the WNBA Finals — and Finals MVP A’ja Wilson taking a seat next to Ben Pickman at her victory press conference — Zena, Sabreena, and Ben take a bigger-picture look at the 2025 WNBA season. They get into some of the trends that defined this year, from the demographics of the fans and the explosion of the WNBA into popular culture to some on-court trends. Finally, Ben absolutely stumps Zena and Sabreena with one final game testing their ability to remember the most anomalous stat lines of the year. _________________References:How the Phoenix Mercury’s ‘think outside the box’ roster-building created a winner by Sabreena MerchantA new generation is embracing the WNBA, including young boys by Ben Pickman_________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Aces completed a four-game sweep of the Phoenix Mercury in the first-ever best-of-seven WNBA Finals - Ben, Sabreena and senior writer Marcus Thompson II were on the scene at the Mortgage Matchup Center, where the Aces’ were crowned as the 2025 WNBA champions. Together, they discuss A’ja Wilson's outstanding performance, the Aces' dominance over the Phoenix Mercury, and the future of the Phoenix Mercury. Then - they turn their attention to the WNBA championship ceremony where there were noticeable boos from the crowd whenever WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert took the mic. What does it all mean? Has Cathy also lost favor with the fans? And ​​what will her next steps be during the postseason?Lastly - the crew wrap things up with their favorite moments from Game 4._________________References:Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts ejected for double technical foul in Game 4 loss of WNBA Finals by Sabreena Merchant Las Vegas Aces claim WNBA championship with sweep of Phoenix Mercury by Ben Pickman _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Aces are now one win away from their third WNBA championship in four years! Zena, Ben and Sabreena share their takeaways on A’ja Wilson’s pivotal performance and the impact of the Aces supporting cast that  impeded on a Mercury comeback.  Why have the Mercury struggled so hard to find their rhythm in the Finals? Are the Aces’ just too dominant to overcome? And how will the WNBA Finals end?Then -the crew discuss their thoughts about the latest chatter surrounding the WNBA CBA negotiations._________________References:A’ja Wilson’s heroic shot gives Las Vegas Aces a 3-0 WNBA Finals lead over Phoenix Mercury by Sabreena Merchant_________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another history-making night in the W - Jackie Young sets a new WNBA Finals record with 21 points in a single quarter. The Athletic’s senior columnist Marcus Thompson II joins Ben and Sabreena to analyze the Aces' victory over the Mercury in Game 2. Together, they cover the defensive strategies employed by the Aces and the challenges faced by the Mercury. Plus - they share their insights into what the Mercury need to do to turn the series around in Game 3._________________References:Jackie Young scores 32 as Las Vegas dominates Phoenix for 2-0 lead in WNBA Finals by Sabreena Merchant Are the Las Vegas Aces unstoppable? So far, the Phoenix Mercury can’t figure them out by Ben Pickman _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following an absolutely electric Game 1 of the WNBA finals - Ben and Sabreena are live from Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, breaking down moments from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s response to player criticism, officiating and player-league dynamics. Is Engelbert's latest response enough to quiet the criticism? How will  the league move forward after her controversial remarks? Then they turn their attention to the Aces clutch bench performance and how the Mercury allowed a golden opportunity to slip away in the closing moments of Game 1. Plus -they look ahead to each team's strategy in Game 2. _________________References:WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert addresses player criticism, CBA, officiating, job security by Ben PickmanCathy Engelbert is not the WNBA’s future. Soon, the commish may not even be its present by Marcus Thompson IIWNBA Finals: Las Vegas Aces take Game 1 with comeback victory against Phoenix Mercury by Ben PickmanLas Vegas Aces get in a (defensive) zone to stage WNBA Finals comeback win in opener by Sabreena Merchant _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena gather to discuss Napheesa Collier’s explosive exit interview statement, examining Phee’s words and the meaning underlying them from nearly every angle — what players really think about WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, the power dynamics at play and the NBA’s role behind the scenes, the physicality of the current game and the rise of injuries, the influence of Unrivaled, and the element threaded through all of this: the frustration over ongoing CBA negotiations and the potential of a work stoppage. Then, with Ben and Sabreena reporting on the ground in Vegas, the crew weighs in on the storylines to watch as the Aces-Mercury Finals match-up gets underway Friday night. Plus: who might have the edge to win it all?_________________References:Napheesa Collier calls out WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert: ‘Worst leadership in the world’ by Ben Pickman Caitlin Clark will not play in Unrivaled this winter: Source by Ben Pickman and Alex Andrejev WNBA players say CBA negotiations are stalling as deadline nears by Sabreena MerchantIs the WNBA headed for a work stoppage? The consequences could be grim for the league by Ben PickmanThe Las Vegas Aces heard your doubts. … It fueled their run back to the WNBA Finals by Sabreena Merchant _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Ben, and Sabreena take a dive deep into the highly anticipated Game 5 semifinals match-up between the Aces and Fever. Will A’ja Wilson bring her A-game? What adjustments will the Aces make? And how can the Fever pull off the ultimate upset? Then, the crew share their thoughts on the emotional end to the Lynx’s season – and the Mercury’s ascendance to the Finals. Next, following Cheryl Reeve’s suspension after the Mercury-Lynx Game 3 on Friday night, Zena, Ben, and Sabreena talk about the play in question between Alyssa Thomas and Napheesa Collier – before getting into the intricacies behind freedom of movement in the WNBA and the implications of officiating decisions as teams continue to navigate the playoffs.Finally, The Athletic’s Sports Betting Editor, Hannah Vanbiber joins Zena and Ben to discuss the basics of sports betting – from money lines to point spreads and totals – before entertaining some made-up WNBA prop bets.  _________________References:Indiana Fever stave off elimination, even WNBA semifinals against Las Vegas Aces by Sabreena Merchant How did the Indiana Fever avoid collapsing? A season-long bond keeps them fighting by Sabreena MerchantMinnesota Lynx eliminated from WNBA playoffs, Phoenix Mercury reach finals by Ben Pickman Minnesota Lynx couldn’t get back to WNBA Finals. Next year’s quest might get even harder by Ben PickmanWNBA fines Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve $15,000 after Game 3 ejection, suspension: Source by Sabreena Merchant _________________No Offseason is a part of the The Athletic media network. Visit our YouTube page!_________________Have feedback or a question? Email us! And we'll try to answer on a future episode: 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__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-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm-Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.