Zena is back from vacation – and stepping into a world where the WNBA dominates her social feed. She and Ben talk about All-Star Weekend, and how the W – from the StudBudz to the players’ viral warmup shirts – has moved into a new space of cultural prominence. Next, Ben shares reporting updates on the CBA – the new collective bargaining agreement being negotiated in the WNBA – including who exactly is sitting on both sides of the table, how revenue sharing actually works in the W (hint: it’s different than you think), and what the league is willing to say about its profitability.

Then, Zena and Ben talk through some of the biggest questions facing the teams of the WNBA as the second half of the season gets underway. Can the Fever and the Aces make a real run for it? With some fresh faces in the mix, will the Liberty be back on top? Are there any lower ranked teams that can make it to the playoffs? 

Plus, what we’re watching this weekend.

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References:

What to know about WNBA CBA negotiations: Revenue sharing, salary increases and scheduling by Ben Pickman

As Caitlin Clark’s injuries persist, what’s the Fever’s outlook for WNBA’s second half? by Ben Pickman

Two-time All-Star Emma Meesseman to sign with New York Liberty in WNBA return: Source by Ben Pickman

Ten questions (that don’t involve Caitlin Clark) about the WNBA’s second half by Sabreena Merchant

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Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or write to us at: NoOffseason@theathletic.com

You can also find us on social media:

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-TikTok: @no_offseason

-Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita

-Ben on BlueSky: @benpickman

-Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm

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