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Digest
The "Levels to This" podcast, hosted by Tariqa Foster Brassby and Cheryl Swoops, delves into the experiences of women, particularly in sports. The episode begins with a recap of the 2024 WNBA Finals, where the New York Liberty won their first championship. The hosts discuss the controversial foul call at the end of regulation, Brianna Stewart's travel, and the overall officiating. They then reflect on the 2024 WNBA season, highlighting its growth and the influx of new fans. However, they also address the issue of gatekeeping and the importance of respecting the league's history. The hosts discuss the growing connection between women's college basketball and the WNBA, citing examples of players like Asia Wilson and Caitlin Clark who have drawn in college fans. They express their frustration with the negativity and disrespect directed at women in sports, particularly black women, arguing that this behavior stems from societal acceptance of mistreatment towards women. The hosts emphasize the importance of women speaking out against mistreatment and not remaining silent for fear of repercussions. They also address the tendency for women to tear each other down. The hosts discuss the WNBA's growing popularity, citing viewership numbers and merchandise sales. They argue that despite negativity, the league is attracting attention and proving its worth. The hosts highlight the talent and personalities of WNBA players, emphasizing that the league offers a great product that deserves more respect and appreciation. They conclude the episode by discussing the importance of growth and change in life, using the quote "In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety."
Outlines
WNBA Finals and the League's Growth
The hosts discuss the 2024 WNBA Finals, the New York Liberty's championship win, and the controversial officiating. They also reflect on the WNBA season's growth and the influx of new fans, while addressing the issue of gatekeeping and the importance of respecting the league's history.
The Connection Between College and WNBA Fans
The hosts discuss the growing connection between women's college basketball and the WNBA, citing examples of players like Asia Wilson and Caitlin Clark who have drawn in college fans.
The Ugliness and Hate Directed at Women in Sports
The hosts express their frustration with the negativity and disrespect directed at women in sports, particularly black women, arguing that this behavior stems from societal acceptance of mistreatment towards women.
The Need for Women to Speak Up
The hosts emphasize the importance of women speaking out against mistreatment and not remaining silent for fear of repercussions. They also address the tendency for women to tear each other down.
The WNBA's Growth and Success
The hosts discuss the WNBA's growing popularity, citing viewership numbers and merchandise sales. They argue that despite negativity, the league is attracting attention and proving its worth.
Appreciating the WNBA's Talent and Product
The hosts highlight the talent and personalities of WNBA players, emphasizing that the league offers a great product that deserves more respect and appreciation.
Growth and Change in Life
The hosts conclude the episode by discussing the importance of growth and change in life, using the quote "In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety."
Keywords
WNBA Finals
The championship series of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), which determines the league's champion. The 2024 Finals saw the New York Liberty win their first title.
Gatekeeping
The act of controlling access to something, often in a way that is seen as unfair or exclusive. In the context of the WNBA, it refers to the idea that some fans are trying to prevent new fans from enjoying the league.
Brianna Stewart
A professional basketball player for the New York Liberty in the WNBA. She is a two-time WNBA MVP and a key player in the Liberty's 2024 championship run.
Sabrina Ionescu
A professional basketball player for the New York Liberty in the WNBA. She is known for her exceptional playmaking abilities and was a key contributor to the Liberty's championship victory.
Nafisa Collier
A professional basketball player for the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA. She had a breakout season in 2024, leading the Lynx to the WNBA Finals.
Asia Wilson
A professional basketball player in the WNBA, known for her strong performances in college basketball.
Caitlin Clark
A professional basketball player in the WNBA, known for her strong performances in college basketball.
Levels to This
A podcast hosted by Tariqa Foster Brassby and Cheryl Swoops, where they discuss the experiences of women, particularly in sports. The podcast aims to provide a platform for honest and insightful conversations about the challenges and triumphs of women.
Q&A
What were the key takeaways from the 2024 WNBA Finals?
The New York Liberty won their first championship in a controversial game five that went into overtime. The officiating was heavily criticized, and the series highlighted the exceptional talent of players like Nafisa Collier, Brianna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu.
How did the hosts feel about the 2024 WNBA season overall?
The hosts acknowledged the season's growth and the influx of new fans but expressed concern about the negativity and disrespect directed at women in sports. They emphasized the importance of respecting the league's history and the contributions of those who helped build it.
What are the hosts' thoughts on the connection between college and WNBA fans?
The hosts believe that the WNBA is increasingly attracting college basketball fans, particularly those who follow players like Asia Wilson and Caitlin Clark. They see this as a positive development for the league's growth.
What are the hosts' views on the treatment of women in sports?
The hosts are critical of the negativity and hate directed at women in sports, arguing that it stems from societal acceptance of mistreatment towards women. They believe that women deserve more respect and recognition for their accomplishments.
What are the hosts' hopes for the future of the WNBA?
The hosts hope that the WNBA will continue to grow and attract more fans, but they also hope that the league will be treated with more respect and appreciation. They believe that the league offers a great product that deserves to be celebrated.
Show Notes
Introducing Levels to a Championship from Levels to This with Sheryl Swoopes and Terrika Foster-Brasby.
Follow the show: Levels to This with Sheryl Swoopes and Terrika Foster-Brasby
On this episode of Levels to This, Sheryl and Tee catch up after the WNBA Finals to discuss the controversial call in Game 5 that helped clinch the Liberty’s first WNBA championship. The two also share their overall thoughts on the growth of the sport this season, including viewership numbers and how college basketball fans gaining interest in the WNBA has helped increase it’s popularity.
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DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.
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