No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show
No Offseason is The Athletic’s show for all things women’s basketball. Hosts Zena Keita, Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, Layshia Clarendon, and Annie Costabile bring you the stories that matter the most and the insider info you need from the sport that never stops – served up alongside exclusive interviews with the biggest names in women’s hoops, from the NCAA to the WNBA and all points in between. New episodes drop Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Episodes
A’ja, Olivia or Caitlin: Who Deserves MVP?
The WNBA’s award races are heating up as the regular season winds down. Sabreena and Annie kick things off by breaking down the impact of Azzi Fudd’s injury on the Dallas Wings and what it could mean for her development moving forward. Then, they dive into the MVP race featuring A’ja Wilson, Olivia Miles, Kelsey Mitchell and Caitlin Clark, while also discussing the possibility of co-MVPs and the g
5 Plays That Win WNBA Games
Ever wonder what goes into some of the WNBA’s most creative and effective actions on the court? Zena and Sabreena are joined by Nekias Duncan, host of The Dunker Spot, for a deep dive into the X’s and O’s shaping the league right now. They break down everything from the Washington Mystics’ high-low action and the Liberty’s press-to-zone defense to the growing use of double drag, the Fever’s dead-b
Did the Fever Find Their Playoff Formula?
The playoff race is heating up, and the standings are getting tighter by the day! Zena and Sabreena break down the biggest performances and storylines from the weekend, starting with the Lynx-Aces matchup, which showcased the strengths of two of the league’s top contenders and what each team could bring to the postseason.Then, they turn their attention to the Fever and how their recent surge has p
Is the Next WNBA Dynasty Already Here?
What defines a dynasty in the WNBA? Sabreena and Annie dive into what it takes to build sustained success in the league and explore which teams could be poised to become the next great dynasty. How long can the Aces’ dominance last? Could Napheesa Collier explore other options after the season? And should the Golden State Valkyries already be in the dynasty conversation? The duo breaks it all down
Which WNBA Teams Need a Reset?
How does a team know when it’s time to rebuild? Zena and Sabreena dive into the complexities of rebuilding in the WNBA, looking at teams that have gotten it right — including how the Washington Mystics stumbled into a rebuild that’s moving faster than expected. They also examine teams that have been forced into rebuilding, like the Seattle Storm after key free-agency losses.But first, the duo disc
Rivals Weekend Heat: Techs, Ejections & Tensions
Rivals Week tipped off over the weekend, and the WNBA brought plenty of drama, big performances and storylines to unpack.Zena and Annie break down Caitlin Clark’s quick rescinding of what would have been her eighth technical foul of the season, the fallout from DiJonai Carrington’s ejection after a hard foul on Sophie Cunningham, and whether load management could become a necessary strategy in the
Why the Valkyries are Winning On and Off the Court
The Golden State Valkyries have quickly established themselves as a successful franchise in the WNBA. Brian Hamilton returns to join Sabreena for a closer look at the team’s rapid rise and the blueprint behind their immediate impact.The duo breaks down the many factors fueling the Valkyries’ success — from prioritizing the player experience and creating an electric home-court atmosphere at Ballhal
A Deeper Conversation About Inclusion in Women’s Sports
Exclusionary practices in sports can have a lasting impact on athletes, communities, and the way we think about fairness, opportunity, and belonging.. To help unpack this complex and often divisive topic, Zena is joined by Dr. Anna Baeth, author of Fair Game: Trans Athletes and the Future of Sports.Dr. Baeth takes a closer look at the conversation around trans athletes in women’s sports, addressin
Can Kelsey Plum Push the Mercury Into Contention?
The WNBA trade deadline has come and gone, and while the league didn’t see a flood of moves, one blockbuster trade changed the conversation. Zena and Sabreena break down the Phoenix Mercury’s acquisition of Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks and discuss what this move means for Phoenix’s playoff hopes and the race for the postseason.Before diving into the trade deadline fallout, the duo opens
LIVE: Kelsey Plum traded to the Phoenix Mercury
Sabreena and Annie share their live reactions to Kelsey Plum's trade to the Phoenix Mercury and what it means for both franchise.REFERENCES:Los Angeles Sparks deal Kelsey Plum to Phoenix Mercury in a blockbuster move by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG
What We're Hearing Ahead of the WNBA Trade Deadline
The WNBA trade deadline is approaching, and the rumors, speculation, and potential moves are heating up. Sabreena and Annie break down the complexities of player contracts, the challenges of making trades within the league’s salary cap structure, and which players could realistically be on the move.Before diving into the trade market, the duo discuss some of the league’s recent optics and the conv
The Teams That Will Define The WNBA’s Second Half
The WNBA playoff race is heating up as the second half of the season gets underway. Zena and Sabreena break down Tuesday night’s action, highlighting teams that showcased offensive firepower while exposing defensive concerns that could shape the postseason picture.The duo then dives into how teams are handling player controversies and the impact those moments can have on public perception. They di
Winners and Losers from WNBA All-Star Weekend
The WNBA took over Chicago for a weekend! Zena, Annie, and Sabreena share the behind-the-scenes experience covering All-Star Weekend, from the energy inside the city to Barack Obama’s appearance and the biggest storylines that shaped the event.The trio breaks down Azzi Fudd’s historic 3-Point Contest win, the introduction of the Shooting Stars competition, and what the league can do to continue ev
All-Star Weekend Preview + How Cathy Engelbert’s leadership built (and hurt) the WNBA
WNBA All-Star Weekend is finally here, and Chicago is ready for the spotlight. Zena and senior columnist Marcus Thompson II break down the biggest storylines heading into the league's biggest weekend—from the can't-miss events and bold predictions to what fans should keep an eye on. Plus, they discuss Napheesa Collier's impressive return and what her comeback means as the second half of the season
Will Azzi Fudd Be Crowned the 3-Point Princess?
The participants for the WNBA All-Star Three-Point Contest are officially set, and rookie Azzi Fudd is the lone first-year player in the field. Zena and Annie break down the competition, discuss the favorites, and examine which notable names won't be competing.Then, the conversation shifts into the growing arms race around WNBA facilities—why teams like the Lynx and Aces are raising the bar, what
Why Two Things Can Be True About Sandy Brondello’s Comments
Words matter—and sometimes they can ignite a league-wide conversation. Zena, Annie, and Sabreena unpack the controversy surrounding Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello's comments about Angel Reese, exploring the role of context, intent, impact, and the broader conversations about race and language in sports. The crew also examines the evolving leadership dynamic between Adam Silver and Cathy
Which WNBA Salaries Have Been Worth Every Penny?
Who's worth every penny—and who's getting paid too much? Sabreena and Annie break down the WNBA's biggest bargains and most debated contracts, discussing which players are outperforming their deals, who's falling short, and how the league's new salary cap is changing the way teams build their rosters.The duo also reacts to the WNBA All-Star rosters, A'ja Wilson and Lauren Betts bringing home ESPY
Can Olivia Dethrone A'ja as MVP?
We're at the midpoint of the WNBA season, which means it's time to hand out our midseason awards. From MVP and Most Improved Player to Coach of the Year, Sixth Player of the Year, and even Press Conference of the Year, Zena and Sabreena make the case for the league's top contenders. They discuss who's leading each race, who's making a late push, and which awards are still wide open.The duo also di
Sparks “Part Ways” with General Manager Raegan Pebley
The Los Angeles Sparks surprised the WNBA world Sunday with a midseason move to “part ways” with general manager Raegan Pebley. Zena, Annie, and Sabreena unpack the reasoning and timing of this decision and what this means for the rest of the Sparks’ 2026 season. What is Kelsey Plum’s future approaching the trade deadline? How will the Sparks’ front office function going forward?The trio also brea
The Crucial Injuries Changing the WNBA Season
As injuries sideline several WNBA favorites, questions confront coaches, players, and fans alike. Who are the Aces without A’Ja Wilson? Who is the ‘spark’ plug in Kelsey Plum’s absence?In today’s conversation, Sabreena and Annie discuss which teams are feeling the most impact, the players stepping up, and when to expect your favorites back in the lineup. The pair also react to government officials
Why Angel Reese and Atlanta are the Perfect Match
Angel Reese’s offseason trade to the Dream marked a new era for the Bayou Barbie. In this episode, Zena and Sabreena welcome senior writer Brian Hamilton to discuss his piece, “Why Angel Reese is the perfect fit for the ‘Hollywood of the South’ with Atlanta Dream.” The three dive into how Reese's diverse business portfolio, brand beyond basketball, and unapologetic persona align with the city and
Why Officiating in the WNBA Lacks Accountability
Officiating in the WNBA is no stranger to criticism— especially in the aftermath of Alyssa Thomas’ upgraded foul against Caitlin Clark. In this episode, Zena and Annie evaluate the current state of officiating in the WNBA and how it reaches a balance in the historically physical league. What do coaches and front offices think? What is the biggest flaw in officiating today? What is the soluti
The Beginning of the End for Cathy Engelbert? + All-Star Starters Surprises
Is this the beginning of the end for Cathy Engelbert as Commissioner of the WNBA? Annie Costabile and Sabreena Merchant weigh in on her handling of the aftermath of the infamous Fever-Mercury game – why she seems to avoid the spotlight, what’s lacking in her communication skills and style, and what – or who – might come next.Also: All-Star Starters have been announced! The usual faces are in the m
What Ever Happened to “No Space for Hate” in the WNBA? + Layshia on Life After Retirement
The aftermath of the Fever-Mercury game continues, with Alyssa Thomas speaking out about the harassment she’s endured in the wake of her on-court skirmish with Caitlin Clark. As a result, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert finally speaks up about the incident – but is it too little too late? And what ever happened to the WNBA’s “No Space for Hate” campaign?Zena and Layshia offer their perspectives
Why the WNBA Keeps Creating PR Nightmares
The discourse around Caitlin Clark has once again reached a fever pitch – and the WNBA doesn’t seem to be learning from the lessons of the past in its handling of it all. In this nuanced and wide-ranging conversation, Zena, Annie, and Sabreena dissect the different takes swirling around the internet regarding the aftermath of last week’s physical game between the Indiana Fever and the Phoeni
Emergency Pod: Caitlin Out + The Aftermath of Fever-Mercury
Caitlin Clark is out for Saturday night's game against the Los Angeles Sparks. We're bringing you inside the aftermath of Wednesday night's Fever-Mercury game - from Fever head coach Steph White's comments to the intricacies of what happened on the court between Caitlin Clark and Alyssa Thomas, and the eventual upgrade of the foul to Flagrant 2, plus the suspension for one game of Alyssa Thomas. A
How the 2026 Rookie of the Year Became WNBA's Most Competitive Race
The WNBA's rookie class is making its mark, and Zena and Annie break down who's rising as the season heats up. They debate the leading Rookie of the Year contenders, highlight the biggest surprises, and predict which first-year players are poised for a breakout after the All-Star break.Plus, we break down the NCAA's new five-year eligibility rule and what it means for college athletes. __No O
Is WNBA Physical Play Out of Control?
Physicality has always been part of the WNBA—but where’s the line between tough competition and crossing it? Zena and Layshia unpack the league-wide conversation around physical play, breaking down recent technical fouls involving Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and others. They dive into the impact of officiating, player conduct, and sportsmanship, while exploring how the game’s physical style
Azzi to Project B, Sparks-Liberty Re-do + Top 30 WNBA Stars From 30 Years
The rookies are making moves, and the all-time rankings are up for debate. Zena, Annie, and Sabreena break down why Azzi Fudd's decision to join Project B and Flau’jae Johnson's move to Unrivaled could shape the next chapter of their careers. Then, the trio takes on the ultimate WNBA debate, ranking the league's greatest players across 30 seasons while weighing Finals MVPs, superstar impact, and t
50 Game Schedule, Caitlin 1s + Swin Cash on why the W needs more women coaches
The WNBA is in the midst of a breakout era, drawing unprecedented attention and momentum across the league. In this episode, Swin Cash joins Sabreena and Annie for a timely conversation on the game’s rapid evolution—from intentional pathways for hiring women coaches and Olivia Miles turning heads on the court, to her role in the WNBA’s equity stake sale and her perspective on veteran recognition p
Is the WNBA Doing Enough for Pride Month?
The WNBA has earned a reputation as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ inclusion, thanks to years of advocacy and evolving league culture. Zena and Layshia take a deep dive into the history of the WNBA’s support for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during Pride Month. They discuss the challenges of representation in marketing, noting that campaigns often highlight feminine identities while leaving out a broa
How This New Rule Will Change The WNBA's Future
This season, the WNBA introduced developmental player roster spots for every team, creating new opportunities for emerging talent across the league. Zena, Annie, and Sabreena break down the intricacies of developmental player contracts and roster rules, while exploring the strategic decisions teams face when investing in player development, and spotlight some of the league's most intriguing develo
Why This is the Most Competitive WNBA All-Star Ballot Yet
WNBA All-Star voting season is here. Sabreena and Annie dive into the factors shaping this year's selections, highlighting first-time candidates, unquestioned locks, and the players fighting for the final spots. They also explore the growing competitiveness of the All-Star Game and why financial incentives have made earning a roster spot more meaningful than ever.REFERENCES: Trump has not ext
Why the WNBA’s Momentum Is Real And Isn't Slowing Down
As the WNBA celebrates its landmark 30th season, the league's momentum has never been stronger. NBC Sports broadcaster Zora Stephenson joins Zena and Layshia for an in-depth conversation on the explosive growth of women's basketball, the unprecedented parity across the league, and what it takes to succeed in today's game.From standout rookies and player development to the teams turning heads this
The Hidden DNA Behind the WNBA's Best Teams
Coaching trees in the WNBA have had a major impact across the league’s 30-season history. In this episode, Zena and Annie explore the coaching legacies that continue to shape the game today, focusing on influential figures such as Dan Hughes, Bill Laimbeer, Cheryl Reeve, and Becky Hammon. They discuss how these coaches have left a lasting imprint on modern coaching styles, blending old-school fund
How These Offseason Moves Are Paying Off
Several offseason acquisitions are already making their presence felt around the league. Sabreena and Annie break down why Gabby Williams is thriving in Golden State, how Jessica Shepherd has strengthened Dallas, and what’s next for Angel Reese as she settles into her evolving role in Atlanta. They also explore the importance of players embracing roles that best serve team success, as well as the
How Monique Billings’ Unique WNBA Journey Made Her Resilient
Indiana Fever forward Monique Billings joins Zena and Layshia for an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and her journey with the Fever. Monique shares insights on staying true to yourself, overcoming challenges, and the importance of leadership in building strong teams. She also discusses life under the WNBA's CBA, and her transition into media and broadcasting. Through
Too Early, Too Bold: Our WNBA Hot Takes
Expansion teams making the playoffs? Tanking in the WNBA? Coaches on the hot seat? Zena, Annie, and Sabreena are diving into their hottest early-season WNBA takes. The crew is dishing out half-baked predictions and bold declarations. Will these takes come true? Only time will tell. Until then, we're embracing the uncertainty and delivering our most unapologetic WNBA hot takes.REFERENCES: WNBA
Why It's Already Panic Mode For These WNBA Teams
The Phoenix Mercury’s early struggles are raising questions about their consistency, while the New York Liberty are having trouble living up to expectations. Sabreena and Annie break down the teams that are already creeping close to the panic button this early in the season, as offseason decisions begin to show their impact across the league. Injuries are also taking a toll on multiple teams, shif
Why WNBA Team Building is Changing
The recent roster changes by Portland Fire have sparked a larger conversation about whether the WNBA is increasingly prioritizing international talent in team-building decisions. Zena and Layshia break down the Fire’s controversial roster moves while examining the broader issues of race, identity, and representation across the league. The duo also explores the impact of racial dynamics in ro
Women’s Basketball Mailbag: Answering Your Questions
From the business behind the WNBA to the culture shaping the future of the game, Zena, Annie, and Sabreena break down the developmental player system, the challenges of dual ownership structures, and what truly defines effective coaching—from team execution to player buy-in and locker room dynamics.The conversation also dives into the WNBA’s continued growth, the impact of NBA resources on the lea
Why global talent is more important than ever to the WNBA
As the WNBA continues to expand and evolve, more international players are setting their sights on the league. Sabreena and Annie dive into the impact of global talent on the WNBA and explore how franchises are adapting their scouting strategies to find the next generation of international stars. The duo also takes a look at the international players already making noise across the WNBA and the im
The 2026 rookies actually built for the WNBA
What does it really mean to be “league ready”? Is it strictly about talent and production, or does it go deeper than that? Zena and Layshia break down the concept of being “league ready” in the WNBA and what teams are truly looking for in young players entering the next level. They also dive into the performances of Olivia Miles, Flau'jae Johnson, and other standout prospects from the 2026 rookie
Can the WNBA Fix Its Officiating Problem?
The early-season conversation around officiating in the WNBA has quickly escalated into bigger questions surrounding injury concerns, player protection, and the league’s effort to balance physical play, freedom of movement, and consistency from game to game. Zena, Annie and Sabreena break down how the league is responding, including the implementation of an officiating task force aimed at improvin
Is Longevity in the WNBA About Talent, Health, or Both?
Layshia, Annie and Sabreena unpack the complex realities of health in the WNBA — from the physical toll of a demanding season to the mental challenges players face behind the scenes. The trio discusses the impact injuries can have on careers, including ongoing concerns surrounding Caitlin Clark’s back issues and Satou Sabally’s battle to stay healthy. They also dive into why investing in player we
Is the WNBA Ready to Be Criticized Like Every Other Major League?
Zena, Annie, and Layshia Clarendon dive into the evolving landscape of WNBA media coverage and how the league’s rapid growth is changing the conversation around players and teams. What was once cautious coverage has shifted toward deeper analysis and tougher criticism — a sign that the league is entering a new era of mainstream attention. The trio discusses why constructive criticism and accountab
Our Biggest Surprises from WNBA Opening Weekend
Zena, Annie, and Sabreena break down their biggest surprises from opening weekend action in the WNBA. They spotlight surprising early-season results, including strong performances from rookies and impactful new additions to teams like the Washington Mystics and Golden State Valkyries. The trio then discusses which teams already appear ahead of schedule in their development, along with early concer
2026 Big Award Predictions + Who We Picked to Win the Title
The 30th season of the WNBA officially tips off today, and Sabreena and Annie open the conversation by breaking down the latest roster changes across the league. They also discuss Napheesa Collier’s candid remarks on WNBA leadership and what they could mean moving forward.From there, the duo turns to their season preview, offering predictions for major awards including MVP, Rookie of the Year, and
WNBA Superlative Predictions: Reality TV Ready Stars to Dynamic Duos
In this engaging conversation, Zena and Layshia share their thoughts on the WNBA General Manager Survey that dropped this week. From there, the duo previews the upcoming WNBA season with bold superlative predictions—from best fit for reality TV and the league’s comedian to top platonic duos, best tunnel fits, and more. They also break down which teams have the strongest backup point guards, who bo
WNBA Contenders: Are We Destined for an Aces-Liberty Final?
As we get closer to the start of the WNBA season, our big questions continue. This time, Zena, Layshia, and Sabreena take a look at the league’s top contenders. The crew discusses whether the Aces will get off to a strong start and what the early dynamics of the Liberty might look like with Satou Sabally in the mix. We also explore what factors could push the Dream and Wings into true contender co
Not Quite Contenders: Big Questions for the WNBA’s Middle Tier
Sabreena and Annie take a closer look at the league’s middle tier—teams with something to prove. They evaluate the future outlook of the Minnesota Lynx, explore whether the Golden State Valkyries can find success again in year two, and consider what lies ahead for the Los Angeles Sparks. We also dive into the pressure facing the Chicago Sky amid roster changes, and the challenges confronting Alyss
Can Portland and Toronto Find Success in Year One? Plus, More Big Questions for Teams in Rebuild Mode
Layshia and Annie talk through WNBA teams that are in build mode. From finding the right mix of rookies and vets to handling expansion challenges, they look at how Portland, Toronto, Washington, Connecticut, and Seattle are figuring out who they are in the 2026 season. Plus, they get into coaching, team strategies, what success looks like, and why some teams have the potential to surprise sooner t
How Ready is Caitlin Clark? Inside Fever, Liberty, and Sky Training Camps
In this episode, we welcome our new women’s basketball writer and co-host, Annie Costabile! Chantel and Annie kick things off with a look inside the Fever training camp, joined by Colts beat writer James Boyd, who has been inside the camp. James shares insight on Caitlin Clark’s return and highlights key players who could step up to ease her ball-handling load—allowing her to thrive off the ball.N
Cori Close Breaks Down UCLA’s Title Run, Historic WNBA Draft, and What Comes Next
Chantel Jennings chats with UCLA head coach Cori Close about the whirlwind following UCLA Women’s Basketball’s national title win, the lessons learned from past experiences, and what it takes to build a championship culture.Coach Close also shares the influence of John Wooden and discusses the evolving landscape of college sports—particularly the transfer portal and NIL era. She outlines her strat
Is it Fair to Ask About Azzi and Paige’s Relationship Status? + What WNBA Training Camp is Really Like
Zena and Layshia break down the moment that got everyone talking: was it fair to ask Azzi Fudd about her personal relationship with Paige Bueckers? They unpack the context behind the question, the reactions it sparked, and the broader conversation around how female athletes are covered. We also examine the extent of Paige’s influence on the Wings’ decision to select Azzi.Then, we pull back t
Way Too Early 2027 WNBA Draft Predictions
Zena, Sabreena and Chantel are back to talk through all the latest transfer portal updates - including Audi Crooks’ commitment to Oklahoma State, Kymora Johnson’s decision to stay at UVA, and Justice Carlton’s move to another city in Texas.Then, the crew breaks down their way too early predictions for the 2027 WNBA Draft Class – where players like Juju Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker, Audi
Winners & Losers of the WNBA Offseason
Sabreena and Chantel take you inside Azzi Fudd and Olivia Miles’ introductory press conferences in Dallas and Minnesota, and in particular - an awkward moment where Azzi was asked about her status with Paige. Then, they dive into the latest entries and commitments from the NCAA transfer portal.Next, it’s onto Winners & Losers of the WNBA Offseason, through the lens of how money is changing the
How Free Agency Moves are Set to Change the Game in 2026 + Flau’jae, Raven and More Draft Thoughts
Zena and Layshia break down the 2026 WNBA Draft, drilling into the story behind Golden State trading Flau’jae Johnson to the Seattle Storm, and detailing why Seattle is actually a better fit for Flau’jae, plus the reality behind trades as business.Then, they turn their attention to the wild past week of free agency signings and movement – highlighting how these new rosters might come together on t
2026 WNBA Draft Winners and Losers
After months of speculation, the final picks for the 2026 WNBA Draft are in -- and the No Offseason crew is breaking it all down. Join Zena, Sabreena, and Chantel as they dig into the draft's biggest winners and losers: did Dallas make the right choice with Azzi Fudd? What’s the strategy behind the Mystics’ six picks? And was Golden State’s trade of Flau’jae Johnson to Seattle a smart move? The cr
Where Will Audi Crooks, Kymora Johnson, and Other Top Players End Up?
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
WNBA Draft Watch: Should Betts or Miles go No. 1 overall?
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 t
How UCLA Won its First-Ever National Championship
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 play
What Happened between Geno and Dawn? + Title Game Preview
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.REFERE
WNBA Expansion Draft Insights & Final Four Showdown Preview
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
The Houston Comets are Back. Here's What it Means
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 chall
Why this Repeat of the Final Four Will Be Different
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 Fina
LIVE: Sweet 16 reactions & Elite 8 preview
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 dedicatio
Why Player-Coach Connections Fuel March Madness Success + Expansion Draft 101
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 coa
Who Will Survive the Sweet 16?
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
Who Will be the Breakout Star of March Madness?
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, leadersh
Predicting March Madness Early Rounds: Sleepers, Surges & Showdowns
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 wheth
WNBA and Players' Union Reach 'Historic Deal’
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 equ
LIVE: Selection Sunday Reactions & March Madness Bracket Breakdown
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 t
Who Makes the Cut on Selection Sunday?
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
No Offseason is Expanding!
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 NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted
Is UCLA a Lock for the Top Overall Seed?
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
WNBA Star Napheesa Collier Talks Power Moves, CBA, and More!
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 NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!
Should Sarah Strong Actually Win Player Of The Year?
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 s
The Biggest Conference Tournament Matchups To Watch For
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 colle
WNBA Legend Alana Beard Goes Inside Project B
The WNBA is trying to create a sense of urgency with the March 10th deadline. Zena, Chantel, and Sabreena break down what’s at stake and discuss the implications if the league and the players’ union are — or aren’t — able to reach a handshake agreement in time.Next, Chantel and Sabreena welcome Project B’s Chief Basketball Officer and WNBA Hall of Famer Alana Beard to discuss the league’s launch a
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