The Sun edged the Storm, 67-66, on a Shekinna Stricklen shot with 8.2 seconds to go. They snapped a four-game losing streak.
The Sparks took down the Sky on their home court, 88-77. Candace Parker lead five players in double figures, with 31 points. Elena Delle Donne had 21 for Chicago.
The Lynx routed the Dream, 86-70. Sylvia Fowles is fitting in with Minnesota.
The Mystics annihilated the Stars, 88-53. Washington has won five straight.
Lynx:
The Lynx play hurt and stay competitive, but their championship window may be closing.
Liberty:
Essence Carson has received the WNBA Cares Community Assist Award for June.
Only one game tomorrow:
Lynx at Shock
College news:
Coach Suzie McConnell-Serio has signed a new contract at Pitt that goes through 2020-2021.
Duke's Rebecca Greenwell blogs about summer and summer workouts.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Introducing: womenshoopsworld.com
Today, which coincides with the anniversary of this blog, I'm introducing and unveiling my new independent women's basketball news site, womenshoopsworld.
I'll continue to cover college, professional and other basketball across the United States and the world, but I'll be doing it for my own site, my own self.
Womenshoopsworld has no affiliation with any team, school or basketball organization or franchise.
Story ideas, questions and comments can be sent to: whoopsworld@aol.com.
I'll continue to cover college, professional and other basketball across the United States and the world, but I'll be doing it for my own site, my own self.
Womenshoopsworld has no affiliation with any team, school or basketball organization or franchise.
Story ideas, questions and comments can be sent to: whoopsworld@aol.com.
Hoopism blog is 7 years old
Today marks the seventh anniversary of this blog. Since that hot summer day in 2008 when I posted for the first time, I've covered college, professional and high school basketball in different states around the country. I've made 5,471 posts, and have had almost one million page views.
I canvas the web daily to find the best news links. I am confident that the most thorough list of news sources is on this site, every day. I will continue to deliver, as well as produce columns, stories and other pertinent items as the need arises. My passion for the game is intense.
Thank you for reading. I appreciate it, and I appreciate your comments and interactions on twitter.
Long live the game!
I canvas the web daily to find the best news links. I am confident that the most thorough list of news sources is on this site, every day. I will continue to deliver, as well as produce columns, stories and other pertinent items as the need arises. My passion for the game is intense.
Thank you for reading. I appreciate it, and I appreciate your comments and interactions on twitter.
Long live the game!
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Easing into a four-game Friday
Only one game tonight:
The Mercury used a 19-5 run down the stretch to out-gun the Shock, 78-66.
Lynx:
Minnesota's winning culture is a big draw.
Anna Cruz is questionable for tomorrow's game, after an ankle sprain during last night's contest.
Storm:
Top pick Jewell Loyd has no regrets about leaving Notre Dame early this year to be drafted.
All the Storm's rookies are figuring out the WNBA.
Mercury:
Despite three championships, the Mercury still fight for attention. Their hometown newspaper sure isn't helping out. You have to scroll far down on the left side of the page to find Mercury news. It's it's in season.
Shock:
A WNBA team in Dallas will likely inspire area girls.
Tomorrow's game schedule:
Storm at Sun
Dream at Lynx
Mystics at Stars
Sparks at Sky
Breaking barriers:
The Sacramento Kings will reportedly hire Nancy Lieberman as an assistant coach.
Mo'Ne Davis laments the lack of women's sports coverage on television.
College news:
Tasha Pointer has joined St. John's as an assistant coach.
Kayla Ard is a new assistant coach at Dayton.
Emmonnie Henderson will miss the season at Louisville while attempting to qualify for the USA Track and Field Team.
The Mercury used a 19-5 run down the stretch to out-gun the Shock, 78-66.
Lynx:
Minnesota's winning culture is a big draw.
Anna Cruz is questionable for tomorrow's game, after an ankle sprain during last night's contest.
Storm:
Top pick Jewell Loyd has no regrets about leaving Notre Dame early this year to be drafted.
All the Storm's rookies are figuring out the WNBA.
Mercury:
Despite three championships, the Mercury still fight for attention. Their hometown newspaper sure isn't helping out. You have to scroll far down on the left side of the page to find Mercury news. It's it's in season.
Shock:
A WNBA team in Dallas will likely inspire area girls.
Tomorrow's game schedule:
Storm at Sun
Dream at Lynx
Mystics at Stars
Sparks at Sky
Breaking barriers:
The Sacramento Kings will reportedly hire Nancy Lieberman as an assistant coach.
Mo'Ne Davis laments the lack of women's sports coverage on television.
College news:
Tasha Pointer has joined St. John's as an assistant coach.
Kayla Ard is a new assistant coach at Dayton.
Emmonnie Henderson will miss the season at Louisville while attempting to qualify for the USA Track and Field Team.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Remaining WNBA teams storm out of gate for season's second half
Today's results:
It was a highly-anticipated match up, with Sylvia Fowles and Candace Parker each making a season debut for their respective teams. But in the end, it was other players who were the high-scorers, as he Lynx held off the Sparks, 82-76. Maya Moore put up 27 and Lindsay Whalen, 24 for Minnesota. Four Los Angeles players were in double-digits.
The Mystics took down the Storm, 87-74, for their fourth straight win.
The Fever topped the Liberty, 84-72, for their second win in two days.
The Stars rolled past the Dream, 102-85, behind Kayla McBride's 25 points.
Now here's a question:
Are Brittney Griner and Elena Delle Donne the Magic and Bird of the WNBA?
Stars:
Danielle Adams was suspended earlier today for three games without pay for violating the WNBA's anti-drug policy.
Dream:
Angel McCoughtry is the second-fastest player in WNBA history to reach 4,000 points.
The Yum! Center in Atlanta has offered to host WNBA games in the event of Phillips Arena renovations.
Sky:
Q&A with rookie Clarissa dos Santos.
All-Star review:
WNBA "the season" episode four.
It was a highly-anticipated match up, with Sylvia Fowles and Candace Parker each making a season debut for their respective teams. But in the end, it was other players who were the high-scorers, as he Lynx held off the Sparks, 82-76. Maya Moore put up 27 and Lindsay Whalen, 24 for Minnesota. Four Los Angeles players were in double-digits.
The Mystics took down the Storm, 87-74, for their fourth straight win.
The Fever topped the Liberty, 84-72, for their second win in two days.
The Stars rolled past the Dream, 102-85, behind Kayla McBride's 25 points.
Now here's a question:
Are Brittney Griner and Elena Delle Donne the Magic and Bird of the WNBA?
Stars:
Danielle Adams was suspended earlier today for three games without pay for violating the WNBA's anti-drug policy.
Dream:
Angel McCoughtry is the second-fastest player in WNBA history to reach 4,000 points.
The Yum! Center in Atlanta has offered to host WNBA games in the event of Phillips Arena renovations.
Sky:
Q&A with rookie Clarissa dos Santos.
All-Star review:
WNBA "the season" episode four.
Brittany Boyd having a good time on her perfect-fit team
I spoke to Liberty rookie Brittany Boyd last week. Q&A.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Two overtime night
Tamika Catchings hit a jumper with six seconds left to lift the Fever past the Sun in overtime, 75-73. The shot also makes Catchings now second in all-time scoring in the WNBA.
The Mercury came back from 19 down to edge the Sky in overtime, 89-87. DeWanna Bonner lead Phoenix with 34 points, including 16 in the third quarter. Elena Delle Donne grabbed 32 for Chicago.
Lynx:
New signee Sylvia Fowles met the press today. Video.
The Chicago Sky were finally able to grant Fowles' wish.
Minnesota has signed Shae Kelley, whom they cut in training camp, to a seven-day contract.
Mystics:
Washington is bigger and badder coming out of the All-Star break.
Dream:
Shoni Schimmel is still shining despite a slow second season.
Storm:
The Storm is willing to be patient with newly-acquired Monica Wright.
Liberty:
The Liberty will honor Becky Hammon at Sunday's game.
Stars:
San Antonio signed French forward Valeriane Ayayi, and waived Kalana Greene.
League expansion:
WNBA president Laurel Richie says expansion is "a couple years down the road."
College news:
Utah and its new coach, Lynne Roberts, are shooting for national relevance.
Former Maryland exercise expert Katie Fowler is working with South Carolina.
The Mercury came back from 19 down to edge the Sky in overtime, 89-87. DeWanna Bonner lead Phoenix with 34 points, including 16 in the third quarter. Elena Delle Donne grabbed 32 for Chicago.
Lynx:
New signee Sylvia Fowles met the press today. Video.
The Chicago Sky were finally able to grant Fowles' wish.
Minnesota has signed Shae Kelley, whom they cut in training camp, to a seven-day contract.
Mystics:
Washington is bigger and badder coming out of the All-Star break.
Dream:
Shoni Schimmel is still shining despite a slow second season.
Storm:
The Storm is willing to be patient with newly-acquired Monica Wright.
Liberty:
The Liberty will honor Becky Hammon at Sunday's game.
Stars:
San Antonio signed French forward Valeriane Ayayi, and waived Kalana Greene.
League expansion:
WNBA president Laurel Richie says expansion is "a couple years down the road."
College news:
Utah and its new coach, Lynne Roberts, are shooting for national relevance.
Former Maryland exercise expert Katie Fowler is working with South Carolina.
Monday, July 27, 2015
Midseason assessments
ESPN gives each WNBA team a grade on their midseason report card, which I more or less agree with:
West
Minnesota: A
Tulsa: B
Phoenix: B-
San Antonio: C-
Seattle: C-
Los Angeles: D+
East
New York: A
Chicago: B
Washington: B-
Connecticut: B-
Indiana: C
Atlanta: C-
Since I give out plenty of report cards at my other job, I'm going to bestow some award show-type midseason awards.
Most Title Hungry: Minnesota
I haven't seen a team this active in transactions in one season in a long time. Every time something has happened to a player, the Lynx have responded with a trade or an acquisition within 24 hours. They want that trophy.
Highest potential to make a comeback: Tulsa
Since Odyssey Sims came back from injury, the Shock seem to be clicking again. Granted they are still missing Skylar Diggins, which is huge. But the momentum and positive attitude is there, and they are holding the line in the West. Playoffs look good for them.
Biggest question mark (West): Los Angeles
How much of an impact will Candace Parker make after she returns to play in two days? Will the team get healthy again? Will Crystal Bradford be able to help significantly now that she's healthy? The Sparks have a big hold to crawl out of; is it too big?
Biggest question mark (East): (tie) Washington and Indiana
Why are these two teams struggling? Both are healthy, and everyone is back. The Mystics, especially, started out strong and faltered. The Fever have a lightening rod in Tamika Catchings. What is the hold up? Will they get going the second half of the season?
Most exciting team to watch: New York
They play great defense, are quick and have awesome chemistry. Just flat-out fun to watch. If they stay healthy and work hard, they could take the East.
Transactions today:
Los Angeles Candace Parker Contract Signed
Chicago Sasha Goodlett Waived
Chicago Sylvia Fowles Signed by Chicago and traded to Minnesota along w/ a 2016 2nd round pick
Atlanta Erika De Souza Traded to Chicago
Minnesota Reshanda Gray Traded to Atlanta along w/ a 2016 1st round pick and Damiris Dantas
Minnesota Damiris Dantas Traded to Atlanta along w/ a 2016 1st round pick and Reshanda Gray
San Antonio Valeriane Ayayi Contract Signed
Lynx:
The Sylvia Fowles trade fit into Minnesota's championship goals.
Lindsay Whalen will be back for Wednesday's game.
Sparks:
Candace Parker will play in Wednesday's road game at Minnesota.
Parker has signed her contract, at last.
Liberty:
The Liberty are mirroring coach Bill Laimbeer on court.
Mercury:
Three strengths and three weaknesses of the team in the season's first half.
Dream:
"Mama D" Delisha Milton-Jones is closing in on games-played record.
College news:
South Carolina has turned up its offseason training.
Louisiana Tech is starting from scratch again with a new roster.
Trelanne Moore is Mercer's new assistant coach.
Weber State's new assistant coach is JD Gustin.
Karen Blair is a new assistant coach at Texas State.
International news:
Liz Cambage will petition the Basketball Australia Board to have her playing ban removed, after she skipped the first day of national team training camp for a concert.
West
Minnesota: A
Tulsa: B
Phoenix: B-
San Antonio: C-
Seattle: C-
Los Angeles: D+
East
New York: A
Chicago: B
Washington: B-
Connecticut: B-
Indiana: C
Atlanta: C-
Since I give out plenty of report cards at my other job, I'm going to bestow some award show-type midseason awards.
Most Title Hungry: Minnesota
I haven't seen a team this active in transactions in one season in a long time. Every time something has happened to a player, the Lynx have responded with a trade or an acquisition within 24 hours. They want that trophy.
Highest potential to make a comeback: Tulsa
Since Odyssey Sims came back from injury, the Shock seem to be clicking again. Granted they are still missing Skylar Diggins, which is huge. But the momentum and positive attitude is there, and they are holding the line in the West. Playoffs look good for them.
Biggest question mark (West): Los Angeles
How much of an impact will Candace Parker make after she returns to play in two days? Will the team get healthy again? Will Crystal Bradford be able to help significantly now that she's healthy? The Sparks have a big hold to crawl out of; is it too big?
Biggest question mark (East): (tie) Washington and Indiana
Why are these two teams struggling? Both are healthy, and everyone is back. The Mystics, especially, started out strong and faltered. The Fever have a lightening rod in Tamika Catchings. What is the hold up? Will they get going the second half of the season?
Most exciting team to watch: New York
They play great defense, are quick and have awesome chemistry. Just flat-out fun to watch. If they stay healthy and work hard, they could take the East.
Transactions today:
Los Angeles Candace Parker Contract Signed
Chicago Sasha Goodlett Waived
Chicago Sylvia Fowles Signed by Chicago and traded to Minnesota along w/ a 2016 2nd round pick
Atlanta Erika De Souza Traded to Chicago
Minnesota Reshanda Gray Traded to Atlanta along w/ a 2016 1st round pick and Damiris Dantas
Minnesota Damiris Dantas Traded to Atlanta along w/ a 2016 1st round pick and Reshanda Gray
San Antonio Valeriane Ayayi Contract Signed
Lynx:
The Sylvia Fowles trade fit into Minnesota's championship goals.
Lindsay Whalen will be back for Wednesday's game.
Sparks:
Candace Parker will play in Wednesday's road game at Minnesota.
Parker has signed her contract, at last.
Liberty:
The Liberty are mirroring coach Bill Laimbeer on court.
Mercury:
Three strengths and three weaknesses of the team in the season's first half.
Dream:
"Mama D" Delisha Milton-Jones is closing in on games-played record.
College news:
South Carolina has turned up its offseason training.
Louisiana Tech is starting from scratch again with a new roster.
Trelanne Moore is Mercer's new assistant coach.
Weber State's new assistant coach is JD Gustin.
Karen Blair is a new assistant coach at Texas State.
International news:
Liz Cambage will petition the Basketball Australia Board to have her playing ban removed, after she skipped the first day of national team training camp for a concert.
Seimone Augustus talks about her marriage
It is so ordered:
I think part of falling in love is finding someone who can just deal with you — who loves you because of your isms, not despite them. We’re all pretty complex people working to understand ourselves and the world around us. I understood LaTaya pretty quickly because I had a 30-year head start with my dad. They’re a lot alike — both Geminis. They think similarly, express similarly. In the end, we balance each other. She forces me out of my comfort zone — to go out and experience the world and not always default to my homebody personality. She’s opened my mind to new things and new ways of thinking — poetry, travel, adventure. I think I anchor her — bring steadfastness and calm to our lives.......
I was nervous the morning of our wedding day. Committing my life to someone wasn’t what had me wrecked — all of the details about the day were. My parents came into my room around 7 a.m., jumping on my bed like, “You’re getting married today!” The wedding wasn’t until 5 p.m., so I had a whole day of anticipation and excited anxiousness. I got dressed as we got closer to time and went outside just to take it all in — the decorations, the setup, the day. Everything looked amazing. The sun was full and shining down. The officiant pointed out all of the symbols around us as signs for a good and happy marriage: a rainbow, birds overhead — symbols of our angelic ancestors looking over us. The entire ceremony was rooted in Hawaiian tradition. I remember all those tiny details
Heartwarming.
I love the picture of Augustus being silly behind Varner.
I think part of falling in love is finding someone who can just deal with you — who loves you because of your isms, not despite them. We’re all pretty complex people working to understand ourselves and the world around us. I understood LaTaya pretty quickly because I had a 30-year head start with my dad. They’re a lot alike — both Geminis. They think similarly, express similarly. In the end, we balance each other. She forces me out of my comfort zone — to go out and experience the world and not always default to my homebody personality. She’s opened my mind to new things and new ways of thinking — poetry, travel, adventure. I think I anchor her — bring steadfastness and calm to our lives.......
I was nervous the morning of our wedding day. Committing my life to someone wasn’t what had me wrecked — all of the details about the day were. My parents came into my room around 7 a.m., jumping on my bed like, “You’re getting married today!” The wedding wasn’t until 5 p.m., so I had a whole day of anticipation and excited anxiousness. I got dressed as we got closer to time and went outside just to take it all in — the decorations, the setup, the day. Everything looked amazing. The sun was full and shining down. The officiant pointed out all of the symbols around us as signs for a good and happy marriage: a rainbow, birds overhead — symbols of our angelic ancestors looking over us. The entire ceremony was rooted in Hawaiian tradition. I remember all those tiny details
Heartwarming.
I love the picture of Augustus being silly behind Varner.
Blockbuster trade sends Fowles to Lynx, de Souza to Sky
Big three-team trade:
The Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream have agreed on a trade that sends center Sylvia Fowles and Chicago’s 2016 second-round pick to the Lynx. The Dream send Erika de Souza to the Sky, and the Lynx send forwards Damiris Dantas, Reshanda Gray and their 2016 first-round pick to the Dream.
So Fowles, who reportedly only wanted to be traded to Minnesota, gets her way.
De Souza, who has been under-producing in Atlanta, has a chance to shine in Chicago.
Dantas and Gray, who haven't had a chance to play with the Lynx, may get that chance now.
Over the weekend, WNBA teams quietly took names off of rosters as they tried to trade, sign and otherwise upgrade in time for the July 29 trade deadline.
The Dream reportedly will waive Erica Wheeler and re-sign Delisha Milton-Jones.
It's looking like the second half of the season will be entirely different from the first, in "a tale of two seasons" style.
The Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream have agreed on a trade that sends center Sylvia Fowles and Chicago’s 2016 second-round pick to the Lynx. The Dream send Erika de Souza to the Sky, and the Lynx send forwards Damiris Dantas, Reshanda Gray and their 2016 first-round pick to the Dream.
So Fowles, who reportedly only wanted to be traded to Minnesota, gets her way.
De Souza, who has been under-producing in Atlanta, has a chance to shine in Chicago.
Dantas and Gray, who haven't had a chance to play with the Lynx, may get that chance now.
Over the weekend, WNBA teams quietly took names off of rosters as they tried to trade, sign and otherwise upgrade in time for the July 29 trade deadline.
The Dream reportedly will waive Erica Wheeler and re-sign Delisha Milton-Jones.
It's looking like the second half of the season will be entirely different from the first, in "a tale of two seasons" style.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
Various stripes of news
None of these items are related, except that they are all about basketball.....
Tamika Catchings:
Tamika Catchings has her sights set on two new jobs after retirement: being a general manager, and being a mother.
Shock relocation:
The league has never been stronger as the WNBA moves into Dallas.
Storm:
Episode two of "between two birds."
USA U19 team strikes gold:
Team USA out-battled Russia for the world championship gold medal today, 78-70.
International news:
Liz Cambage opted to attend a music festival instead of the first day of National Team camp, so she's been dropped from the roster for next year's Olympics.
College news:
Edniesha Curry's hire as an assistant coach at UMaine is causing excitement.
Texas star Imani McGee-Stafford has married and will now go by the last name Boyette.
Tamika Catchings:
Tamika Catchings has her sights set on two new jobs after retirement: being a general manager, and being a mother.
Shock relocation:
The league has never been stronger as the WNBA moves into Dallas.
Storm:
Episode two of "between two birds."
USA U19 team strikes gold:
Team USA out-battled Russia for the world championship gold medal today, 78-70.
International news:
Liz Cambage opted to attend a music festival instead of the first day of National Team camp, so she's been dropped from the roster for next year's Olympics.
College news:
Edniesha Curry's hire as an assistant coach at UMaine is causing excitement.
Texas star Imani McGee-Stafford has married and will now go by the last name Boyette.
New York City's West Fourth League features familiar faces
Earlier this month I checked out the infamous West Fourth League in Manhattan. I was happy to discover that it is the place where many athletes play who didn't quite make the WNBA, as well as some current college stars.
The games were highly-competitive, as I'd always heard. The second game I watched featured a team that included former Buckeye Samantha Prahalis, past Red Stormer Shenneika Smith, and current Seton Hall star forward Tabatha Richardson-Smith. Watching these three and their teammates do their work was a real treat.
I wasn't able to make it to Harlem to watch the Dyckman League, which is the other big street game in town. But the same day I was at West Fourth, basketball great Teresa Weatherspoon made an appearance at Dyckman. The following weekend, she stopped in at West Fourth.
New York City is too cool to have two women's summer leagues. Los Angeles, where I am located, has NONE. Even the Bay Area in California is home to a thriving women's Pro Am League. But I have discovered that the City of Angels is not much of a sports town.
If you're lucky enough to be in the New York area, stop in to West Fourth or Dyckman some Saturday or Sunday. You never know who you might see on the court.
Game one that I attended featured purple vs. black-uniformed teams. Here' the point guard for team purple takes the ball up court on the fast break.
Games are played in a "cage," i.e. a fenced-off area in mixed residential/business Manhattan.
The purple team confers at halftime. Many teams are self-coached.
Former Ohio State star Samantha Prahalis slaps her head after missing a shot.
Former St. John's stand out Shenneika Smith muscles the ball into the paint.
Seton Hall forward Tabatha Richardson-Smith, left, defends the pass.
Prahalis keeps an eye on the ball.
Smith looks to pass.
Richardson-Smith gets rid of the ball fast.
The high-energy West Fourth League has been drawing fans for years.
The games were highly-competitive, as I'd always heard. The second game I watched featured a team that included former Buckeye Samantha Prahalis, past Red Stormer Shenneika Smith, and current Seton Hall star forward Tabatha Richardson-Smith. Watching these three and their teammates do their work was a real treat.
I wasn't able to make it to Harlem to watch the Dyckman League, which is the other big street game in town. But the same day I was at West Fourth, basketball great Teresa Weatherspoon made an appearance at Dyckman. The following weekend, she stopped in at West Fourth.
New York City is too cool to have two women's summer leagues. Los Angeles, where I am located, has NONE. Even the Bay Area in California is home to a thriving women's Pro Am League. But I have discovered that the City of Angels is not much of a sports town.
If you're lucky enough to be in the New York area, stop in to West Fourth or Dyckman some Saturday or Sunday. You never know who you might see on the court.
Game one that I attended featured purple vs. black-uniformed teams. Here' the point guard for team purple takes the ball up court on the fast break.
Games are played in a "cage," i.e. a fenced-off area in mixed residential/business Manhattan.
The purple team confers at halftime. Many teams are self-coached.
Former Ohio State star Samantha Prahalis slaps her head after missing a shot.
Former St. John's stand out Shenneika Smith muscles the ball into the paint.
Seton Hall forward Tabatha Richardson-Smith, left, defends the pass.
Prahalis keeps an eye on the ball.
Smith looks to pass.
Richardson-Smith gets rid of the ball fast.
The high-energy West Fourth League has been drawing fans for years.
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Legends
Tamika Catchings and Sue Bird were righteously paired up at today's All-Star game for pre-game intros. Both saw their first season in the WNBA in 2002, and both have been with the same franchise their entire professional careers - Catchings with the Indiana Fever, and Bird with the Seattle Storm. Both athletes have lead those teams for 14 years, have won Olympic gold medals together, and have earned the respect of players, coaches and fans around the world.
Catchings has announced she will retire after the 2016 season. In a post-game interview today, Bird said she is "thinking about" retiring, but wasn't sure when yet.
I know everyone has to step away at some point and do the rest of their lives, but when these two players leave basketball, it will be a sad day for all.
I love that they are both going out on top. Their influence on the game has been immeasurable.
Tamika Catchings and Sue Bird complete their pre-game introduction routine at today's WNBA All-Star game. Photo by Brian Babineau (http://www.brianbabineau.com/nba/)
Catchings has announced she will retire after the 2016 season. In a post-game interview today, Bird said she is "thinking about" retiring, but wasn't sure when yet.
I know everyone has to step away at some point and do the rest of their lives, but when these two players leave basketball, it will be a sad day for all.
I love that they are both going out on top. Their influence on the game has been immeasurable.
Tamika Catchings and Sue Bird complete their pre-game introduction routine at today's WNBA All-Star game. Photo by Brian Babineau (http://www.brianbabineau.com/nba/)
All-Star game: two thumbs up
The madness that was today's WNBA All-Star game was a fun affair, punctuated by some great performances, and a lot of silliness......Oh, those player intros!! Where are the videos????
Seriousness and defense took a back seat to fun.
Nevertheless, the West won, 117-112.
Maya Moore exploded for 30 points, eclipsing the record set last year, and was named the game's MVP.
Game highlights.
In a record tenth All-Star game, the soon-to-be retiring Tamika Catchings went out her way. She's now the all-time leading scorer in All-Star game history.
Brittney Griner dunked (duh).
Alex Bentley had a big game. She heard and deserved the cheers of the home crowd.
Shoni Schimmel brought some fun to the game.
The game showcases the league's growth and future.
What was behind Elena Delle Donne's touching gesture at the All-Star Game.
And did you catch Chiney Ogwumike's fantastic halftime analysis of the first half of WNBA season? The young woman has a future in broadcasting, if she wants it. She's just got to stop her sister, Nneka, and Jantel Lavender from video bombing her during broadcasts.
More WNBA:
EDD has emerged as the face of the WNBA.
Tamika Catchings and others discuss the state of the WNBA.
AND:
The WNBA is ready to look at expansion.
U19 Championships:
The US battled Spain, 80-65, to advance to the finals.
Seriousness and defense took a back seat to fun.
Nevertheless, the West won, 117-112.
Maya Moore exploded for 30 points, eclipsing the record set last year, and was named the game's MVP.
Game highlights.
In a record tenth All-Star game, the soon-to-be retiring Tamika Catchings went out her way. She's now the all-time leading scorer in All-Star game history.
Brittney Griner dunked (duh).
Alex Bentley had a big game. She heard and deserved the cheers of the home crowd.
Shoni Schimmel brought some fun to the game.
The game showcases the league's growth and future.
What was behind Elena Delle Donne's touching gesture at the All-Star Game.
And did you catch Chiney Ogwumike's fantastic halftime analysis of the first half of WNBA season? The young woman has a future in broadcasting, if she wants it. She's just got to stop her sister, Nneka, and Jantel Lavender from video bombing her during broadcasts.
More WNBA:
EDD has emerged as the face of the WNBA.
Tamika Catchings and others discuss the state of the WNBA.
AND:
The WNBA is ready to look at expansion.
U19 Championships:
The US battled Spain, 80-65, to advance to the finals.
Friday, July 24, 2015
All-Star game preparations
Sue Bird and DeWanna Bonner will replace the injured Skylar Diggins and Seimone Augustus as starters in tomorrow's All-Star game, at 12:30 p.m. Pacific/3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC.
All-Star notebook from today, including great photos and videos.
Pictures from today's open practices.
Some All-Stars took over the WNBA's twitter and instagram accounts today.
MVP candidates Elena Delle Donne and Maya Moore answered fan questions, with Stefanie Dolson and Nneka Ogwumike hosting.
All-Star infographic, with some interesting facts about the athletes.
The All-Star game showcases the league's best athletes, and some of their difficult realities.
Mercury coach Sandy Brondello is set to coach the West team in tomorrow's match up.
Tamika Catchings is preparing for her All-Star finale.
More WNBA news.....
General:
League president Lauren Richie aims to take the WNBA to new heights.
Fever:
Tamika Catchings, who will retire after the 2016 season, is preparing for life after basketball.
Mercury:
Brittney Griner is putting the past behind her, and focusing on Phoenix's repeat title hopes.
Griner has a promising future.
Lynx:
Maya Moore cites Minnesota's win over the Storm a month ago as a turning point in their season.
Mystics:
LaToya Sanders finds her way back home to help Washington find their way.
College news:
The suspension of guard Makayla Epps was about instilling permanent change, Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell says.
Bucknell has hired Carissa Nord as an assistant coach.
U19 Championships:
Team USA smashed Canada, 93-45, to advance to the tournament semifinals.
All-Star notebook from today, including great photos and videos.
Pictures from today's open practices.
Some All-Stars took over the WNBA's twitter and instagram accounts today.
MVP candidates Elena Delle Donne and Maya Moore answered fan questions, with Stefanie Dolson and Nneka Ogwumike hosting.
All-Star infographic, with some interesting facts about the athletes.
The All-Star game showcases the league's best athletes, and some of their difficult realities.
Mercury coach Sandy Brondello is set to coach the West team in tomorrow's match up.
Tamika Catchings is preparing for her All-Star finale.
More WNBA news.....
General:
League president Lauren Richie aims to take the WNBA to new heights.
Fever:
Tamika Catchings, who will retire after the 2016 season, is preparing for life after basketball.
Mercury:
Brittney Griner is putting the past behind her, and focusing on Phoenix's repeat title hopes.
Griner has a promising future.
Lynx:
Maya Moore cites Minnesota's win over the Storm a month ago as a turning point in their season.
Mystics:
LaToya Sanders finds her way back home to help Washington find their way.
College news:
The suspension of guard Makayla Epps was about instilling permanent change, Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell says.
Bucknell has hired Carissa Nord as an assistant coach.
U19 Championships:
Team USA smashed Canada, 93-45, to advance to the tournament semifinals.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
The news never takes a day off
We're officially on WNBA All-Star break, but the news keeps flowing..........
All-Star Game:
There are ten first-time All-Stars this weekend: Alex Bentley, Kelsey Bone, Marissa Coleman, Stefanie Dolson, Emma Meesseman, DeWanna Bonner, Jantel Lavender, Kayla McBride, Plenette Pierson and Riquna Williams.
That's one of the reasons I'm excited to watch.
Mercury:
Brittney Griner opens up on marriage split, anger and her renewed focus.
Phoenix is in solid shape after battling through a tough first half of the season.
Sun:
At the break, Connecticut is a model of inconsistency.
Rookie Elizabeth Williams blogs.
Lynx:
Maya Moore made one girl's wish come true.
College news:
Dixie State is in settlement talks with two former players who sued over alleged racial, sexual and religious discrimination.
Multipe IPFW players have been cited for alcohol possession.
Coach Adell Harris' contract has been extended at UNCW.
Charlene Thomas-Swinson is a new assistant coach at LSU.
Tim Eatman is Rutgers' new assistant coach, as the coaching staff is overhauled.
Nebraska guard Chandler Smith has transferred to Gonzaga.
Amber Porter has transferred from Stetson to James Madison.
Women's Basketball Hall of Fame 2016:
Six will be inducted into next year's class: Jackie Stiles, Sherri Coale, Natalie Williams, June Courteau, Joe Lombard and Bill Tipps.
USA Basketball:
Basketball great Ruthie Bolton will participate in the 3X3 Women's National Tournament.
All-Star Game:
There are ten first-time All-Stars this weekend: Alex Bentley, Kelsey Bone, Marissa Coleman, Stefanie Dolson, Emma Meesseman, DeWanna Bonner, Jantel Lavender, Kayla McBride, Plenette Pierson and Riquna Williams.
That's one of the reasons I'm excited to watch.
Mercury:
Brittney Griner opens up on marriage split, anger and her renewed focus.
Phoenix is in solid shape after battling through a tough first half of the season.
Sun:
At the break, Connecticut is a model of inconsistency.
Rookie Elizabeth Williams blogs.
Lynx:
Maya Moore made one girl's wish come true.
College news:
Dixie State is in settlement talks with two former players who sued over alleged racial, sexual and religious discrimination.
Multipe IPFW players have been cited for alcohol possession.
Coach Adell Harris' contract has been extended at UNCW.
Charlene Thomas-Swinson is a new assistant coach at LSU.
Tim Eatman is Rutgers' new assistant coach, as the coaching staff is overhauled.
Nebraska guard Chandler Smith has transferred to Gonzaga.
Amber Porter has transferred from Stetson to James Madison.
Women's Basketball Hall of Fame 2016:
Six will be inducted into next year's class: Jackie Stiles, Sherri Coale, Natalie Williams, June Courteau, Joe Lombard and Bill Tipps.
USA Basketball:
Basketball great Ruthie Bolton will participate in the 3X3 Women's National Tournament.
WNBA approves Shock move to Dallas
Bye bye, Tulsa:
WNBA owners have voted unanimously to approve the Tulsa Shock’s move to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the league announced in a release Thursday.
The Shock will finish out the 2015 season in Tulsa and will relocate to the College Park Center on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington beginning in 2016.....
College Park Center, the team’s new home court, opened in 2012 and can seat up to 7,000.
Interesting.
WNBA owners have voted unanimously to approve the Tulsa Shock’s move to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the league announced in a release Thursday.
The Shock will finish out the 2015 season in Tulsa and will relocate to the College Park Center on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington beginning in 2016.....
College Park Center, the team’s new home court, opened in 2012 and can seat up to 7,000.
Interesting.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Lots of bang before All-Star break
Today's results:
The Sun edged the Lynx in overtime, 78-77, in a game Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve says her team should have won. Connecticut snapped a six-game losing streak.
The Liberty held off the Sparks, 59-53.
And now teams recess for Saturday's All-Star game. Regular games resume Tuesday.
Lynx:
With Lindsay Whalen sidelined, Minnesota will shuffle their line up.
They waived rookie guard Jennifer O'Neill after today's loss.
Mercury:
DeWanna Bonner discusses her selection to the All-Star team.
Sun:
Through injury, guard Chelsea Gray discovered her future in coaching.
Shock:
Tulsa released rookie guard Brittany Hrynko.
Sparks:
...activated Crystal Bradford and waived Andrea Hoover to make room. I have no link, because I just found out at this Liberty at Sparks game I'm covering.
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is giving the WNBA a boost.
College news:
Abuse allegations at Illinois are unusual in scope, experts say.
Ashley Langford is a new assistant coach at Navy.
Colgate's new assistant coach is Anna Patritto.
UConn coach Geno Auriemma attended the recent Pan Am Games.
U19 basketball:
The USA U19 team crushed Argentina, 89-39, to reach the tournament quarterfinals.
All-access Becky Hammon:
Behind the scenes of the Spurs summer league win, lead by Becky Hammon.
The Sun edged the Lynx in overtime, 78-77, in a game Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve says her team should have won. Connecticut snapped a six-game losing streak.
The Liberty held off the Sparks, 59-53.
And now teams recess for Saturday's All-Star game. Regular games resume Tuesday.
Lynx:
With Lindsay Whalen sidelined, Minnesota will shuffle their line up.
They waived rookie guard Jennifer O'Neill after today's loss.
Mercury:
DeWanna Bonner discusses her selection to the All-Star team.
Sun:
Through injury, guard Chelsea Gray discovered her future in coaching.
Shock:
Tulsa released rookie guard Brittany Hrynko.
Sparks:
...activated Crystal Bradford and waived Andrea Hoover to make room. I have no link, because I just found out at this Liberty at Sparks game I'm covering.
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is giving the WNBA a boost.
College news:
Abuse allegations at Illinois are unusual in scope, experts say.
Ashley Langford is a new assistant coach at Navy.
Colgate's new assistant coach is Anna Patritto.
UConn coach Geno Auriemma attended the recent Pan Am Games.
U19 basketball:
The USA U19 team crushed Argentina, 89-39, to reach the tournament quarterfinals.
All-access Becky Hammon:
Behind the scenes of the Spurs summer league win, lead by Becky Hammon.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
The rest of the story
Today's final three contests were close ones:
Elena Delle Donne's big second half lifted the Sky over the Dream, 97-92.
Thirty points from Tina Charles propelled the Liberty past the Storm, 81-77.
The Sparks held off the Mercury, 70-65. Jantel Lavender lead the way with 19 points.
The last two games before the All-Star game Saturday are tomorrow:
Sun at Lynx
Liberty at Sparks
Elena Delle Donne's big second half lifted the Sky over the Dream, 97-92.
Thirty points from Tina Charles propelled the Liberty past the Storm, 81-77.
The Sparks held off the Mercury, 70-65. Jantel Lavender lead the way with 19 points.
The last two games before the All-Star game Saturday are tomorrow:
Sun at Lynx
Liberty at Sparks
All-Star reserves named
All-Star reserves:
Eastern Conference
Alex Bentley
Kelsey Bone
Marissa Coleman
Stefanie Dolson
Emma Meesseman
Cappie Pondexter
Western Conference
Sue Bird
DeWanna Bonner
Nneka Ogwumike
Plenette Pierson
Danielle Robinson
Lindsay Whalen
They'll join the starters:
Eastern Conference
Elena Delle Donne
Tamika Catchings
Tina Charles
Angel McCoughtry
Shoni Schimmel
Western Conference
Skylar Diggins
Seimone Augustus
Maya Moore
Brittney Griner
Candice Dupree
WNBA President Laurel Richie will select replacements for those who can't play due to injury: Diggins, Augustus and Whalen.
League coaches who voted on the reserves got it absolutely right. Pondexter, Bonner, Bentley, Bone, Dolson and Ogwumike were obvious. It's nice to see Pierson get her due after all these years. And it's cool that Coleman has found a fit with the Fever.
Looking forward to Saturday's game.
Eastern Conference
Alex Bentley
Kelsey Bone
Marissa Coleman
Stefanie Dolson
Emma Meesseman
Cappie Pondexter
Western Conference
Sue Bird
DeWanna Bonner
Nneka Ogwumike
Plenette Pierson
Danielle Robinson
Lindsay Whalen
They'll join the starters:
Eastern Conference
Elena Delle Donne
Tamika Catchings
Tina Charles
Angel McCoughtry
Shoni Schimmel
Western Conference
Skylar Diggins
Seimone Augustus
Maya Moore
Brittney Griner
Candice Dupree
WNBA President Laurel Richie will select replacements for those who can't play due to injury: Diggins, Augustus and Whalen.
League coaches who voted on the reserves got it absolutely right. Pondexter, Bonner, Bentley, Bone, Dolson and Ogwumike were obvious. It's nice to see Pierson get her due after all these years. And it's cool that Coleman has found a fit with the Fever.
Looking forward to Saturday's game.
It's a five-game day
Today's results so far:
The Stars routed the Fever, 80-62.
The Mystics downed the Shock, 76-69.
Lynx:
Point guard Lindsay Whalen sustained an eye injury in Sunday's game, and will miss tomorrow's contest. Thus will end her 106-game starting streak. (Wow!)
Sparks:
The Sparks have signed their first-round draft pick, Crystal Bradford. She'll be with the team tonight.
Stars:
San Antonio has battled back from an 0-6 season start.
Liberty:
Rookie Kiah Stokes is shooting to be a two-way player again.
Q&A with veteran Tanisha Wright.
Shock relocation:
The Shock failures were about the team, and not the city of Tulsa.
Some Shock fans are loyal, but not optimistic, that the team would stay.
College news:
Creighton's new assistant coach is Linda Sayavongchanh.
Kaci Bailey is Wichita State's new assistant coach.
Southern Utah's new assistant coach is Kim Beeston.
Guard Chandler Smith is transferring from Nebraska.
Canada basketball:
With last night's Pan American Games win in the books, Canada needs to focus on the future now.
The Stars routed the Fever, 80-62.
The Mystics downed the Shock, 76-69.
Lynx:
Point guard Lindsay Whalen sustained an eye injury in Sunday's game, and will miss tomorrow's contest. Thus will end her 106-game starting streak. (Wow!)
Sparks:
The Sparks have signed their first-round draft pick, Crystal Bradford. She'll be with the team tonight.
Stars:
San Antonio has battled back from an 0-6 season start.
Liberty:
Rookie Kiah Stokes is shooting to be a two-way player again.
Q&A with veteran Tanisha Wright.
Shock relocation:
The Shock failures were about the team, and not the city of Tulsa.
Some Shock fans are loyal, but not optimistic, that the team would stay.
College news:
Creighton's new assistant coach is Linda Sayavongchanh.
Kaci Bailey is Wichita State's new assistant coach.
Southern Utah's new assistant coach is Kim Beeston.
Guard Chandler Smith is transferring from Nebraska.
Canada basketball:
With last night's Pan American Games win in the books, Canada needs to focus on the future now.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Progress isn't a steady march, but a series of stops, starts and stand-stills
We are living in times of change, and that includes change and progress for female athletes. But as with any forward movement, it's not non-stop, nor is it linear.
We saw the re-beginnings of change at the 2012 London Olympics, where there were more female medal winners for the US than male for the first time ever. Many women at the Games were celebrated like never before.
Ten days ago, the 2015 World Cup-winning soccer team was given a parade in New York City. Serena Williams has made women's tennis a hit at a level that it hasn't been since the days of Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert. Track and field is poised to become wildly popular again heading into next year's Olympics in Brazil.
Yet, when we have steps forward, we also have steps backwards.
NBA San Antonio Spurs assistant coach Becky Hammon coached the franchise's summer league team the last several weeks - the first woman to do so. She was fully accepted:
“We don’t look at it as female or anything, she’s the coach and we just listen,” Spurs forward Jarrell Eddie said Sunday afternoon.
A few hours ago, the Spurs beat the Suns in the league's championship game. The reaction is hugely positive, and Hammon is currently trending on twitter.
But apparently it's easier for women to be accepted for their intellect than their bodies. Serena Williams took heat last week - for what seems like the hundredth time - for being a strong, muscular athlete. Critics, as they have before, said Williams is "built like a man." It's a classic tactic to shame women for being strong and powerful. Fortunately, Williams responded that she is proud of her strength and her athleticism, and essentially told critics to stuff it.
Every female athlete needs to take that stance, including basketball players and their fans and supporters.
Basketball is a tough contact sport, and those who play it tend to be on the muscular and built side. I have no doubt that this is one reason why the sport's popularity isn't what it could be in the United States. We can be confoundingly backwards at times.
But instead of athletes putting bows in their hair as they typically do in at least one other sport; instead of asking players to put on dresses and pose for photos the way some pro and college franchises have in the past; athletes would do best to claim their strength and athleticism like Williams does. Own it, wear it, and don't worry about what anyone else says. True acceptance is self-acceptance.
Women's basketball is coming along skill-wise, and popularity-wise. It is still in its infancy in comparison to men's basketball, which has about a 60-year head start at the college level. We take steps forward, we take steps backwards, and there are times we just stand there, waiting. But it's important for athletes, coaches and staff, fans and media relations corps to press on, and to do so authentically.
Progress will happen, in its own time and its own strange way. Be proud of those muscles; they're beautiful things.
We saw the re-beginnings of change at the 2012 London Olympics, where there were more female medal winners for the US than male for the first time ever. Many women at the Games were celebrated like never before.
Ten days ago, the 2015 World Cup-winning soccer team was given a parade in New York City. Serena Williams has made women's tennis a hit at a level that it hasn't been since the days of Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert. Track and field is poised to become wildly popular again heading into next year's Olympics in Brazil.
Yet, when we have steps forward, we also have steps backwards.
NBA San Antonio Spurs assistant coach Becky Hammon coached the franchise's summer league team the last several weeks - the first woman to do so. She was fully accepted:
“We don’t look at it as female or anything, she’s the coach and we just listen,” Spurs forward Jarrell Eddie said Sunday afternoon.
A few hours ago, the Spurs beat the Suns in the league's championship game. The reaction is hugely positive, and Hammon is currently trending on twitter.
But apparently it's easier for women to be accepted for their intellect than their bodies. Serena Williams took heat last week - for what seems like the hundredth time - for being a strong, muscular athlete. Critics, as they have before, said Williams is "built like a man." It's a classic tactic to shame women for being strong and powerful. Fortunately, Williams responded that she is proud of her strength and her athleticism, and essentially told critics to stuff it.
Every female athlete needs to take that stance, including basketball players and their fans and supporters.
Basketball is a tough contact sport, and those who play it tend to be on the muscular and built side. I have no doubt that this is one reason why the sport's popularity isn't what it could be in the United States. We can be confoundingly backwards at times.
But instead of athletes putting bows in their hair as they typically do in at least one other sport; instead of asking players to put on dresses and pose for photos the way some pro and college franchises have in the past; athletes would do best to claim their strength and athleticism like Williams does. Own it, wear it, and don't worry about what anyone else says. True acceptance is self-acceptance.
Women's basketball is coming along skill-wise, and popularity-wise. It is still in its infancy in comparison to men's basketball, which has about a 60-year head start at the college level. We take steps forward, we take steps backwards, and there are times we just stand there, waiting. But it's important for athletes, coaches and staff, fans and media relations corps to press on, and to do so authentically.
Progress will happen, in its own time and its own strange way. Be proud of those muscles; they're beautiful things.
Canada, Becky Hammon are winners
What a night:
Canada beat the USA in the Pan American Games Championship, 81-73. Kia Nurse lead the Canadians with 33 points.
Around the same time, Becky Hammon lead the Spurs to an NBA summer league championship.
WNBA news.......
Lynx:
Maya Moore podcast.
Dev Peters podcast.
Fever:
Tamika Catchings blogs......the goat will have her autobiography out next year.
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is back in the swing of things.
Stars:
The Stars are in playoff contention despite their losing record.
Sun:
Connecticut is continuing their free fall in the East.
Storm:
The Storm is sticking to the developmental approach with rookies Jewell Loyd and Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis.
Players of the week:
Tina Charles for the East and Maya Moore for the West.
College:
One news source says North Carolina is sacrificing coach Sylvia Hatchell in the school's academic fraud scandal.
Canada beat the USA in the Pan American Games Championship, 81-73. Kia Nurse lead the Canadians with 33 points.
Around the same time, Becky Hammon lead the Spurs to an NBA summer league championship.
WNBA news.......
Lynx:
Maya Moore podcast.
Dev Peters podcast.
Fever:
Tamika Catchings blogs......the goat will have her autobiography out next year.
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is back in the swing of things.
Stars:
The Stars are in playoff contention despite their losing record.
Sun:
Connecticut is continuing their free fall in the East.
Storm:
The Storm is sticking to the developmental approach with rookies Jewell Loyd and Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis.
Players of the week:
Tina Charles for the East and Maya Moore for the West.
College:
One news source says North Carolina is sacrificing coach Sylvia Hatchell in the school's academic fraud scandal.
Lynx and Storm trade Monica Wright, Renee Montgomery
The Lynx traded Monica Wright to Seattle for Renee Montgomery and the Storm's second-round draft pick.
The trade makes sense for Minnesota, who has to act quick to replace Seimone Augustus, who will be out for a month after knee surgery. But what is Seattle getting from this?
The trade makes sense for Minnesota, who has to act quick to replace Seimone Augustus, who will be out for a month after knee surgery. But what is Seattle getting from this?
Tulsa Shock will move to Dallas
Week-long rumors have turned out to be true: Tulsa Shock majority owner Bill Cameron announced today plans to move the team to Dallas, Texas. The reason for the move was bigger market and more sponsors. Minority owner Stuart Price has filed a lawsuit against Cameron.
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Some amazing performances
Today's WNBA results:
The Lynx downed the Shock, 79-72. Maya Moore lead the way for Minnesota with 32 points.
The Sky defeated the Stars, 93-82, behind Elena Delle Donne's 29 points and 13 rebounds.
The Mystics rallied to beat the Sun, 89-82, and snap a losing streak. Kara Lawson lead Washington with 24 points.
Shock:
Tulsa players have maintained their bonds, despite much adversity this season.
Fever at Sun game:
Last night's postponed game will be made up July 28.
Current standings.
Pan American Games:
The USA topped Cuba, 65-64, in a thriller to advance to the championship game.
In the other semifinal, Canada routed Brazil, 91-63.
It'll be USA vs. Canada in the final game tomorrow.....call it NCAA Tournament, summer version, with all the US collegiate players on both teams.
Meanwhile in Russia at the U19 championship, the US advanced by taking out China, 88-62.
The Lynx downed the Shock, 79-72. Maya Moore lead the way for Minnesota with 32 points.
The Sky defeated the Stars, 93-82, behind Elena Delle Donne's 29 points and 13 rebounds.
The Mystics rallied to beat the Sun, 89-82, and snap a losing streak. Kara Lawson lead Washington with 24 points.
Shock:
Tulsa players have maintained their bonds, despite much adversity this season.
Fever at Sun game:
Last night's postponed game will be made up July 28.
Current standings.
Pan American Games:
The USA topped Cuba, 65-64, in a thriller to advance to the championship game.
In the other semifinal, Canada routed Brazil, 91-63.
It'll be USA vs. Canada in the final game tomorrow.....call it NCAA Tournament, summer version, with all the US collegiate players on both teams.
Meanwhile in Russia at the U19 championship, the US advanced by taking out China, 88-62.
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Fiesty nights
The Storm handled the Dream, 86-73.
The Liberty squeaked by the Mercury, 75-73, thanks to a pair of Epiphanny Prince free throws with less than a second to play.
The Fever at Sun game was postponed, due to nightmarish airport travel delays for Indiana.
Sun:
The Sun aren't getting blown out, but they aren't winning, either.
Liberty:
Kiah Stokes is leaving her mark in her rookie season.
Lynx:
Maya Moore has strong Chicago roots.
College news:
Former Duke basketball star Georgia Schweitzer journeyed to a career in medicine.
Pan American Games:
Canada edged Cuba, 71-68, and advances to the semifinals. Natalie Achonwa lead the way with 15 points and seven rebounds.
The United States routed Puerto Rico, 93-77.
In the U19 championships, the US topped Spain in the opener, 72-57.
The Liberty squeaked by the Mercury, 75-73, thanks to a pair of Epiphanny Prince free throws with less than a second to play.
The Fever at Sun game was postponed, due to nightmarish airport travel delays for Indiana.
Sun:
The Sun aren't getting blown out, but they aren't winning, either.
Liberty:
Kiah Stokes is leaving her mark in her rookie season.
Lynx:
Maya Moore has strong Chicago roots.
College news:
Former Duke basketball star Georgia Schweitzer journeyed to a career in medicine.
Pan American Games:
Canada edged Cuba, 71-68, and advances to the semifinals. Natalie Achonwa lead the way with 15 points and seven rebounds.
The United States routed Puerto Rico, 93-77.
In the U19 championships, the US topped Spain in the opener, 72-57.
Friday, July 17, 2015
The plot thickens
The Western Conference isn't the race that is the East, but there is intrigue:
Lynx forward Seimone Augustus is out at least a month after having arthroscopic knee surgery today.
In the meantime, Candace Parker will return to the Sparks July 29.
Tonight's results:
Even without Augustus, the Lynx pounded the Sky, 84-66.
That means the Liberty have even more of a slight edge on Chicago for first in the East.
And just when it looked like the Fever were making a turnaround, the Mystics snapped their losing streak by beating them, 68-50.
Finally, the Stars got past the Shock, 65-58.
More WNBA news......
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is having the season of her life. What's next?
Liberty:
Guard Sugar Rodgers is turning heads this season.
USA Basketball:
Pan American Games day two: USA 94, Dominican Republic 55.
Breanna Stewart is hoping the Pan American Games lead her to the Rio Olympics.
College news:
Watch out - Ohio State is finally healthy.
San Francisco has extended coach Jennifer Azzi's contract through 2019-2020.
Lynx forward Seimone Augustus is out at least a month after having arthroscopic knee surgery today.
In the meantime, Candace Parker will return to the Sparks July 29.
Tonight's results:
Even without Augustus, the Lynx pounded the Sky, 84-66.
That means the Liberty have even more of a slight edge on Chicago for first in the East.
And just when it looked like the Fever were making a turnaround, the Mystics snapped their losing streak by beating them, 68-50.
Finally, the Stars got past the Shock, 65-58.
More WNBA news......
Sky:
Elena Delle Donne is having the season of her life. What's next?
Liberty:
Guard Sugar Rodgers is turning heads this season.
USA Basketball:
Pan American Games day two: USA 94, Dominican Republic 55.
Breanna Stewart is hoping the Pan American Games lead her to the Rio Olympics.
College news:
Watch out - Ohio State is finally healthy.
San Francisco has extended coach Jennifer Azzi's contract through 2019-2020.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Pan American Games team holds off Brazil for opening-round win
The USA Pan American Games Team fended off Brazil in the championship tournament opening round, 75-69. The Americans blew a 16-point lead, but were lead by top-scorer Breanna Stewart, who had 26 points and 12 rebounds.
Mystics:
The Mystics go as Emma Meesseman goes. Lately, that's not good.
Lynx:
Anna Cruz's role will expand after Monica Wright's knee surgery.
Sun:
Former Maryland star Alyssa Thomas is settling in with the Sun.
Mystics:
The Mystics go as Emma Meesseman goes. Lately, that's not good.
Lynx:
Anna Cruz's role will expand after Monica Wright's knee surgery.
Sun:
Former Maryland star Alyssa Thomas is settling in with the Sun.
Liberty wins, ties Sky for first in the East
The Dream edged the Sparks, 76-72.
The Liberty got past the Sun, 64-57. They've won two in a row, while Connecticut has now lost five straight. New York rookie Kiah Stokes broke the single-game franchise record, with eight blocks.
The Liberty are tied for first in the Eastern Conference with the Chicago Sky.
Lynx:
Guard Monica Wright is out indefinitely after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery today.
Liberty:
Epiphanny Prince's arrival is raising New York's hopes of returning to the playoffs.
Rookie Kiah Stokes is working well with veteran Tina Charles.
Shock:
Season ticket holders staged a rally last night to keep the team in Tulsa.
Rookie Brianna Kiesel has played an increased role for the Shock as injuries have occurred.
Fever:
Marissa Coleman has found the right fit with Indiana.
College news:
Minnesota senior Rachel Banham plans an epic return this season.
USA and International Basketball:
It's game time for the Pan American Team.
Canada wants to win without showing their hand.
The U19 team went 3-0 in exhibition play.
The Liberty got past the Sun, 64-57. They've won two in a row, while Connecticut has now lost five straight. New York rookie Kiah Stokes broke the single-game franchise record, with eight blocks.
The Liberty are tied for first in the Eastern Conference with the Chicago Sky.
Lynx:
Guard Monica Wright is out indefinitely after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery today.
Liberty:
Epiphanny Prince's arrival is raising New York's hopes of returning to the playoffs.
Rookie Kiah Stokes is working well with veteran Tina Charles.
Shock:
Season ticket holders staged a rally last night to keep the team in Tulsa.
Rookie Brianna Kiesel has played an increased role for the Shock as injuries have occurred.
Fever:
Marissa Coleman has found the right fit with Indiana.
College news:
Minnesota senior Rachel Banham plans an epic return this season.
USA and International Basketball:
It's game time for the Pan American Team.
Canada wants to win without showing their hand.
The U19 team went 3-0 in exhibition play.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
The wild, wild East
The race in the East is tighter than leather pants.
To kick off the day, the Liberty ended a six-game losing streak to rout the Stars, 84-68. For a shining moment, they were first in the Eastern Conference.
Then the Sky throttled the Mystics, 85-57, to take first place back.
Then the Fever edged the Shock, 83-80, for their fifth straight win.
Now the East looks like this:
Eastern Conference
Eastern W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Chicago 9 5 .643 - 5-1 4-4 85.9 79.4 Won 4 7-3
New York 8 5 .615 ½ 5-2 3-3 74.0 72.6 Won 1 6-4
Connecticut 7 5 .583 1 3-4 4-1 77.5 75.2 Lost 4 6-4
Indiana 8 6 .571 1 5-4 3-2 79.3 78.4 Won 5 7-3
Washington 6 6 .500 2 3-3 3-3 72.2 72.8 Lost 3 4-6
Atlanta 6 8 .429 3 5-4 1-4 73.6 77.1 Lost 1 4-6
Whoosa! We have a race.
Meanwhile, in the Western Conference's sole game, the Storm downed the Sparks, 68-61.
Seattle ended a five-game losing streak, and Los Angeles remains without a win on the road.
West standings:
Western Conference
Western W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Minnesota 10 3 .769 - 5-1 5-2 77.2 68.9 Won 2 7-3
Tulsa 10 5 .667 1 6-0 4-5 80.5 75.9 Lost 1 6-4
Phoenix 9 5 .643 1 ½ 6-1 3-4 77.6 73.2 Won 6 7-3
Seattle 4 12 .250 7 ½ 3-4 1-8 68.2 76.1 Won 1 2-8
San Antonio 3 11 .214 7 ½ 3-3 0-8 70.0 77.6 Lost 3 3-7
Los Angeles 2 11 .154 8 2-4 0-7 71.3 78.6 Lost 4 2-8
Fever:
Tamika Catchings moved up to third on the WNBA all-time rebounding list.
Liberty:
Stoked about Kiah Stokes.
Brittney Griner-Glory Johnson:
Glory Johnson has pleaded not guilty in the domestic violence incident involving her and former spouse Brittney Griner.
More ESPY Awards:
Lauren Hill was posthumously given the "best moment" award.
Many feel the Arthur Ashe Courage Award should have been given to Hill.
Former Notre Dame guard Danielle Green was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
College news:
The NJCAA has levied against the Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball program for eligibility violations.
Former San Diego State guard Chloe Johnson has transferred to Davidson.
Former Middle Tennessee guard China Dow has transferred to Florida Gulf Coast.
Jamie Nash has joined Monmouth as an assistant coach.
To kick off the day, the Liberty ended a six-game losing streak to rout the Stars, 84-68. For a shining moment, they were first in the Eastern Conference.
Then the Sky throttled the Mystics, 85-57, to take first place back.
Then the Fever edged the Shock, 83-80, for their fifth straight win.
Now the East looks like this:
Eastern Conference
Eastern W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Chicago 9 5 .643 - 5-1 4-4 85.9 79.4 Won 4 7-3
New York 8 5 .615 ½ 5-2 3-3 74.0 72.6 Won 1 6-4
Connecticut 7 5 .583 1 3-4 4-1 77.5 75.2 Lost 4 6-4
Indiana 8 6 .571 1 5-4 3-2 79.3 78.4 Won 5 7-3
Washington 6 6 .500 2 3-3 3-3 72.2 72.8 Lost 3 4-6
Atlanta 6 8 .429 3 5-4 1-4 73.6 77.1 Lost 1 4-6
Whoosa! We have a race.
Meanwhile, in the Western Conference's sole game, the Storm downed the Sparks, 68-61.
Seattle ended a five-game losing streak, and Los Angeles remains without a win on the road.
West standings:
Western Conference
Western W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Minnesota 10 3 .769 - 5-1 5-2 77.2 68.9 Won 2 7-3
Tulsa 10 5 .667 1 6-0 4-5 80.5 75.9 Lost 1 6-4
Phoenix 9 5 .643 1 ½ 6-1 3-4 77.6 73.2 Won 6 7-3
Seattle 4 12 .250 7 ½ 3-4 1-8 68.2 76.1 Won 1 2-8
San Antonio 3 11 .214 7 ½ 3-3 0-8 70.0 77.6 Lost 3 3-7
Los Angeles 2 11 .154 8 2-4 0-7 71.3 78.6 Lost 4 2-8
Fever:
Tamika Catchings moved up to third on the WNBA all-time rebounding list.
Liberty:
Stoked about Kiah Stokes.
Brittney Griner-Glory Johnson:
Glory Johnson has pleaded not guilty in the domestic violence incident involving her and former spouse Brittney Griner.
More ESPY Awards:
Lauren Hill was posthumously given the "best moment" award.
Many feel the Arthur Ashe Courage Award should have been given to Hill.
Former Notre Dame guard Danielle Green was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
College news:
The NJCAA has levied against the Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball program for eligibility violations.
Former San Diego State guard Chloe Johnson has transferred to Davidson.
Former Middle Tennessee guard China Dow has transferred to Florida Gulf Coast.
Jamie Nash has joined Monmouth as an assistant coach.
Tamika Catchings wins ESPN's inaugural Humanitarian Award
Tamika Catchings has won ESPN's inaugural Sports Humanitarian Award.
Catchings represents the spirit and legacy of Tennessee coach Pat Summitt, both on and off the court, incredibly well.
Catchings represents the spirit and legacy of Tennessee coach Pat Summitt, both on and off the court, incredibly well.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
WBCA all-academic honor rolls
The WBCA announced school honor rolls for all three divisions:
Division Institution 2014-15 Head Coach Team GPA
NCAA Division I University of Missouri-Kansas City Marsha Frese 3.726
NCAA Division II Ohio Dominican University Lynsey Warren 3.842
NCAA Division III Nebraska Wesleyan University Britni Fett 3.65
NAIA Valley City State University Jill DeVries 3.692
Jr/Comm College Snow College Mike Russell 3.626
Here's a detailed breakdown of Division I:
Rank Institution 2014-15 Head Coach Team GPA
1 University of Missouri-Kansas City Marsha Frese 3.726
2 St. Francis College John Thurson 3.656
3 DePaul University Douglas Bruno 3.622
4 Drake University Jennie Baranczyk 3.599
5 Bowling Green State University Jennifer Roos 3.594
6 Saint Louis University Lisa Stone 3.564
7 Arizona State University Charli Turner Thorne 3.558
8 Eastern Washington University Wendy Schuller 3.554
9 Florida Gulf Coast University Karl Smesko 3.552
T10 Western Illinois University JD Gravina 3.530
T10 University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Kevin Borseth 3.530
12 University of Northern Iowa Tanya Warren 3.519
13 University of North Dakota J. Travis Brewster 3.517
14 Jacksonville State University Rick Pietri 3.511
15 Belmont University Cameron Newbauer 3.501
16 Northwestern State University Brooke Stoehr 3.461
17 Houston Baptist University Donna Finnie 3.445
18 University of Toledo Tricia Cullop 3.443
19 Northern Illinois University Kathi Bennett 3.438
20 University of Northern Colorado Kamie Ethridge 3.431
21 South Dakota State Aaron Johnston 3.427
22 Youngstown State University John Barnes 3.422
23 St. Bonaventure University Jim Crowley 3.406
24 University of Maine Richard Barron 3.399
25 Lehigh University Susan Troyan 3.396
Division Institution 2014-15 Head Coach Team GPA
NCAA Division I University of Missouri-Kansas City Marsha Frese 3.726
NCAA Division II Ohio Dominican University Lynsey Warren 3.842
NCAA Division III Nebraska Wesleyan University Britni Fett 3.65
NAIA Valley City State University Jill DeVries 3.692
Jr/Comm College Snow College Mike Russell 3.626
Here's a detailed breakdown of Division I:
Rank Institution 2014-15 Head Coach Team GPA
1 University of Missouri-Kansas City Marsha Frese 3.726
2 St. Francis College John Thurson 3.656
3 DePaul University Douglas Bruno 3.622
4 Drake University Jennie Baranczyk 3.599
5 Bowling Green State University Jennifer Roos 3.594
6 Saint Louis University Lisa Stone 3.564
7 Arizona State University Charli Turner Thorne 3.558
8 Eastern Washington University Wendy Schuller 3.554
9 Florida Gulf Coast University Karl Smesko 3.552
T10 Western Illinois University JD Gravina 3.530
T10 University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Kevin Borseth 3.530
12 University of Northern Iowa Tanya Warren 3.519
13 University of North Dakota J. Travis Brewster 3.517
14 Jacksonville State University Rick Pietri 3.511
15 Belmont University Cameron Newbauer 3.501
16 Northwestern State University Brooke Stoehr 3.461
17 Houston Baptist University Donna Finnie 3.445
18 University of Toledo Tricia Cullop 3.443
19 Northern Illinois University Kathi Bennett 3.438
20 University of Northern Colorado Kamie Ethridge 3.431
21 South Dakota State Aaron Johnston 3.427
22 Youngstown State University John Barnes 3.422
23 St. Bonaventure University Jim Crowley 3.406
24 University of Maine Richard Barron 3.399
25 Lehigh University Susan Troyan 3.396
Scheduling, sponsorship, moving?
Mystics:
Veteran guard Kara Lawson says WNBA scheduling stinks.
Emma Meesseman's quiet confidence has turned her into an unlikely WNBA star.
Sun:
The Sun will now be sponsored by Frontier Communications.
Shock:
Rumors are still swirling that the Shock could leave Tulsa, but the team isn't talking.
Season ticket holders have launched a campaign to "save the Shock."
Q&A with coach Fred Williams.
Storm:
Coach Jenny Boucek ordered her road-weary team to take a rest yesterday.
Youth is being served slowly in Seattle.
Sky:
Rookie Cheyenne Parker blogs about being a newbie.
Liberty:
Rookie Kiah Stokes is learning a lot and having fun.
Tonight's results are team efforts:
Maya Moore and Seimone Augustus powered the Lynx past the Sun, 85-79, with 26 and 21 points, respectively.
Brittney Griner and Candice Dupree chipped in 22 a piece to lead the Mercury over the Dream, 80-71.
Tomorrow's games:
Stars at Liberty
Mystics at Sky
Sparks at Storm
Shock at Fever
College news:
North Carolina alumni Sylvia Crawley will return as an assistant coach. She replaces Ivory Latta.
Rod Jensen returns to Washington State as an assistant coach, replacing Brian Holsinger.
Marcus Payne joins Eastern Kentucky as an assistant coach.
Pan American Games:
USA's Pan American Games Team members had existing bonds going into this month's competition.
Veteran guard Kara Lawson says WNBA scheduling stinks.
Emma Meesseman's quiet confidence has turned her into an unlikely WNBA star.
Sun:
The Sun will now be sponsored by Frontier Communications.
Shock:
Rumors are still swirling that the Shock could leave Tulsa, but the team isn't talking.
Season ticket holders have launched a campaign to "save the Shock."
Q&A with coach Fred Williams.
Storm:
Coach Jenny Boucek ordered her road-weary team to take a rest yesterday.
Youth is being served slowly in Seattle.
Sky:
Rookie Cheyenne Parker blogs about being a newbie.
Liberty:
Rookie Kiah Stokes is learning a lot and having fun.
Tonight's results are team efforts:
Maya Moore and Seimone Augustus powered the Lynx past the Sun, 85-79, with 26 and 21 points, respectively.
Brittney Griner and Candice Dupree chipped in 22 a piece to lead the Mercury over the Dream, 80-71.
Tomorrow's games:
Stars at Liberty
Mystics at Sky
Sparks at Storm
Shock at Fever
College news:
North Carolina alumni Sylvia Crawley will return as an assistant coach. She replaces Ivory Latta.
Rod Jensen returns to Washington State as an assistant coach, replacing Brian Holsinger.
Marcus Payne joins Eastern Kentucky as an assistant coach.
Pan American Games:
USA's Pan American Games Team members had existing bonds going into this month's competition.
WNBA All-Star teams announced
The votes have been tabulated and these are your 2015 All-Stars:
Eastern Conference Starters:
Elena Delle Donne, Backcourt (Chicago Sky)
Shoni Schimmel, Backcourt (Atlanta Dream)
Tamika Catchings, Frontcourt (Indiana Fever)
Angel McCoughtry, Frontcourt (Atlanta Dream)
Tina Charles, Frontcourt (New York Liberty)
Western Conference Starters:
Skylar Diggins, Backcourt (Tulsa Shock)
Seimone Augustus, Backcourt (Minnesota Lynx)
Maya Moore, Frontcourt (Minnesota Lynx)
Brittney Griner, Frontcourt (Phoenix Mercury)
Candice Dupree, Frontcourt (Phoenix Mercury)
Delle Donne was the top vote-getter, and Tamika Catchings has reached her tenth All-Star game, which is a league record.
The 12 WNBA coaches will choose the reserves, which will be announced in one week. Votes:
EASTERN CONFERENCE — FINAL RETURNS LEADERS
Backcourt: Elena Delle Donne (Chi) 18,034; Shoni Schimmel (Atl) 8,881; Cappie Pondexter (Chi) 4,877; Ivory Latta (Was) 4,159; Courtney Vandersloot (Chi) 3,833; Alex Bentley (Con) 3,363; Marissa Coleman (Ind) 2,528; Allie Quigley (Chi) 2,416; Briann January (Ind) 2,143; Tiffany Hayes (Atl) 2,033; Brittany Boyd (NY) 2,032; Kara Lawson (Was) 2,011; Bria Hartley (Was) 1,837; Shavonte Zellous (Ind) 1,365; Sugar Rodgers (NY) 1,304
Frontcourt: Tamika Catchings (Ind) 9,923; Angel McCoughtry (Atl) 7,619; Tina Charles (NY) 6,129; Emma Meesseman (Was) 4,710; Natalie Achonwa (Ind) 3,779; Stefanie Dolson (Was) 3,001; Erika de Souza (Atl) 2,746; Swin Cash (NY) 2,391; Kiah Stokes (NY) 2,352; Chiney Ogwumike (Con) 2,039; Kelsey Bone (Con) 1,993; Alyssa Thomas (Con) 1,833; Sancho Lyttle (Atl) 1,642; Camille Little (Con) 1,306
WESTERN CONFERENCE — FINAL RETURNS LEADERS
Backcourt: Skylar Diggins (Tul) 15,895; Seimone Augustus (Min) 9,599; Sue Bird (Sea) 8,088; Lindsay Whalen (Min) 7,294; DeWanna Bonner (Phx) 6,154; Kayla McBride (SA) 3,537; Jewell Loyd (Sea) 2,911; Odyssey Sims (Tul) 2,807; Leilani Mitchell (Phx) 1,583; Monica Wright (Min) 1,570; Kristi Toliver (1,510); Renee Montgomery (Sea) 1,321;
Frontcourt: Maya Moore (Min) 13,706; Brittney Griner (Phx) 7,138; Candice Dupree (Phx) 5,954; Ramu Tokashiki (Sea) 5,512; Nneka Ogwumike (LA) 4,880; Rebekkah Brunson (Min) 4,138; Courtney Paris (Tul) 2,591; Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis (Sea) 2,161; Plenette Pierson (Tul) 2,018; Devereaux Peters (Min) 1,553; Jantel Lavender (LA) 1,386; Damiris Dantas (Min) 1,365
Eastern Conference Starters:
Elena Delle Donne, Backcourt (Chicago Sky)
Shoni Schimmel, Backcourt (Atlanta Dream)
Tamika Catchings, Frontcourt (Indiana Fever)
Angel McCoughtry, Frontcourt (Atlanta Dream)
Tina Charles, Frontcourt (New York Liberty)
Western Conference Starters:
Skylar Diggins, Backcourt (Tulsa Shock)
Seimone Augustus, Backcourt (Minnesota Lynx)
Maya Moore, Frontcourt (Minnesota Lynx)
Brittney Griner, Frontcourt (Phoenix Mercury)
Candice Dupree, Frontcourt (Phoenix Mercury)
Delle Donne was the top vote-getter, and Tamika Catchings has reached her tenth All-Star game, which is a league record.
The 12 WNBA coaches will choose the reserves, which will be announced in one week. Votes:
EASTERN CONFERENCE — FINAL RETURNS LEADERS
Backcourt: Elena Delle Donne (Chi) 18,034; Shoni Schimmel (Atl) 8,881; Cappie Pondexter (Chi) 4,877; Ivory Latta (Was) 4,159; Courtney Vandersloot (Chi) 3,833; Alex Bentley (Con) 3,363; Marissa Coleman (Ind) 2,528; Allie Quigley (Chi) 2,416; Briann January (Ind) 2,143; Tiffany Hayes (Atl) 2,033; Brittany Boyd (NY) 2,032; Kara Lawson (Was) 2,011; Bria Hartley (Was) 1,837; Shavonte Zellous (Ind) 1,365; Sugar Rodgers (NY) 1,304
Frontcourt: Tamika Catchings (Ind) 9,923; Angel McCoughtry (Atl) 7,619; Tina Charles (NY) 6,129; Emma Meesseman (Was) 4,710; Natalie Achonwa (Ind) 3,779; Stefanie Dolson (Was) 3,001; Erika de Souza (Atl) 2,746; Swin Cash (NY) 2,391; Kiah Stokes (NY) 2,352; Chiney Ogwumike (Con) 2,039; Kelsey Bone (Con) 1,993; Alyssa Thomas (Con) 1,833; Sancho Lyttle (Atl) 1,642; Camille Little (Con) 1,306
WESTERN CONFERENCE — FINAL RETURNS LEADERS
Backcourt: Skylar Diggins (Tul) 15,895; Seimone Augustus (Min) 9,599; Sue Bird (Sea) 8,088; Lindsay Whalen (Min) 7,294; DeWanna Bonner (Phx) 6,154; Kayla McBride (SA) 3,537; Jewell Loyd (Sea) 2,911; Odyssey Sims (Tul) 2,807; Leilani Mitchell (Phx) 1,583; Monica Wright (Min) 1,570; Kristi Toliver (1,510); Renee Montgomery (Sea) 1,321;
Frontcourt: Maya Moore (Min) 13,706; Brittney Griner (Phx) 7,138; Candice Dupree (Phx) 5,954; Ramu Tokashiki (Sea) 5,512; Nneka Ogwumike (LA) 4,880; Rebekkah Brunson (Min) 4,138; Courtney Paris (Tul) 2,591; Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis (Sea) 2,161; Plenette Pierson (Tul) 2,018; Devereaux Peters (Min) 1,553; Jantel Lavender (LA) 1,386; Damiris Dantas (Min) 1,365
Monday, July 13, 2015
Is it game time yet?
The WNBA has had only one day off today, but I'm ready for more. Fortunately tomorrow there is:
Lynx at Sun
Dream at Mercury
Shock:
Tulsa players are stepping up for injured starters.
Is the Shock leaving Tulsa???
Lynx:
Maya Moore has been cranking up her offense lately.
Players of the week:
Cappie Pondexter for the East and Maya Moore for the West.
Glory Johnson-Brittney Griner:
Glory Johnson is seeking monthly spousal support and attorney fees from ex-wife Brittney Griner.
College news:
In the wake of player abuse allegations, the outlook for Illinois basketball is bleak.
Bucknell coach Aaron Roussell has signed a multi-year contract extension.
Dominique Hudson is a new assistant coach at North Carolina A&T.
Pan American Games and USA Basketball:
Canada's Pan American Games team is optimistic going into the world championships.
USA's U19 team won their second exhibition game, whooping Canada, 95-40.
Lynx at Sun
Dream at Mercury
Shock:
Tulsa players are stepping up for injured starters.
Is the Shock leaving Tulsa???
Lynx:
Maya Moore has been cranking up her offense lately.
Players of the week:
Cappie Pondexter for the East and Maya Moore for the West.
Glory Johnson-Brittney Griner:
Glory Johnson is seeking monthly spousal support and attorney fees from ex-wife Brittney Griner.
College news:
In the wake of player abuse allegations, the outlook for Illinois basketball is bleak.
Bucknell coach Aaron Roussell has signed a multi-year contract extension.
Dominique Hudson is a new assistant coach at North Carolina A&T.
Pan American Games and USA Basketball:
Canada's Pan American Games team is optimistic going into the world championships.
USA's U19 team won their second exhibition game, whooping Canada, 95-40.
World University Games Team beats Canada to take gold medal
The World University Games Team used a strong fourth quarter to defeat Canada, 82-63, this morning to take the Championship game.
USA! USA!
USA! USA!
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Major performances and changing standings
Today's results:
The Dream got past the Liberty, 84-76. Angel McCoughtry lead the way for Atlanta with 32 points.
The Sky routed the Sun, 96-76. Cappie Pondexter was Chicago's high-scorer, with 29 points.
The Mercury beat the Storm, 70-60, behind Brittney Griner's 26 points.
The Lynx dominated the Stars, 66-49.
So now the standings look like this:
Eastern Conference
Eastern W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Connecticut 7 4 .636 - 3-3 4-1 77.4 74.3 Lost 3 7-3
Chicago 8 5 .615 - 4-1 4-4 85.9 81.1 Won 3 7-3
New York 7 5 .583 ½ 4-2 3-3 73.2 73.0 Lost 1 6-4
Washington 6 5 .545 1 3-3 3-2 73.5 71.7 Lost 2 5-5
Indiana 7 6 .538 1 4-4 3-2 79.0 78.3 Won 4 7-3
Atlanta 6 7 .462 2 5-4 1-3 73.8 76.8 Won 1 5-5
Western Conference
Western W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Minnesota 9 3 .750 - 5-1 4-2 76.5 68.1 Won 1 7-3
Tulsa 10 4 .714 - 6-0 4-4 80.5 75.4 Won 2 7-3
Phoenix 8 5 .615 1 ½ 5-1 3-4 77.4 73.4 Won 5 7-3
San Antonio 3 10 .231 6 ½ 3-3 0-7 70.2 77.2 Lost 2 3-7
Los Angeles 2 10 .167 7 2-4 0-6 72.2 79.5 Lost 3 2-8
Seattle 3 12 .200 7 ½ 2-4 1-8 68.2 77.1 Lost 5 1-9
No games tsomorrow.......
Best rookies so far?
One publication says it's these five.
Lynx rookie Reshanda Gray blogs.
College news:
Jadda Buckley and Claire Ricketts are ready to help out Iowa State again.
USA Basketball:
In exhibition action, the U19 team edged Australia, 85-82.
The Dream got past the Liberty, 84-76. Angel McCoughtry lead the way for Atlanta with 32 points.
The Sky routed the Sun, 96-76. Cappie Pondexter was Chicago's high-scorer, with 29 points.
The Mercury beat the Storm, 70-60, behind Brittney Griner's 26 points.
The Lynx dominated the Stars, 66-49.
So now the standings look like this:
Eastern Conference
Eastern W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Connecticut 7 4 .636 - 3-3 4-1 77.4 74.3 Lost 3 7-3
Chicago 8 5 .615 - 4-1 4-4 85.9 81.1 Won 3 7-3
New York 7 5 .583 ½ 4-2 3-3 73.2 73.0 Lost 1 6-4
Washington 6 5 .545 1 3-3 3-2 73.5 71.7 Lost 2 5-5
Indiana 7 6 .538 1 4-4 3-2 79.0 78.3 Won 4 7-3
Atlanta 6 7 .462 2 5-4 1-3 73.8 76.8 Won 1 5-5
Western Conference
Western W L PCT GB HOME ROAD PF PA STREAK L 10
Minnesota 9 3 .750 - 5-1 4-2 76.5 68.1 Won 1 7-3
Tulsa 10 4 .714 - 6-0 4-4 80.5 75.4 Won 2 7-3
Phoenix 8 5 .615 1 ½ 5-1 3-4 77.4 73.4 Won 5 7-3
San Antonio 3 10 .231 6 ½ 3-3 0-7 70.2 77.2 Lost 2 3-7
Los Angeles 2 10 .167 7 2-4 0-6 72.2 79.5 Lost 3 2-8
Seattle 3 12 .200 7 ½ 2-4 1-8 68.2 77.1 Lost 5 1-9
No games tsomorrow.......
Best rookies so far?
One publication says it's these five.
Lynx rookie Reshanda Gray blogs.
College news:
Jadda Buckley and Claire Ricketts are ready to help out Iowa State again.
USA Basketball:
In exhibition action, the U19 team edged Australia, 85-82.
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Are the Shock "back"?
Big game for the Tulsa Shock today:
The Shock avenged last week's loss to the Sparks by beating them, 82-67. Karima Christmas lead the way with a career-high 24 points, and Odyssey Sims scored 14 points in her first game back from injury.
Big schedule tomorrow:
Liberty at Dream
Sun at Sky
Storm at Mercury
Stars at Lynx
Sun:
The Sun welcome Jennifer Lacy as they end a ten-day break.
Mercury:
Victories are stacking up at Phoenix finds cohesion.
Becky Hammon:
The former WNBA star-turned San Antonio Spurs assistant coach became the first woman to coach an NBA summer league game today.
Pat Summitt:
Pat Summitt was saluted by the Vols tonight at a charity event.
USA Basketball:
Early this morning, the World University Games Team survived a double-overtime thriller against Japan, 102-98, to advance to Monday's gold medal game. They will play Canada.
The Pan American Games team is marching toward their opener.
USA Basketball veteran A'ja Wilson is leading the U19 team.
College news:
Cal State Fullerton associate head coach Tammi Reiss has accepted an assistant coaching position at Syracuse.
Kiara Smith is a new assistant coach at UNC-Asheville.
The Shock avenged last week's loss to the Sparks by beating them, 82-67. Karima Christmas lead the way with a career-high 24 points, and Odyssey Sims scored 14 points in her first game back from injury.
Big schedule tomorrow:
Liberty at Dream
Sun at Sky
Storm at Mercury
Stars at Lynx
Sun:
The Sun welcome Jennifer Lacy as they end a ten-day break.
Mercury:
Victories are stacking up at Phoenix finds cohesion.
Becky Hammon:
The former WNBA star-turned San Antonio Spurs assistant coach became the first woman to coach an NBA summer league game today.
Pat Summitt:
Pat Summitt was saluted by the Vols tonight at a charity event.
USA Basketball:
Early this morning, the World University Games Team survived a double-overtime thriller against Japan, 102-98, to advance to Monday's gold medal game. They will play Canada.
The Pan American Games team is marching toward their opener.
USA Basketball veteran A'ja Wilson is leading the U19 team.
College news:
Cal State Fullerton associate head coach Tammi Reiss has accepted an assistant coaching position at Syracuse.
Kiara Smith is a new assistant coach at UNC-Asheville.
Friday, July 10, 2015
Mid-season adjustments
Tonight's results:
The Fever captured their fourth straight win by downing the Stars, 83-76. Marissa Coleman lead the way with 25 points.
The Sky came from behind to beat the Lynx, 92-83. Elena Delle Donne and Cappie Pondexter each had 24 for Chicago.
The Mercury at Storm are still in progress at this hour.
Shock:
Is the Shock cursed?
Mystics:
Emma Meesseman has translated new confidence into a great season.
Lynx:
Devereaux Peters has grown into a role that the Lynx need.
Dream:
Matee Ajavon is adjusting to her new role as point guard.
General WNBA:
President Laurel Richie is ready to expand the league.
College news:
Asia Durr is arriving at Louisville with a lot of pressure on her shoulders.....but she doesn't seem to mind.
USA Basketball:
Pan American Games team guard Caroline Coyer is ready to represent for the USA.
From country girl to world traveler, U19 team member Chatrice White is on a mission for gold.
The Fever captured their fourth straight win by downing the Stars, 83-76. Marissa Coleman lead the way with 25 points.
The Sky came from behind to beat the Lynx, 92-83. Elena Delle Donne and Cappie Pondexter each had 24 for Chicago.
The Mercury at Storm are still in progress at this hour.
Shock:
Is the Shock cursed?
Mystics:
Emma Meesseman has translated new confidence into a great season.
Lynx:
Devereaux Peters has grown into a role that the Lynx need.
Dream:
Matee Ajavon is adjusting to her new role as point guard.
General WNBA:
President Laurel Richie is ready to expand the league.
College news:
Asia Durr is arriving at Louisville with a lot of pressure on her shoulders.....but she doesn't seem to mind.
USA Basketball:
Pan American Games team guard Caroline Coyer is ready to represent for the USA.
From country girl to world traveler, U19 team member Chatrice White is on a mission for gold.
Thursday, July 9, 2015
OTs, shining stars and much transfer news
Today's result:
The Liberty edged the Mystics in overtime, 79-76. And despite a power outage delay late in the game.
Lynx:
Lock-down defense has Minnesota back on top of the Western Conference.
Storm:
Jewell Loyd's twitter talk with NBA star Kobe Bryant turned into a mentorship.
Sun:
Duke players are shining on the Connecticut Sun.
Stars:
The WNBA interviews rookie Dearica Hamby.
Mercury:
Candice Dupree's machine-like consistency is paying dividends for Phoenix.
College news:
Today the South Carolina governor signed a bill into law prohibiting the Confederate flag from state Capitol grounds. So the NCAA has lifted its ban on having championships in the state.
An athlete advocacy group wants the Illinois athletic director and coaches being investigated for player mistreatment fired.
Forward Caya Williams has been booted from Middle Tennessee.
Former Tennessee Lady Vol Jannah Tucker has transferred to Villanova.
Former UT Martin forward Ashia Jones has transferred to Memphis.
Saint Francis has added graduate transfer Brielle Ward, from Hampton.
Former Vanderbilt forward Heather Bowe has transferred to Iowa State.
George Mason has added two transfers.
West Virginia coach Mike Carey is upbeat upon entering his fifteenth season.
Christian Stefanopoulos has joined Seton Hall as an assistant coach.
Iowa's Whitney Jennings proves she's ready for a bigger role.
Pat Summitt:
Pat Summitt's career will be celebrated at an upcoming fundraiser.
World University Games Championship:
The WUG team dominated Hungary, 84-43, to reach the semifinals.
The Liberty edged the Mystics in overtime, 79-76. And despite a power outage delay late in the game.
Lynx:
Lock-down defense has Minnesota back on top of the Western Conference.
Storm:
Jewell Loyd's twitter talk with NBA star Kobe Bryant turned into a mentorship.
Sun:
Duke players are shining on the Connecticut Sun.
Stars:
The WNBA interviews rookie Dearica Hamby.
Mercury:
Candice Dupree's machine-like consistency is paying dividends for Phoenix.
College news:
Today the South Carolina governor signed a bill into law prohibiting the Confederate flag from state Capitol grounds. So the NCAA has lifted its ban on having championships in the state.
An athlete advocacy group wants the Illinois athletic director and coaches being investigated for player mistreatment fired.
Forward Caya Williams has been booted from Middle Tennessee.
Former Tennessee Lady Vol Jannah Tucker has transferred to Villanova.
Former UT Martin forward Ashia Jones has transferred to Memphis.
Saint Francis has added graduate transfer Brielle Ward, from Hampton.
Former Vanderbilt forward Heather Bowe has transferred to Iowa State.
George Mason has added two transfers.
West Virginia coach Mike Carey is upbeat upon entering his fifteenth season.
Christian Stefanopoulos has joined Seton Hall as an assistant coach.
Iowa's Whitney Jennings proves she's ready for a bigger role.
Pat Summitt:
Pat Summitt's career will be celebrated at an upcoming fundraiser.
World University Games Championship:
The WUG team dominated Hungary, 84-43, to reach the semifinals.
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Another hot summer day of storylines
Today's results:
The Fever routed the Storm, 88-65.
The Stars defeated the Sparks, 70-63.
Dream:
Shoni Schimmel is working her way back to the court.
Sun:
The Sun signed Jennifer Lacy and waived Inga Orekhova.
Mystics:
Rookie Natasha Cloud is adjusting nicely to the WNBA.
Liberty:
President Isiah Thomas wants to move past his messy ending with the Knicks.
College news:
Wendale Farrow is a new assistant coach at Vanderbilt.
Long Island-Brooklyn's new assistant coach is Asia Williams.
Laura Kurz is a new assistant coach at Villanova.
Former UCLA Bruin Rhema Gardner is a new assistant coach at Cal Poly Pomona.
Jade Singleton is a new assistant at Delaware.
Former West Virginia teammates Crystal Leary and Linda Stepney will continue their journey together this winter on the same overseas team.
The Fever routed the Storm, 88-65.
The Stars defeated the Sparks, 70-63.
Dream:
Shoni Schimmel is working her way back to the court.
Sun:
The Sun signed Jennifer Lacy and waived Inga Orekhova.
Mystics:
Rookie Natasha Cloud is adjusting nicely to the WNBA.
Liberty:
President Isiah Thomas wants to move past his messy ending with the Knicks.
College news:
Wendale Farrow is a new assistant coach at Vanderbilt.
Long Island-Brooklyn's new assistant coach is Asia Williams.
Laura Kurz is a new assistant coach at Villanova.
Former UCLA Bruin Rhema Gardner is a new assistant coach at Cal Poly Pomona.
Jade Singleton is a new assistant at Delaware.
Former West Virginia teammates Crystal Leary and Linda Stepney will continue their journey together this winter on the same overseas team.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Transactions on tap; Shock snap losing streak
Sparks:
The Sparks have cut Jennifer Lacy to make room for Ana Dabovic, who is back from helping Serbia win the Eurobasket championship.
Shock:
.....have signed Brittany Hrynko. (Why not Lacy instead?)
Liberty:
After her Olympic bid with Russia failed, Epiphanny Prince is back with the Liberty.
Fever:
Assists will be key to Indiana's offensive production.
Mystics:
A minute with LaToya Sanders.
Tonight's result:
The Shock snapped a three-game losing streak by defeating the Dream, 85-75.
College:
Edniesha Curry is a new assistant at Maine.
USA Basketball:
The US routed the Czech Republic, 92-54, in the third round of the World University Games championship.
The third time was the charm for Pan American Games team forward Courtney Williams.
The Sparks have cut Jennifer Lacy to make room for Ana Dabovic, who is back from helping Serbia win the Eurobasket championship.
Shock:
.....have signed Brittany Hrynko. (Why not Lacy instead?)
Liberty:
After her Olympic bid with Russia failed, Epiphanny Prince is back with the Liberty.
Fever:
Assists will be key to Indiana's offensive production.
Mystics:
A minute with LaToya Sanders.
Tonight's result:
The Shock snapped a three-game losing streak by defeating the Dream, 85-75.
College:
Edniesha Curry is a new assistant at Maine.
USA Basketball:
The US routed the Czech Republic, 92-54, in the third round of the World University Games championship.
The third time was the charm for Pan American Games team forward Courtney Williams.
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