Today's results:
The Lynx remain unbeaten after taking down the Liberty, 79-69.
The Mercury took until the fourth quarter to wake up, but they did, and beat the Sun, 99-90.
It still makes you wonder what the deal is with Phoenix. The broadcasters said Brittney Griner hadn't scored in double figures this season before tonight.
Team news:
The WNBA's own power rankings still has Lynx on top at week three. But look at the Dream: ranked third.
Why is the Mercury ranked that high??
Changing the game podcast, episode four.
Player news:
Sparks forward Candace Parker and Dream forward Angel McCoughtry are the Western and Eastern conference players of the week.
Rookie report.
Coach news:
Michael Cooper and Bill Laimbeer are keeping their former NBA rivalry alive in the WNBA.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Sky at Mystics
Storm at Fever
College player news:
SMU has picked up Utah transfer Devri Owens and Stanford transfer Kiran Lakhian.
College coach news:
Joy Cheek has joined Vanderbilt as an assistant coach.
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Monday, May 30, 2016
Pause for the cause
WNBA teams have Memorial Day off, as they should.
In the meantime, the league has named eight breakout players for the season, thus far:
Tiffany Hayes, Atlanta; Tayler Hill, Washington; Kayla McBride, San Antonio; Jewell Loyd, Seattle; Layshia Clarendon, Atlanta; Sugar Rodgers, New York; Jamierra Faulkner, Chicago; Dearica Hamby, San Antonio.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Lynx at Liberty
Sun at Mercury
Player news:
The Sky isn't the limit, as Allie Quigley is an integral part of the Chicago Sky.
USA Basketball news:
The U18 team has been named.
Finalists for the U17 team have been announced.
In the meantime, the league has named eight breakout players for the season, thus far:
Tiffany Hayes, Atlanta; Tayler Hill, Washington; Kayla McBride, San Antonio; Jewell Loyd, Seattle; Layshia Clarendon, Atlanta; Sugar Rodgers, New York; Jamierra Faulkner, Chicago; Dearica Hamby, San Antonio.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Lynx at Liberty
Sun at Mercury
Player news:
The Sky isn't the limit, as Allie Quigley is an integral part of the Chicago Sky.
USA Basketball news:
The U18 team has been named.
Finalists for the U17 team have been announced.
Sunday, May 29, 2016
Big time wins
Today's results:
Tamika Catchings became only the second WNBA player to score 7,000 career points, but the Dream downed the Fever, 85-76. Atlanta is off to a hot start.
The Mercury collected their first season win, routing the Mystics, 93-77.
The Sky snapped a four-game losing streak by edging the Wings, 92-87.
Player news:
A positive Angel McCoughtry carries the Dream higher.
Skylar Diggins is nearing full return for the Wings.
Storm forward Crystal Langhorne stepped up last night with a record-setting performance against the Sun.
College coach news:
The Sheryl Swoopes investigation continues, but new allegations emerge.
Loyola Chicago players detail allegations of physical and mental abuse.
International basketball:
Timing is everything for Canada National Team coach Lisa Thomaidis.
Team Canada veteran Tamara Tatham is promoting women's hoops to the next generation.
Tamika Catchings became only the second WNBA player to score 7,000 career points, but the Dream downed the Fever, 85-76. Atlanta is off to a hot start.
The Mercury collected their first season win, routing the Mystics, 93-77.
The Sky snapped a four-game losing streak by edging the Wings, 92-87.
Player news:
A positive Angel McCoughtry carries the Dream higher.
Skylar Diggins is nearing full return for the Wings.
Storm forward Crystal Langhorne stepped up last night with a record-setting performance against the Sun.
College coach news:
The Sheryl Swoopes investigation continues, but new allegations emerge.
Loyola Chicago players detail allegations of physical and mental abuse.
International basketball:
Timing is everything for Canada National Team coach Lisa Thomaidis.
Team Canada veteran Tamara Tatham is promoting women's hoops to the next generation.
Saturday, May 28, 2016
While we wait for this game to be played.....
Currently the Sun are battling with the Storm, and it's a good one.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Fever at Dream
Sky at Wings
Mystics at Mercury
Team news:
The Mercury enter a "must-win" game against the Mystics tomorrow.
With their big four, the Lynx are looking even better.
Player news:
Tamika Catchings is providing signature visits on her 2016 legacy tour.
Catchings says it's time for a celebration.
Dirty jobs with the Stars, Alex Montgomery.
College coach news:
The SEC has a Purdue flavor in its coaching ranks.
Duke coach Joanne P. McCallie battles on and off the court.
Texas State coach Zenarae Antoine is part of a coaching couple.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Fever at Dream
Sky at Wings
Mystics at Mercury
Team news:
The Mercury enter a "must-win" game against the Mystics tomorrow.
With their big four, the Lynx are looking even better.
Player news:
Tamika Catchings is providing signature visits on her 2016 legacy tour.
Catchings says it's time for a celebration.
Dirty jobs with the Stars, Alex Montgomery.
College coach news:
The SEC has a Purdue flavor in its coaching ranks.
Duke coach Joanne P. McCallie battles on and off the court.
Texas State coach Zenarae Antoine is part of a coaching couple.
A pretty good discussion about the WNBA's struggles
Despite the (to me) offensive headline, the New York Times offers a pretty good analysis of the struggles of the WNBA to get a fan base:
Sue Bird, the Seattle point guard who is playing in her 14th season, said, "There's a weird disconnect between college players and W.N.B.A. players in terms of how people view us."
It is as if fans need to be reminded, she said, that "we're actually the same players."
I've been puzzled about this for years.
And:
“I’m optimistic, but I’m not naïve,” said Michael Alter, the owner of the Chicago Sky. “It’s not easy to get the word out. We don’t have the support of all the free media; we have to work really hard. It’s a grind, and we’re just plugging away. But we’ve got great athletes, and we’re doing everything possible to expose them to the media.”
And:
The small Arlington arena needed most of the first half of a preseason game between the Wings and the Connecticut Sun before the crowd appeared to reach its paid attendance of 2,326. The first regular-season home game, a victory over the San Antonio Stars in a sellout arena, was a better early indicator of local interest in the relocated team that will try to break through in a crowded market. The region features the National Football League’s Dallas Cowboys and Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers, who play nearby, as well as the N.B.A.’s Dallas Mavericks and the National Hockey League’s Dallas Stars.
For more than a quarter, even as the Wings took a big lead, fans were quiet, many with arms folded, as if sending a message to the players: Show me. The recorded exhortations to shout “Defense!” were not being followed. Slowly, the fans came alive. They started razzing Sun players at the free-throw line. A white-haired man jawed at the visiting team.
Three things:
1. As I've said previously, the WNBA needs to tweet and promote EVERY SINGLE STORY about a player, team or coach in the league. They still don't do it. They'll tweet their own stuff and ESPN stuff, but not much else. Treat media, like myself, who love and write about the league like gold.
2. The public still needs to be educated about the game, and about athletic women in our society.
I'd be happy to help out.
3. Fans of the college game need to pay attention to the WNBA. WNBA fans need to pay attention to college ball.
I'm trying to help as hard as I can.
Sue Bird, the Seattle point guard who is playing in her 14th season, said, "There's a weird disconnect between college players and W.N.B.A. players in terms of how people view us."
It is as if fans need to be reminded, she said, that "we're actually the same players."
I've been puzzled about this for years.
And:
“I’m optimistic, but I’m not naïve,” said Michael Alter, the owner of the Chicago Sky. “It’s not easy to get the word out. We don’t have the support of all the free media; we have to work really hard. It’s a grind, and we’re just plugging away. But we’ve got great athletes, and we’re doing everything possible to expose them to the media.”
And:
The small Arlington arena needed most of the first half of a preseason game between the Wings and the Connecticut Sun before the crowd appeared to reach its paid attendance of 2,326. The first regular-season home game, a victory over the San Antonio Stars in a sellout arena, was a better early indicator of local interest in the relocated team that will try to break through in a crowded market. The region features the National Football League’s Dallas Cowboys and Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers, who play nearby, as well as the N.B.A.’s Dallas Mavericks and the National Hockey League’s Dallas Stars.
For more than a quarter, even as the Wings took a big lead, fans were quiet, many with arms folded, as if sending a message to the players: Show me. The recorded exhortations to shout “Defense!” were not being followed. Slowly, the fans came alive. They started razzing Sun players at the free-throw line. A white-haired man jawed at the visiting team.
Three things:
1. As I've said previously, the WNBA needs to tweet and promote EVERY SINGLE STORY about a player, team or coach in the league. They still don't do it. They'll tweet their own stuff and ESPN stuff, but not much else. Treat media, like myself, who love and write about the league like gold.
2. The public still needs to be educated about the game, and about athletic women in our society.
I'd be happy to help out.
3. Fans of the college game need to pay attention to the WNBA. WNBA fans need to pay attention to college ball.
I'm trying to help as hard as I can.
Friday, May 27, 2016
Survival of the fittest
Tonight's games were wild:
The Stars rallied back to edge the Sky, 79-78. Wow.
The Fever closed a big gap, but the Lynx held them off, 74-71. Wow again.
The Dream won the battle with the Wings, 102-93.
Team news:
With the depth is has, this Lynx team could be the best ever.
Player news:
DeLisha Milton-Jones wants to go out on her own terms.
I couldn't agree more. And I think the WNBA needs to honor the athletes who didn't get to go out on their own terms and have a proper retirement ceremony, like Sheryl Swoopes......and DMJ, if she doesn't get with another team.
Nneka and Chiney Ogwumike are foes on court, sisters off court.
Elena Delle Donne's silent supremacy.
Ivory Latta's comeback was deadly for the Storm last night.
College conference news:
Can the A-10 create an atmosphere to compliment the tournament's neutrality?
College athletic director news:
Jennifer Cohen's first day as Washington athletic director, in photos.
College coaching news:
Tennessee saved money on the recent assistant coaching change.
The Stars rallied back to edge the Sky, 79-78. Wow.
The Fever closed a big gap, but the Lynx held them off, 74-71. Wow again.
The Dream won the battle with the Wings, 102-93.
Team news:
With the depth is has, this Lynx team could be the best ever.
Player news:
DeLisha Milton-Jones wants to go out on her own terms.
I couldn't agree more. And I think the WNBA needs to honor the athletes who didn't get to go out on their own terms and have a proper retirement ceremony, like Sheryl Swoopes......and DMJ, if she doesn't get with another team.
Nneka and Chiney Ogwumike are foes on court, sisters off court.
Elena Delle Donne's silent supremacy.
Ivory Latta's comeback was deadly for the Storm last night.
College conference news:
Can the A-10 create an atmosphere to compliment the tournament's neutrality?
College athletic director news:
Jennifer Cohen's first day as Washington athletic director, in photos.
College coaching news:
Tennessee saved money on the recent assistant coaching change.
Thursday, May 26, 2016
What a night
WNBA week two: still intense.
The Storm forced an overtime with a frantic fourth quarter comeback, but the Mystics won, 84-82.
The Sparks shook off a slow start to edge the Sun, 77-72.
The Sun are making progress.
It's the best start for Los Angeles since 2003.
Player news:
Liberty center Tina Charles said NBA commissioner Adam Silver has done a good job of strengthening relations between that league and the WNBA.
Coach news:
Q&A with Lync coach Cheryl Reeve.
The Storm forced an overtime with a frantic fourth quarter comeback, but the Mystics won, 84-82.
The Sparks shook off a slow start to edge the Sun, 77-72.
The Sun are making progress.
It's the best start for Los Angeles since 2003.
Player news:
Liberty center Tina Charles said NBA commissioner Adam Silver has done a good job of strengthening relations between that league and the WNBA.
Coach news:
Q&A with Lync coach Cheryl Reeve.
Afternoon delight
One of tonight's two games pits Ogwumike against Ogwumike, as the Sparks visit the Sun.
It will be a reunion on many levels.
The Mystics also visit the Storm.
Washington-Seattle preview.
WNBA news:
WNBA's power rankings, week two. (Hint: Sparks are moving on up like the Jeffersons). And (the WNBA is now using my theme idea too, as ESPN did last week).
The league's "race to the MVP" has Candace Parker in the top slot now.
Team news:
The Wings are looking to string together a complete game.
But Dallas is quickly putting together some chemistry, despite setbacks.
The Storm's offense has featured a balanced attack in their first three games.
The Liberty are remaking their small forward position.
Balance is the name of the game for the Fever.
Player news:
Sparks forward Ana Dabovic can score on anybody - even USA Basketball.
Breanna Stewart and Fat Joe came "all the way up."
Liberty center Tina Charles has had early season success.
Get to know Lynx veteran Jia Perkins.
College player news:
Gabby Green will transfer from Cal.
College coach news:
Lin Dunn's relationship with Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell lured her from retirement.
Stephanie White was introduced as Vanderbilt's new head coach yesterday.
St. Bonaventure alum Jesse Fleming is the new head coach of the women's program.
International basketball:
Lauren Jackson is keen to lead the charge for female athletes.
Edmonton's Plouffe twins are anticipating an Olympic appearance together.
It will be a reunion on many levels.
The Mystics also visit the Storm.
Washington-Seattle preview.
WNBA news:
WNBA's power rankings, week two. (Hint: Sparks are moving on up like the Jeffersons). And (the WNBA is now using my theme idea too, as ESPN did last week).
The league's "race to the MVP" has Candace Parker in the top slot now.
Team news:
The Wings are looking to string together a complete game.
But Dallas is quickly putting together some chemistry, despite setbacks.
The Storm's offense has featured a balanced attack in their first three games.
The Liberty are remaking their small forward position.
Balance is the name of the game for the Fever.
Player news:
Sparks forward Ana Dabovic can score on anybody - even USA Basketball.
Breanna Stewart and Fat Joe came "all the way up."
Liberty center Tina Charles has had early season success.
Get to know Lynx veteran Jia Perkins.
College player news:
Gabby Green will transfer from Cal.
College coach news:
Lin Dunn's relationship with Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell lured her from retirement.
Stephanie White was introduced as Vanderbilt's new head coach yesterday.
St. Bonaventure alum Jesse Fleming is the new head coach of the women's program.
International basketball:
Lauren Jackson is keen to lead the charge for female athletes.
Edmonton's Plouffe twins are anticipating an Olympic appearance together.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
4-0, and 0-4
Just moments ago, the Lynx held off the Mercury, 85-78.
Minnesota is now 4-0 and Phoenix, 0-4.
Player news:
San Antonio will retire Becky Hammon's jersey June 25.
Ivory Latta will soon return from injury to settle the Mystics.
By making the final Storm roster, rookie Blake Dietrick realized a dream that seemed impossible.
Dallas rookie Ruth Hamblin is one month a pro.
Wings forward Theresa Plaisance is not expected to play this weekend after spraining her ankle.
Dream forward Angel McCoughtry has a drive for more gold.
Q&A with Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike.
Coach news:
A slow start and many fouls have marked Sun coach Curt Miller's first season with the Sun.
College player news:
Florida guard Isis Young is transferring to Syracuse.
Omaha has landed Indiana transfer Jess Walter.
Richmond guard Lauren Tolson has been granted an extra year of eligibility.
College coach news:
Newly-hired coach Stephanie White plans to speed up play at Vanderbilt.
One writer says White was worth the wait.
New Commodores associate head coach Carolyn Peck will oversee the program while White finishes coaching the Indiana Fever.
Kentucky's new assistant coaches have strong bonds and a common goal.
Kim McNeill is Hartford's new head coach.
Wendale Farrow is Cal's new assistant coach.
Edgar Farmer has joined Clemson as an assistant coach.
Darren Guensch is East Carolina's new assistant coach.
Minnesota is now 4-0 and Phoenix, 0-4.
Player news:
San Antonio will retire Becky Hammon's jersey June 25.
Ivory Latta will soon return from injury to settle the Mystics.
By making the final Storm roster, rookie Blake Dietrick realized a dream that seemed impossible.
Dallas rookie Ruth Hamblin is one month a pro.
Wings forward Theresa Plaisance is not expected to play this weekend after spraining her ankle.
Dream forward Angel McCoughtry has a drive for more gold.
Q&A with Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike.
Coach news:
A slow start and many fouls have marked Sun coach Curt Miller's first season with the Sun.
College player news:
Florida guard Isis Young is transferring to Syracuse.
Omaha has landed Indiana transfer Jess Walter.
Richmond guard Lauren Tolson has been granted an extra year of eligibility.
College coach news:
Newly-hired coach Stephanie White plans to speed up play at Vanderbilt.
One writer says White was worth the wait.
New Commodores associate head coach Carolyn Peck will oversee the program while White finishes coaching the Indiana Fever.
Kentucky's new assistant coaches have strong bonds and a common goal.
Kim McNeill is Hartford's new head coach.
Wendale Farrow is Cal's new assistant coach.
Edgar Farmer has joined Clemson as an assistant coach.
Darren Guensch is East Carolina's new assistant coach.
Decline in women coaching issue is complex, with solutions
I began researching the decline in women coaching issue about two months ago, after social media flare ups. I found a whole heck of a lot of discontent - even despair - in the assistant coaching ranks. So I dug deeper, and deeper, and deeper......
Almost a dozen studies and countless interviews later, we have this piece.
So much to think about. Let me know your thoughts.
Almost a dozen studies and countless interviews later, we have this piece.
So much to think about. Let me know your thoughts.
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Every crayon in the Crayola box
Look who's 4-0:
The Sparks cruised past the Sky, 93-80. Candace Parker led the way for Los Angeles with 26 points.
In the meantime, the Dream outlasted the Liberty in overtime, 85-79. Tiffany Hayes had 27 points and 11 boards for Atlanta. The W says Hayes is having a breakout season.
Transactions:
Swin Cash is back with the Liberty, after being waived May 11 to meet salary cap requirements.
The Mystics waived Zoi Dimitrakou yesterday and signed Jamie Weisner today.
Team news:
The Mercury will try to avoid going 0-4 tomorrow, as they host the Lynx.
Player news:
Storm rookie Breanna Stewart has begun a new chapter in the WNBA.
How Sky rookie Imani Boyette beat the odds, and her depression.
Indiana Fever's Erica Wheeler has had a journey to the league.
Moriah Jefferson is quickly becoming a shining star in San Antonio.
College player news:
Stasha Carey has left Pitt and transferred to Rutgers.
Batouly Camara has officially transferred from Kentucky to UConn.
Southeast Missouri has added Missouri transfer Carrie Shepard.
College coach news:
Coach Felisha Legette-Jack has signed a new five-year contract at Buffalo.
Tamika Williams-Jeter joins Penn State as an assistant coach.
Jason Glover is a new assistant coach at New Mexico State.
Sally Higgins has joined Samford as an assistant coach.
College athletic director news:
The University of Washington's new athletic director is Jennifer Cohen. Yes, a woman!
College program news:
UCLA has signed a $280 million deal with Under Armor - the biggest deal in NCAA history.
College recruiting rankings:
South Carolina has crept into the top 20.
Stephanie White:
Money influenced Stephanie White's move to Vanderbilt.
Another journey begins for White.
International basketball:
Canada is relishing its new status as a threat on the International stage.
Lauren Jackson to the rescue for the Melbourne Boomers.
The Sparks cruised past the Sky, 93-80. Candace Parker led the way for Los Angeles with 26 points.
In the meantime, the Dream outlasted the Liberty in overtime, 85-79. Tiffany Hayes had 27 points and 11 boards for Atlanta. The W says Hayes is having a breakout season.
Transactions:
Swin Cash is back with the Liberty, after being waived May 11 to meet salary cap requirements.
The Mystics waived Zoi Dimitrakou yesterday and signed Jamie Weisner today.
Team news:
The Mercury will try to avoid going 0-4 tomorrow, as they host the Lynx.
Player news:
Storm rookie Breanna Stewart has begun a new chapter in the WNBA.
How Sky rookie Imani Boyette beat the odds, and her depression.
Indiana Fever's Erica Wheeler has had a journey to the league.
Moriah Jefferson is quickly becoming a shining star in San Antonio.
College player news:
Stasha Carey has left Pitt and transferred to Rutgers.
Batouly Camara has officially transferred from Kentucky to UConn.
Southeast Missouri has added Missouri transfer Carrie Shepard.
College coach news:
Coach Felisha Legette-Jack has signed a new five-year contract at Buffalo.
Tamika Williams-Jeter joins Penn State as an assistant coach.
Jason Glover is a new assistant coach at New Mexico State.
Sally Higgins has joined Samford as an assistant coach.
College athletic director news:
The University of Washington's new athletic director is Jennifer Cohen. Yes, a woman!
College program news:
UCLA has signed a $280 million deal with Under Armor - the biggest deal in NCAA history.
College recruiting rankings:
South Carolina has crept into the top 20.
Stephanie White:
Money influenced Stephanie White's move to Vanderbilt.
Another journey begins for White.
International basketball:
Canada is relishing its new status as a threat on the International stage.
Lauren Jackson to the rescue for the Melbourne Boomers.
Didn't see this coming
Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell has added to his assistant coaching staff of Kyra Elzy and Niya Butts.....Lin Dunn.
I didn't see that coming.
Yet one more intriguing new aspect of the SEC.
I didn't see that coming.
Yet one more intriguing new aspect of the SEC.
To grow the game, you have to see the game
Great point here:
The WNBA kicked of its 20th season on May 14 with a nationally televised game between the reigning champion Minnesota Lynx and the rejuvenated Phoenix Mercury. It was a marquee matchup featuring the return of Diana Taurasi — arguably the best player in the league. The game aired on ESPN in a primetime Saturday night slot and, according to SporsMediaWatch.com, pulled in the highest ratings on the network for a WNBA regular season game since 2001.
And that was that.
The season is now well underway and there hasn’t been a game on ESPN/ESPN 2 since. But if the ratings and viewership started out so well, the question is — why not? Why not capitalize on the momentum? Why not build on the level of interest?
The WNBA has definitely been doing better with marketing this season. They're having player interview with the press prior to big games, and they're stepping up their social media game. But the game broadcasts do need to increase, and the "Watch Me Work" campaign needs to be elevated to a much higher level. Those spots should be aired all day, every day, on as many channels as they can afford.
Keep working, WNBA.
The WNBA kicked of its 20th season on May 14 with a nationally televised game between the reigning champion Minnesota Lynx and the rejuvenated Phoenix Mercury. It was a marquee matchup featuring the return of Diana Taurasi — arguably the best player in the league. The game aired on ESPN in a primetime Saturday night slot and, according to SporsMediaWatch.com, pulled in the highest ratings on the network for a WNBA regular season game since 2001.
And that was that.
The season is now well underway and there hasn’t been a game on ESPN/ESPN 2 since. But if the ratings and viewership started out so well, the question is — why not? Why not capitalize on the momentum? Why not build on the level of interest?
The WNBA has definitely been doing better with marketing this season. They're having player interview with the press prior to big games, and they're stepping up their social media game. But the game broadcasts do need to increase, and the "Watch Me Work" campaign needs to be elevated to a much higher level. Those spots should be aired all day, every day, on as many channels as they can afford.
Keep working, WNBA.
Monday, May 23, 2016
News ride on a no-game day
Team news:
The Minnesota Lynx might sport the WNBA's best bench.
The Storm are making steady improvements.
Player news:
Rivals now, Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne will always have Taco Bell.
Mystics forward Stefanie Dolson's decision to come out was to be a role model for younger girls.
Alyssa Thomas is making an early impact for the Sun.
The WNBA is a world of difference for the three rookies from UConn.
Behind the scenes with Breanna Stewart.
Stewart is learning from tough early losses in the WNBA.
On point with Moriah Jefferson.
Tina Charles and Maya Moore are the WNBA's respective Eastern and Western Conference players of the week.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Dream at Liberty
Sparks at Sky
College player news:
UConn will likely land Kentucky transfer Batouly Camara.
Ten things Texas alum Imani Boyette wishes she would have known as a freshman.
College coach news:
Minnesota's new assistant coach is Tamisha Augustin.
George Porcha is a new assistant coach at Ole Miss.
USA Basketball news:
Tryouts for the U17 World Championship team will feature 150 athletes.
The Minnesota Lynx might sport the WNBA's best bench.
The Storm are making steady improvements.
Player news:
Rivals now, Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne will always have Taco Bell.
Mystics forward Stefanie Dolson's decision to come out was to be a role model for younger girls.
Alyssa Thomas is making an early impact for the Sun.
The WNBA is a world of difference for the three rookies from UConn.
Behind the scenes with Breanna Stewart.
Stewart is learning from tough early losses in the WNBA.
On point with Moriah Jefferson.
Tina Charles and Maya Moore are the WNBA's respective Eastern and Western Conference players of the week.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Dream at Liberty
Sparks at Sky
College player news:
UConn will likely land Kentucky transfer Batouly Camara.
Ten things Texas alum Imani Boyette wishes she would have known as a freshman.
College coach news:
Minnesota's new assistant coach is Tamisha Augustin.
George Porcha is a new assistant coach at Ole Miss.
USA Basketball news:
Tryouts for the U17 World Championship team will feature 150 athletes.
The SEC is about to get even more turned up
This deserves its own post......Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White is Vanderbilt's new head coach, and she brings Carolyn Peck along as associate head coach.
White will finish coaching the Fever this season.
Biggest college coaching move in quite some time.
This past spring we saw a record-tying nine SEC teams go to the NCAA Tournament. Will we soon see a record 10?
White will finish coaching the Fever this season.
Biggest college coaching move in quite some time.
This past spring we saw a record-tying nine SEC teams go to the NCAA Tournament. Will we soon see a record 10?
Sunday, May 22, 2016
The top 20 at 20: a statistical analysis of the WNBA’s best all-time players
Check out this interesting info.
It's almost a miracle that Tarsha and I could come together on this, as there may not be two people more opposite than an English major and an engineer. But the stats are compelling, to say the least.
It's almost a miracle that Tarsha and I could come together on this, as there may not be two people more opposite than an English major and an engineer. But the stats are compelling, to say the least.
Got intensity?
Sure seems like WNBA games have been INTENSE this first week of regular season. Today is no exception.
The Dream took down the Sky, 87-81. Did you see that coming?
Layshia Clarendon seems ultra-motivated since she got traded.....just look at that photo.
The Lynx held off the Storm, 78-71. Minnesota tampered with the Storm home debut.
I see you, Seattle, building things again. #2002dejavu
A tiny wake up call for Minnesota here.
Team news:
The Dallas Wings lived the hometown debut dream last night.
Player news:
Remember my advice to market the WNBA by owning who you are? Stefanie Dolson is doing that.
College coach news:
The new Vanderbilt coach wouldn't start until the fall.
Can Matthew Mitchell get Kentucky back on track?
The Dream took down the Sky, 87-81. Did you see that coming?
Layshia Clarendon seems ultra-motivated since she got traded.....just look at that photo.
The Lynx held off the Storm, 78-71. Minnesota tampered with the Storm home debut.
I see you, Seattle, building things again. #2002dejavu
A tiny wake up call for Minnesota here.
Team news:
The Dallas Wings lived the hometown debut dream last night.
Player news:
Remember my advice to market the WNBA by owning who you are? Stefanie Dolson is doing that.
College coach news:
The new Vanderbilt coach wouldn't start until the fall.
Can Matthew Mitchell get Kentucky back on track?
Saturday, May 21, 2016
OT day in the WNBA
The Sparks rallied to beat the Liberty in overtime, 79-72. Los Angeles begins the season 3-0 for the first time since 2003. It's been that long?
In another OT showdown, the Mystics downed the Sun, 84-76, for their first season win.
Almost went to overtime: the Wings edged the Stars, 82-77. It was Dallas' first home game, it was sold out, and Skylar Diggins returned. Great night for them.
Team news:
From LJ and Sue to Jewell and Sue: Seattle transitions from one era to the next.
The Mercury is working to draw young fans.
The WNBA now has the best Wings in Dallas.
Player news:
Sylvia Fowles is flourishing in her second season with the Lynx.
Erin Phillips and Penny Taylor are finding their form.
Sky rookie Imani Boyette: DNP.
Mercury rookie Nirra Fields talks about her playing career.
Michele Timms reflects on the Mercury's 20th season.
Coach news:
Fever coach Stephanie White over the years.
College coach news:
The Buscaglias have become synonymous with Robert Morris basketball.
Ta'Shia Phillips (remember her?) is a new assistant coach at the University of Indianapolis.
Adam Call is a new assistant coach at Eastern Michigan.
Hawaii's new assistant coach is Sybil Dosty.
In another OT showdown, the Mystics downed the Sun, 84-76, for their first season win.
Almost went to overtime: the Wings edged the Stars, 82-77. It was Dallas' first home game, it was sold out, and Skylar Diggins returned. Great night for them.
Team news:
From LJ and Sue to Jewell and Sue: Seattle transitions from one era to the next.
The Mercury is working to draw young fans.
The WNBA now has the best Wings in Dallas.
Player news:
Sylvia Fowles is flourishing in her second season with the Lynx.
Erin Phillips and Penny Taylor are finding their form.
Sky rookie Imani Boyette: DNP.
Mercury rookie Nirra Fields talks about her playing career.
Michele Timms reflects on the Mercury's 20th season.
Coach news:
Fever coach Stephanie White over the years.
College coach news:
The Buscaglias have become synonymous with Robert Morris basketball.
Ta'Shia Phillips (remember her?) is a new assistant coach at the University of Indianapolis.
Adam Call is a new assistant coach at Eastern Michigan.
Hawaii's new assistant coach is Sybil Dosty.
Friday, May 20, 2016
Well now - what do we have here?
The Fever held off the Dream, 94-85. Tamika Catchings (the GOAT) lead SEVEN players in double figures for the second consecutive game. That's a franchise record.
Atlanta had five players in double figures. What a game.
The Sparks routed the Mystics, 97-67. LA is 2-0 and Washington, 0-3.
Jewell "money" Loyd banked in a 12-footer with 2.9 seconds remaining to lift the Storm over the Mercury, 81-80. She had 30 points on the night, becoming only the sixth player in Seattle franchise history to score at least 30.
Phoenix is 0-3. Who saw that happening, with Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor back?
Tomorrow:
Sparks at Liberty
Mystics at Sun
Stars at Wings
Atlanta had five players in double figures. What a game.
The Sparks routed the Mystics, 97-67. LA is 2-0 and Washington, 0-3.
Jewell "money" Loyd banked in a 12-footer with 2.9 seconds remaining to lift the Storm over the Mercury, 81-80. She had 30 points on the night, becoming only the sixth player in Seattle franchise history to score at least 30.
Phoenix is 0-3. Who saw that happening, with Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor back?
Tomorrow:
Sparks at Liberty
Mystics at Sun
Stars at Wings
News before results
While we wait for our last game of the night to finish up....
Player news:
Sue Bird is taking her WNBA career one year at a time.
Wings rookie Aerial Powers got some advice recently from fellow Michigan State alum Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.
Blake Dietrick is suddenly in the eye of the Storm.
Stars rookie Moriah Jefferson: her former teammates have become opponents, but their friendship is still strong.
Former WNBA star Ruthie Bolton on breaking the silence around her marital abuse.
WNBA players are in a league of their own.
Coach news:
Coaches corner with the Mystics' Mike Thibault.
The lure of the Vanderbilt job could pry Stephanie White away from the Fever.
College player news:
Former Oklahoma State guard Brittney Martin is leaving basketball to be a graduate assistant at Texas Tech.
Two players are leaving Wisconsin.
College coach news:
Whoa now: Vanderbilt's three head coach finalists are Stephanie White, Niele Ivey and Courtney Banghart.
White issued a statement that her focus is on the Indiana Fever right now.
Guess who's the new coach at Cal State LA? The legend Cheryl Miller.
Embattled Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell has landed a big commit.
Abi Olajuwon is Eastern Michigan's new assistant coach.
Jeff Cammon, who has spent the past two seasons as assistant coach at Cal, will take the same position at Colorado.
Coach Ravon Justice has completed her coaching staff at Prairie View A&M.
Ashley Langford is Old Dominion's new assistant coach.
Jesyka Burks-Wiley is a new assistant coach at Boston College.
Crayton Jones is Temple's new assistant coach.
Adam Tandez is a new assistant coach at Northern Illinois.
Player news:
Sue Bird is taking her WNBA career one year at a time.
Wings rookie Aerial Powers got some advice recently from fellow Michigan State alum Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.
Blake Dietrick is suddenly in the eye of the Storm.
Stars rookie Moriah Jefferson: her former teammates have become opponents, but their friendship is still strong.
Former WNBA star Ruthie Bolton on breaking the silence around her marital abuse.
WNBA players are in a league of their own.
Coach news:
Coaches corner with the Mystics' Mike Thibault.
The lure of the Vanderbilt job could pry Stephanie White away from the Fever.
College player news:
Former Oklahoma State guard Brittney Martin is leaving basketball to be a graduate assistant at Texas Tech.
Two players are leaving Wisconsin.
College coach news:
Whoa now: Vanderbilt's three head coach finalists are Stephanie White, Niele Ivey and Courtney Banghart.
White issued a statement that her focus is on the Indiana Fever right now.
Guess who's the new coach at Cal State LA? The legend Cheryl Miller.
Embattled Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell has landed a big commit.
Abi Olajuwon is Eastern Michigan's new assistant coach.
Jeff Cammon, who has spent the past two seasons as assistant coach at Cal, will take the same position at Colorado.
Coach Ravon Justice has completed her coaching staff at Prairie View A&M.
Ashley Langford is Old Dominion's new assistant coach.
Jesyka Burks-Wiley is a new assistant coach at Boston College.
Crayton Jones is Temple's new assistant coach.
Adam Tandez is a new assistant coach at Northern Illinois.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Something old, something new
Hey hey hey, look who got their first win today:
The Sun edged the Stars, 72-68.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Sparks at Mystics
Dream at Fever
Storm at Mercury
WNBA 20:
Check out the WNBA's amazing video vault, with vignettes from 1995-2005.
This year's rookies talk about their first WNBA memory.
Team news:
Coach Jenny Boucek says the Storm's identity is still unfolding.
The Lynx are finding success in sharing the ball.
Player news:
Dream veterans Angel McCoughtry and Sancho Lyttle aren't giving up on winning a title.
The key to Liberty guard Sugar Rodgers' success? Hard work.
Meet Zoi Dimitrakou, the Washington Mystics’ 28-year-old rookie.
College coach news:
Sagging LSU got a boost with the Mickie DeMoss hire.
The Sun edged the Stars, 72-68.
Tomorrow's schedule:
Sparks at Mystics
Dream at Fever
Storm at Mercury
WNBA 20:
Check out the WNBA's amazing video vault, with vignettes from 1995-2005.
This year's rookies talk about their first WNBA memory.
Team news:
Coach Jenny Boucek says the Storm's identity is still unfolding.
The Lynx are finding success in sharing the ball.
Player news:
Dream veterans Angel McCoughtry and Sancho Lyttle aren't giving up on winning a title.
The key to Liberty guard Sugar Rodgers' success? Hard work.
Meet Zoi Dimitrakou, the Washington Mystics’ 28-year-old rookie.
College coach news:
Sagging LSU got a boost with the Mickie DeMoss hire.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
More of the same from the Lynx and Mercury
The Lynx routed the Sky, 97-80, as Sylvia Fowles put up 24 points against her former team. Minnesota is now 2-0.
The Fever got past the Mercury, 97-93, with a balanced attack. Phoenix is now 0-2.
The Wings downed the Mystics, 87-77, behind Odyssey Sims' 22 points.
It makes for some interesting standings on day five of the season.
Marketing the league:
More details from WNBA president Lisa Borders on how she plans to market the league.
Player news:
Cappie Pondexter lends her voice and veteran leadership to the Sky.
Sue Bird isn't ready to walk away yet.
The Storm is happy to get Jenna O'Hea back after their 30-point loss over the weekend.
Renee Montgomery is turning into a defensive stopper for the Lynx.
Kayla McBride is showing veteran leadership for San Antonio.
Liberty center Tina Charles on how strong, supportive women helped her succeed.
Mercury rookie Nirra Fields is just the second Montrealer to play in the WNBA.
Coach news:
Wings coach Fred Williams is a jazz musician.
Katie Smith wants to leave a lasting legacy as a coach, too.
Podcasts:
Around the Rim is back.
Changing the game, episode three.
NCAA news:
The NCAA Women’s Basketball Rules Committee is pleased with the state of the game, after rules changes this past season.
College player news:
Former Texas center Sara Hattis is transferring to Arizona State.
Juco star Cheridene Green has joined the Lady Vols.
Amber Deane has left Dayton for Indiana.
Alana Gilmer is leaving Virginia Tech for Marist.
College coach news:
Langston University has hired Elaine Powell to replace Cheryl Miller as coach.
The WBCA has named Green Bay's Kevin Borseth the DI coach of the year for the second straight time.
Oregon State coach Scott Rueck's contract has been extended an additional two years, through the 2021-2022 season.
Louisiana Tech coach Brooke Stoehr has built relationships her first month on the job.
UC Irvine coach Tamara Inoue has announced her coaching staff.
Bridgette Reyes is Loyola Marymount's new assistant coach.
The Fever got past the Mercury, 97-93, with a balanced attack. Phoenix is now 0-2.
The Wings downed the Mystics, 87-77, behind Odyssey Sims' 22 points.
It makes for some interesting standings on day five of the season.
Marketing the league:
More details from WNBA president Lisa Borders on how she plans to market the league.
Player news:
Cappie Pondexter lends her voice and veteran leadership to the Sky.
Sue Bird isn't ready to walk away yet.
The Storm is happy to get Jenna O'Hea back after their 30-point loss over the weekend.
Renee Montgomery is turning into a defensive stopper for the Lynx.
Kayla McBride is showing veteran leadership for San Antonio.
Liberty center Tina Charles on how strong, supportive women helped her succeed.
Mercury rookie Nirra Fields is just the second Montrealer to play in the WNBA.
Coach news:
Wings coach Fred Williams is a jazz musician.
Katie Smith wants to leave a lasting legacy as a coach, too.
Podcasts:
Around the Rim is back.
Changing the game, episode three.
NCAA news:
The NCAA Women’s Basketball Rules Committee is pleased with the state of the game, after rules changes this past season.
College player news:
Former Texas center Sara Hattis is transferring to Arizona State.
Juco star Cheridene Green has joined the Lady Vols.
Amber Deane has left Dayton for Indiana.
Alana Gilmer is leaving Virginia Tech for Marist.
College coach news:
Langston University has hired Elaine Powell to replace Cheryl Miller as coach.
The WBCA has named Green Bay's Kevin Borseth the DI coach of the year for the second straight time.
Oregon State coach Scott Rueck's contract has been extended an additional two years, through the 2021-2022 season.
Louisiana Tech coach Brooke Stoehr has built relationships her first month on the job.
UC Irvine coach Tamara Inoue has announced her coaching staff.
Bridgette Reyes is Loyola Marymount's new assistant coach.
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Pay attention to your smaller and independent media sources
In 1983, 50 companies controlled media in the United States. By 2012, that number had dropped significantly due to mergers and acquisitions. The six corporations that now control 90 percent of the media in this country are:
Time Warner Cable
CBS
Viacom
Disney
Newscorp
GE
According to this piece, that means 232 executives control the media diet of 277 million Americans. That's a truly scary thought.
The same is true of ESPN in the sports world: it controls most of the media in that sphere. That's why their stuff gets tweeted by the NCAA, the WNBA and many of the teams therein.
And this is why you are best to actively seek out independent WBB media, too. Obviously, if you're reading this, you already do. But pass it along, and check out other independent WBB news sites and twitter accounts. Because as the news machine is currently saturating the public with Donald Trump, the mainstream sports media is snowing us with Breanna Stewart, and a few other select story lines.
Seek a wide variety of news sources to be as informed as you possibly can. Women's basketball is full of fascinating people all around the country. The more news outlets you read, the more knowledgeable you will be about the WBB community, and all the issues surrounding it.
Time Warner Cable
CBS
Viacom
Disney
Newscorp
GE
According to this piece, that means 232 executives control the media diet of 277 million Americans. That's a truly scary thought.
The same is true of ESPN in the sports world: it controls most of the media in that sphere. That's why their stuff gets tweeted by the NCAA, the WNBA and many of the teams therein.
And this is why you are best to actively seek out independent WBB media, too. Obviously, if you're reading this, you already do. But pass it along, and check out other independent WBB news sites and twitter accounts. Because as the news machine is currently saturating the public with Donald Trump, the mainstream sports media is snowing us with Breanna Stewart, and a few other select story lines.
Seek a wide variety of news sources to be as informed as you possibly can. Women's basketball is full of fascinating people all around the country. The more news outlets you read, the more knowledgeable you will be about the WBB community, and all the issues surrounding it.
Stats, stats, and more advanced stats
WNBA has advanced stats available now:
Here.
Explanation.
National Statistical also has stats here.
WNBA's power rankings:
....are about what you'd expect.
The WNBA:
....has a scheduling problem.
Team news:
The Mystics are down four players.
All-Access with the Lynx on opening night.
Minnesota practice report for today: the little things.
Player news:
These young guards are making an immediate impact for the Fever.
Indiana rookie Tiffany Mitchell is blogging.
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green:
....learns more from the WNBA.
College team news:
Kentucky resignation letters and personnel files offer little insight into the turmoil within the program.
College player news:
Taja Cole is transferring from Louisville to Georgia.
Louisiana Tech transfer Tiara Davenport has landed at SMU.
College coach news:
Mickie DeMoss has joined LSU as an assistant coach.
Cheryl Miller is no longer listed as Langston's coach on the school website.
Colorado's new assistant coach is Jeff Cammon.
AJ Cohen is Albeny's new assistant coach, while Audrey Cunningham and Janie Mitchell are new assistants at Stony Brook.
Here.
Explanation.
National Statistical also has stats here.
WNBA's power rankings:
....are about what you'd expect.
The WNBA:
....has a scheduling problem.
Team news:
The Mystics are down four players.
All-Access with the Lynx on opening night.
Minnesota practice report for today: the little things.
Player news:
These young guards are making an immediate impact for the Fever.
Indiana rookie Tiffany Mitchell is blogging.
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green:
....learns more from the WNBA.
College team news:
Kentucky resignation letters and personnel files offer little insight into the turmoil within the program.
College player news:
Taja Cole is transferring from Louisville to Georgia.
Louisiana Tech transfer Tiara Davenport has landed at SMU.
College coach news:
Mickie DeMoss has joined LSU as an assistant coach.
Cheryl Miller is no longer listed as Langston's coach on the school website.
Colorado's new assistant coach is Jeff Cammon.
AJ Cohen is Albeny's new assistant coach, while Audrey Cunningham and Janie Mitchell are new assistants at Stony Brook.
Monday, May 16, 2016
Opening weekend afterglow
Opening weekend:
Five things we learned from opening weekend in the WNBA.
ESPN posted the highest overnight ratings for a WNBA game since 2011.
WNBA:
ESPN's oral history.
Mel Greenberg's oral history.
Team news:
Motto for the new-look Sun: humble but hungry. Their opening loss exposed their weaknesses.
Lynx practice report: the importance of the second unit.
Player news:
After sitting out Saturday's game with an illness, Elena Delle Donne practiced today and is expected to play Wednesday.
Breanna Stewart is at day one again.
Diana Taurasi is back, and relishes being the villain.
The love Wings guard Erin Phillips has for football rivals basketball.
A Mystics minute with Bria Hartley.
College conference news:
South Carolina will host the SEC Tournament as a result of removing the Confederate flag from state grounds last year.
College player news:
Natalie Romeo is leaving Nebraska for Washington.
Lexi Martins joins George Washington.
Western Kentucky transfer Taylor Brown has landed at Seton Hall.
Olympics:
You should know the Canadian National Team.
Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner talk Olympics.
Five things we learned from opening weekend in the WNBA.
ESPN posted the highest overnight ratings for a WNBA game since 2011.
WNBA:
ESPN's oral history.
Mel Greenberg's oral history.
Team news:
Motto for the new-look Sun: humble but hungry. Their opening loss exposed their weaknesses.
Lynx practice report: the importance of the second unit.
Player news:
After sitting out Saturday's game with an illness, Elena Delle Donne practiced today and is expected to play Wednesday.
Breanna Stewart is at day one again.
Diana Taurasi is back, and relishes being the villain.
The love Wings guard Erin Phillips has for football rivals basketball.
A Mystics minute with Bria Hartley.
College conference news:
South Carolina will host the SEC Tournament as a result of removing the Confederate flag from state grounds last year.
College player news:
Natalie Romeo is leaving Nebraska for Washington.
Lexi Martins joins George Washington.
Western Kentucky transfer Taylor Brown has landed at Seton Hall.
Olympics:
You should know the Canadian National Team.
Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner talk Olympics.
Sunday, May 15, 2016
Sparks, Liberty win on day two of season
The Liberty downed the Wings, 79-71, in their home opener, and are sending a message.
Tina Charles and Sugar Rodgers each had great games for the second night in a row. Today both had 24 points a piece.
Candace Parker lead the Sparks past the Storm, 96-66, with 34 points. Rookie Breanna Stewart was the top scorer for Seattle, with 23 points.
Stewart and Tiffany Mitchell, who lead the Fever yesterday with 18 points, are the two rookies who outscored their teams in their debuts.
The WNBA:
How the WNBA compares to other sports leagues at 20.
Watch them work.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve says the league has come a long way in two decades.
Dream forward Angel McCoughtry and the WNBA are ready for respect.
GM news:
Seattle president and general manager Alisha Valavanis is the eye of the Storm.
Team news:
The Wings are feeling seller's remorse after Amanda Zahui B. lead the Liberty past them today.
Player news:
Swin Cash will likely return to the Liberty around May 24.
In her WNBA debut today, the Storm's Breanna Stewart actually experienced losing. She is carrying the burden for the Storm and for the league.
College team news:
The next recruiting class is critical to the future of the Lady Vols.
Tina Charles and Sugar Rodgers each had great games for the second night in a row. Today both had 24 points a piece.
Candace Parker lead the Sparks past the Storm, 96-66, with 34 points. Rookie Breanna Stewart was the top scorer for Seattle, with 23 points.
Stewart and Tiffany Mitchell, who lead the Fever yesterday with 18 points, are the two rookies who outscored their teams in their debuts.
The WNBA:
How the WNBA compares to other sports leagues at 20.
Watch them work.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve says the league has come a long way in two decades.
Dream forward Angel McCoughtry and the WNBA are ready for respect.
GM news:
Seattle president and general manager Alisha Valavanis is the eye of the Storm.
Team news:
The Wings are feeling seller's remorse after Amanda Zahui B. lead the Liberty past them today.
Player news:
Swin Cash will likely return to the Liberty around May 24.
In her WNBA debut today, the Storm's Breanna Stewart actually experienced losing. She is carrying the burden for the Storm and for the league.
College team news:
The next recruiting class is critical to the future of the Lady Vols.
Saturday, May 14, 2016
Season opening results
Very interesting, to stay the bare minimum.
Jewelry first, then a gem of an opener for the Lynx. Or, "Lynx get rings, then blow out Phoenix." Either headline works.
But check out those opening paragraphs: that preseason GM poll that picked the Mercury to win the title pissed off Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve. (Not a good idea).
95-76
Maya Moore with that double-double. Mmm mmm.
The Wings downed the Fever, 90-79.
Indiana coach Stephanie White asks for patience.
The Dream went big in overtime to run past the Stars, 73-63.
With a late surge, the Liberty topped the Mystics, 87-76.
The Sky cruised by the Sun, 93-70.
Look how all three Connecticut rookies shone tonight, as did Indiana's Tiffany Mitchell.
Tomorrow:
The Storm are at the Sparks in the season opener for both teams.
The Wings are at the Liberty.
Jewelry first, then a gem of an opener for the Lynx. Or, "Lynx get rings, then blow out Phoenix." Either headline works.
But check out those opening paragraphs: that preseason GM poll that picked the Mercury to win the title pissed off Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve. (Not a good idea).
95-76
Maya Moore with that double-double. Mmm mmm.
The Wings downed the Fever, 90-79.
Indiana coach Stephanie White asks for patience.
The Dream went big in overtime to run past the Stars, 73-63.
With a late surge, the Liberty topped the Mystics, 87-76.
The Sky cruised by the Sun, 93-70.
Look how all three Connecticut rookies shone tonight, as did Indiana's Tiffany Mitchell.
Tomorrow:
The Storm are at the Sparks in the season opener for both teams.
The Wings are at the Liberty.
What's up behind the scenes
The WNBA:
The WNBA has changed "everything" for girls in 20 years.
WNBA team news:
Lynx season story lines.
Player news:
New York center Tina Charles has rediscovered her hometown.
Q&A with Maya Moore.
Ex-UConn big Stef Dolson back in the news? Nothing to see here.
Coach news:
Q&A with Sky coach Pokey Chatman.
Former Ohio State greats Katie Smith and Herb Williams have found their niches as assistant coaches for the Liberty.
Q&A with Sun coach Curt Miller.
College team news:
Oregon State is getting little rest in the offseason.
Iowa State has filed a response in the Moody lawsuit.
College player news:
Wagner transfer Jasmine Nwajei is going to Syracuse.
College coach news:
Washington coach Mike Neighbors' contract has been extended through the 2022-2023 season.
Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell tweeted a letter to fans denying there's a "scandal" in the program.
The WNBA has changed "everything" for girls in 20 years.
WNBA team news:
Lynx season story lines.
Player news:
New York center Tina Charles has rediscovered her hometown.
Q&A with Maya Moore.
Ex-UConn big Stef Dolson back in the news? Nothing to see here.
Coach news:
Q&A with Sky coach Pokey Chatman.
Former Ohio State greats Katie Smith and Herb Williams have found their niches as assistant coaches for the Liberty.
Q&A with Sun coach Curt Miller.
College team news:
Oregon State is getting little rest in the offseason.
Iowa State has filed a response in the Moody lawsuit.
College player news:
Wagner transfer Jasmine Nwajei is going to Syracuse.
College coach news:
Washington coach Mike Neighbors' contract has been extended through the 2022-2023 season.
Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell tweeted a letter to fans denying there's a "scandal" in the program.
Friday, May 13, 2016
The WNBA season begins in 5....4....3....2....
Tomorrow's schedule:
Wings at Fever, 6 p.m. ET
Liberty at Mystics, 7 p.m. ET
Mercury at Lynx, 7:30 p.m. ET
Sun at Sky, 8 p.m. ET
Dream at Stars, 8 p.m. ET
All five games will be live on the ESPN/WatchESPN app. The Minnesota Lynx ring ceremony will be at 7:10 p.m. Eastern on ESPN3.
WNBA20:
Super dope infographic on the history of the league.
Two decades of player memories.
Cynthia Cooper-Dyke laid a solid foundation for the WNBA.
Great trip down memory lane on the WNBA's twitter.
Team news:
The Mystics' starting five could total just eight years of experience in the league.
Twenty years in, the Mercury shines as a WNBA jewel.
Why Dallas got a team and why the Wings think they can succeed.
Veterans and rookies are ready to show out for the Wings.
Player news:
Will Tamika Catchings get her storybook ending?
How Skylar Diggins is building a brand that transcends the WNBA.
How Diggins eats clean.
Already? The Liberty's Tanisha Wright begins her 12th season.
Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen is taking a fresh approach to the season.
How a year away from basketball helped Elena Delle Donne become WNBA MVP.
Wings center Courtney Paris begins her seventh WNBA season tomorrow.
Dearica Hamby is ready for her second season with San Antonio.
Ruth Hamblin made the Dallas roster.
For Indiana rookie Tiffany Mitchell, all paths inevitably lead to the WNBA.
Wings forward Jordan Hooper honed her skills overseas this past winter.
Breanna Stewart will continue to make history.
How far can Stewart take the Seattle Storm?
Healthy eating tips from WNBA moms.
Coach news:
Dan Hughes enters his final season as San Antonio's coach.
Wings at Fever, 6 p.m. ET
Liberty at Mystics, 7 p.m. ET
Mercury at Lynx, 7:30 p.m. ET
Sun at Sky, 8 p.m. ET
Dream at Stars, 8 p.m. ET
All five games will be live on the ESPN/WatchESPN app. The Minnesota Lynx ring ceremony will be at 7:10 p.m. Eastern on ESPN3.
WNBA20:
Super dope infographic on the history of the league.
Two decades of player memories.
Cynthia Cooper-Dyke laid a solid foundation for the WNBA.
Great trip down memory lane on the WNBA's twitter.
Team news:
The Mystics' starting five could total just eight years of experience in the league.
Twenty years in, the Mercury shines as a WNBA jewel.
Why Dallas got a team and why the Wings think they can succeed.
Veterans and rookies are ready to show out for the Wings.
Player news:
Will Tamika Catchings get her storybook ending?
How Skylar Diggins is building a brand that transcends the WNBA.
How Diggins eats clean.
Already? The Liberty's Tanisha Wright begins her 12th season.
Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen is taking a fresh approach to the season.
How a year away from basketball helped Elena Delle Donne become WNBA MVP.
Wings center Courtney Paris begins her seventh WNBA season tomorrow.
Dearica Hamby is ready for her second season with San Antonio.
Ruth Hamblin made the Dallas roster.
For Indiana rookie Tiffany Mitchell, all paths inevitably lead to the WNBA.
Wings forward Jordan Hooper honed her skills overseas this past winter.
Breanna Stewart will continue to make history.
How far can Stewart take the Seattle Storm?
Healthy eating tips from WNBA moms.
Coach news:
Dan Hughes enters his final season as San Antonio's coach.
Roster update
San Antonio Stars:
Kayla Alexander
Jayne Appel-Marinelli
Sydney Colson
Monique Currie
Frida Eldebrink
Jazmon Gwathmey
Dearica Hamby
Moriah Jefferson
Kayla McBride
Alex Montgomery
Astou N’dour
Haley Peters
Washington Mystics:
Natasha Cloud
Kahleah Copper
Stefanie Dolson
Bria Hartley
Tianna Hawkins
Tayler Hill
Ivory Latta
Ally Malott
Emma Meesseman
Tierra Ruffin-Pratt
Zoi Dimitrakou
Kia Vaughn
Phoenix Mercury:
Mistie Bass
DeWanna Bonner
Candice Dupree
Nirra Fields
Brittney Griner
Alex Harden
Isabelle Harrison
Sonja Petrovic
Noelle Quinn
Penny Taylor
Diana Taurasi
Courtney Williams
You can find all 12 rosters on the womensbasketball24/7 website - not wnba.com.
Isn't that something? The league - and for its 20th season - doesn't have a link to all the rosters. It hasn't updated its transactions page since Wednesday.
Some teams haven't updated rosters on their websites. Many teams haven't tweeted out links to the roster.
The best women's basketball league in the world, in which there are a mere 144 spots, can't even tell you who's filling them. You have to go to another site to get that info.
That is unprofessional. And if the WNBA truly wants to step up to the next level, they're going to have to take care of these kinds of details.
Kayla Alexander
Jayne Appel-Marinelli
Sydney Colson
Monique Currie
Frida Eldebrink
Jazmon Gwathmey
Dearica Hamby
Moriah Jefferson
Kayla McBride
Alex Montgomery
Astou N’dour
Haley Peters
Washington Mystics:
Natasha Cloud
Kahleah Copper
Stefanie Dolson
Bria Hartley
Tianna Hawkins
Tayler Hill
Ivory Latta
Ally Malott
Emma Meesseman
Tierra Ruffin-Pratt
Zoi Dimitrakou
Kia Vaughn
Phoenix Mercury:
Mistie Bass
DeWanna Bonner
Candice Dupree
Nirra Fields
Brittney Griner
Alex Harden
Isabelle Harrison
Sonja Petrovic
Noelle Quinn
Penny Taylor
Diana Taurasi
Courtney Williams
You can find all 12 rosters on the womensbasketball24/7 website - not wnba.com.
Isn't that something? The league - and for its 20th season - doesn't have a link to all the rosters. It hasn't updated its transactions page since Wednesday.
Some teams haven't updated rosters on their websites. Many teams haven't tweeted out links to the roster.
The best women's basketball league in the world, in which there are a mere 144 spots, can't even tell you who's filling them. You have to go to another site to get that info.
That is unprofessional. And if the WNBA truly wants to step up to the next level, they're going to have to take care of these kinds of details.
Finally.....more final rosters
Los Angeles Sparks:
Alana Beard
Evgeniya Belyakova
Essence Carson
Ana Dabovic
Jelena Dubljevic
Chelsea Gray
Whitney Knight
Jantel Lavender
Nneka Ogwumike
Candace Parker
Kristi Toliver
Ann Wauters
Seattle Storm:
Sue Bird
Abby Bishop
Alysha Clark
Blake Dietrick
Markeisha Gatling
Crystal Langhorne
Jewell Loyd
Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis
Jenna O'Hea
Breanna Stewart
Ramu Tokashiki
Monica Wright
Still waiting on the Mercury, Stars and Mystics to post final rosters on their websites. I got the Storm's last cut - Tiffany Bias - from my reporter Joe Veyera.
Alana Beard
Evgeniya Belyakova
Essence Carson
Ana Dabovic
Jelena Dubljevic
Chelsea Gray
Whitney Knight
Jantel Lavender
Nneka Ogwumike
Candace Parker
Kristi Toliver
Ann Wauters
Seattle Storm:
Sue Bird
Abby Bishop
Alysha Clark
Blake Dietrick
Markeisha Gatling
Crystal Langhorne
Jewell Loyd
Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis
Jenna O'Hea
Breanna Stewart
Ramu Tokashiki
Monica Wright
Still waiting on the Mercury, Stars and Mystics to post final rosters on their websites. I got the Storm's last cut - Tiffany Bias - from my reporter Joe Veyera.
While we wait for the WNBA transactions page to be updated
It's three hours after the cuts deadline and no updates yet on the WNBA transactions page.
A few teams haven't even updated their roster pages from cuts made earlier this week. Very disappointing.
In the meantime:
As the WNBA opens its 20th season, key figures recall the first game.
A survey of the league's GMs sees Phoenix picked to win this year's title.
The WNBA needs better presentation, new Stars GM Ruth Riley says. She's right on the money.
The WNBA is so progressive that a WNBA player came out and no one blinked.
The Sparks have filled in the missing pieces and start with a full slate.
A few teams haven't even updated their roster pages from cuts made earlier this week. Very disappointing.
In the meantime:
As the WNBA opens its 20th season, key figures recall the first game.
A survey of the league's GMs sees Phoenix picked to win this year's title.
The WNBA needs better presentation, new Stars GM Ruth Riley says. She's right on the money.
The WNBA is so progressive that a WNBA player came out and no one blinked.
The Sparks have filled in the missing pieces and start with a full slate.
Thursday, May 12, 2016
Two days until WNBA season
The season:
What to expect this year? Lots of changes.
The league begins a milestone season.
The WNBA is still trying to expand its fan base.
Team news:
The Liberty won't be sneaking up on anyone this season.
Player news:
Elena Delle Donne is on the June cover of Chicago Magazine.
EDD Q&A.
Lynx all-access: Janel McCarville's return.
Minnesota's Maya Moore says she's "in a good place."
Sky rookie Imani Boyette podcast. She has proven there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Coach news:
Sky coach Pokey Chatman's lessons keep coming.
College player news:
Vanderbilt center Kendall Shaw is transferring to Wisconsin, and is eligible immediately.
A Kentucky recruit explains why she bolted from the program.
Kelly Koshuta will transfer from Virginia Tech.
College coach news:
Binghamton coach Linda Cimino has been appointed to the NCAA Women's Basketball Rules Committee.
Rutgers is working on a four-year contract extension with coach Vivian Stringer.
Julian Assibey is Montana State's new assistant coach.
What to expect this year? Lots of changes.
The league begins a milestone season.
The WNBA is still trying to expand its fan base.
Team news:
The Liberty won't be sneaking up on anyone this season.
Player news:
Elena Delle Donne is on the June cover of Chicago Magazine.
EDD Q&A.
Lynx all-access: Janel McCarville's return.
Minnesota's Maya Moore says she's "in a good place."
Sky rookie Imani Boyette podcast. She has proven there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Coach news:
Sky coach Pokey Chatman's lessons keep coming.
College player news:
Vanderbilt center Kendall Shaw is transferring to Wisconsin, and is eligible immediately.
A Kentucky recruit explains why she bolted from the program.
Kelly Koshuta will transfer from Virginia Tech.
College coach news:
Binghamton coach Linda Cimino has been appointed to the NCAA Women's Basketball Rules Committee.
Rutgers is working on a four-year contract extension with coach Vivian Stringer.
Julian Assibey is Montana State's new assistant coach.
Some team rosters named, others have yet to be finalized
Atlanta Dream:
Matee Ajavon
Cierra Burdick
Layshia Clarendon
Carla Cortijo
Damiris Dantas
Reshanda Gray
Tiffany Hayes
Rachel Hollivay
Bria Holmes
Sancho Lyttle
Angel McCoughtry
Meighan Simmons
Elizabeth Williams
Chicago Sky:
Imani Boyette
Jessica Breland
Erika de Souza
Elena Delle Donne
Clarissa Dos Santos
Jamierra Faulkner
Betnijah Laney
Cheyenne Parker
Cappie Pondexter
Allie Quigley
Courtney Vandersloot
Tamera Young
New York Liberty:
Ameryst Alson
Brittany Boyd
Adut Bulgak
Tina Charles
Lindsey Harding
Epiphanny Prince
Sugar Rodgers
Shoni Schimmel
Kiah Stokes
Carolyn Swords
Tanisha Wright
Amanda Zahui B.
Shavonte Zellous
Dallas Wings:
Karima Christmas
Skylar Diggins
Ruth Hamblin
Jordan Hooper
Glory Johnson
Brianna Kiesel
Courtney Paris
Erin Phillips
Plenette Pierson
Theresa Plaisance
Aerial Powers
Odyssey Sims
Indiana Fever:
Natalie Achonwa
Tamika Catchings
Marissa Coleman
Briann January
Shenise Johnson
Lynetta Kizer
Erlana Larkins
Maggie Lucas
Tiffany Mitchell
Brene Moseley
Devereaux Peters
Erica Wheeler
Minnesota Lynx:
Seimone Augustus
Rebekkah Brunson
Sylvia Fowles
Bashaara Graves
Keisha Hampton
Natasha Howard
Janel McCarville
Renee Montgomery
Maya Moore
Jia Perkins
Lindsay Whalen
Connecticut Sun:
Rachel Banham
Alex Bentley
Kelsey Bone
Kelly Faris
Aneika Henry-Morello
Jonquel Jones
Camille Little
Chiney Ogwumike
Shekinna Stricklen
Alyssa Thomas
Jasmine Thomas
Morgan Tuck
Teams who still have one more cut to make:
Seattle Storm
Washington Mystics
Los Angeles Sparks (I was at media day and saw the roster)
Teams with more than one cut to make:
Phoenix Mercury
San Antonio Stars
Final rosters are due tomorrow at noon Pacific/3 p.m. Eastern.
Matee Ajavon
Cierra Burdick
Layshia Clarendon
Carla Cortijo
Damiris Dantas
Reshanda Gray
Tiffany Hayes
Rachel Hollivay
Bria Holmes
Sancho Lyttle
Angel McCoughtry
Meighan Simmons
Elizabeth Williams
Chicago Sky:
Imani Boyette
Jessica Breland
Erika de Souza
Elena Delle Donne
Clarissa Dos Santos
Jamierra Faulkner
Betnijah Laney
Cheyenne Parker
Cappie Pondexter
Allie Quigley
Courtney Vandersloot
Tamera Young
New York Liberty:
Ameryst Alson
Brittany Boyd
Adut Bulgak
Tina Charles
Lindsey Harding
Epiphanny Prince
Sugar Rodgers
Shoni Schimmel
Kiah Stokes
Carolyn Swords
Tanisha Wright
Amanda Zahui B.
Shavonte Zellous
Dallas Wings:
Karima Christmas
Skylar Diggins
Ruth Hamblin
Jordan Hooper
Glory Johnson
Brianna Kiesel
Courtney Paris
Erin Phillips
Plenette Pierson
Theresa Plaisance
Aerial Powers
Odyssey Sims
Indiana Fever:
Natalie Achonwa
Tamika Catchings
Marissa Coleman
Briann January
Shenise Johnson
Lynetta Kizer
Erlana Larkins
Maggie Lucas
Tiffany Mitchell
Brene Moseley
Devereaux Peters
Erica Wheeler
Minnesota Lynx:
Seimone Augustus
Rebekkah Brunson
Sylvia Fowles
Bashaara Graves
Keisha Hampton
Natasha Howard
Janel McCarville
Renee Montgomery
Maya Moore
Jia Perkins
Lindsay Whalen
Connecticut Sun:
Rachel Banham
Alex Bentley
Kelsey Bone
Kelly Faris
Aneika Henry-Morello
Jonquel Jones
Camille Little
Chiney Ogwumike
Shekinna Stricklen
Alyssa Thomas
Jasmine Thomas
Morgan Tuck
Teams who still have one more cut to make:
Seattle Storm
Washington Mystics
Los Angeles Sparks (I was at media day and saw the roster)
Teams with more than one cut to make:
Phoenix Mercury
San Antonio Stars
Final rosters are due tomorrow at noon Pacific/3 p.m. Eastern.
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Say what? And more cuts to come
Rosters have to be finalized tomorrow, and several teams have cuts to make.
Buckle up for more carnage.
Today's transactions:
Dallas traded Amanda Zahui B. to New York for a 2017 first and second-round pick.
Today's list.....
Atlanta Dantas, Damiris Suspended for 2016 season
Chicago McKinney, Shanece Waived
New York Cakir, Olcay Suspended for 2016 season
New York Caldwell, Talia Waived
New York Cash, Swin Waived
New York Eldebrink, Elin Waived
New York Warley-Talbert, Avery Waived
New York Zahui B, Amanda Traded from Dallas to New York for 2017 1st round pick
San Antonio Richardson-Smith, Tabatha Signed
The Swin Cash waive sent shock waves through the WBB world.
Team news:
The Dallas Wings' aggression on court has bonded them.
Player news:
Tamika Catchings is cherishing every moment of her farewell season.
Mystics forward Stefanie Dolson comes out, and talks about being who she is.
Elena Delle Donne's brand and personality has come out of the wood work.
This morning on Chicago TV, Delle Donne made buckets with food.
EDD's teammate, rookie Imani Boyette, is now on a twitter campaign to get 50 Cent to attend a WNBA game.
Courtney Vandersloot interview.
Clarissa Dos Santos interview.
Wings guard Skylar Diggins is using social media to connect with fans.
Ten questions with Wings rookie Aerial Powers.
Storm forward Ramu Tokashiki is looking to build on an impressive rookie season.
Sky players talk about their tattoos.
Former player news:
WNBA great Teresa Weatherspoon is proud of the legacy she helped build.
Coach news:
Longtime coach and WNBA player Bridget Pettis imparts knowledge to Dallas Wings athletes.
College news:
The 2016 preseason WNIT field has been unveiled.
College player news:
The scandal at Illinois played a role in Chatrice White's departure. She has transferred to Florida State.
College coach news:
Vermont has named Chris Day their new head coach.
Vicky Bullett is West Virginia Wesleyan's new head coach.
Iowa coach Lisa Bluder has two scholarships, but one target.
UMass coach Tory Verdi has announced his coaching staff.
Buckle up for more carnage.
Today's transactions:
Dallas traded Amanda Zahui B. to New York for a 2017 first and second-round pick.
Today's list.....
Atlanta Dantas, Damiris Suspended for 2016 season
Chicago McKinney, Shanece Waived
New York Cakir, Olcay Suspended for 2016 season
New York Caldwell, Talia Waived
New York Cash, Swin Waived
New York Eldebrink, Elin Waived
New York Warley-Talbert, Avery Waived
New York Zahui B, Amanda Traded from Dallas to New York for 2017 1st round pick
San Antonio Richardson-Smith, Tabatha Signed
The Swin Cash waive sent shock waves through the WBB world.
Team news:
The Dallas Wings' aggression on court has bonded them.
Player news:
Tamika Catchings is cherishing every moment of her farewell season.
Mystics forward Stefanie Dolson comes out, and talks about being who she is.
Elena Delle Donne's brand and personality has come out of the wood work.
This morning on Chicago TV, Delle Donne made buckets with food.
EDD's teammate, rookie Imani Boyette, is now on a twitter campaign to get 50 Cent to attend a WNBA game.
Courtney Vandersloot interview.
Clarissa Dos Santos interview.
Wings guard Skylar Diggins is using social media to connect with fans.
Ten questions with Wings rookie Aerial Powers.
Storm forward Ramu Tokashiki is looking to build on an impressive rookie season.
Sky players talk about their tattoos.
Former player news:
WNBA great Teresa Weatherspoon is proud of the legacy she helped build.
Coach news:
Longtime coach and WNBA player Bridget Pettis imparts knowledge to Dallas Wings athletes.
College news:
The 2016 preseason WNIT field has been unveiled.
College player news:
The scandal at Illinois played a role in Chatrice White's departure. She has transferred to Florida State.
College coach news:
Vermont has named Chris Day their new head coach.
Vicky Bullett is West Virginia Wesleyan's new head coach.
Iowa coach Lisa Bluder has two scholarships, but one target.
UMass coach Tory Verdi has announced his coaching staff.
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Who should be on the WNBA 20th year magazine cover?
ESPN the magazine will have a WNBA 20th season cover out Friday. I am not at all impressed by a story they put out today (YET ANOTHER Breanna Stewart piece, if you can believe it. And tagging her as the latest "savior of the league," at that).
I'm not hyped about this cover, either, as it seems to leave out - oh, everybody.
Women's basketball fans and young players are criticized for not knowing the history of the sport, including the WNBA. This magazine cover appears to do no better.
If I were putting players on the cover, I'd mandate:
Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, Rebecca Lobo, Cynthia Cooper, Dawn Staley, Teresa Weatherspoon, Yolanda Griffith, Katie Smith, Lauren Jackson, Tamika Catchings and Sue Bird. You could also argue Delisha Milton-Jones and Taj McWilliams-Franklin.
Then we could start talking about the younger players to add.
I'm not hyped about this cover, either, as it seems to leave out - oh, everybody.
Women's basketball fans and young players are criticized for not knowing the history of the sport, including the WNBA. This magazine cover appears to do no better.
If I were putting players on the cover, I'd mandate:
Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, Rebecca Lobo, Cynthia Cooper, Dawn Staley, Teresa Weatherspoon, Yolanda Griffith, Katie Smith, Lauren Jackson, Tamika Catchings and Sue Bird. You could also argue Delisha Milton-Jones and Taj McWilliams-Franklin.
Then we could start talking about the younger players to add.
These cuts feeling more like stab wounds
Today's transactions hurt:
May 10, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Atlanta Johnson, Niya Waived
Atlanta Massengale, Ariel Waived
Atlanta Clarendon, Layshia Traded from Indiana to Atlanta for 2017 2nd round pick
San Antonio Minato, Kelsey Waived
San Antonio Medley, Zahna Waived
San Antonio McIntyre, Vicky Waived
Seattle Eaton Rydalch, Lexi Waived
Seattle Goodrich, Angel Waived
Seattle Thomas, Krystal Waived
I had been pulling for Lexi Eaton Rydalch and Kelsey Minato, and it's so sad they've been cut. Players of their caliber would at the very least be sitting on the end of an NBA bench making a nice salary, if they were men.
The Dream acquired Layshia Clarendon from the Fever for a 2017 second round draft pick.
It looks like Indiana traded Clarendon to keep Brene Moseley. Their roster is complete.
Final preseason game:
The Sparks held off the Dream, 69-63.
Each team has three more cuts to make. Who will they be?
The league:
The WNBA gave themselves a chance to survive when they stopped looking for a savior.
Wings guard Skylar Diggins says people didn't think the WNBA would last 20 years, but "we're here."
Team news:
The Wings are Dallas' first WNBA team.
The Lynx need to make one more cut.
The history of the Mystics' first-round draft picks.
Player news:
Storm guard Alysha Clark hopes to adopt a scorer's mentality.
Janel McCarville has no problem coming off the bench for Minnesota.
A healthy, excited Seimone Augustus is happy to rejoin the Lynx.
Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner have rejoined the Mercury as the season is upon them.
College conference news:
Is the Big 12 expanding? University of Houston, the University of Memphis, University of Central Florida and Colorado State University have been lobbying members of the Big 12's composition committee.
College team news:
UConn was honred at the White House today for their national championship.
Illinois a year later.
College player news:
Kacie Bosch is transferring from Gonzaga.
College coach news:
North Carolina coach Sylvia Hatchell says it's "hard not to say" women's basketball is being scapegoated in the school's academic fraud case.
Longtime St. Bonaventure coach Jim Crowley is leaving to take the same job at Providence.
Nebraska coach Amy Williams has moved fast in her first month, bringing her style to the Huskers.
Geoff Lanier is Cincinnati's new assistant coach.
Melanie Walls is a new assistant coach at Tennessee Tech.
May 10, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Atlanta Johnson, Niya Waived
Atlanta Massengale, Ariel Waived
Atlanta Clarendon, Layshia Traded from Indiana to Atlanta for 2017 2nd round pick
San Antonio Minato, Kelsey Waived
San Antonio Medley, Zahna Waived
San Antonio McIntyre, Vicky Waived
Seattle Eaton Rydalch, Lexi Waived
Seattle Goodrich, Angel Waived
Seattle Thomas, Krystal Waived
I had been pulling for Lexi Eaton Rydalch and Kelsey Minato, and it's so sad they've been cut. Players of their caliber would at the very least be sitting on the end of an NBA bench making a nice salary, if they were men.
The Dream acquired Layshia Clarendon from the Fever for a 2017 second round draft pick.
It looks like Indiana traded Clarendon to keep Brene Moseley. Their roster is complete.
Final preseason game:
The Sparks held off the Dream, 69-63.
Each team has three more cuts to make. Who will they be?
The league:
The WNBA gave themselves a chance to survive when they stopped looking for a savior.
Wings guard Skylar Diggins says people didn't think the WNBA would last 20 years, but "we're here."
Team news:
The Wings are Dallas' first WNBA team.
The Lynx need to make one more cut.
The history of the Mystics' first-round draft picks.
Player news:
Storm guard Alysha Clark hopes to adopt a scorer's mentality.
Janel McCarville has no problem coming off the bench for Minnesota.
A healthy, excited Seimone Augustus is happy to rejoin the Lynx.
Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner have rejoined the Mercury as the season is upon them.
College conference news:
Is the Big 12 expanding? University of Houston, the University of Memphis, University of Central Florida and Colorado State University have been lobbying members of the Big 12's composition committee.
College team news:
UConn was honred at the White House today for their national championship.
Illinois a year later.
College player news:
Kacie Bosch is transferring from Gonzaga.
College coach news:
North Carolina coach Sylvia Hatchell says it's "hard not to say" women's basketball is being scapegoated in the school's academic fraud case.
Longtime St. Bonaventure coach Jim Crowley is leaving to take the same job at Providence.
Nebraska coach Amy Williams has moved fast in her first month, bringing her style to the Huskers.
Geoff Lanier is Cincinnati's new assistant coach.
Melanie Walls is a new assistant coach at Tennessee Tech.
Monday, May 9, 2016
NCAA rule changes received well, and marketing is next
Four quarters got good ratings, timeouts still iffy. Marketing on the horizon: check it out.
Buzz on the way to season tipoff
In preparation for Saturday's regular-season tipoff, the WNBA has season previews galore, as well as 20 things to know about the league's 20th season.
ESPN has five burning questions.
Today's preseason result:
The Sparks held off the Stars, 77-70.
Team news:
The Lynx are going for back-to-back championships this year.
The Mercury are shooting for their fourth title.
Player news:
Skylar Diggins' surgically-repaired knee is feeling good.
Here's how Elena Delle Donne stays in fighting shape.
Devereaux Peters will have a key role with the Fever.
Today's numerous transactions:
May 9, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Connecticut Macaulay, Victoria Waived
Connecticut Baker, Brandie Waived
Dallas Schimmel, Jude Waived
Dallas Jarosz, Tori Waived
Minnesota Williams, Courtney Waived
Minnesota Wallace, Sydney Waived
Phoenix Cheslek, Shelby Waived
Phoenix Bias, Tiffany Awarded on waivers from Seattle
Seattle Hollingsworth, Quanitra Waived
Washington Lee, Chelsey Waived
Washington Grant, Danaejah Waived
Washington Galdeira, Lia Waived
The Dream have also released Ariel Massengale and Niya Johnson.
College team news:
No transfers at Tennessee.
College player news:
LaKaris Salter is transferring from Mississippi State.
Kentucky commitment Lindsey Duvall has reopened her recruitment.
College coach news:
What a bunch of discriminative bull....Wisconsin coach Jonathan Tsipis' salary is more than double previous coach Bobbie Kelsey's.
Jordan Dupuy is Northwestern State's new head coach.
Janese Banks is Indiana's new assistant coach.
Alaura Sharp is a new assistant coach at Louisiana Tech.
Ty Shaw is IPFW's new assistant coach.
Tyler Cordell is a new assistant coach at Columbia.
ESPN has five burning questions.
Today's preseason result:
The Sparks held off the Stars, 77-70.
Team news:
The Lynx are going for back-to-back championships this year.
The Mercury are shooting for their fourth title.
Player news:
Skylar Diggins' surgically-repaired knee is feeling good.
Here's how Elena Delle Donne stays in fighting shape.
Devereaux Peters will have a key role with the Fever.
Today's numerous transactions:
May 9, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Connecticut Macaulay, Victoria Waived
Connecticut Baker, Brandie Waived
Dallas Schimmel, Jude Waived
Dallas Jarosz, Tori Waived
Minnesota Williams, Courtney Waived
Minnesota Wallace, Sydney Waived
Phoenix Cheslek, Shelby Waived
Phoenix Bias, Tiffany Awarded on waivers from Seattle
Seattle Hollingsworth, Quanitra Waived
Washington Lee, Chelsey Waived
Washington Grant, Danaejah Waived
Washington Galdeira, Lia Waived
The Dream have also released Ariel Massengale and Niya Johnson.
College team news:
No transfers at Tennessee.
College player news:
LaKaris Salter is transferring from Mississippi State.
Kentucky commitment Lindsey Duvall has reopened her recruitment.
College coach news:
What a bunch of discriminative bull....Wisconsin coach Jonathan Tsipis' salary is more than double previous coach Bobbie Kelsey's.
Jordan Dupuy is Northwestern State's new head coach.
Janese Banks is Indiana's new assistant coach.
Alaura Sharp is a new assistant coach at Louisiana Tech.
Ty Shaw is IPFW's new assistant coach.
Tyler Cordell is a new assistant coach at Columbia.
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Curbing abuse allegations and transfers will take communication
I've been mulling these issues for a long time.
Your feedback and proposed plans of action are appreciated.
Your feedback and proposed plans of action are appreciated.
Cuts will be tough this year
Looking at all the rosters, and knowing the number of cuts that have to be made by Thursday, I am so glad I don't have to do it. This talented draft class, and the persistence of players coming back to try again, has already pushed a few veterans on to waivers. It will happen again.
It looks like Atlanta might have the toughest job in making final cuts, given the number of talented athletes on their roster. We will see.
Today's preseason results:
The Mystics routed the Lynx, 85-68.
The Sun defeated the Wings, 82-74.
The Storm edged the Mercury, 76-70.
Tomorrow, the Sparks face the Stars in San Antonio.
Team news:
The defending champion Lynx begin the season with one more mountain to climb.
Photos from yesterday's Dream-Sparks preseason game.
Player news:
Q&A with Lynx forward Maya Moore.
Her teammate Lindsay Whalen sat out the offseason to rest.
Kelsey Minato is chasing her dream in San Antonio.
Transactions:
May 8, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Atlanta Jones, Jordan Awarded on waivers from Chicago
Los Angeles Williams, Kaylon Waived
Los Angeles Walton, Talia Waived
Los Angeles Hines, Jasmine Waived
Minnesota McCarville, Janel Contract Signed
Semi-pro news:
The Kansas City Majestics play for the love of the game.
NCAA news:
The NCAA's hypocrisy becomes clearer in the North Carolina investigation.
College coach news:
New Wisconsin coach Jonathan Tsipis is mending fences with the state's high school coaches and players.
It looks like Atlanta might have the toughest job in making final cuts, given the number of talented athletes on their roster. We will see.
Today's preseason results:
The Mystics routed the Lynx, 85-68.
The Sun defeated the Wings, 82-74.
The Storm edged the Mercury, 76-70.
Tomorrow, the Sparks face the Stars in San Antonio.
Team news:
The defending champion Lynx begin the season with one more mountain to climb.
Photos from yesterday's Dream-Sparks preseason game.
Player news:
Q&A with Lynx forward Maya Moore.
Her teammate Lindsay Whalen sat out the offseason to rest.
Kelsey Minato is chasing her dream in San Antonio.
Transactions:
May 8, 2016
Team Player Transaction
Atlanta Jones, Jordan Awarded on waivers from Chicago
Los Angeles Williams, Kaylon Waived
Los Angeles Walton, Talia Waived
Los Angeles Hines, Jasmine Waived
Minnesota McCarville, Janel Contract Signed
Semi-pro news:
The Kansas City Majestics play for the love of the game.
NCAA news:
The NCAA's hypocrisy becomes clearer in the North Carolina investigation.
College coach news:
New Wisconsin coach Jonathan Tsipis is mending fences with the state's high school coaches and players.
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