Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Mystics handle Mercury on second night of back-to-back

Tonight's game result:

Moments ago, the Mystics soundly beat the Mercury, 103-95.

Traditional powers Minnesota and Phoenix are struggling early.

Transactions:

May 30, 2018

Seattle Storm Russell, Mercedes Signed
Seattle Storm Muldrow, Teana Waived

May 29, 2018

Chicago Sky Vandersloot, Courtney Activated
Los Angeles Sparks Lavender, Jantel Activated
Phoenix Mercury Robinson, Angel Signed

WNBA team news:

The Lynx are off to their worst start since 2010.

"We haven't done anything": the Storm isn't impressed with their 4-1 start.

Seattle is contending with schedule challenges during their hot start.

The Aces are preparing for a tough stretch of seven games in 12 days.

Early impressions: the Sun are on the rise.

The founder of Steiner Sports is among those interested in buying the Liberty.

WNBA player news:

Blocking shots remains an important part of Brittney Griner's game.

Ariel Atkins is catching on fast with the Mystics.

Without her father, Alaina Coates begins her WNBA career.

Ivory Latta and Elizabeth Williams are going from balling to Harvard Business School.

Bonus:

Tamika Catchings squashes rumors that she's in to be an NBA general manager.

Best kicks in the WNBA so far this year.

College conference news:

The Big Sky is adopting a 20-game league conference schedule.

College coach news:

UTRGV coach Lane Lord is excited to make the jump to Division I.

New assistant coaches at Northern Colorado are Kelly Packard and Christian Blanks.

Southwest Airlines apologized to Cal coach Lindsay Gottlieb.

USA Basketball:

The U17 World Cup Team has been named.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Whoa, now! Game results and player performances to ponder

Angel McCoughtry lifted the Dream over the defending champion Lynx, 76-74, with a last-second shot. It was Atlanta's first win over Minnesota in nine tries.

The Liberty snagged their first win, 94-89 over the Wings, on the strength of Tina Charles' breakout fourth quarter.

The Storm held off the Mystics, 81-77. Jewell Loyd once again led Seattle, with 27 points.

Current standings.

Only one game tomorrow:

Mystics at Mercury

Transactions:

May 28, 2018

Los Angeles Samuelson, Karlie Released
Phoenix Wright, Imani Waived

May 27, 2018

Chicago Bulgak, Adut Waived
Chicago Hopkins, Chelsea Waived
Chicago Ndour, Astou Activated

The Mercury have re-signed Angel Robinson.

Jantel Lavender has returned from overseas to join the Sparks.

WNBA team news:

The Liberty are courting potential owners.

This week's power rankings have a different look: Sparks, Sun, Mystics, Lynx and Storm round out the top five.

WNBA player news:

Breanna Stewart is embracing change to help sex abuse victims.

The new Jordan Brand poster has Maya Moore's popularity soaring.

Jordin Canada is helping spark Seattle.

Renee Montgomery's gluten-free turkey meal.

Podcast featuring Sun guard Jasmine Thomas.

Alyssa Thomas and Chelsea Gray are the Eastern and Western Conference players of the month.

WNBA coach news:

Dan Hughes is still rocking in the WNBA.

College player news:

Ball State grad transfer Carmen Grande has joined Ohio State. She is a point guard.

College coach news:

Buffalo coach Felisha Legette-Jack has signed a five-year contract extension.

Holly Warlick is excited by Jazmine Massengill and other new Lady Vols.

Dawn Staley won't go out of her way to speak to Missouri AD Jim Sterk.

Aaron Kallhoff is LSU's new assistant coach.

Scepter Brownlee and Keith Freeman are new assistant coaches at Old Dominion.

Carlos Adamson is a new assistant coach at Eastern Michigan.

Cal coach Lindsay Gottlieb was asked by Southwest Airlines yesterday that her son belonged to her.

Another story on the incident.

USA Basketball:

Far from home, Aliyah Boston has found a home on the court with USA Basketball.

High school news:

Yamhill-Carleton High School in Oregon has hired Heather Roberts as their boy's varsity coach.

Friday, May 25, 2018

Thursday, May 24, 2018

The Sun is no joke, the Sparks will be scary good, and all the Aces are back in the house

Today's game results:

The Sun stopped the Sparks, 102-94. It was the first time in WNBA history that a franchise has begun a season with consecutive 100-plus point games. Six Connecticut players scored in double figures. LA is still without Candace Parker and Jantel Lavender.

The Mystics downed the Fever, 93-84. Indiana rookie Kelsey Mitchell made her first start and scored 25 points - the first rookie to do so in franchise history since 2005.

Tomorrow's schedule:

Lynx at Liberty

Sky at Storm


WNBA news:

The WNBA is walking their talk with the new "take a seat, take a stand" initiative.

Lynx fans attending the June 1 home game will get a Maya Moore Jordan Brand "wings" poster.

WNBA team news:

The Wings open the season with their eyes set on new milestones.

WNBA player news:

Chiney Ogwumike details her unreal schedule as an ESPN analyst and WNBA player.

Kayla McBride and Kelsey Plum have joined the Aces.

"Your idols become your rivals": Aces rookie A'ja Wilson battled Elena Delle Donne earlier this week.

Liberty rookie Kia Nurse can make an immediate impact on defense.

Week one rookie rankings.

College coach news:

Missouri athletic director Jim Sterk finally apologized to Dawn Staley for saying she promoted poor conduct in a rivalry game last winter. Staley's defamation lawsuit has been settled.

New Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin speaks.

Former Cincinnati coach Tasha Brown is a new assistant coach at UCLA.

Tiffany Sardin is a new assistant coach at Longwood.

Jordan Vessels has been promoted from DOBO to assistant coach at UT Arlington.

New Mexico's new assistant coach is Symone Denham.

Miscellaneous college news:

Duke mourns the passing of the co-founder of women's basketball at the University, Lorraine "Woody" Woodyard.

Yale will host the Ivy League Tournament next year.

USA Basketball news:

The U17 pool is down to 158 participants.

Bonus:

Former Baylor Bear Jhasmin Player talks about earning her playing time.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Big performances lead to important wins

Today's game results:

The Dream routed the Sky, 81-63, behind Tiffany Hayes' 22 points. It was the first win for coach Nicki Collen, and the Dream's first win this year.

The domination of Sylvia Fowles led the Lynx past the Wings, 76-68. She had 20 points and 20 rebounds.

Jewell Loyd's 29 points paced the Storm over the Mercury, 87-71. It was the first win as Storm coach for Dan Hughes, and the first win of the season for Seattle.

Tomorrow's schedule and previews:

Sparks at Sun

Mystics at Fever


The Sun look to remain undefeated as they welcome the Sparks.

The Ogwumike sisters are ready for their first on-court meeting since 2016.

WNBA team news:

First impressions of each team.

Check the videos in this post.

The Chicago Sky is changing their culture.

WNBA player news:

The top five trades in league history, according to ESPN.

Diana Taurasi isn't done yet.

Alyssa Thomas is getting her shooting righted.

Q&A with Kelsey Mitchell.

The Jordan Brand and Minneapolis are in discussion for permanent display of the Maya Moore billboard.

College player news:

Tori Williams has transferred from Utah to Colorado State.

A Spain player has joined the Ohio State Buckeyes. They seem to be reloading with grad transfers.

College coach news:

Podcast with Cincinnati coach Michelle Clark-Heard.

"High-fives and floor burns" earn UNCW coach Karen Barefoot a top recruiting class.

Stephanie Holt is a new assistant coach at UTSA.

Bucknell's new assistant coach is Darren Guensch.

International news:

Canada Basketball president and CEO Michele O'Keefe has stepped down.

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Tuesday game day: Sparks, Mystics prevail

Today's game results:

The short-handed Sparks kept the Fever winless, 87-70.

Indiana showed promised in the loss.

The Mystics outlasted the Aces, 75-70. Elena Delle Donne scored 23 points for Washington.

Tomorrow's game schedule and previews:

Dream at Sky

Wings at Lynx

Storm at Mercury


The Mercury are seeking their second 3-0 start in franchise history.

The league's power rankings:

Sparks on top now after their big win on Sunday.

WNBA news:

The WNBA has put the women's movement and health issues front and center.

Some have taken issue with their support of Planned Parenthood.

ESPN viewership of the season opener, between the Sparks and Lynx Sunday, was up 38 percent from last year.

WNBA team news:

A three-game road trip could reveal whether or not Dallas is ready for the WNBA big time.

WNBA player news:

Maya Moore was like Mike, for one day.

Sky rookies Diamond DeShields and Gabby Williams are thriving early.

Gabby Williams diary.

Sky view: Gabby Williams taking confidence into WNBA play.

Moriah Jefferson is learning hockey while acclimating to Las Vegas.

Why a group of WNBA players spent the offseason in the classroom.

College player news:

Adreana Miller of LaSalle joins Ohio State as a grad transfer.

A fourth grad transfer, Ashanta Abshaw, also comes from Cleveland State.

Kentucky adds NC State transfer Nae Nae Cole, a center.

College coach news:

Former Maryland assistant coach Bett Selby will fill the same position at North Carolina.

Jennifer Sullivan is Ohio State's new assistant coach.

Preston Reid is Northwestern's new assistant coach.

USA Basketball news:

The U17 World Cup team trials are expected to feature 172 athletes.

Bonus:

The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame is getting a face lift.

That Maya Moore "wings" poster in Minneapolis

Jordan Brand recreated the Michael Jordan "wings" photo for Maya Moore and put it on a billboard.

That picture inspired some youngsters:

I skipped the state tournament Sunday for something important.

But according to many on social media, the billboard is already down, as it was only a pop-up.

Just sad.

Monday, May 21, 2018

Breathe, stretch, shake, read the news

Business matters:

Despite the WNBA's recent successes, some players think they could do more.

WNBA team news:

WNBA basketball power index: what's next for the Sparks and Lynx?

The Mystics took the first step in the league's "take a stand" initiative yesterday.

WNBA player news:

Jordan brand has recreated Michael Jordan's classic "wings" poster using Maya Moore.

Coach Lindsay Whalen reminds us why she's an outstanding player.

Glory Johnson will miss four weeks with a hamstring injury she sustained in the opener Friday.

Tomorrow's game schedule:

Sparks at Fever

Aces at Mystics


International news:

Fenerbahce, won Bilyoner.com Women's Basketball Super Lig title late Monday, which means Kelsey Plum is finally coming home to the Aces.

College player news:

Areanna Combs has transferred from Oklahoma State to Eastern Michigan.

Former Ole Miss star Madinah Muhammad has transferred to North Carolina.

Former UT Arlington guard Crystal Allen will transfer to Ole Miss as a graduate student-athlete.

College coach news:

Lane Lord is UTRGV's new head coach.

Q&A with West Virginia coach Mike Carey.

Utah assistant coach Gavin Petersen has been promoted to associate head coach.

Memphis has two new associate head coaches in Amy Stephens and Michele Savage.

Oties Epps is a new assistant coach at Detroit.

Recruiting news:

Colorado dunk sensation Francesca Belibi has committed to Stanford.

One young woman is living a dream in going to Michigan.

Saturday, May 19, 2018

Newly-deep Storm looking to get back to winning ways

Seattle Storm has depth, looks to get back to winning.

Storylines aflame, big game day on tap

Today's result:

A young Indiana Fever got a rude awakening in their season opener, falling 82-64 to the Chicago Sky.

Allie Quigley had 19 points the Chicago and rookie Diamond DeShields, 18, and eight rebounds.

Tomorrow's "WNBA all day" previews:

The Sun begin their 16th season with great expectations.

Connecticut is ready to get going, with Jonquel Jones right in the middle of it.

Expectations are higher for the Sun after their playoff berth last year.

The Mystics begin the season at home against the Fever.

The Wings open home play in a cloud after Glory Johnson was injured in Friday's game.

The Sparks will be without Candace Parker as they open against Minnesota.

The Mercury visit the Storm in a match up of title hopefuls.

Phoenix is on the road for the first of two consecutive games against Seattle.

The Storm focuses on defense as they ready to open their season under new coach Dan Hughes.

The grind:

Overseas duty means there's no break for female pro ballers.

WNBA team news:

The Liberty, in transition, are making a new home in the suburbs.

The Sky and Fever have taken steps to improve.

As the season opens, Chicago will lean on its depth.

Eighteen questions for the Aces' first season in Las Vegas.

Overseas obligations raise concerns for the Sparks.

How do the Lynx compare to other dynasties?

WNBA player news:

Jonquel Jones is back with the Sun, and already wowing them.

Jones and Chiney Ogwumike are back to lead a talented squad.

Indiana's makeover is starting with Kelsey Mitchell.

DeWanna Bonner shines, shows versatility in triumphant return to Mercury lineup.

The Aces have signed Lindsay Allen.

WNBA coach news:

Expect a no-nonsense approach from New York coach Katie Smith.

Bill Laimbeer begins his quest to build the Aces into champions.

Friday, May 18, 2018

And we're off!

The Mercury beat the Wings, 86-78. Diana Taurasi became the first WNBA player to notch 1,000 career three-point shots.

WNBA schedule:

It'll be WNBA All Day on Sunday.

Tomorrow's schedule:

Sky at Fever.

WNBA team news:

The last ride of the Lynx dynasty.

The Sparks open their quest for a fourth title Sunday against arch rival Minnesota.

WNBA picks from the Seattle Times.

Seventeen reasons to be excited about the season.

WNBA player news:

In A'ja Wilson, Las Vegas could finally have a superstar athlete to call its own.

Wilson is just excited she doesn't have to go to class after her first game.

Q&A with Wilson and Kelsey Mitchell.

Diana Taurasi is in a new Body Armor ad.

Around the Rim talks to Angel McCoughtry.

Maya Moore's success is fueled by passion.

Essence Carson discusses her blossoming music career and record company internship.

Erica Wheeler is poised to make an All-Star run.

Liberty players discuss the team's identity and expectations.

Candace Parker and Maya Moore share their thoughts on the league's new "take a seat, take a stand" initiative.

WNBA coach news:

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve has a strategy for prolonging the run of her aging team.

A coaching change to Katie Smith could benefit the Liberty this season.

Q&A with Dream coach Nicki Collen.

She's also on "backdoor cut".

Bonus:

Top WNBA commercials of the 90's.

College team news:

Purdue gains three players.

College player news:

Amherst's Hannah Hackley leads with compassion.

Bianca Cuevas-Moore is returning to South Carolina, according to coach Dawn Staley.

LMU grad transfer Cheyanne Wallace joins USC.

College coach news:

Linda Cimino has been named head coach at St. Francis, New York.

New Alaska-Fairbanks coach Kerri Nakamoto looks forward to challenges and opportunities.

The Texas Association of Basketball Coaches named Texas A&M coach Gary Blair and assistant coach Kelly Bond-White their coaches of the year in those categories.

Gene Hill has announced his coaching staff at Georgia State.

Geoff Lanier is Penn State's new assistant coach.

NCAA news:

The NCAA is mulling championships in states with sports betting.

Thursday, May 17, 2018

Remaining WNBA rosters finalized today

Washington Mystics:

Ariel Atkins
Natasha Cloud
Monique Currie
Elena Delle Donne
Tianna Hawkins
Tayler Hill
Myisha Hines-Allen
Tierra Ruffin-Pratt
LaToya Sanders
Krystal Thomas
Kristi Toliver
Shatori Walker-Kimbrough

Indiana Fever:

Kelsey Mitchel
Jazmon Gwathmey
Erica McCall
Tiffany Mitchell
Candice Dupree
Erica Wheeler
Hind Ben Abdelkader
Natalie Achonwa
Shenise Johnson
Stephanie Mavunga
Victoria Vivians
Kelsey Mitchell

Seattle Storm:

Sue Bird
Jewell Loyd
Breanna Stewart
Crystal Langhorne
Noelle Quinn
Alysha Clark
Courtney Paris
Natasha Howard
Sami Whitcomb
Jordin Canada
Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis
Teana Muldrow

Minnesota Lynx:

Seimone Augustus
Rebekkah Brunson
Temi Fagbenle
Sylvia Fowles
Alexis Jones
Lynetta Kizer
Maya Moore
Danielle Robinson
Lindsay Whalen
Tanisha Wright
Cecilia Zandalasini

Las Vegas Aces:

Kelsey Bone
Nia Coffey
Dearica Hamby
Isabelle Harrison
Moriah Jefferson
Raignye Louis
Kayla McBride
Jamie Nared
JiSu Park
Kelsey Plum
Shoni Schimmel
Carolyn Swords
A'ja Wilson
Tamera Young

(Harrison, McBride and Plum are still overseas and are temporarily suspended)

Chicago Sky:

Adut Bulgak
Alaina Coates
Kahleah Copper
Diamond DeShields
Stefanie Dolson
Jamierra Faulkner
Linnae Harper
Chelsea Hopkins
Alex Montgomery
Astou Ndour
Cheyenne Parker
Allie Quigley
Courtney Vandersloot
Gabby Williams

New York Liberty:

Tina Charles
Shavonte Zellous
Amanda Zahui B.
Bria Hartley
Kia Vaughn
Kiah Stokes
Sugar Rodgers
Epiphanny Prince
Brittany Boyd
Rebecca Allen
Marissa Coleman
Kia Nurse

Los Angeles Sparks:

Candace Parker
Jantel Lavender
Nneka Ogwumike
Alana Beard
Riquna Williams
Odyssey Sims
Chelsea Gray
Essence Carson
Cappie Pondexter
Sydney Wiese
Maria Vadeeva

Phoenix Mercury:

Diana Taurasi
Brittney Griner
DeWanna Bonner
Camille Little
Sancho Lyttle
Briann January
Leilani Mitchell
Stephanie Talbot
Yvonne Turner
Imani Wright
Marie Gulich

The transactions on the last day this year were just heartbreaking:

Atlanta Elonu, Adaora Waived
Chicago Hooper, Jordan Waived
Chicago Ndour, Astou Suspended – Temporary*
Chicago Vandersloot, Courtney Suspended – Temporary*
Indiana Larkins, Erlana Waived
Las Vegas Ayayi, Valeriane Waived
Las Vegas Colson, Sydney Waived
Las Vegas Harrison, Isabelle Suspended – Temporary*
Las Vegas McBride, Kayla Suspended – Temporary*
Las Vegas Plum, Kelsey Suspended – Temporary*
Las Vegas William, Morgan Waived
Los Angeles Anderson, Jolene Waived
Los Angeles Bass, Mistie Waived
Los Angeles Dabovic, Ana Suspended – Full Season
Los Angeles Jensen, Kaylee Waived
Los Angeles Lavender, Jantel Suspended – Temporary*
Los Angeles Samuelson, Karlie Waived
Los Angeles Thomas, Shakayla Waived
Los Angeles Vadeeva, Maria Suspended – Temporary*
Minnesota Miyem, Endy Waived
New York Allen, Lindsay Waived
New York Gray, Reshanda Waived
New York Russell, Mercedes Waived
New York Vaughn, Kia Suspended – Temporary*
Seattle Crvendakic, Aleksandra Waived
Washington Peters, Devereaux Waived

New WNBA initiative gives back to women's causes

Great initiative announced by the league office today:

The WNBA invites fans to "take a seat, take a stand" for women and girls this season:

NEW YORK, May 17, 2018 – The WNBA today launched “Take a Seat, Take a Stand,” its new women and girls empowerment program for the 2018 season. When regular-season games begin tomorrow, May 18, WNBA tickets will do more than support women’s sports – when fans take a seat at a WNBA game, they will also have the chance to support several organizations that are changing the game for women and girls.

EXCELLENT!

WNBA business:

The league gets a wider platform and expands their partnership with FanDuel.

WNBA team news:

Minnesota sits on top of the AP preseason power poll again.

Why the Lynx and Sparks won't meet again in the finals this season.

Moore and Charles have the highest odds of winning MVP.

This year's condensed schedule may work in Minnesota's favor.

Five things to know about Dallas before tipoff.

The Mystics are set to adjust to life without Emma Meesseman.

WNBA player news:

Put some respect on Candace Parker's name.

Preseason rookie report.

Briann January will make her Phoenix Mercury debut tomorrow.

Skylar Diggins-Smith wants the WNBA to win.

The arrival of Courtney Paris gives the Storm a strong inside presence.

Kalya Thornton is set to open her second WNBA season with the Wings.

Unselfish Lynx players make it easy for the team to attract talent.

Tina Charles is saving kids' lives.

Kelsey Mitchell will absolutely get buckets for the Indiana Fever.

Diamond DeShields and brother Delino, who plays for the MLB's Texas Rangers, had an embrace tonight before tonight's game against the White Sox.

A record 17 UConn alumni made WNBA rosters for the season.

A Cal report substantiate's Layshia Clarendon's claims of sexual harassment. The employee who assaulted her was fired.

WNBA coach news:

New Liberty coach Katie Smith's no-nonsense approach gives the team a chance for redemption.

College team news:

Liberty is moving non-football sports to the Atlantic Sun Conference.

College coach news:

Jeannette Mosher is UT Tyler's new head coach.

Danny Hughes is South Florida's new assistant coach.

Justine Raterman has been promoted to assistant coach at Miami Ohio.

Simon Harris is a new assistant coach at NC State.

Abilene Christian has added Drew Cole as an assistant coach.

Jocelyn Wyatt is a new assistant coach at Western Kentucky.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

WNBA season to open without Ivory Latta

Bummer for DC fans.

Several WNBA rosters finalized

Connecticut Sun:

No. Player Pos. Ht. DOB College WNBA Exp.

1 Rachel Banham G 5-9 7/15/93 Minnesota 2
20 Alex Bentley G 5-7 10/27/90 Penn State 5
4 Lexie Brown G 5-9 10/27/94 Duke R
35 Jonquel Jones F/C 6-6 1/5/94 George Washington 2
42 Brionna Jones F 6-3 12/18/95 Maryland 1
44 Betnijah Laney G/F 6-0 10/29/93 Rutgers 2
13 Chiney Ogwumike F 6-4 3/22/92 Stanford 2
40 Shekinna Stricklen G/F 6-2 7/30/90 Tennessee 6
25 Alyssa Thomas F 6-2 4/12/92 Maryland 4
5 Jasmine Thomas G 5-9 9/30/89 Duke 7
33 Morgan Tuck F 6-2 4/30/94 UConn 2
10 Courtney Williams G 5-8 5/11/94 South Florida 2
32 Bria Holmes** G 6-1 4/19/94 West Virginia 2

Dallas Wings:

Liz Cambage

Saniya Chong

Karima Christmas-Kelly

Kaela Davis

Skylar Diggins-Smith

Allisha Gray

Glory Johnson

Breanna Lewis

Theresa Plaisance

Aerial Powers

Azura Stevens

Kayla Thornton

Atlanta Dream:

Monique Billings

Jessica Breland

Layshia Clarendon

Damiris Dantas

Blake Dietrick

Tiffany Hayes

Maggie Lucas

Angel McCoughtry

Imani McGee-Stafford

Renee Montgomery

Brittney Sykes

Elizabeth Williams

The Lynx have 12 on the roster but haven't finalized it yet.

Transactions.

Lots of painful cuts today, with more to come tomorrow, as the deadline to finalize rosters is 5 p.m. ET.

Two days until the WNBA season opener

Prognostications and "bests":

An annual survey of the league's general managers has them picking the Sparks to win the championship this season.

MVP, ROY, DPOY, and other predictions.

Survey: best players and coaches.

Best defender.

Best offseason changes.

Clutch player, and other categories.

WNBA publicity:

A WNBA season preview special will air on SiriusXM tomorrow.

Podcast with league president Lisa Borders.

WNBA team news:

The Liberty is unconcerned with their playoff woes.

New York hopes to build a fan base in Westchester.

A local Las Vegas TV station interviewed Aces players.

The Lynx are gunning for a repeat title.

For Minnesota, less practice time this season is "awesome."

Western Conference preview, via the Pareto Principle.

WNBA player news:

Jonquel Jones is expected to make the Sun's opener.

Chiney Ogwumike is ready to go.

Lindsay Whalen's player-coach juggling act is a success so far.

Liz Cambage is ready to take the WNBA by storm.

Cambage will face other Australians in her WNBA return.

One-on-one with Renee Montgomery.

Jewell Loyd and Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis have each signed multi-year contract extensions with the Storm.

Diamond DeShields is a cosmic force for her pro athlete brother.

College player news:

St. Francis transfer Caitlyn Kroll has landed at Ohio.

Jalaysha Thomas has transferred from Florida to LSU.

IUPUI has added Rachel McLimore from DePaul.

Former Arizona guard Sammy Fatkin has transferred to Montana.

College coach news:

The contract of Missouri State coach Kellie Harper has been extended.

A spate of high-profile coach hirings thrills Arizona coach Adia Barnes.

Elon's new assistant coach is Edgar Farmer Jr.

USA Basketball news:

The USA 3X3 World Cup Team consists of Oregon players.

Bonus:

Tamika Catchings is on track to be the NBA's first general manager.

The Phoenix Suns brought WNBA-themed lucky charms with them to help them win first pick in the NBA draft lottery.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

The axe begins to fall

Transactions:

May 15, 2018

Chicago Alston, Ameryst Waived
Indiana Graves, Bashaara Waived
Indiana Peterson, Alexis Waived
Indiana Pohlen-Mavunga, Jeanette Waived
Las Vegas Schimmel, Shoni Contract Signed
Los Angeles McCarty, Brooke Waived
Los Angeles Westbeld, Kathryn Waived
Minnesota Alleyne, Jillian Waived
Minnesota Berkani, Lisa Suspended – Full Season
Minnesota Wagner, Carlie Waived
Minnesota Zimmerman, Camille Waived
New York Stokes, Kiah Contract Extension
Seattle Loyd, Jewell Contract Extension
Seattle Mosqueda-Lewis, Kaleena Contract Extension
Washington Hightower, Allison Waived

May 14, 2018

Dallas Akhator, Evelyn Waived
Dallas Hamblin, Ruth Waived
New York Faris, Kelly Waived
New York Murphy, Shay Waived
Phoenix Cannon, Emmaa Waived
Phoenix Prince, Alexis Waived
Washington Alix, AJ Waived
Washington Taylor, Asia Waived

The cut deadline is Thursday.

WNBA team news:

Twenty-two questions heading into the season.

WNBA player news:

The Seattle mayor and Sue Bird talk about basketball and inspiring youth.

Natasha Cloud could be what Washington needs.

Diana Taurasi talks about the Mercury's upcoming season.

Maya Moore has been back for three days and is already making a difference on court for the Lynx.

Atlanta rookie Monique Billings is feeling prepared ahead of the team's season opener.

How did first-round picks perform in preseason play?

WNBA coach news:

Inside the paint with Wings assistant coach Taj McWilliams-Franklin.

College team news:

Notre Dame's traveling (National Championship) trophy series continues.

College player news:

Former BYU center Haley Bodnar Rydalch has transferred to UNLV.

College coach news:

Podcast with Boston University's new coach, Marisa Lynn Moseley.

New Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin remains confident.

Dawn Brown is a new assistant coach at Jacksonville.

George Porcha is Boston College's new assistant coach.

Paige Love has been promoted to assistant coach at Texas State.

Bonus:

Why legal betting could be good for women's sports.

The NCAA Tournament in Las Vegas plan has support, and Supreme Court opened the door.

Everyone loses when women's sports are ignored.

High-potential Sun have many options, and cuts to make

Thorough breakdown of the Connecticut Sun, as they prepare to make final cuts.

Monday, May 14, 2018

WNBA TV games announced

Lots of games to be broadcast on NBA TV this season.

National TV and Twitter schedule.

WNBA team news:

Predicting how far each team goes this season.

Is another Sparks-Lynx finals inevitable?

The cold-shooting Aces faced a unique challenge in their loss to the Wings yesterday.

Sparks season preview.

Lynx season preview.

WNBA player news:

Why is it louder at Lynx practice? Maya Moore is back.

An injury to Lynetta Kizer will affect Minnesota's backup plans.

The rookie debut of Mississippi State's Victoria Vivians is underway in Indiana.

Danielle Robinson has never made a three-pointer.

Sylvia Fowles' playlist.

And we are still waiting:

.....for the WNBA transactions page to be updated. Final cuts are due Thursday.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month:

Chamique Holdsclaw talks about the importance of speaking out on mental health.

Hot off the presses NCAA news

NCAA news:

The NCAA Women’s Basketball Rules Committee is exploring opportunities for teams to experiment using the international three-point line in exhibition games before the start of the 2018-19 season.

The NCAA's statement on today's Supreme Court wagering decision.

The NCAA has reached a 10-year data collection and distribution deal with Genius Sports, a sports data and technology company headquartered in London.

College player news:

Former Ole Miss rebel Promise Taylor has transferred to arch rival Mississippi State.

South Carolina is Clemson graduate transfer Nelly Perry's new home.

College coach news:

Teach, love, inspire: The passion with a purpose behind Stephanie Gaitley's Fordham program.

George Mason coach Nyla Milleson has a new contract extension good through 2020-2021.

Colleen Mullen is UAlbany's new head coach.

Shereka Wright joins Vanderbilt as associate head coach.

LaSondra Barrett is a new assistant coach at Louisiana Tech.

UTEPS's new assistant coach is Kayla Weaver.

Danielle Page is Toledo's new assistant coach.

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Getting a feel for how this thing might go

I know it's early, but......Sparks, Lynx, Sun and Mystics still on top? The Fever and Sky still rebuilding? The Storm might be the Connecticut Sun of this season? The Mercury still underachieving?

We will see.

Today's preseason results:

The Sparks dropped the China National Team, 82-61. Chelsea Gray and Riquna Williams returned for Los Angeles.

The Mystics routed the Fever, 91-56.

The Lynx dominated the Fever, 87-58, in Maya Moore's return to the court.

A strong fourth quarter propelled the Storm past the Mercury, 84-61. Seattle rookie Jordin Canada led all scorers with 17 points.

Box score.

WNBA team news:

Last night's Dream-Sun game was a rare WNBA touchdown in Bridgeport.

WNBA player news:

Maya Moore is targeting a better opening act with the Lynx this season.

Q&A with the mothers of the New York Liberty.

South Carolina will build a statue of A'ja Wilson.

Brittney Griner said players for the Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg are treated like players in the NBA.

Q&A with Elena Delle Donne.

College coach news:

Notre Dame coach Muffet McGraw was recently asked for advice by NBA Celtics coach Brad Stevens.

Dayton has extended the contract of coach Shauna Green.

Bonus:

Support for Becky Hammon shows progress.

Sadness:

Former Boston College star Clare Droesch had died of breast cancer at age 36.

Remembering the Christ the King star.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Days of our WNBA lives

WNBA team news:

The Lynx have their sights set on back-to-back titles.

In Minnesota's camp, sometimes less is more.

The Mercury will award $5,000 to one lucky fan every time Brittney Griner dunks in a home game this season.

The Wings are offering season ticket deals to drive up attendance.

Sun season preview.

The WNBA season is set to begin without the San Antonio Stars.

WNBA player news:

From college to pro teammates, Seimone Augustus and Sylvia Fowles bring out the best in each other.

Inside the sisterly bond that reunited Liz Cambage and Erin Phillips on the Wings.

Alysha Clark has signed a multi-year contract extension with the Storm.

Versatile veteran Tamera Young has emerged as the Aces' leader.

Marie Gulich is adjusting quickly in the WNBA.

Betnijah Laney's emergence gives the Sun a boost.

Candace Parker shows off her juggling talent.

WNBA stars name their favorite basketball movie.

Today's preseason result:

The Sun beat the Dream, 74-58.

Box score.

Four games on tap tomorrow:

China National Team at Sparks

Fever at Mystics

Sky at Lynx

Storm at Mercury


College player news:

Kristian Hudson will transfer from FIU.

College coach news:

Tennessee coach Holly Warlick says work on her contract extension is in progress.

It's been a whirlwind start for new Bowling Green coach Robyn Fralick.

Meg Sanders returns to Arizona State as a special assistant to head coach Charli Turner Thorne.

Kaitlyn Cresencia is a new assistant coach at Mercer.

Bonus:

Rebecca Lobo will be a volunteer coach at her daughter's school next year.

Super bonus:

NBA player Pau Gasol, in an amazing essay called, "An open letter about female coaches," talks about Becky Hammon's outstanding qualifications to coach in the NBA.

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Players, teams gearing for WNBA season

WNBA team news:

The Wings have a plan to improve attendance. So far, it's working.

If age and experience mean anything, the Storm are due for a breakout.

Who will make the Mystics' roster?

Will it be more of the same this year for the Liberty?

The Sun's final preseason game is an audition for some.

WNBA player news:

Could WNBA players look for roster and wage changes in their next CBA?

Brittney Griner's summer goals: a second WNBA title and breaking her league blocks record. She also wants MVP.

The Sun's Briona Jones does well with a tall task.

Connecticut's Cayla George is taking care of business.

Leaving early for the WNBA didn't keep Allisha Gray from finishing her degree.

Stefanie Dolson, Gabby Williams and the Sky are ready for their close-ups.

The Lynx brought shutdown defender Tanisha Wright out of retirement.

Preseason game tomorrow:

Dream at Sun

College player news:

Stetson guard Sydney Wagner has transferred to William & Mary.

College coach news:

Stony Brook has given coach Caroline McCombs a three-year contract extension.

Clemson has hired Joy Cheek as an assistant coach.

Kim Cameron is Bowling Green's new assistant coach, as is Karmen Graham.

Special Jennings and Katie Sullivan are UIC's new assistant coaches.

Katie Burrows hopes she's hired as Chattanooga's new coach.

Bonus:

Ten reasons college scholarship athletes are better off financially than others.

The NCAA's GPA-based transfer proposal faces potential backlash over racial inequality.

Penn State AD Sandy Barbour: Allowing college athletes to cut endorsement deals is "a viable alternative."

Becky Hammon is on the verge of history, and Storm coach Dan Hughes saw it coming.

Green Bay's Jessica Lindstrom reflects on ten days in Sparks camp.

Recruiting news:

ESPN's final class of 2018 rankings.

Meet Azzi Fudd, who might be the nation's top prospect.