No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show

The early-season conversation around officiating in the WNBA has quickly escalated into bigger questions surrounding injury concerns, player protection, and the league’s effort to balance physical play, freedom of movement, and consistency from game to game. Zena, Annie and Sabreena break down how the league is responding, including the implementation of an officiating task force aimed at improving consistency and the overall flow of the game. We also explore how officiating impacts players, coaches, and fans as the WNBA continues to evolve.REFERENCES: Despite Caitlin Clark’s late-game heroics, Indiana Fever fall in OT to Mystics by James BoydCaitlin Clark shoots her way out of slump, but Fever defense has her attention after loss by James BoydFever star Aliyah Boston’s 8-year games-played streak ends with leg injury by James BoydRickea Jackson suffers first-half knee injury in Sky’s win over Lynx by Sabreena MerchantWNBA power rankings: Can the Dallas Wings figure out player roles? by Sabreena Merchant‘Egregious’ mistakes in a number of WNBA games led to tighter officiating by Annie Costabile __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Layshia, Annie and Sabreena unpack the complex realities of health in the WNBA — from the physical toll of a demanding season to the mental challenges players face behind the scenes. The trio discusses the impact injuries can have on careers, including ongoing concerns surrounding Caitlin Clark’s back issues and Satou Sabally’s battle to stay healthy. They also dive into why investing in player wellness, recovery, and long-term development is critical for the future of the league — especially for younger stars' development.REFERENCES: Caitlin Clark, Fever bounce back from tough opening-night loss to beat Sparks by Sabreena MerchantWNBA, NBA Board of Governors approve sale of Sun; Houston relocation set for 2027 by Annie Costabile __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Annie, and Layshia Clarendon dive into the evolving landscape of WNBA media coverage and how the league’s rapid growth is changing the conversation around players and teams. What was once cautious coverage has shifted toward deeper analysis and tougher criticism — a sign that the league is entering a new era of mainstream attention. The trio discusses why constructive criticism and accountability are necessary for a growing league, how responsible reporting shapes the WNBA ecosystem, and why fans need to understand the context and impact of modern sports media coverage.REFERENCES: Portland Fire notch first win, edge New York Liberty on buzzer-beater by Sabreena MerchantAzzi Fudd sits out Wings’ home opener with right knee injury by Brian HamiltonCori Close, UCLA agree to contract extension through 2029-30 season by Matt Moret__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Annie, and Sabreena break down their biggest surprises from opening weekend action in the WNBA. They spotlight surprising early-season results, including strong performances from rookies and impactful new additions to teams like the Washington Mystics and Golden State Valkyries. The trio then discusses which teams already appear ahead of schedule in their development, along with early concerns around Caitlin Clark’s back issue and defensive inconsistencies from the Los Angeles Sparks.And to finish, we play a numbers game.REFERENCES: Mercury get revenge on Aces with season-opening dismantling: ‘They’ve been pissed’ by Sabreena MerchantHow the Dallas Wings took down the Indiana Fever in WNBA season-opener thriller by Annie Costabile and Brian HamiltonPaige Bueckers showed why she holds keys to Dallas Wings’ season in win over Indiana Fever by Annie Costabile The WNBA bet big on Caitlin Clark vs. Paige Bueckers. Opening Day delivered by Brian HamiltonLas Vegas Aces’ ‘crown is getting heavier’ in disappointing opening loss to Mercury by Sabreena MerchantWNBA power rankings: How far do the Aces drop after an opening-game debacle? by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 30th season of the WNBA officially tips off today, and Sabreena and Annie open the conversation by breaking down the latest roster changes across the league. They also discuss Napheesa Collier’s candid remarks on WNBA leadership and what they could mean moving forward.From there, the duo turns to their season preview, offering predictions for major awards including MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Coach of the Year, along with early championship outlooks. They also explore the idea of voter fatigue in MVP voting and highlight several potential dark horse candidates who could shake up the season.Plus, we tell you where to set your screens!REFERENCES:Olivia Miles, Azzi Fudd, Lauren Betts? Who will win 2026 WNBA Rookie of the Year? Voters: Annie Costabile, Sabreena Merchant, Brian Hamilton, Chantel JenningsWho's earning the 2026 WNBA MVP award? A'ja Wilson? Paige Bueckers? Caitlin Clark? Voters: Annie Costabile, Sabreena Merchant, Brian Hamilton, Chantel JenningsLas Vegas Aces' quest to repeat started with retaining A'ja Wilson. Here's how they did it by: Sabreena MerchantSign up for the No Offseason Newsletter!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Zena and Layshia share their thoughts on the WNBA General Manager Survey that dropped this week. From there, the duo previews the upcoming WNBA season with bold superlative predictions—from best fit for reality TV and the league’s comedian to top platonic duos, best tunnel fits, and more. They also break down which teams have the strongest backup point guards, who boasts the best depth, and which true bigs are poised to dominate the paint.Plus, the crew reflects on legendary WNBA center Tina Charles, who has announced her retirement.REFERENCES: WNBA GM survey: A’ja Wilson, Aces receive top marks; Wings win vote for best offseason by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we get closer to the start of the WNBA season, our big questions continue. This time, Zena, Layshia, and Sabreena take a look at the league’s top contenders. The crew discusses whether the Aces will get off to a strong start and what the early dynamics of the Liberty might look like with Satou Sabally in the mix. We also explore what factors could push the Dream and Wings into true contender conversations. Then we shift to the Fever and examine what their identity could look like with Caitlin Clark back in the lineup. Lastly, we dive into the mailbag, breaking down what it means when teams exercise a player’s option.REFERENCES: Fever vs. Wings takeaways: Caitlin Clark’s early exit, Azzi Fudd’s pro debut by James BoydAngel Reese fits right in with Dream, beats Sky in first game since trade: Takeaways by Annie CostabileWNBA preseason power rankings: Can anyone dethrone the Las Vegas Aces? by Sabreena MerchantChicago Sky sign Natasha Cloud, waive Hailey Van Lith by Annie Costabile Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu to miss at least two weeks with injury by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sabreena and Annie take a closer look at the league’s middle tier—teams with something to prove. They evaluate the future outlook of the Minnesota Lynx, explore whether the Golden State Valkyries can find success again in year two, and consider what lies ahead for the Los Angeles Sparks. We also dive into the pressure facing the Chicago Sky amid roster changes, and the challenges confronting Alyssa Thomas and the Phoenix Mercury. Finally, we’ll tell you where to set your screens!REFERENCES: As Angel Reese returns to Chicago with Dream, Sky work to re-imagine their future by Annie CostabileAngel Reese fits right in with Dream, beats Sky in first game since trade: Takeaways by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Layshia and Annie talk through WNBA teams that are in build mode. From finding the right mix of rookies and vets to handling expansion challenges, they look at how Portland, Toronto, Washington, Connecticut, and Seattle are figuring out who they are in the 2026 season. Plus, they get into coaching, team strategies, what success looks like, and why some teams have the potential to surprise sooner than expected.Plus — our take on the NCAA’s push to expand the tournament.REFERENCES: NCAA basketball tournaments closing in on 76-team March Madness starting in 2027: Sources by Ralph D. Russo__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we welcome our new women’s basketball writer and co-host, Annie Costabile! Chantel and Annie kick things off with a look inside the Fever training camp, joined by Colts beat writer James Boyd, who has been inside the camp. James shares insight on Caitlin Clark’s return and highlights key players who could step up to ease her ball-handling load—allowing her to thrive off the ball.Next, Chantel and Annie turn their attention to New York, where head coach Chris DeMarco is working to establish a new identity for the Liberty heading into the season. From there, they break down the Chicago Sky in their post-Angel era, exploring whether their latest retooling efforts will pay off—and what might be different this time around.Finally, we wrap things up with a “get to know Annie” segment.REFERENCES: Raven Johnson, Caitlin Clark reunite with Fever after wave-off: ‘Maybe I needed that’ by James BoydCaitlin Clark stays Fever’s top ballhandler, but Raven Johnson should alleviate pressure by James BoydFever vs. Liberty preseason takeaways: First looks at Caitlin Clark, New York’s bigs by Annie CostabileIndiana Fever, Aliyah Boston strike $6.3 million extension; highest total value in WNBA history: Sources by James BoydLiberty starter Natasha Cloud remains unsigned with WNBA preseason underway by Annie Costabile__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chantel Jennings chats with UCLA head coach Cori Close about the whirlwind following UCLA Women’s Basketball’s national title win, the lessons learned from past experiences, and what it takes to build a championship culture.Coach Close also shares the influence of John Wooden and discusses the evolving landscape of college sports—particularly the transfer portal and NIL era. She outlines her strategic approach to recruiting and emphasizes the importance of institutional support for sustained success.REFERENCES: How UCLA’s super senior class, led by Lauren Betts, set the championship standard by Sabreena MerchantGrading every 2026 WNBA first-round draft pick from Azzi Fudd to Lauren Betts by Sabreena Merchant and Chantel Jennings __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Layshia break down the moment that got everyone talking: was it fair to ask Azzi Fudd about her personal relationship with Paige Bueckers? They unpack the context behind the question, the reactions it sparked, and the broader conversation around how female athletes are covered.  We also examine the extent of Paige’s influence on the Wings’ decision to select Azzi.Then, we pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to be in WNBA training camp—navigating the jump from college to the pros. The conversation captures the mix of anxiety and excitement that defines the experience, along with the vital role of communication and teamwork and making lasting impressions.Lastly, the duo wraps things up, questioning why veteran Natasha Cloud has yet to be signed.REFERENCES: How will the Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd on-court reunion go for the Dallas Wings? by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena, Sabreena and Chantel are back to talk through all the latest transfer portal updates - including Audi Crooks’ commitment to Oklahoma State, Kymora Johnson’s decision to stay at UVA, and Justice Carlton’s move to another city in Texas.Then, the crew breaks down their way too early predictions for the 2027 WNBA Draft Class – where players like Juju Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker, Audi Crooks and more may land in the pecking order come next April.Plus, our favorite training camp cliches.REFERENCES: USC’s JuJu Watkins, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo headline 2027 WNBA Draft class by Sabreena MerchantSign up for the No Offseason Newsletter!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sabreena and Chantel take you inside Azzi Fudd and Olivia Miles’ introductory press conferences in Dallas and Minnesota, and in particular - an awkward moment where Azzi was asked about her status with Paige. Then, they dive into the latest entries and commitments from the NCAA transfer portal.Next, it’s onto Winners & Losers of the WNBA Offseason, through the lens of how money is changing the landscape of women’s hoops. They break down A’ja Wilson’s historic contract, the smart free agency moves of Dallas and Indiana, why the Lynx are both winners and losers, and why international talent is flocking to the W more and more.Plus, Sabreena and Chantel’s favorite training camp contracts.REFERENCES: A’ja Wilson, Paige Bueckers’ aura, Lynx among WNBA offseason winners and losers by Sabreena Merchant and Chantel JenningsA’ja Wilson signs 3-year, supermax contract; richest in WNBA history: Source by Sabreena MerchantUSC’s JuJu Watkins, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo headline 2027 WNBA Draft class by Sabreena MerchantSign up for the No Offseason Newsletter!#wnba #wbb #ajawilson #azzifudd #dallaswings #lynx__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zena and Layshia break down the 2026 WNBA Draft, drilling into the story behind Golden State trading Flau’jae Johnson to the Seattle Storm, and detailing why Seattle is actually a better fit for Flau’jae, plus the reality behind trades as business.Then, they turn their attention to the wild past week of free agency signings and movement – highlighting how these new rosters might come together on the court, with a special focus on the New York Liberty, the Dallas Wings, the Minnesota Lynx, the Chicago Sky, and the Seattle Storm.They wrap up by talking about the story behind the story of Raven Johnson and the Indiana Fever – the made-up beef with Caitlin Clark from back in the NCAA day, the racism lurking beneath the surface, and the real story of how excited Raven is to be joining the squad.REFERENCES: Raven Johnson, Caitlin Clark reunite with Fever after wave-off: ‘Maybe I needed that’ by James BoydSign up for the No Offseason Newsletter!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After months of speculation, the final picks for the 2026 WNBA Draft are in -- and the No Offseason crew is breaking it all down. Join Zena, Sabreena, and Chantel as they dig into the draft's biggest winners and losers: did Dallas make the right choice with Azzi Fudd? What’s the strategy behind the Mystics’ six picks? And was Golden State’s trade of Flau’jae Johnson to Seattle a smart move? The crew also talks team fit, including who’s primed to get minutes right away.REFERENCES: Dallas Wings select Azzi Fudd with No. 1 pick of 2026 WNBA Draft by Chantel Jennings and Sabreena MerchantGrading every 2026 WNBA first-round draft pick from Azzi Fudd to Lauren Betts by Sabreena Merchant and Chantel Jenningshttps://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7194986/2026/04/14/wnba-draft-winners-losers-ucla-engelbert-fudd/Sign up for the No Offseason Newsletter!__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chantel and Sabreena break down the massive impact of the college basketball transfer portal, where more than 1,200 Division I players have entered their names. But where will Audi Crooks go? Can South Carolina Gamecocks land Kymora Johnson? And how will the UCLA Bruins approach the portal? The duo also discuss how coaches are adapting to this new reality and examine which programs are feeling the greatest impact.We close out with predictions for who will go No. 1 in the WNBA Draft.REFERENCES: Virginia, Amaka Agugua-Hamilton part ways after ending 8-year NCAA Tournament drought by Grace RaynorVirginia hires Richmond’s Aaron Roussell as new women’s basketball coach by Sabreena MerchantEight Tennessee women’s basketball players are transferring. None are returning by Rebecca TauberWomen’s basketball portal rankings: With more than 1,000 names in, who can make the most impact? by Chantel Jennings__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Huge WNBA trade news! Zena and Layshia kick things off with the blockbuster trade of Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream, breaking down how she’ll fit with the team.From there, the duo dives into the Washington Mystics’ recent changes, including the departure of GM Jamila Wideman over strategic differences, with head coach Sydney Johnson stepping in to take on GM responsibilities as well. With the WNBA Draft coming up next week, Zena and Layshia break down which players boosted their stock during the tournament and which ones left lingering questions. They also highlight the lack of a clear favorite for the number one pick, putting players like Lauren Betts, Olivia Miles, and Azzi Fudd in the mix for number one.They wrap it all up with a fun round of “Match That Player.”REFERENCES: Chicago Sky trade Angel Reese to Atlanta Dream for 2 first-round picks by Sabreena MerchantAngel Reese’s trade another example of Chicago Sky’s inability to hold onto stars by Shakeia Taylor__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together in Phoenix after the national championship game, the whole No Offseason crew dives deep into UCLA’s decisive win over South Carolina. With a spotlight on UCLA’s six seniors — including Most Outstanding Player, Lauren Betts, and star guard, Gabriela Jaquez — Zena, Layshia, Sabreena and Chantel dissect UCLA head coach Cori Close’s incisive game plan to take down South Carolina, and her players’ elite execution of that plan. They also break down what went wrong for South Carolina, outside of not getting their shots to drop. Then, the crew speculates on what might come next for UCLA, with so many roster spots to fill next year and a newly open transfer portal.REFERENCES: UCLA clobbers South Carolina for first NCAA national title in program history by Cameron Teague RobinsonHow UCLA’s super senior class, led by Lauren Betts, set the championship standard by Sabreena MerchantFor UCLA, a championship lesson came from losing by Jerry BrewerDawn Staley isn’t here for the drama. She’s here to protect the game by Jerry BrewerSacrifice and selflessness define coach Cori Close’s UCLA championship run by Chantel Jennings What went wrong for South Carolina? The main thing: UCLA’s dominating defense by Grace Raynor__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What exactly happened between Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley at the end of UConn-South Carolina game? The No Offseason crew are live to dive into the behind-the-scenes of that moment, plus all the moments from last night's Final Four. Then, a look-ahead to the title game, where UCLA and South Carolina will meet for all the glory on Sunday afternoon. Plus, thoughts on the WNBA Expansion Draft.REFERENCES: The night Geno Auriemma snapped — and Dawn Staley showed the game has changed by Jerry BrewerGeno Auriemma apologizes for behavior after heated exchange with Dawn Staley  by Shannon RyanUConn’s chase for perfection ends with imperfect Final Four loss to South Carolina by Chantel JenningsUCLA women’s basketball regained its focus to set sights on national championship by Sabreena MerchantFirst look at the women’s national championship: Who will win? South Carolina or UCLA? by Cameron Teague Robinson  WNBA expansion draft winners and losers: Portland’s depth, Toronto’s future scoring by Sabreena Merchant __No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT:  @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.