How did the Dallas Wings go from last place to playoff contender in just one season? Sabreena and Annie are joined by Brian Hamilton to take a closer look at one of the WNBA’s biggest turnarounds.

Brian shares insight into head coach Jose Fernandez’s journey from college basketball to the WNBA, why the timing was right for the move, and how his relationship with Paige Bueckers has shaped his approach to coaching her. The trio also breaks down what has changed in Dallas and how the Wings went from a team searching for answers to one now positioned for the playoffs.

Plus, Sabreena and Annie break down DeWanna Bonner officially joining the Atlanta Dream, how she fits into Atlanta’s playoff push, and the roster move the Dream made to bring her in. They also discuss Unrivaled’s latest funding and plans to bring games to cities across the country.

And they dive into the Chicago Sky’s decision to ban Enes Kanter Freedom from Wintrust Arena and what it means for the team and the WNBA.

Finally, as we head into the weekend, we’ll tell you where to set your screens for the biggest games this weekend.

REFERENCES:

DeWanna Bonner signing with Atlanta Dream for playoff run: Sources by Annie Costabile

Unrivaled announces new funding that sets league valuation at $650 million by Annie Costabile

Enes Kanter Freedom banned by Chicago Sky after altercation with Natasha Cloud by Annie Costabile

Coach star Paige Bueckers? Resurrect the Dallas Wings? It’s all ‘just basketball’ to Jose Fernandez by Jose Fernandez

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Email us: NoOffseason@theathletic.com

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Note: This episode was recorded before the Atlanta Dream signed DeWanna Bonner, so some of the discussion and analysis reflects the roster situation at the time of recording.

DESCRIPTION: The playoff field is officially set, and we’re breaking down the biggest questions facing every team as the postseason approaches!

Zena is joined by Atlanta Dream sideline reporter Autumn Johnson to take a closer look at the playoff picture, including why the Dream are hitting their stride at the perfect time and how head coach Karl Smesko has built trust and confidence within the team.

Before diving into the postseason, we look at the record-breaking performances shaping the league. From Angel Reese’s historic rebounding numbers and Kelsey Mitchell’s scoring streak to Kayla McBride’s record-setting 3-point performance and Olivia Miles’ rookie assist record.

Plus, Sabreena sits down with Charlotte Crown guard Deja Kelly of the UPSHOT league to discuss the league’s impact on women’s basketball, the opportunities it provides, her growth as a player, and the competitive environment the league creates..

REFERENCES:

Angel Reese breaks WNBA single-game and single-season rebounding records by Sabreena Merchant

UPSHOT LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP

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No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast Network

Email us: NoOffseason@theathletic.com

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YT: @No-Offseason

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The WNBA continues to navigate a growing number of distractions and controversies, sparking important conversations. Zena and Annie dive into the recent confrontation between former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom and Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud. What led to the incident, and why are WNBA players so often caught in the crossfire of cultural and political debates? The duo discusses how these moments impact the league and wonder what the WNBA can do to ensure off-court distractions don’t continue to overshadow the game.

But first, Zena and Annie break down some of the biggest moments from the weekend, including the introduction of the Portland Fire’s new mascot, Sydney Taylor’s impact on the Chicago Sky and the Toronto Tempo’s ongoing injury woes.

Then, they turned attention to the Phoenix Mercury and veteran forward DeWanna Bonner, who mutually agreed to part ways. Could the move open the door for Bonner to join another team in playoff contention?

Finally, they share their thoughts on Apple TV+’s new three-part docuseries, The Dynasty: UConn Huskies, which chronicles the rise of one of the most dominant programs in women’s college basketball history.

REFERENCES:

Mercury buy out DeWanna Bonner’s contract, freeing 6-time All-Star to pursue title run by Annie Costabile

WNBA power rankings: Dallas Wings, Atlanta Dream bounce back at perfect time by Sabreena Merchant

Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom ejected from Sky-Fever game after confrontation by Brian Hamilton

Sky-Valkyries game disrupted by multiple sex toys thrown on court; Cloud calls culprits ‘weak’ by The Athletic Staff

Enes Kanter Freedom isn’t protecting women. He’s out to instigate, divide, marginalize by Jerry Brewer

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No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast Network

Email us: NoOffseason@theathletic.com

Sign up for the No Offseason newsletter!

YT: @No-Offseason

IG: @tanooffseason

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.