A Fudd Around February Check In

Summary

---

Fudd Around And Find Out

Episode: "A Fudd Around February Check-In"

Release Date: February 6, 2026
Host: Azzi Fudd
Co-Host: Ashanti Plummer
Podcast Produced by: iHeartPodcasts & Unanimous Media

---

Episode Overview

This episode is a candid, upbeat February check-in with UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd and co-host Ashanti Plummer. The duo reflect on recent historic moments in women’s basketball, survival tactics for the coldest winter in recent memory, the importance of Black History Month, team chemistry, recent UConn wins, breakout player performances, and the journey of podcasting and personal growth. The episode is sprinkled with joyful friendship, fan shout-outs, and authentic insights into student-athlete life, capped off with a game of "Sweet Tweets" and a “What the Fud” moment celebrating the women’s basketball boom.

---

Key Topics & Takeaways

1. Women’s Basketball on the Rise & Unrivaled Philly (01:54–03:02, 41:45–43:58)

• Azzi recounts the experience at Unrivaled Philly: The event drew a record-breaking 21,490 attendees, highlighting explosive growth in support for women’s basketball.
  • "It was like 21,490, which is honestly unbelievable. As someone who's been like a basketball fan my whole life to see how far the women's game has grown and...It was super special to feel a part of it." – Azzi (02:11)
  • Both hosts reflect on the emotional impact and excitement around the moment for women’s sports.
• What the Fud of the Week: Recognized Unrivaled Philly’s record attendance and Marina Mabrey’s 47-point game as a historic high point for women’s hoops. (42:30-43:58)

2. Surviving the Coldest Winter & College Life (03:10–05:50)

• Battling severe winter weather: Both Azzi and Ashanti discuss coping strategies, from thermals to staying inside, while joking about being peer-pressured to play in the snow for social media.
  • "Right now, I've just been getting around with literally 50 layers. I have thermals now!" – Azzi (04:08)
  • Lighthearted banter about snow days and a viral TikTok from team managers.

3. Is February the Worst Month? + Black History Month (05:01–05:37)

• Debate: Hot take from a producer about February being the worst month.
  • "No, my biggest reason is it's Black History Month...That alone makes it not the worst month for sure." – Azzi (05:16)
  • Both hosts celebrate February for Black History Month, and hope it warms up soon.
• Black History Month Fun Facts:
  • Azzi: “Negro History Week” began in 1926, evolving to Black History Month officially in 1976 (38:16–39:03).
  • Ashanti: Motown outsold Broadway and Hollywood in the 1960s (39:07–39:18).

4. Lessons from UConn Alums & Team Chemistry (06:08–08:31)

• Mentorship from Amy of Madison Reed:
  • Ashanti highlights Amy’s wisdom about building strong teams and not having to be the best at everything:
    • "She's not ashamed of not being necessarily the smartest person in every single aspect of work. And so she can find people around her that can make her better and make each other better..." – Ashanti (07:28)
  • Azzi connects Amy's advice on overcoming adversity to bouncing back in sports and life.

5. UConn Basketball Check-In (08:35–16:11)

• Reflecting on Tennessee Win:
  • Azzi praises the team’s performance—calling it a “revenge game” after last year’s loss to Tennessee.
    • "I was just proud of how we played as a team..." – Ashanti (09:01)
    • "It was the worst loss for Tennessee in history of the rap." – Azzi (09:57)
  • Azzi hypes Ashanti’s performance, noting she’s broken out of her “layup slump.”
• Team Growth & Roles:
  • Embracing roles leads to team success; breakout performance by Ali with 34 points off the bench (14:58).
    • "Just going off last game, the Tennessee game, people came in and off the bench, and they changed the game for us...Everyone loves their role, and that's what makes us work so well together." – Ashanti (13:03)
• Cottage Cheese Side Note:
  • Cottage cheese as Azzi’s go-to protein on the road draws chuckles and becomes a recurring bit throughout the episode. (11:32, 16:11–17:16)

6. Mental Toughness & Maintaining Prep (11:46–12:39)

• No shortcuts in preparation:
  • "Something that we, as a team, we pride ourselves in is not changing our preparation depending on who we play...But definitely when February comes around, at least for me, it's like, a lot more recovery, really trying to make sure I'm controlling what I can..." – Ashanti (11:57)
  • Emphasis on discipline during tough times in the season.

7. AMA: Fan & Producer Questions (21:27–34:42)

• Impact of Podcasting on Confidence:
  • Both hosts discuss stretching their comfort zones and personal growth from podcasting.
    • "Facing my fears and doing this has helped me step out of my comfort zone...What are other things that I can try and like?" – Ashanti (21:50)
    • "You’ll be surprised. I was also nervous at the beginning, but now I go into everything kind of like, hey, it’s just a conversation." – Azzi (22:35)
• Media Perspective:
  • Azzi and Ashanti express new appreciation for behind-the-scenes media work and control over their narrative (23:08–24:30).
• Locker Room Fun:
  • Best moment? "Really great TikToks" by teammates (24:47).
• Podcast Popularity:
  • Both are often surprised by who listens, from fans and young women to grown men in gyms (26:32–28:09).
• Off-mic favorite moments:
  • Hanging out with each other’s families and at All-Star weekend (28:32–29:51).
• Crossover Skills:
  • Podcasting boosts the courage to try new things in basketball and life (29:58).
• Favorite Guests:
  • Ashanti: "I really don't think there's a guest I haven't enjoyed,” highlights Gabby, Ryan, Malika Andrews, and the Stud Buds.
  • Azzi: Loves the positive, genuine energy of in-person episodes.

8. What They Want the Pod to Be (32:25–34:16)

• Vision for the Podcast:
  • Authenticity, fun, a peek inside real lives—nothing forced or clickbaity.
    • "It's like a documented history into our lives and it's just...light and fun." – Azzi (33:16)
• Bucket List:
  • "Will you ever get to ball with Adam Sandler?"
    • "Are you kidding me? I hope so. Like, that's bucket list material right there." – Ashanti (34:21)

9. Sweet Tweets: Fan Shout-Outs (39:36–41:56)

• Reading and reacting to fans’ favorite online comments:
  • "Ashanti and Az's friendship is just so endearing. Like Ashanti will really ride or die for az. I love their friendship period." – Read by Azzi (39:56)
  • Multiple tweets about cottage cheese, March Madness, and the positive energy the hosts bring.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On witnessing women’s basketball history:
  • "It almost made me a little bit emotional. You know what I mean? It's just like, we've come so far, and I'm just so proud and excited to see what's next for Unrival[ed] and just women's sports in general." – Azzi (02:23)
• On mental hurdles in sports:
  • "All slumps are mental...There’s no other way around it but just working on it in practice." – Ashanti (10:45)
• On teammate Ali’s record-setting game:
  • "Miss Girl had 34 points off the bench, the most in UConn history...I was blown away." – Azzi (14:58, 15:08)
• On friendship and support:
  • "Because it takes nothing to love your friends, okay? It takes nothing..." – Azzi (41:05)
• On podcasting as a growth experience:
  • "If I can do this, what are other things that I can do that I was worried about? So I think that's been really cool." – Ashanti (29:58)

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Unrivaled Philly Experience: 01:54–03:02, 41:45–43:58
• Weather & Playing in the Snow: 03:10–05:50
• Black History Month/February Debate: 05:01–05:37, 38:16–39:33
• UConn Win Reflection: 08:35–09:57
• Breaking the Layup Slump: 10:45–11:26
• Cottage Cheese Shtick: 11:32; 16:11–17:16
• AMA (Producer & Fan Questions): 21:27–34:42
• Sweet Tweets: 39:36–41:56
• What the Fud of the Week – Philly Unrivaled: 42:30–43:58

---

Tone & Style

The episode maintains a vibrant, supportive, and authentic tone. Hosts Azzi and Ashanti balance lighthearted friendship with insightful, real talk about the challenges and joys of elite college athletics, media, and life. The episode is filled with playful teasing (especially about cottage cheese), hype for teammates, gratitude for fans, and honest encouragement for stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Their dynamic creates a “hang out with the team” feel that resonates with listeners across generations and backgrounds.

---

Summary Takeaway

A perfect February check-in: celebration, reflection, and realness from two stars on and off the court. Whether you are a UConn fan, women’s basketball supporter, sport/life podcast listener, or just someone craving a positive and authentic audio experience, this episode offers warmth, motivation, and a front-row seat to history in the making—plus plenty of jokes and cottage cheese.

---

Transcript

[Ashanti Plummer]

This sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One. Capital One offers no fees or minimums on checking accounts. Did you know that 1998 was the first year that the Olympics featured a women's ice hockey competition? Team USA, led by captain Cami Granado, won a perfect 6.00 and took home the very first women's hockey gold, defeating Canada 3 to 1 in Nagano, Japan. Capital One, what's in your wallet? Terms apply. See capitalone.com bank for details. Capital One NA Member FDIC brought to you in part by Vital Farms. Let me tell you why Vital Farms Pasture raised eggs are the only eggs I have in my fridge. The hens, they're living the good life. Fresh air, sunshine, and wide open pastures. I use my Vital Farms for my famous frittatas, and you could trace your eggs back to the farm they came from. Check the carton for the farm name, pop it into vitalfarms.com farm and boom, you're looking at the pasture. So next time you're in the store, look for the black carton in the egg aisle and visit vitalfarms.com to learn more. Vital Farms Good eggs no shortcuts at.

[Commercial Announcer]

Lowe's get up to 35% off select major appliances. Plus members get free delivery, install and more when you spend $2,500 on select major appliances. Lowe's, we help you save valid through 225 while supplies last. Selection varies by location. Excludes Massachusetts, Maryland, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Florida loyalty program. Subject to terms and conditions. Visit lowe's.com terms for details. Subject to change.

Visit your nearby Lowes on Colorado street in Kennewick.

[Az Fudd]

There's a fire inside you you can't ignore. Stand still. Not a chance. You're a lifelong learner who's come this far. Now we are here to help you keep going further.

[Commercial Announcer]

Capella University, what can't you do? Visit Capella Edu to learn more.

[Ashanti]

Hey, everyone. Welcome back to another episode of Fut around and find out. I'm here with my girl Ashantine. Ashanti, what's up? Hey, girl.

[Az Fudd]

I am great, actually. I just got back from a quick little trip. I was in Philly for unrivaled Philly. And honestly, it was historic. It was amazing. I'm pretty sure we broke a record for, like, attendance at a women's basketball game.

[Ashanti]

I saw that.

[Az Fudd]

It was like 21,490, which is honestly unbelievable. As someone who's been like, a basketball fan my whole life to see how far the women's game has grown and I don't know. It was. It was super special to feel a part of it. So shout out to that whole unrivaled team. It almost made me a little bit emotional. You know what I mean? It's just like, we've come so far, and I'm just so proud and excited to see what's next for Unrival and just women's sports in general.

[Ashanti]

It looked incredible. So I bet being there was even, even more memorable.

[Az Fudd]

It really is. So shout out to that whole team and everyone who got that done, because 21,000 people. I don't even want to know what logistics and the team had to go through. So, yeah, it was super dope. How have you been?

[Ashanti]

I've been good. Trying to stay warm. Trying to stay inside, but, yeah, I've been good.

[Az Fudd]

So, you know, last time we did this pod, you were telling me to go play in the snow, and I was telling you, absolutely not. I was going to stay warm. But you have convinced so many people on socials, TikTok, et cetera, to go play in the snow. Did you see some of their videos?

[Ashanti]

I did. Oh, my gosh. I did. One of the two of the girls that made a video are our managers, and it was like, post practice, and one of them was like, I want to go play in the snow, and she won't go play with me. I'm like, go play in the snow. What are you doing right now? When's the next time we're going to have a snowstorm? Like you're freshman in college, Go play in the snow. And then I saw this TikTok my for you page, and it was so funny. It made me laugh.

[Az Fudd]

No. Yeah, girl. I. Okay, so you would be proud. I played a little bit. Just a tiny bit.

[Ashanti]

You picked up a snowball?

[Az Fudd]

I picked up a snowball and threw it at one of my friends, so.

[Ashanti]

Okay, okay. I'm proud. I'll give you that. I'm proud.

[Az Fudd]

But right now, I just been getting around with literally 50 layers. I have thermals now, and so I'm wearing my old school thermals under my actual clothes with scarves and hat and gloves, because it's literally like the coldest winter since I can remember.

[Ashanti]

Like, it's insane.

[Az Fudd]

Has it been this cold for you?

[Ashanti]

I would say this is probably the coldest that I could remember as well. Like, there's no reason walking from my car to my apartment, I feel like my fingers are gonna fall off. And, like, my eye, I'm literally crying from, like, the wind and the cold just hitting My eyes, like, there's no. A 30 second walk should not be that painful.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Right.

[Az Fudd]

Fighting for my life, for sure.

[Ashanti]

But I'm not gonna lie. I do love snow. And I love seeing it. So I still love, like, driving through campus, driving off campus, wherever I'm going, and still seeing all the white everywhere. I think it's beautiful.

[Az Fudd]

It's beautiful to look at for me. And then I'm like, so. Okay, so we have a hot take from one of our producers. Mm. The debate is, is February the worst month of the year? I have my opinion.

[Commercial Announcer]

No.

[Ashanti]

For so many reasons.

[Az Fudd]

No, my biggest reason is it's Black History Month.

[Ashanti]

Exactly.

[Az Fudd]

It is not. That alone makes it not the worst month for sure. But it's also. I get it. It's also, like, the coldest it's ever been. But really, that was January. Like, February just started.

[Ashanti]

Yeah. Facts.

[Az Fudd]

So we're gonna give February the benefit of the doubt. It's coming off a cold start, but hopefully it gets a little bit better.

[Ashanti]

It will. It will. There's no way it can. There's. There's no way it can get colder.

[Az Fudd]

Girl, if it gets colder, I'm gonna have to really move. Like, my people from Jamaica, we gonna be doing this internationally. Cause there's just no way. I can't take it anymore. So also on last episode, we were chatting a bit with our fave Ms. Amy from Madison. Re.

[Ashanti]

Who game this week?

[Az Fudd]

Oh, my gosh.

[Ashanti]

Courtside with her wife Claire. They were courtside baddies. They were cute. Of course.

[Az Fudd]

I. You know who else was courtside? Sarah's mom. I saw that. Let me tell you, she is going viral. Chat.

[Ashanti]

I love her.

[Az Fudd]

We. We did this. We call her courtside Baddie now. There's, like, courtside baddie edits everywhere. I love them.

[Ashanti]

To Sarah yesterday.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, I know she's tonight. Sarah, we love you. That's gonna be you one day, Sarah. You gonna be, of course, our baddie. But right now, she's an encore baddie. Ooh. Period. Encore baddie.

[Ashanti]

I know. That's right.

[Az Fudd]

But with Amy and, you know, doing your internship with her, is there anything you've learned from Amy in this? I know it's only been, like, a week, but in that time, anything that you've learned that stuck with you.

[Ashanti]

Well, I think just talking to her on the pod, hearing, you know, all the similarities she picked out between her team and basketball, and I thought that was really amazing. And still, even when you're working and you've got this team around you and she's talking about, like, she's been really smart to make to, like, find people better at her in other positions. Like, I know. I'm, like, not saying. Keep saying, like. And I keep jumbling my words. I'm not saying so much.

[Az Fudd]

I know exactly what you're saying.

[Ashanti]

Basically, the team that's gonna lift her up, like, she's not ashamed of not being necessarily the smartest person in every single aspect of work. And so she can find people around her that can make her better and make each other better and how important just team and chemistry and liking who you're working with is and how similar that is to sports. But I think, like, that's just so powerful, and I'm such a people person, so that stood out to me.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah. I mean, surround yourself with people who are really strong in areas that you are weak in, and you have a strong team. That definitely stuck with me. Another thing that's really stuck with me is when she talked about adversity, and basically, how do you bounce back from that? And I think that conversation was so timely. You know what I mean? And I think it's something that you can use in any aspect of your life. And honestly, we're gonna get into it later, but the way that your last game went, girl, I was like, come on, Miss Amy, we believe in you no matter what. And so I think that that was amazing. Shout out to Amy and Madison Reed. We appreciate y', all, and thanks for.

[Ashanti]

Coming on to the pod. I've thanked her so many times. That was great.

[Az Fudd]

So since we are, you know, talking about UConn alum, let's pivot to talk more about UConn and a little check in on how things are going. You just finished. You're coming off a Tennessee win. How did it feel? A lot of people are calling it, you know, the revenge game from last year, because that was the last team you guys, I believe, lost to in, like, 30 plus games since then. How did that feel?

[Ashanti]

It felt good. I don't know. Like, I get mixed feelings when people say revenge game because, like, I understand where they're coming from, but, like, they're a different team, we're a different team. And, you know, people, like, obviously, it feels good. It feels good to win any game, but especially a team that you've lost to in the past. I was just proud of how we played as a team. This is going to sound dumb, but it was, like, kind of fun that it was so close at first, and I thought it was really good experience for. For us to Be tied at halftime and have to go through that and have them go on that run in that second quarter. But I'm just super proud of how we handled it and how we just bounced back and stuck together and continued to believe in each other, have confidence in ourselves and each other. And. Yeah, so I'm. I left the game happy with how well everyone played and how well you.

[Az Fudd]

Played, because I know you're not gonna talk about this. My girl was hooping.

[Ashanti]

I played all right. I played well.

[Az Fudd]

I'm not trying to hear that. You killed it. And you know what's crazy?

[Ashanti]

What's crazy?

[Az Fudd]

Listen, I'm your fiercest defender, and I try my best not to go too crazy on socials, but I definitely had my little two cents. I was like, what was that? Oh. Oh, crickets. Because I just, you know, I'm just super proud. You had a great game. And, you know, the. Our producers have found some research. It was the worst loss for Tennessee in history of the rap. And that's it. I'm leaving it. I'm leaving that there. We can move on. We can move on. But, yeah, I was excited to see y' all play, and it was really good to see you hooping, because, you know, from your mouth, you were talking about you were in a layup slump. Do you feel like you come out of that? And if you have, how'd you do it?

[Ashanti]

Yeah, I definitely have come out of that. I think all slumps are mental. So the layup slump, my shooting slump, it's all mental. You just gotta get through it. There's no other way around it, but just working on it in practice. Like, making it a point to not avoid layups, but to, like, work on different finishes, doing more before practice, working on that kind of stuff. Initiating contact. So just working through it.

[Az Fudd]

Initiating contact. I know that's right. Cause, girl, we ain't forget that. You was in that weight room, child. Look, it's strong out there. Every game, I'm like, goodness gracious. Like, you really strong. Like, you be bumping those girls and you don't move. And I'm like, she be eating her oats, y'.

[Ashanti]

All.

[Az Fudd]

It's the cottage cheese. Listen, don't they got protein in there?

[Ashanti]

Cottage cheese is lots of protein.

[Az Fudd]

I'm just saying. I feel like something's correlating.

[Ashanti]

No, for real, though.

[Az Fudd]

So now you guys are getting deeper in the season. We are in February now. This is crazy. Crazy.

[Ashanti]

It's insane.

[Commercial Announcer]

Wow.

[Az Fudd]

I really have to just take a moment, like, how fast time is moving and how quick this season goes. So does your preparation change as you're getting deeper into the season?

[Ashanti]

I feel like something that we, as a team, we pride ourselves in is not changing our preparation. Depending on who we play, it could be Tennessee, it could be our next game against DePaul, but the way we prepare is the same. Obviously, there might be a little more excitement around the game depending on who we play, but, like, the scout, the practices, everything leading up, it's very, like, disciplined. Know your scout, read your scout, watch your film. But definitely when February comes around, at least for me, it's like, a lot more recovery, really trying to just make sure I'm controlling what I can and making sure I'm feeling the best because it. This is when it gets hard. Not.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah. And it's giving back to back. It's giving games, multiple games in a week. So I know you don't play about your recovery, girl, so.

[Ashanti]

Never.

[Az Fudd]

Never.

[Ashanti]

I know that's right.

[Az Fudd]

What do you think that you're doing better now compared to a month ago, making layups? I'm screaming, you know what? That's kind of valid, sis. That's kind of valid. Okay, if you want to go with that, we can go with that. At this point in the season, what kind of growth have you seen or been seeing from your teammates that makes you proud?

[Ashanti]

Oh, man. Like, do we have time to go through all 14 of them? I mean, I've seen growth in all of them in different ways, their own personal, unique ways, which I think is super special. But, like, I feel like once you're in February, like, you start to see, like, roles start to be developed, start to see habits, and so starting to see people, like, really, you know, fit into their role and, like, excel in that role and not just, like, shy away, but really, like, step in that role, like, shine in their role. And I feel like sometimes when you hear the word role, at least to me, like, when people, like, you need to, like, do your role, like, be a role player, like, there's always, like, a negative connotation to that, but I don't think it always necessarily needs to be that way. And I think what's special about our team is that everyone loves their role, and that's what makes us work so well together, that everyone knows their role, loves their role, and we, like, play off each other's role so well. But just like, going off last game, the Tennessee game, people came in and off the bench, and they changed the game for us. Like, the way that Kayleigh came in and Changed the momentum. The way that Ali came in and did her thing and Janet came in and I don't know, I was just super proud to see everyone come in and come in confident and not come in, like scared and shy away from their press and their pressure. And so to see everyone confident and playing well in February and then reciprocating that confidence and just, I don't know, it makes me really proud and seeing everyone grow.

[Az Fudd]

Aw, come on, Senior leader. I mean, yeah, it's starting to really look that way. It looks from the outside like everyone's embracing and doing what's expected of them. Right. No one's just out there freestyling and you guys are working as a team. And when you can expect someone to do what their role is, then you know that you can depend on them and things will go, you know, according as planned. But speaking of role, I just want to shout out Ali because Miss Girl had 34 points off the bench, the most in UConn history.

[Ashanti]

That was insane. We do need to talk about that for a second. That was insane. Like, like we've known she can shoot, but to go out there and do that is something else.

[Az Fudd]

I was. When I tell you, I was actually at a pickup game watching the game off my phone and I had to take a moment and I made everyone watch. I was like, yo, she's going off right now. Like, I was blown away. But that just really speaks to how much talent is on, like, your team. Like, it could be anyone's game any day. Like every single one of you guys are starters somewhere else. You know what I mean? And together, you guys are a well oiled machine. And I was truly blown away by her performance. Shout out Ali. Shout out everyone else.

[Ashanti]

Right?

[Az Fudd]

Cause people were getting her the ball, setting screens, getting her open. I was just blown, like, mind blown. Shout out to Ali Girl. Shout out.

[Ashanti]

I'm so proud of her. She's amazing. So now she needs to make that a habit. Sometimes we gotta make that a habit. Let's just continue to make ten threes every game. Let's just. I see.

[Az Fudd]

Why not. Why not? I don't think anyone's ever done it twice in a season. She already breaking records.

[Ashanti]

I'm here for it.

[Az Fudd]

That's a fact. Shout out to Ali, though. Okay, Last one, last question. Oh, my goodness. It's a cottage cheese question. We don't. This doesn't have to be. Yeah, okay. What's the best non cottage cheese related meal you've had on the road? Actually scrap that since you're a cottage cheese girly. What's the best cottage cheese meal you've had on the road this season?

[Ashanti]

Well, usually they don't have cottage cheese on the road, so I'll pack my own sometimes.

[Az Fudd]

I know that's right, sis. Can't prepare what you pack.

[Ashanti]

Sometimes just like a little, like, small thing of good culture. And then I'll eat it for breakfast with my eggs because, you know, sometimes hotel eggs are a little sus. So that helps it out. And then I get my protein and then I feel good because sometimes it's hard to eat a hotel breakfast so many times in a week, you know? Yeah, I don't know. I feel like none. No meals on the road are that exciting. I hear you.

[Az Fudd]

I mean, take us out to eat, right?

[Ashanti]

Doesn't happen too often.

[Commercial Announcer]

Oh.

[Az Fudd]

It'S all right. You and your cottage cheese. That's all you need.

[Ashanti]

Me and my college cheese against the world, literally.

[Az Fudd]

At this point, we have to develop a game on this podcast where we keep track of how many times college cheese is mentioned. And I don't know what people got to do. For the grown folks, maybe take a shot. And for the children, maybe take a shot.

[Ashanti]

Like, on the court. Yes. Yes. Always more reps.

[Az Fudd]

Always more reps. More reps.

[Commercial Announcer]

This month, iHeartRadio is celebrating the stars of the 2026 Winter Games. Hailing from Vail, Colorado, Michael Shiffrin might just be the greatest alpine skier of all time. With over 100 World cup victories. The youngest Olympic slalom winner arrives in Milano, Cortina, to further cement her legacy. Her technical precision in the slalom and fearless speed in the downhill make her a threat in every race as she takes to the slopes to chase more Olympic hardware. For more Winter Games gold, Search olympics on the iHeartRadio app.

[Ashanti Plummer]

This sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One. Capital One offers no fees or minimums on checking accounts. Did you know that the Houston Comets won the first four WNBA championships from 1997 to 2000? The team was led by a big three of Cynthia Cooper, Cheryl Swoopes and Tina Thompson. And in 98, they finished 27. 3. Their.900 winning percentage, a WNBA record that still stands. Capital One, what's in your wallet? Terms apply. See capitalone.combank for details. Capital One NA member, FDIC Super Bowl.

[Commercial Announcer]

60 deserves a sportsbook built for the moment. DraftKings Sportsbook, an official sports betting partner of Super Bowl 60, puts you right in the center of the biggest game of the year. And when anything can happen during the super bowl draftkings has your back with early exit. If a player goes down in the first half, you still get paid out in cash immediately once your bet settles. No bonus bets, no waiting. If you're new to DraftKings, new customers can bet just $5 and get 300 in bonus bets. If your bet wins, download the DraftKings sportsbook app now. Use the code DK1. That's the code DK1 to turn 5 bucks into 300 in bonus bets. If your BET wins in partnership with DraftKings, the crown is yours. Gambling Problem Call 1-800- Gambler, New York Call 877-8-Hopeny or text hopeny Connecticut Call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org on behalf of Boothill Casino in Kansas. Wager Tax pass through May apply in Illinois 21 in most states. Void in Ontario. Restrictions apply. Bet must win to receive bonus bets which expire in seven days. Minimum odds required. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources, see DKNG Co Audio limited Time Offer Are you a fraud paying American? It's a fact that one in four honest, hard working, taxpaying Americans has been a victim of identity theft. With Lifelock Identity Theft Protection though, if your identity is stolen, they fix it guaranteed and get you your money back. Last year the IRS flagged over $16 billion in refunds for identity fraud. That's billions of dollars that could come from your salary, overtime or second job. But this year you don't need to stay a victim. LifeLock monitors millions of data points per second for your personal information and alerts you to threats you could easily, easily miss on your own. And if your information does fall into the wrong hands only LifeLock has US based restoration specialists who are backed by the million dollar protection package. Because this tax season, fraud paying American is something no American should have to claim. Visit lifelock.com iheart and save up to 40% your first year. That's 40% off. @lifelock.com iheart terms apply.

Homes.com knows having the right agent can make or break your home search. That's why they provide home shoppers with an agent directory that gives you a detailed look at each agent's experience, like the number of closed sales in a specific neighborhood, average price range, and more. It lets you easily connect with all the agents in the area you're searching so you can find the right agent with the right experience and ultimately the right home for you. Homes.com, we've done your homework.

[Az Fudd]

All right, so we are going to do an ama. Now, usually when we do our ama, we get questions from our listeners, but this AMA is very special because it's for my I heart producers. I don't know why that was a tongue twister, but here we go. First one is, how has podcasting affected your confidence?

[Ashanti]

You're going to answer these too, right?

[Az Fudd]

Yes, I got you.

[Ashanti]

Okay, perfect. Well, I think it's just something different, you know, something that I wasn't really comfortable as comfortable with before. And so kind of like, facing my fears and doing this has helped me step out of my comfort zone and show me that it's not as scary as I thought it would be, which then, like, to me, at least, relates to other things in my life. And I'm like, whoa, I did this and I like it. What are other things that I can try and like? And then also having this experience, being on here, learning how this goes, talking to people, it's been a lot of fun.

[Az Fudd]

I'll say, from my point of view, watching you, I have absolutely loved it. Girl. If you look at our early day podcast, yikes, we were on here, like, all right, so then what is the next thing we're going to?

[Ashanti]

I mean, awkward silence.

[Az Fudd]

Granted, it does help that we've gotten to know each other so much more. And also, I've never hosted a podcast before. I've been a host. I do live events and that kind of stuff. But hosting a podcast is completely a different ball game. And so the way that it's improved my confidence is just, you know, getting used to it, and you'll be surprised. Like, I was also nervous at the beginning, but now I go into everything kind of like, hey, it's just a conversation on, like, FaceTime or something. And with that mindset, it just makes it a lot easier.

[Ashanti]

So, yeah, love that.

[Az Fudd]

What do you appreciate more about the media now that you're in it?

[Ashanti]

Nothing. Well, what I appreciate about this podcast is that I can say whatever I want. I can choose what I talk about, choose what I say, kind of have my pick, my narrative, where other people, they just come up with conclusions and run with it and come up with crazy things to say and say whatever they want and hide behind their screens where I feel like I like this, because then we get to decide and we get to have that say, that's beautiful.

[Az Fudd]

Media requires research and time and an amazing team if you have one, if you're lucky enough to have one. And I think I'm a lot more appreciative of people that I see also do this or do something like this in media because it's not as easy as people think. You don't just always get to come on here and chit chat, even though it feels that easy on here. Shout out to iheart and unanimous. But I know that it requires a lot of hours of work, editing, questions, research. So, yeah, that's what I've learned and.

[Ashanti]

I appreciate that is true. I will add to that. I am very appreciative of our iHeart team because it's very noticeable. I feel like now that I've done this that other people don't have teams as incredible as ours, period.

[Az Fudd]

Best team in the world.

[Ashanti]

So we are. We're blessed for sure.

[Az Fudd]

What is the craziest thing you've seen from a teammate in the locker room this season? Keep it podcast friendly. Which one of y' all asked this? Which one of you producers asked this?

[Ashanti]

I mean, I've seen some really great TikToks be made.

[Az Fudd]

I think that's good. I think that's good. I think that's good. We can move on. We know that you're not really big into social media. Is having a podcast now kind of make you want to be on media more or less?

[Ashanti]

I'd say neither. I'd say it's the exact same. Where I'll see. Well, I don't like listening to my voice, so I don't really like watching. I go watch some of the clips, but I've never watched a full episode through from start to finish because I'm like, listen to my voice. But I would actually want to be on it more. Make me want to stay off less. But I do love seeing little clips that they post.

[Az Fudd]

I'm crying. I will watch it through once or twice, but it is hard because I also do not like or like I'll cringe a little bit.

[Ashanti]

I'm just like, ugh.

[Az Fudd]

But I have to watch it because I feel like it's homework to get better.

[Ashanti]

That is true.

[Az Fudd]

And so I force myself to listen back. Some of the most outlandish things that I say. So, like, okay, cool. Never doing that again. Is hosting your own show a flex for. For your teammates or are they over it?

[Ashanti]

I mean, I wouldn't say it's a flex, but they definitely, like, do bring it up. And a lot of them are like, when am I going to get to be on Futuron and find out? When am I going to get to Futuroun and find out? Which is sweet, but I don't know. Like, I just love that they support it and that they're proud of me for having it.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah. And I do want to say, for the record, AZ has wanted to have all her teammates on, so, you know, we're doing our best.

[Ashanti]

Okay. Yeah, we're trying. It's going to happen.

[Az Fudd]

We're trying. We're doing our best.

[Ashanti]

Right.

[Az Fudd]

Fingers crossed. Who are you most surprised to find out was a fan of the podcast?

[Ashanti]

Oh, I mean, honestly, anytime anyone tells me that they watch it and that they love it, I'm surprised because, I mean, like I said, I don't really watch when they post it or I don't keep track of what the numbers look like. So in my head, it's like, we record these podcasts, they post it, and no one listens to it besides, like, my family. So whenever someone's like, oh, I'm a big fan of your podcast, I listen to it every week. I'm like, oh, really? Like, that's really sweet. Makes my day. But, yes. I don't know everyone.

[Az Fudd]

I will say a lot of people love this podcast. I think what surprises me, because I know our demographic is usually, you know, younger girls who watch it's when the grown men, like, come into my gym and they're like, yo, you want that podcast? And I'm like, yeah, I am. And they're like, yeah, it's super dope. Like, I love it. I'm like. I'm like, you tune in.

[Ashanti]

Like, that's funny.

[Az Fudd]

That definitely surprises me. But let me tell you, a lot of people love your podcast. I got. When I was at Unrivaled Philly, I got stopped by a lot of people, shout out to y', all, we love you. I want you to know that they gave me messages to give to you.

[Ashanti]

They love you.

[Az Fudd]

They love the podcast. They listen to it faithfully, and it, honestly, it makes my day every time I hear that. And so I always tell them I will. I will always send the love back to AZ and let her know.

[Ashanti]

That's so sweet.

[Az Fudd]

A special shout out to this, you know, this younger lady. You know, I don't want to call older younger lady Miss Miss B. Mama B. She wanted me let you know she wanted to adopt you and that she loves you.

[Ashanti]

Oh.

[Az Fudd]

So I'm surprised by, like, the older grown men who come up to me and, like, love the podcast, but I'm so thankful for everyone else who definitely tunes in 100%.

[Ashanti]

Oh.

[Commercial Announcer]

Ooh.

[Az Fudd]

Wow. Love this. Question, producers, what has been your favorite moment with Ashanti off mic?

[Ashanti]

I'm gonna have to go With All Star, like, when we were really starting to get to know each other for real, that whole weekend was just insane. But then, like, getting to know you with off camera, off everything, just us, that was fun. And then actually the time that you stayed after. I forget which game it was when I had a meeting the next morning and I got some goodies and you were just trying them all on. And that was. I feel like that was just like Prima Ashanti, like, in her natural habitat trying on fur coats. And like, that was so fun.

[Az Fudd]

I'm telling you, I really love your family. Like, and you obviously, like, y' all are just a good time. Y' all kind of remind me.

[Ashanti]

And I was just, like, so amused. And you were just matching my parents energy. And my dad was trying everything. I'm like, oh, my gosh.

[Az Fudd]

And he was fly. He was putting that thing on. I was like, come on now.

[Ashanti]

Come on.

[Az Fudd]

Mr. Fud. All Star was iconic and honestly trying to run that back this year. But, hey, you know, but definitely fun. I enjoy the time that we do get to spend because I know you're super busy and I'm busy and then you're in Connecticut a lot and I'm in New York. The time that we get to spend on Mike is fun and I love hanging with you off mic. So all the time we get to spend is my fave.

[Ashanti]

Aw. I agree.

[Az Fudd]

What's a lesson you've learned so far from podcasting that you have applied to basketball or your life?

[Ashanti]

I think I'd repeat what I said earlier and how I was a little nervous to do this. Really nervous to do this, actually. And honestly, not super excited either. And as I've done it, I've gotten more comfortable each show. I've learned to love it. I really enjoy doing this with you, but also having guests on. At first, I was super nervous. I'm like, well, talking to her is hard enough. Like, that makes me nervous. And adding someone else, I don't really know. So just making myself step outside of my comfort zone and kind of face those fears I had and seeing if I can do this, like, what are other things that I can do that I was worried about? So I don't know. I think that was been really cool.

[Az Fudd]

You could do anything, girl. The sky's really the limit, because who's gonna stop you but you?

[Ashanti]

Exactly.

[Az Fudd]

What's been your favorite thing that you've learned from or about a guest? It could be who you really enjoyed having on.

[Ashanti]

Honestly, I really don't think there's a guest that I haven't enjoyed. Fair.

[Az Fudd]

Fair.

[Ashanti]

That is such a hard question. I thought Gabby and Ryan were really cool and, like, learning more about them and just their hobbies outside of basketball. I thought that was really cool. That was fun. Malika Andrews surprised me. I love talking about books, so her energy was incredible. That was.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, I don't.

[Ashanti]

I love. Loved all. All of them. I've loved all of them. I'm curious to know who you're going to say, like, all. Obviously my teammates are my favorite.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, It's. I really don't have a favorite guest. I learned a lot from each of them. And I'm also, like, after interviewing them, like, oh, my God, I want to hang out. Like, I want to go golfing with Ryne. Like, she said I could come. So when I get to Miami, Ryen, let's go. But I love an in person pod and I got to do the stud buds pod in person.

[Ashanti]

Lucky.

[Az Fudd]

And I will say I was laughing the whole time, so it's not fair. Cause, like, I feel like in person with people is much better.

[Ashanti]

I agree.

[Az Fudd]

But the stud buzz, oh, my goodness. Natisha and Kourt, like, they're crazy and I had the time and they're. You know what's crazy from the podcast now? Every time I see them, it's the same energy and I really love that. So they're exactly who they show up as on. On media, and I love it. So I don't got a favor, but if I did have a favorite, that'd be that one.

[Ashanti]

That's a great one to choose.

[Az Fudd]

What would you like this podcast to be known for a year from now?

[Ashanti]

That's a good question. Maybe how, like, light and fun it is, but it's also very authentic. And how you get a closer look into my life, into your life, into the people who are guests on the pod and what they're interested in. And, like, I'm not really sure because I feel like at times we're kind of all over the place, which I love. Like, I love that because I wouldn't want this pod to be kind of like, stuck into, like, one box. Only talking about basketball. Only talking about whatever. Cottage cheese. Like, we can talk about cottage cheese, basketball, books, New York snow, Black History Month. Like, who cares? We talk about. We can talk about everything. But, like, I love. Yeah. Just how, like, we can be us and it's fun and light and it's whatever we want it to be.

[Az Fudd]

I think that's well said. I think the reason why I really Love doing this is. Cause, like, you don't have to come to this pod for like, gossip or for the news. It's like something fun. You're definitely gonna laugh. It's a peek inside of your life for our lives that people really don't get to experience. Like, I can't think of any kind of media that kind of leads from, like, you're coming off a national championship now you're in your last year, and then this pod will go until, like, you're playing professionally, so. Or as long as you want it, girl. Because you know I'm here whenever you want it. You know, you want to keep us employed, we're right here. No, but seriously, so in a year from now, I would hope that people are just like, what a fun. Like, it's like a documented history into our lives and it's just. It's light and fun and that's. Yeah, that's what I like. That's what I love. Last question.

[Ashanti]

Yes.

[Az Fudd]

Will you ever get to ball with Adam Sandler?

[Ashanti]

Are you kidding me? I hope so. Like, that's bucket list material right there.

[Az Fudd]

Listen, we got to put the call out to Adam. Adam's always in New York, so I.

[Ashanti]

Manifesting and I gotta come hang out with you more.

[Az Fudd]

I've only seen him like twice, but yeah, honestly, come let his people know. Who's his agent? Who says people?

[Ashanti]

Yeah, let me find out.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, my goodness.

[Ashanti Plummer]

This sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One. Capital One offers no fees or minimums on checking accounts. Did you know that 1998 was the first year that the Olympics featured a women's ice hockey competition? Team USA, led by captain Cammy Granado, won a perfect 6.00 and took home the very first women's hockey gold, defeating Canada 3 to 1 in Nagano, Japan. Capital One, what's in your wallet? Terms apply. See capitalone.com bank for details. Capital One NA member FDIC.

[Commercial Announcer]

Homes.com knows having the right agent can make or break your home search. That's why they provide home shoppers with an agent directory that gives you a detailed look at each agent's experience, like the number of closed sales in a specific neighborhood, average price range, and more. It lets you easily connect with all the agents in the area you're searching so you can find the right agent with the right experience and ultimately the right home for you. Homes.com. we've done your homework.

All right, big news. Liquid IV's got something huge coming this February 8th. Have you heard about it? Yeah, you just told me. A second ago. Fair enough. I'm guessing it has something to do with fighting dehydration. Speaking of, do you know seven potential signs of mild to moderate dehydration? There's thirst, obviously, and six more, right? Fatigue, brain fog, nausea, headaches, irritability, and there's one more that I can't remember. Does that mean I'm dehydrated? Maybe. But I think I'm dehydrated because you're irritating me right now. Then drink some Liquid iv. I like the sugar free raspberry lemonade, but mango pineapple is great too. Liquid IV Sugar Free is the only sugar free hydration product on the market. Clinically demonstrated to hydrate faster than water alone. And there aren't any artificial sweeteners or colors. You gotta stay hydrated. Well, that's my crash course on dehydration. But no doubt Liquid IV will have something more to say on February 8th. Anything else happening that day? I don't know. I'll have to check the calendar. Stay hydrated. Stock up on Liquid IV at Liquid-IV and use the code nuthouse for 20% off for a first time purchase.

Hi, I'm Cindy Crawford and I'm the.

[Ashanti]

Founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but, like, I never liked being told, oh, wow, you look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look.

[Commercial Announcer]

Great at any age? Every age.

[Ashanti]

That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin at the age you are now.

[Commercial Announcer]

Meaningful Beauty. Beautiful skin at every age.

[Ashanti]

Learn [e-mail].

[Commercial Announcer]

Sometimes all we want is more of the same. Like another round of golf played from a channel with 247 coverage. Another look at the garden and the deer as they pick their way through it. Another Another Taco Tuesday followed by a Whatever's in the Fridge Wednesday. And to get more of the same, all we need is a little help with adaptable care plans from qualified, compassionate caregivers matched to your family's needs. Home Instead can help you and your passion stay home no matter what's on your horizon. Visit home instead online for a better what's next?

[Az Fudd]

All right, you guys, we're gonna get into some fun and games. But first we're gonna start off with some fun facts, which is only right because it is Black History Month. So a little fun fact here is Black History Month, which, you know is celebrated in February, was officially recognized by the US government in 1976. But it came from Negro History Week, which was established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. So that means it's been 100 years of like Black History Month. Even though month was established in 76, Negro Week, which was, you know, to celebrate, you know, Black history started 100 years ago. So. Woo.

[Ashanti]

Wow. That's amazing.

[Az Fudd]

So that is my Black History Month fun fact. What about you, Az?

[Ashanti]

Okay, my Black History Month fun fact is that Motown Records had so many hits in the 1960s that Detroit briefly outsold Broadway and Hollywood combined in record sales.

[Az Fudd]

Come on.

[Ashanti]

Come on.

[Az Fudd]

That's actually amazing.

[Ashanti]

That's so impressive. I would have. I would have never guessed that.

[Az Fudd]

I would have never known. And that's not even that long ago. Like 1960s. I mean, it's a long time, but it's not like a hundred years ago.

[Ashanti]

Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

Okay, so we are now going to move along to reacting to some sweet tweets that we've been receiving from some of the fans. I will start us off. Ready? Reneeb4 said. Ashanti and Az's friendship is just so endearing. Like Ashanti will really ride or die for az. I love their friendship, period. Cause I don't play that zone. Listen, say what you want, but stay off of my tl. If it's negative like bye.

[Ashanti]

That'S cute. Okay, which one do I want to read? Just ate a whole container of cottage cheese. Currently feeling like Az Fudd, period. Oh my goodness. Maya.

[Az Fudd]

Yes. Come on, Ms. Maya. I love that energy from C35. I told my cousins about AZ fudding her dominance during March Madness and he called me. He called AZ a March monster.

[Ashanti]

Thank you.

[Az Fudd]

Okay, don't forget that's the rainy mop.

[Ashanti]

Okay? A March monster. That's kind of funny. Okay, this one is from Michaela A Ad Ashanti loves AZ Down. And you know what? I get it. Everyone needs an Ashanti hype gal in their life. No, seriously. Everyone needs an Ashanti in their life.

[Az Fudd]

Listen, and if you don't have one, reevaluate the circle. Because it takes nothing to love your friends, okay? It takes nothing from Genesis. AZ Fudd is still generation. What I think she's trying to say is AZ Fludd is still a generational shooter and one of the best shooters I've seen at the college level. Do not get it mistaken.

[Commercial Announcer]

Period.

[Ashanti]

Thank you.

[Az Fudd]

I didn't say period 57 times, but I mean it. Come on, Genesis.

[Ashanti]

Thank you. This one's from Powell. I love you for a lifetime. And in all my lifetimes, Az Fudd love You, girl. Love you right back.

[Az Fudd]

Okay, that wraps up our sweet tweets. Oh, I love it. Thank you guys so much.

[Ashanti]

Our sweet tweets. It's kind of funny.

[Az Fudd]

That's going to be our section. Sweet tweets.

[Ashanti]

Sweet tweets.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah. Can I just say, I do read 90% of the comments, so y' all know I might not reply to any of them, but I do read them. I appreciate y' all so much. All right, so that brings us to our what the fud of the week. As you guys know what the fud of week is. Something that happened this week that made you say, what the fudge Az. What do we got?

[Ashanti]

Our what the fun of the week is Philly and unrivaled. I mean, how can you beat that? The record breaking attendance. Marina Mabry scoring 47 points. That was insane. Kylie, Kelsey and Paige having Shirley temples on the court, that was crazy too. Like all of it. I was. I was blown away. It was amazing.

[Az Fudd]

Yes. I mean, being there, I can't.

[Ashanti]

I can't believe you were there. I'm so jealous.

[Az Fudd]

Girl, don't worry. Your time will come and I'm gonna be right there. Courtside. No, but seriously, it really, really was amazing being there. And shout out to Mac and everyone who helped me get there, but I went with Batuli, my best friend and my other friend Fran and getting to experience, that was insane. First of all, Marina unconscious. I was like, I'm just watching back to back, good basketball game. Allie goes off for 34 and then it's like, whoop. Next day, here's Marina going off for 47. It's just good hoops all around. It's like a great. It's a great time to be a part of women's sports. So definitely the best what the fud of the week is unrivaled in Philly. I hope that they go back to Philly. I hope we get to do more cities. But I mean, it was insane. So definitely the best what the fud of the week.

[Ashanti]

All right, well, that is a wrap on today's episode. Thank you guys so much for tuning in and don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to FUT around and find out wherever you get your podcasts. We'll see you guys next week. Fud around and find out is a production of I heart women's sports and unanimous Media. Executive producers are Jessie Katz, Eric Payton, Sharla Sumter, Brigitte and Stephen Curry. Co executive producer is Kalena Maria Kutney. Producers are Mike Coscarelli Grace Fuse and Mackenzie Fitzpatrick and co producers are Kurt Redmond, Maya Howard and Jaclyn Schoninger. This podcast is edited by Mike Coscarelli and hosted by me, Az Fudd and.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Ashanti Plummer, brought to you in part by Vital Farms. Let me tell you why Vital Farms Pasture Raised eggs are the only eggs I have in my fridge. The hens? They're living the good life. Fresh air, sunshine and wide open pastures. I use my Vital Farms for my famous frittatas and you could trace your eggs back to the farm they came from. Check the carton for the farm name, pop it into vitalfarms.com farm and boom, you're looking at the pasture. So next time you're in the store, look for the black carton in the egg aisle and visit vitalfarms.com to learn more. Vital Farms Good Eggs, no Shortcuts homes.com.

[Commercial Announcer]

Knows having the right agent can make or break your home search. That's why they provide home shoppers with an agent directory that gives you a detailed look at each agent's experience, like the number of closed sales in a specific neighborhood, average price range, and more. It lets you easily connect with all the agents in the area you're searching so you can find the right agent with the right experience and ultimately, the right home for you. Homes.com, we've done your homework.

[Az Fudd]

At CVS, it matters that we're not.

[Commercial Announcer]

Just in your community, but that we're part of it. It matters that we're here for you when you need us, day or night, and we want everyone to feel welcomed and rewarded. It matters that CVS is here to.

[Az Fudd]

Fill your prescriptions and here to fill your craving for a tasty and, yeah, healthy snack.

[Commercial Announcer]

At cvs, we're proud to serve your community because we believe where you get your medicine matters. So Visit [e-mail] or just come by our store.

[Az Fudd]

We can't wait to meet you.

[Commercial Announcer]

Store hours vary by location.

Sometimes all we want is more of the same, like another round of golf played from a channel with 24. 7 coverage, another look at the garden and the deer as they pick their way through it, another Taco Tuesday followed by a Whatever's in the Fridge Wednesday. And to get more of the same, all we need is a little help with adaptable care plans from qualified compassionate caregivers matched to your family's needs. Home Instead can help you and your passions stay home no matter what's on your horizon. Visit home instead online for a better what's next.