Czeching in with National Champion Kaitlyn Chen

Summary

Fudd Around And Find Out

Episode: “Czeching in with National Champion Kaitlyn Chen”

Date: October 17, 2025
Host(s): Azzi Fudd & Ashanti Plummer
Guest: Kaitlyn Chen
Podcast by: iHeartPodcasts and Unanimous Media

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Episode Overview

This lively episode features special guest Kaitlyn Chen, fresh off a WNBA rookie year and currently playing pro basketball in Prague. Hosts Azzi Fudd and Ashanti Plummer dig into Kaitlyn’s journey from Princeton to UConn to the pros, navigating life overseas, and embracing her Taiwanese heritage as a trailblazer. Expect inside stories, real talk about transitions on and off the court, and plenty of laughs—plus, classic team chemistry games and candid answers to fan questions.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Who is Kaitlyn Chen? (02:39 – 04:53)

• Chen introduces herself and reveals her current location: Prague, Czech Republic.
• Fun Personal Facts
  • Loves to read and really loves bread, to the point where it became a running joke; parents of teammates would bring her loaves and she got a "I heart bread" shirt for her birthday.
    • "At Princeton, ... when I was on [a podcast], the last question the guy asked was what's something people should know about you? ... my mind went blank. So I go, I really like bread." — Kaitlyn Chen (03:44)
• Nickname "Kyle" started after a media day mishap with a black backdrop, leading teammates to joke she looked like a boy.

Transitioning from Princeton to UConn (06:20 – 08:30)

• Biggest Difference:
  • The "five spots" drill, a grueling practice finisher.
    • "It's this one drill... at the end of every practice... everyone has to go through and make their layup in a row for practice to be over." — Kaitlyn Chen (06:31)
• Decision to transfer motivated by wanting the best chance at a national championship and great team vibes.
• Memories of her recruitment visit include meeting the team and her parents joining in "CD games" at a coach's house, highlighting the family atmosphere at UConn.

Reflections on UConn and Teammates (08:18 – 09:03)

• Strong teammate bonds—Ashanti describes how quickly she and Chen became inseparable, even in a year together.
• "There were a few times last season where I was like, oh, thank God. I only have to go through this once." — Kaitlyn Chen (08:34)

Life in Prague: Overseas Pro Experience (09:30 – 15:45)

• How Kaitlyn Landed in Prague:
  • Last minute decision, agent encouraged her, had just 72 hours notice, mom helped get her winter clothes to Europe.
• Typical Day:
  • Practices include lifts, film sessions, and scrimmages; connecting with other American athletes in Prague.
• Differences from NCAA/WNBA:
  • "Sometimes I'll be on the court and I'll be hearing like three different languages all around me, but for the most part, like, everyone speaks English." — Kaitlyn Chen (12:35)
  • More ball movement and selflessness on the court.
• Adventuring and sightseeing, with one free day a week, opportunity to travel in Europe.

WNBA Draft Experience & Representation (17:23 – 22:36)

• Draft Day Emotions:
  • "They sort of tricked me... camera was like, Dallas up next... ended up in California instead."
  • Kaitlyn’s laid-back outlook: if she made a team, great; if not, she’d attend Princeton reunions—a highlight of her year.
    • "If I don't, I get to go to reunions." — Kaitlyn Chen (19:19)
• Advocacy & Support:
  • Paige Bueckers (UConn teammate) publicly supported Kaitlyn’s draft case—demonstrates strong team culture.
    • "That's just like how Paige is, though. Like she's that kind of teammate that's always going to have your back." — Kaitlyn Chen (19:55)
• Making History:
  • First Taiwanese player drafted in the WNBA.
    • "To be able to be a role model for younger Asian American athletes, it means a lot. ... there wasn’t always someone to like look up to." — Kaitlyn Chen (21:00)
• Meeting Jeremy Lin was a brief yet meaningful moment (“everyone knows Jeremy Lin from Linsanity”).

Inside the Valkyries & Fan Culture (21:47 – 22:32)

• Home arena called "Valhalla": constant sellouts, electric atmosphere with 18,000+ fans per game.
• "Playing in Valhalla where it’s like 18,000 fans every night and they go crazy from the start of the game to the end... was pretty special." — Kaitlyn Chen (21:57)
• Described as even more intense than UConn’s Gampel Pavilion.

Team Chemistry & Coaching (24:07 – 24:44)

• Being waived and re-signed did not affect team relationships; Valkyries embraced her upon return.
• Coach Natalie Nakase’s impact: accountability and leadership, especially for point guards.
  • "Whatever happens, if it goes poorly, that's on you... make sure the team is prepared." — Kaitlyn Chen (24:44)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Adjusting to Pro Ball:
  "I didn't realize how much more physical professional basketball would be compared to college, although I probably should have." — Kaitlyn Chen (13:28)

• On Unique Teammate Traditions:
  "We used to... if we were on trips on the bus, we would Wordle, Connect and Hashtag." — Ashanti Plummer (09:08)
  "If we won a game, I just wear the same socks... same underwear... same sports bra." — Kaitlyn Chen (29:20)

• On Bread... and Birthdays:
  "A loaf of bread. Like a shirt that said I heart bread and like, one of those, like, big stuffed animal loaves." — Kaitlyn Chen (04:45)

• On Family Support (and Dad's Jersey):
  "My dad went to a Golden State vs Dallas game where I was playing and wore a Paige jersey... He loves Paige!" — Kaitlyn Chen (23:12)

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Highlights by Segment & Timestamps

Getting to Know Kaitlyn Chen

• Fun facts and personality stories (02:39-05:53)
• Bread obsession and team inside jokes (03:41-04:53)

College & Pro Basketball Transitions

• Major adjustment drills and why choose UConn (06:20-07:18)
• Recruitment visit stories with parents (07:20-07:55)

Life Overseas

• Packing & relocation chaos (10:31-11:06)
• Day-to-day pro basketball life in Prague (11:14-11:57)
• Language barriers and international play (12:35-13:28)
• International travel plans and teammate adventures (14:00-15:53)

WNBA Draft & Representation

• Draft process, Paige’s advocacy (17:23-20:09)
• First Taiwanese WNBA draftee (21:00)
• Jeremy Lin encounter and reconnecting with Asian American trailblazers (21:20)

Valkyries Experience

• Atmosphere at Valhalla, fan engagement (21:47-22:59)
• Returning after being waived, team chemistry (23:44-24:11)
• Coach Nakase’s leadership lessons (24:36-24:44)

Fan Questions & Rapid Fire (28:14-36:09)

• "Welcome to the W" moment: training camp, guarding Veronica (28:28)
• Pregame and superstition routines (28:53-29:36)
• Favorite food spot in the Bay Area, music genre, and bench celebrations (29:41-31:25)
• "Start-Bench-Cut" with Princeton, UConn, Valkyries (32:02)
• “Quad routine” (33:19)
• Dream starting five from all teams (34:44-35:57)

Fudding Games (39:13-47:02)

• "What the Fud of the Week" (39:13): raw chicken before a game, LeBron’s fake retirement ad, Love Island celebrity at a local bar.
• "Eurotrip": Czech grocery store survival, trying new foods, adapting to European team culture (41:37-44:01)
• "Ivy or Auriemma": Guess the quote—Is it Coach Geno or Ivy League wisdom? (44:31-47:02)

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Tone & Vibe

• Playful, authentic, and full of group chemistry.
• Azzi and Ashanti bring energy and humor, while Kaitlyn offers sincerity, self-deprecation, and sharp storytelling.
• Candid, supportive atmosphere with teammates lifting one another up and laughing about mishaps.
• Plenty of practical insights about adapting to basketball at the highest levels, living abroad, and celebrating cultural identity.

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Conclusion

Kaitlyn Chen’s journey from Ivy League star to National Champion at UConn, to WNBA rookie and then to pro hooping overseas is as dynamic as it is relatable. The episode is packed with practical athlete wisdom, stories about friendship and adjustment, and a behind-the-scenes look at the women’s basketball pipeline. Kaitlyn’s self-awareness, humor, and unfiltered openness—alongside Azzi and Ashanti’s camaraderie—make this a must-listen for sports fans and anyone curious about the real lives of athletes.

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Timestamps Cheat Sheet

• 02:39 — Kaitlyn says hi from Prague; fun facts & bread stories
• 06:20 — "Five spots" drill & why she chose UConn
• 09:30 — Bonding at UConn; sauna & Wordle traditions
• 11:14 — A day in the life as a player in Prague
• 12:35 — Language barriers on her Czech team
• 13:28 — Pro ball physicality & international style
• 17:23 — WNBA draft experience, reunions, Paige’s support
• 21:00 — First Taiwanese player in the WNBA
• 21:47 — Valkyries’ “Valhalla” arena and fan culture
• 24:36 — Coach Nakase’s leadership lessons
• 28:28 — Fan Q&A: “Welcome to the W.”
• 32:02 — "Start-Bench-Cut" college & pro teams
• 34:44 — Dream “starting five”
• 39:13 — Fudding Games: "What the Fud?" of the week
• 41:37 — "Eurotrip" culture test
• 44:31 — "Ivy or Auriemma" quote game

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Notable Quotes:

• “Whatever happens, if it goes poorly, that’s on you... you’ve got to make sure you’re holding everyone accountable and doing everything within your power to make sure the team is prepared.” — Kaitlyn Chen on Coach Nakase (24:44)
• “To be able to be a role model for younger Asian American athletes, it means a lot.” — Kaitlyn Chen (21:00)

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For first-timers and fans alike, this episode delivers a compelling and fun inside look at women’s basketball, identity, and teammate sisterhood.

Transcript

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[Ashanti Plummer]

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

[Az Fudd]

I'm good. I'm excited. We have a fun guest today. You want to introduce her?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Fun is one word to describe her. I would describe her as weird. We have the one and only Caitlyn.

[Ad Voice]

Jen.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Woo. Hey, Caitlin. Jen.

[Az Fudd]

Hey, Caitlin.

[Caitlin Chen]

Hi, Zifaad. Hi, Asanthi.

[Az Fudd]

Kaitlyn, where are you right now?

[Caitlin Chen]

I'm in Prague right now. Amazing.

[Az Fudd]

Okay, overseas, girly. We want to get to know you. So I have a couple questions and a couple fun stories lined up. I had the chance to chat with one of your besties, Ellie, your former teammate, and she. She gave me some tea that wanted to chat with.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I can't wait to hear this.

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, God.

[Az Fudd]

So my first question is, what is a non basketball related thing that people don't know about you?

[Caitlin Chen]

Non basketball related? I like reading.

[Az Fudd]

Does that count on par with az? We got some bookworms in the building. So I heard that another non basketball related thing is that you like bread.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Oh, my God.

[Caitlin Chen]

I do like bread.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, my God.

[Caitlin Chen]

She told you that? That was really embarrassing. So at Princeton, we had like, you know, one of those weekly podcasts. And when I was on it, like, the last question the guy asked me was like, like, what's something people should know about you? Like, unrelated to basketball. And obviously, like, my mind went blank. So I go, I really like bread. And he was. He didn't really know what to do with that.

[Ashanti Plummer]

So, like, if you know Caitlin Chen, like, that is like a personality trait. I've never seen anyone eat bread the.

[Caitlin Chen]

Way that she does. Good bread is good bread. And Izzy also eats it.

[Ashanti Plummer]

She really tries to, but I try not to. But when you're with Caitlin, it's like, you have to.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, I heard it turned into like a who. Whole thing, like parents started making baked goods and bringing it to games.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, that part was actually incredible because all my friends, parents, like, somehow found out and so they would bring me like a loaf of sourdough bread or a loaf of, like, a baguette. It'd be amazing.

[Az Fudd]

And what'd you get for your birthday?

[Caitlin Chen]

A loaf of bread. Like a shirt that said, like, I heart bread and like, one of those, like, big stuffed animal loaves.

[Az Fudd]

That's fire. I also heard another fun story back in your Princeton days. I think it was sophomore year, you had a media day. Do you shout out to Ellie, but you want to tell us what happened sophomore year?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. So they wouldn't let us put our hair down for media day. Crazy, right? So I had my hair tied up and it was Before I had highlights, my hair was black. And we did pictures on a white backdrop and a black backdrop. And so, like, with the black backdrop, you couldn't see my hair. So I looked like a boy. So then it sort of became like a joke on our team that, like, I was a boy on our team and they named me Kyle. And from then on, like, all of my teammates have called me Kyle since.

[Az Fudd]

Other things that Ellie did say was, you were, like, one super fun, super smiley. She didn't say a bunch of embarrassing things. Mostly good. And that you're always, like, a permanent plus one. Is that, like, your love language? You're always down to go somewhere with your teammate?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. I feel like the majority of my time at Princeton, it was like you couldn't find one of us without the other.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah. Az, she was that way at UConn, too.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, I was definitely a plus one. Plus one third wheel, something like that. Always in my apartment. Aw, Caitlin Chen. I miss you.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, you should. I guess I miss you a little, too.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Just a little. I'll take it.

[Caitlin Chen]

Just a little.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. Caitlin, what would you say was the biggest difference coming from Princeton to UConn?

[Caitlin Chen]

Five spots.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Oh, five.

[Caitlin Chen]

Five spots.

[Ashanti Plummer]

It's like, five spots.

[Az Fudd]

Explain five spots to our listeners.

[Caitlin Chen]

It's this one drill that we do at the end of every practice. And it's like, sort of like a star passing is drill, and it ends with, like, a layup. But you have to get, like, everyone has to, like, go through and make their layup in a row for practice to be over. And if, like, someone misses or you drop a pass and you gotta, like.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Restart, but you hear five spots, and that's the end of practice. Everyone's like, five spots.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yes. Let's go.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, I was going to ask. So why'd you choose UConn? You could have went anywhere.

[Caitlin Chen]

I felt like UConn would give me, like, the best chance to win a national championship. Yeah. And, like, make it far in the tournament. I would like to say that I was right about that, but honestly, just, like, meeting the team coaches on my visit, it was great. Az was really friendly. Honestly nicer than I thought she would be.

[Az Fudd]

Walk us through your visit.

[Caitlin Chen]

When was my visit? Oh, my visit was really random. It was, like, on, like, a Monday. Tuesday. I think I was gonna say it.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Was during the week.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. Because I remember I wanted to spend the weekends with my friends at Princeton because it was senior spring, obviously. I remember playing CD games. Classic. What do we do? Oh, we went to Coach's house. As usual. And honestly, I don't really remember much else.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I don't remember much, though. Honestly. What I remember from your visit is your dad, your mom and your dad playing CD games. And they were the funniest. I was like, caitlin, like, I don't know how I feel about her yet, but her parents are cool and that still stands.

[Az Fudd]

Well, it was the right choice. Cause you won a national championship.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Caitlyn was like, last year, the biggest surprise for me from her visit. I was like, I don't know how I feel about her. I don't know if she's gonna commit. And then she did. And then the summer, it was like, I don't know if I could really see myself hanging out with her and being close with her. And then it was like, as soon as the season started, I think I hung out with Caitlin every single day.

[Az Fudd]

That's cute.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Caitlin. You made last year so much fun. Thanks. It's actually really weird without you. Even though we were only together for less than a year.

[Caitlin Chen]

I know it's weird that I was only there for a year. It feels like longer maybe just because season feels so long, dude.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Especially when you go. When you go through a season like that together.

[Caitlin Chen]

Bonds you definitely. There were a few times last season where I was like, oh, thank God. I only have to go through this once.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Those sauna conversations. I haven't been in the sauna since you left. Actually, I have not stepped foot in there.

[Caitlin Chen]

It's pretty bad. That's sort of bad of you. Yeah, I know. Sounds like you're not really. Yeah. But you're not recovering.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I. Okay. This week. No, my body needs it this week. I'll go in the sauna. I haven't saunaed. I haven't wordled.

[Caitlin Chen]

I wordled last night.

[Ashanti Plummer]

You didn't text me.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I didn't. And I connected. Connected. No mistakes.

[Ashanti Plummer]

We used to. It was in the sauna. And if we were on trips on the bus, we would wordle. Connect and Hashtag.

[Caitlin Chen]

Hashtag. And sports connect. The AC was really. AC was terrible at it, that one.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

It was usually lucky if I got one Sports Connection. But we would do that. You, me, Paige, and then some of the back of the bus joined us, too. Oh, and Jake.

[Caitlin Chen]

Jakey.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, let's talk about where you are right now. You said you're in Prague playing overseas. How long have you been out there?

[Caitlin Chen]

I got out here, I think October 2nd. About a week. Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Wait, what time is it there?

[Caitlin Chen]

Shoot, 4. 47. So you guys are six hours behind. Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. That's not terrible.

[Caitlin Chen]

But it's like when I'm done with my day and I want to call my friends, they're all still working, so that part sort of sucks. Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

Why'd you choose Prague?

[Caitlin Chen]

It was actually really, really last minute, so my agent had brought it up, like, maybe a week before, and I didn't really think anything of it because he didn't say anything else. And then he brings it up again and is like, I really think you should do this. And they want you to leave in three days. And I was like, okay, I guess I'll go. But I figured it's two and a half months. It would be a fun experience. And worst comes to worst, it's only two and a half months.

[Ashanti Plummer]

You can do anything for two and a half months. Facts. How did you pack? Like, did you bring one bag over? Or how does that work?

[Caitlin Chen]

Word.

[Az Fudd]

Walk us through your 72 hours.

[Caitlin Chen]

That was hard. Well, I had actually gone from Cabo to Toronto to visit my boyfriend, and that's when I found out. And so all my stuff was still at home and I didn't have any winter stuff. So my mom, being the amazing person that she is, brought me my stuff to Toronto. That way I didn't have to, like, you know, fly back to Los Angeles to fly back to, like, the east coast, to fly to Europe. So thankful for my mom. She's the best.

[Ashanti Plummer]

She is the best. Okay, I know you're only a week in, like, what are the practices like? Like, walk us. Walk us through a day, actually, because I have no idea what that's like.

[Caitlin Chen]

A day. Well, I wake up and then. Do you want, like, a game day or regular practice day?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Both. So what was a regular practice day?

[Caitlin Chen]

Regular practice day. I'll walk you through my day. Today I woke up and I got ready. I cooked for the first time today. I made eggs for breakfast and I went to the gym. We had film and then we lifted and then practice. And then I actually met up with these two soccer girls who play for, like, the Prague team nearby or, like, here, because they were like, oh, we're always looking for more Americans to hang out. So got coffee with them and that was honestly great. Yeah, I really like them.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Oh, that's nice.

[Az Fudd]

So that's a practice day. What's a game day like?

[Caitlin Chen]

Game day. I feel like it's pretty similar to, like, every other game day. Wake up, shoot around in the morning, come home, nap, and then go to the game.

[Ashanti Plummer]

What do you eat for a pregame Meal.

[Caitlin Chen]

I've sort of just been like, winging it, like, finding something nearby. The little Vietnamese place by my house has been really amazing. I'll just get, like, a rice bowl from there.

[Ashanti Plummer]

There you go.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

What's the biggest difference you notice from playing with UConn and then playing internationally with your Czech team?

[Caitlin Chen]

Well, one, everyone spoke English at UConn. There's a start. Like, sometimes I'll be on the court and I'll be hearing, like, three different languages all around me. But for the most part, like, everyone speaks English, so that's helpful because I've heard that on some other teams that's not necessarily the case.

[Az Fudd]

You guys have a translator?

[Caitlin Chen]

No.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, you're on your own.

[Caitlin Chen]

Everyone's English is, like, good enough, though.

[Ashanti Plummer]

When you go through plays. Like, what do they. How do they explain the plays in what language?

[Caitlin Chen]

It's all in English.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, nice.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Like, the speech is in English.

[Caitlin Chen]

English, but it's like a little broken English. Yeah, you piece it together.

[Az Fudd]

Is there anything you learned from playing in the W that's translating over to playing internationally?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I guess. Just like, the physicality. Like, I didn't realize how much more physical professional basketball would be compared to college, although I probably should have. But that's not really something they tell you.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I know it's early, but is there anything from playing internationally that you want to bring home with you?

[Caitlin Chen]

Honestly, they, like, move the ball really well here. Like, it rarely, like, just sticks. I feel like we sort of had that UConn too, but post passing.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Post passing.

[Az Fudd]

The bigs are thanking you. The bigs are.

[Caitlin Chen]

Thank you.

[Az Fudd]

So are there any countries you're excited to travel to or play against?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, honestly, we get, like a national team break where we get, like a week off, I think so. One of my Valkyries teammates is playing in Spain, and we were hoping to, like, meet up and, like, go travel somewhere cool, but we haven't quite figured out where that summer cool is yet. So maybe ask me in like, a month and then I would know.

[Ashanti Plummer]

We'll follow back up.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, follow up. I heard Budapest is really cool and pretty.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Do you have, like, a good amount of off days where you can, like, take a train somewhere and travel or.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, we at least get like one a week. Yesterday was, I guess, an off day, but we were traveling. The travel was pretty rough yesterday, though. It was like a four hour bus ride and then hour and a half plane ride, so that sort of sucks.

[Az Fudd]

Where did y' all go?

[Caitlin Chen]

We were. We went to Borges, France. I don't really know if you. That's how you pronounce it.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I need to pull up a map. I don't think I know where Prague even is.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I also had to do that.

[Az Fudd]

Did you sightsee out and check? Because I know there's, like, a beautiful bridge with locks and, like, a rainbow buildings and a castle.

[Caitlin Chen]

I had one day of exploring so far here. I walked to the castle. I saw it from the outside. It was really pretty. And then I, like, walked into. Actually, no, that's a lie. I tried to take the tram. I went the wrong way. And then I got off and got an Uber and went to, like, the. More, like, center of the city, and I went shopping. I found them all there. And then I sort of just, like, walked around. But Prague is, like, beautiful. It looks so, like. I don't know how else to describe it, but, like, Europe.

[Ashanti Plummer]

But you just play all over Europe.

[Caitlin Chen]

We play, like, I think in France, Spain, and Poland.

[Ashanti Plummer]

You're gonna have some really cool stories and pictures, and I can't wait to.

[Caitlin Chen]

I know. I'm excited. Well, I sent you my pictures and you never responded, so I can open it?

[Ashanti Plummer]

I'm sorry.

[Caitlin Chen]

It's okay.

[Az Fudd]

Caitlin, you can send us your pictures.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. Also, for people who don't know, like, az's a horrible texter. I'm getting slipper will not respond.

[Az Fudd]

I actually mentioned that in, like, our first pod. I was like, I texted you. You didn't text back. But if she does pick up, if you like, FaceTime.

[Caitlin Chen]

Also a lie, because I just called her and she disturb still.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Usually I turn it off right away, but I didn't turn it off.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I called you twice, and you still didn't pick up.

[Az Fudd]

Call MacKenzie. Yeah, call MacKenzie.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. So after you're overseas, you're playing Athletes Unlimited. This is going to be your first season doing this. What are you looking forward to? And are there. Is there a team or people that you're most excited to play against or with?

[Caitlin Chen]

I'm excited for, like, the competition there. I feel like there are a lot of really, really great players, and honestly, just, like, meeting more people. Brie Hall's doing it, and we became friends when she was with the Valkyries a little. So I'm honestly excited for our month together in Nashville.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I was a huge fan of the TikToks. You guys made.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. See, it's like, I'll do them if you don't make me dance.

[Az Fudd]

Can you act? Because, you know, AZ has been doing a little acting lately, and I've been Loving it.

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, I'm not really great at that either. It's gotta be, like, very basic, like one liners.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. Okay.

[Az Fudd]

One liners. Or just like, guest appearances.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yes.

[Az Fudd]

Little drop ins.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. Gotta start somewhere.

[Az Fudd]

So let's pivot and talk about the W. Caitlin, you were drafted while you were there in support of Paige. Walk us through that experience. When you heard your name, I feel.

[Caitlin Chen]

Like it was pretty exciting. They sort of tricked me a little, though, because for a sec, for a while, like, when the camera was like, in my face, it was like, dallas, up next. I was like, oh, this is great. Go, like, hang out with Paige for, like, two weeks of training camp, hopefully make a team, but if it doesn't, you know, and then hit like, jump to the Valkyries. And honestly, I was pretty excited, you know, to be back in California. Although everyone keeps saying, like, oh, you went home, but like, it's like a five hour drive, so not quite, but home state. Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Can you share with everyone your thought process going to the draft? I don't know if you want to share or not, but that to me was just such a Caitlin Chen. I thought it was very on par for who you are.

[Caitlin Chen]

I was like, I could get drafted. I could not. Honestly, I didn't think I was going to get drafted for a while.

[Ashanti Plummer]

No. I was just gonna make you elaborate and talk about how you were like, well, training camp is this long, but you have.

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, yeah. So Princeton does, like, reunions every year and it's like, you know, the highlight of my year, it's when everyone sort of.

[Az Fudd]

I heard it's a good time.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, Everyone goes back and it's like you're sort of reunited with all your friends. Like, no one tells you that, like, college is so great and you don't really get to live with your friends like that anymore. But for unions, you guys spend four days with your besties. And so I was a little bummed that I might not be able to go if I were to, like, make a team. So I was like, you know what? I'll go to training camp, give it my all. If I make a team, I make a team. That's awesome. I'll be in the W. If I don't, I get to go to reunions.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, my God.

[Caitlin Chen]

And so, you know, I got waived and I was able to go to reunions. Had a blast. Love spending time with my friends there. And then went home, worked out a little, and got called back. And so everything honestly worked out really well.

[Az Fudd]

You got to do both.

[Ashanti Plummer]

It was Perfect.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, it was perfect. Couldn't have drawn it up better.

[Ashanti Plummer]

He really couldn't have.

[Az Fudd]

So after Paige got drafted, she advocated for you. What was it like hearing that from her?

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like it's. It was really nice of her. I feel like that's just like how Paige is though. Like she's that kind of teammate that's always going to have your back and always going to like support you and like uplift you wherever she goes. Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

Az, you were there at the draft. What's your point of view of all of this happening? Seeing Paige get drafted, seeing Caitlin get drafted. What was your experience like?

[Ashanti Plummer]

I mean, Caitlyn was there and she was like, I'm not getting drafted, I'm not getting drafted. I'm like, caitlin, put something nice on, like make sure you look presentable because you're going to get drafted. So I knew she was going to get drafted.

[Caitlin Chen]

You didn't say that.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I did. I knew she was going to get drafted. But it doesn't change like even when you're expecting, it doesn't change. Hearing their name called, seeing them go up there on the stage and holding their jersey. So being able to be a part of that for all of them was really special. And getting to celebrate all of them and, and just share that, like that's a huge moment, a huge accomplishment. So it was an honor for all of us to just cheer her on and be her cheerleader.

[Az Fudd]

I love that. Look at y', all, tight knit family. Caitlin, you were the first Taiwanese player to be drafted in the W. What does that mean for you?

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like it's pretty special. I don't think I quite realized that until like after I guess, but sort of just to be able to be like a role model for a younger Asian American athletes, it means a lot. Yeah. Because for us growing up, like there wasn't always someone to like look up to.

[Ashanti Plummer]

What was it like meeting Jeremy Lynn?

[Caitlin Chen]

That was cool. Yeah, that was like so sort of like random but not really random, but definitely cool experience because obviously like everyone knows Jeremy Lynn from Linsanity and everything. Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yup.

[Az Fudd]

Big fan.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Did you get to talk to him at all or was it just like a. Hey, I'm Caitlin. Chad. Take a picture.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I'm driving these two. Pretty brief but said hi. Take a picture.

[Ashanti Plummer]

So the Valkyrie's incredible fan energy. You guys called that Valhalla, right?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay. Can you explain to the people who don't know, including me, what Valhalla means?

[Caitlin Chen]

The Valkyries, I guess their home place where they battle or home field is called Valhalla. So like, you know, for us it's called Valhalla, which is like Chase center and that's where we play. And honestly, it was amazing playing there. Like UConn obviously. Also amazing fans always like bring in. It's like sold out every home game. But like playing in Valhalla where it's like 18,000 fans every night and they go crazy from the start of the game to the end, no matter if you're winning or losing, it was pretty special.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, so you would say that it's crazier than gamble in there, I think.

[Caitlin Chen]

Just cause there are like 8,000 more fans.

[Az Fudd]

We had the stud buds on the pod and they actually mentioned that playing against you guys in that arena was the loudest, the most amazing and like crazy. So shout out to you guys being like a first year organization and your fans showing up the way that they do.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, they definitely showed up every game and it was like every game we'd be like, oh, that was the loudest it's ever been. And then the next game we'd be like, oh my God, it was even louder.

[Az Fudd]

They turned up in that Bay area.

[Caitlin Chen]

Definitely something you should experience. If you haven't.

[Az Fudd]

Girl, with you. There we go. Make it happen. So your dad went to a Golden State versus Dallas game and you were playing and he wore a page jersey. What was that about?

[Caitlin Chen]

You know, he loves Paige and so he was like, this is my one chance to wear my Paige jersey.

[Az Fudd]

Oh my goodness. Not the game with his daughter pulling out.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, don't worry. He talked to me before and I honestly thought it would be pretty funny. So I was like, yeah, go for it.

[Ashanti Plummer]

So being waived and then being re signed again, did it affect your relationship with your team at all?

[Caitlin Chen]

Not that much. Cause I mean, it's like training camp. And training camp is sort of quick. You like get to know people, but not that much. And then when I came back, everyone was just super welcoming and I felt like it was pretty easy to like fit in and, you know, get along with everyone.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, you seem like you guys got along. Like you guys had a good, good team chemistry.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, we definitely had a special group. Everyone got along super well. There was never any really locker room drama or anything like that. And I felt like everyone was just super selfless, like doing whatever they could for the best of the team.

[Ashanti Plummer]

That's amazing.

[Az Fudd]

Well, it definitely paid off because you guys made it to the playoffs, which is like unheard of for a first year team. So congratulations. On all your success that you had with them.

[Caitlin Chen]

Thanks.

[Az Fudd]

Your coach, Natalie Nakase won Coach of the Year. What is the biggest thing that you learned from her?

[Caitlin Chen]

Honestly, just like how to be a leader. I felt like she held us point guards especially to like a high standard of like this is like your team and whatever happens, if it goes poorly, that's on you. So you got to make sure that you're holding everyone accountable and like doing everything within your power to make sure the team is prepared.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this fall. Take care of the little ones in the family with Baby Club Savings now through November 4th. Spend $25 on select Baby Club products and save $5. Shop for items like Pediasure bottles, Pedialyte powder packs, Huggies baby wipes, Huggies diapers, Gerber puffs and Gerber pouches. And save $5 when you buy $25 or more on participating products. Offer ends November 4th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

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[Caitlin Chen]

Yup.

[Ashanti Plummer]

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[Ashanti Plummer]

Ugh. Come on. Why is this taking so long? This thing is ancient.

[Bowen Yang]

Still using yesterday's tech Upgrade to the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultra Light, Ultra powerful and built for serious productivity with Intel Core Ultra processors, blazing speed and AI powered performance that keeps up with your business, not the other way around.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Whoa. This thing moves.

[Bowen Yang]

Stop hitting snooze on new tech. Win the tech [e-mail] Lenovo Lenovo unlock AI experiences with the ThinkPad X1 carbon powered by Intel Core Ultra processors so you can work, create and boost productivity all on one device.

[Matt Rogers]

This is Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Bowen Yang]

JBL Tour Pro3 earbuds are for those who don't conform to the standard.

[Matt Rogers]

Yeah, I mean if you want to get into some touchscreen technology, how about the smart charging case clear sound. These are not standard things. You're only going to get them with the JBL Tour Pro 3, baby.

[Bowen Yang]

And I love the sound of JBL when it goes. These earbuds are packed with innovation because you can't stand out by following others.

[Matt Rogers]

Touchscreen smart charging case for one touch control, instant EQ customization, true adaptive noise canceling and the one of a kind audio transmitter which can plug and play with everything from game consoles to in flight entertainment.

[Bowen Yang]

The audio transmitter also allows for JBL Spatial360 sound that takes any audio and turns it into a 360 immersive experience.

[Matt Rogers]

What more could you want first doesn't follow. Grab a [e-mail].

[Az Fudd]

Come on AC let's get into some fan questions from Instagram.

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh God.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, so there were a ton of fan questions, so pair yourselves. They're kind of all over the place. The first one was what was your welcome to the W moment?

[Caitlin Chen]

Honestly, probably just training camp and having to guard Veronica. That was sort of rough. She was just so strong. Like I feel like I'd be there in front of her and she just, just finish right over me and I'd be like oh darn, not again.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, she's good. She played. She was fun to watch this year.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, she was incredible. She's amazing player, even better person.

[Az Fudd]

What's your pregame routine?

[Caitlin Chen]

Pregame routine? Take a fat nap.

[Az Fudd]

I thought you gonna say something else girl.

[Caitlin Chen]

That too. Yeah. Honestly I don't have like a ton of like. Like I feel like I'm superstitious but not like pre game routine ishes, you know.

[Ashanti Plummer]

So what are you superstitious about?

[Caitlin Chen]

Like little stuff like if we. Well I guess this doesn't apply as much anymore but like in college like if we want a game, I just wear the same socks, wear the same underwear. I would wash it obviously, but.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Same.

[Caitlin Chen]

Spandex, same sports bra.

[Ashanti Plummer]

What was your favorite food spot in the bay?

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, I feel like I'm going to get hate for this. But honestly the sweet green by my apartment, Amazing. Like one of the best sweet greens that I've ever Had. And they would give you, like, so much, too. Or the taco place or burrito place me and Paige went to when she came to visit. That place was fire.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, take me there when I come to visit.

[Caitlin Chen]

Well, you were supposed to come visit. And.

[Az Fudd]

You know what?

[Ashanti Plummer]

I deserve that. I deserve that.

[Caitlin Chen]

She was literally in San Francisco for, like, the three days I wasn't there.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, no.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Really unfortunate.

[Caitlin Chen]

Really unfortunate.

[Az Fudd]

So who is your favorite UConn women's basketball alum?

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, Pagebackers.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I knew you're gonna say that. Which W team and which player was the toughest opponent?

[Caitlin Chen]

Guys, these are hard because I didn't really play that much. So, like, what did it look like? You know, what did it look like? Minnesota is definitely tough. I mean, they have so many really great players that can spread the floor, and they play together for a few years now, so they just, like, play off each other super well. Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

What's your favorite music genre and artists?

[Caitlin Chen]

I don't think I have a favorite artist music genre. I like country and some R and B.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, I like that, too.

[Az Fudd]

Luke Bryant.

[Caitlin Chen]

Good.

[Ashanti Plummer]

How did you guys come up with the bench celebrations? When someone scored, honestly, a lot of.

[Caitlin Chen]

It would be, like, on the fly or like, after we do something, we'd be like, oh, let's do this next, and then, you know, we do it. Yeah, but that was a lot of fun. Yeah, it was a lot of fun. Really fun games. When we make a lot of threes.

[Az Fudd]

What'S something you didn't expect after going.

[Caitlin Chen]

Probably, I think I didn't realize how much I would like this life because I always was sort of like, oh, you know, maybe I'll play, like, a few years overseas and then go find a real job. But this job is, like, pretty great. Like, all I have to do is wake up and play basketball. It's really fun.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, start. Bench. Cut. Princeton, UConn and the Valkyries.

[Caitlin Chen]

Guys, I can't do that. This is so hard.

[Ashanti Plummer]

This is a pretty hard one.

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like I'm gonna get shit for anything that I say.

[Ashanti Plummer]

You definitely are. There's no right answer here.

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like I gotta start. Princeton, you know, that's just like home. You know, that's where I was.

[Az Fudd]

Shout out to the Ivy's.

[Caitlin Chen]

Wouldn't be there or wouldn't have gone anywhere else if it wasn't for there. Why can't I just, like, bench both of them?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Gotta cut one.

[Az Fudd]

Caitlyn, they're watching.

[Caitlin Chen]

I know.

[Az Fudd]

So you can.

[Caitlin Chen]

You can really say whatever, but honestly, that's hard. Probably Ben Chukon cut the Valkyries just because, you know, like, I don't know, both seasons were so special, but winning a national championship was pretty incredible. And also, like, I'll have a lot more years at the Valkyrie so they can make their way up.

[Az Fudd]

First come, first serve, baby.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, this was a really popular one. What's your quad routine?

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, God, I don't even understand why everyone's talking about my quads like that. Like, they're not like, Caitlyn, you have big quads, but your legs are strong. I know I have strong legs, but, like, have you seen your legs? Your. Your quads are just as big.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, but like. Yeah, no, I feel like it looks different on you. Like, yours just like, they look so, like.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, maybe because my arms are, like, skinny, so, like, my legs stick out.

[Ad Voice]

But.

[Caitlin Chen]

I don't have a quad routine. Like, I mean, natural.

[Az Fudd]

I just woke up like this.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, east coast or West Coast?

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, hard. That's really hard because I like both a lot, you know, but probably west Coast. I do love being home. But then I get FOMO when I'm on the west coast because all my friends are on the east Coast.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, another really popular question. How was Cabo?

[Caitlin Chen]

Oh, so much fun. It was so great. That was like my four days of summer because it's so cold in San Francisco in the summer, so that was really nice. And honestly, just being with the boys was a lot of fun.

[Ashanti Plummer]

It looked like fun. You look like you have some color.

[Az Fudd]

Who are the boys?

[Caitlin Chen]

I don't know why, but we started calling, like, you know how. Normally it's like the girls, but for some reason we're the boys. Yeah, I think Kate had a big part in that.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, this is another hard question. What is your all time starting five with your Valkyries, UConn and Princeton teammates?

[Caitlin Chen]

Starting five. Is this like. Like we're trying to win?

[Ashanti Plummer]

It can be. You're trying to have a good time, you're trying to win whatever you want. Let's.

[Az Fudd]

Let's do try to win first. That's actually the most popular question after we asked this. Are we winning or having fun?

[Caitlin Chen]

All right, to win from Princeton, you know, I gotta go with Ellie. She's a beast on the boards.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Ellie. Only if she has her bow in her hair. Tell her I said that.

[Caitlin Chen]

Honestly, I never experienced bow, Ellie, and I'm sort of glad I didn't. I definitely would have made fun of her a lot for that.

[Ashanti Plummer]

You definitely would have.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. But Ellie, UConn, that's hard. Probably Az Paige and Sarah.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I'm honored.

[Caitlin Chen]

And then I would go with V. Veronica from the backers.

[Az Fudd]

Girl, you're not picking you.

[Caitlin Chen]

No, I'm just picking. I didn't know. Like, was I supposed to put me on it? Like, I know that was an option.

[Ashanti Plummer]

No, no.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, anyone you want. But I think that's a solid five though.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I like that team. I feel like it'd be good vibes too.

[Caitlin Chen]

Definitely.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway this fall. Take care of the little ones in the family with Baby Club Savings now through November 4, spend $25 on select Baby Club products and save $5. Shop for items like Pediasure bottles, Pedialyte powder packs, Huggies baby wipes, Huggies diapers, Gerber puffs and Gerber pouches. And save $5 when you buy $25 or more on participating products. Offer ends November 4th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Ad Voice]

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[Caitlin Chen]

Yep, we've got you.

[Ad Voice]

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[Ashanti Plummer]

Ah, come on. Why is this taking so long?

[Caitlin Chen]

This thing is ancient.

[Bowen Yang]

Still using yesterday's tech Upgrade to the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultra Light Ultra powerful and built for serious productivity with Intel Core Ultra processors, blazing speed and AI powered performance. Performance. It keeps up with your business, not the other way around.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Whoa, this thing moves.

[Bowen Yang]

Stop hitting snooze on new tech. Win the tech [e-mail] Lenovo Lenovo unlock AI experiences with the ThinkPad X1 carbon powered by Intel Core Ultra processors so you can work, create and boost productivity all on one device.

[Matt Rogers]

This is Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Bowen Yang]

JBL Tour Pro3 earbuds are for those who don't conform to the standard.

[Matt Rogers]

Yeah, if you want to get into some touchscreen technology, how about the smart charging case clear sound. These are not standard things. You're only going to get them with the JBL Tour Pro 3, baby.

[Bowen Yang]

And I love the sound of JBL when it goes. These earbuds are packed with innovation because you can't stand out by following others.

[Matt Rogers]

Touchscreen Smart charging case for one touch control, instant EQ customization, true adaptive noise canceling. And the one of a kind audio transmitter which can plug and play with everything from game consoles to in flight entertainment.

[Bowen Yang]

The audio transmitter also allows for JBL Spatial 360 sound that takes any audio and turns it into a 360 immersive experience.

[Matt Rogers]

What more could you want first? Doesn't follow. Grab a [e-mail].

[Az Fudd]

So now we're gonna do fudding games. The first one is the what the fud of the week. Our what the fud of the week is something that happened this week that made you say what the fud? Kaitlyn, do you have a what the fud of the week?

[Caitlin Chen]

I actually do. It was our dinner at the hotel our day before the game. So there was chicken, you know, got the chicken, cut it open, it was rough. It was just like straight pink inside. No. And our coach goes around, guys, don't eat the chicken. We're like, got it. Won't be eating the chicken.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Oh my gosh.

[Az Fudd]

This was before a game.

[Caitlin Chen]

This was the night before. And then they brought out some more chicken that was cooked, but still like what was that chicken even doing out there in the first place?

[Az Fudd]

Girl, who were you gonna play against? Cause this game is set up. That's insane. LeBron's retirement fake out. So he did like a whole setup like his original decision day. So he's like big decision happening. Tune in 12 o' clock on this date and it just turns out it was an ad for Hennessy. Let me tell you something, LeBron. The prices for Laker tickets just off of him saying something went from like $200 to $2,000. Cause he want to play around on Instagram and Twitter talking about decision happening. So now I've been priced out of any Laker game because LeBron wanted to play around. But it also speaks to like his influence. He's moving the needle because $1800 difference. Cause he just said a decision needs to be made.

[Caitlin Chen]

It's crazy.

[Az Fudd]

Definitely my what the FUD of the week.

[Caitlin Chen]

Az. What's your what the fud?

[Ashanti Plummer]

My what the fut of the week Is that Nick from Love island again? I don't watch it, so it's like whatever to me. But my teammates freaked out. Nick from Love island was at Ted's on a Wednesday.

[Caitlin Chen]

He was at Ted's?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yes, also on a Wednesday.

[Caitlin Chen]

What was he doing at Ted's?

[Ashanti Plummer]

I have no idea. I was told he's doing some, like, Greek frat something college tour. But I think a couple of my teammates went to meet him and I was like, what the heck, guys? I was just like, what the fuck? You know?

[Az Fudd]

You were like, what the fuck?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Why is he there? So the next game that we're playing is called Eurotrip. You're in Prague with a new team, new culture, new adventures. So we're gonna test your European survival skills. Today we're going to give you a situation and you're going to tell us what you do. You ready? You walk into a grocery store and realize that everything is labeled in check. You need toothpaste. How do you find it?

[Caitlin Chen]

I go to the, you know, the toothpaste aisle and then I find the toothpaste. This is actually like something that I happened to me. Like, I couldn't find the. Or I had to go get shampoo and conditioner body wash. And it was honestly harder than expected. I was staring at the. I was staring at the aisle thing for like five minutes.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, well, I feel like those things all look the same too, so you can't even eyeball.

[Caitlin Chen]

And it took me a while to find lotion, and I still haven't found salt and pepper. I had trouble with that yesterday.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Can you ask someone? Or they don't speak English.

[Caitlin Chen]

Well, sometimes I get a little nervous because, you know, I don't want to sound dumb. Like, imagine someone asks where the salt and pepper is. It's embarrassing.

[Az Fudd]

Bring your teammate with you.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Bring your teammate with you. Okay. Next, your new teammates invite you to try traditional Czech goulash. You're unsure of what's in it. Do you say yes or politely? Pass.

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like it depends how it looks like. If it looks like it would be good, then, yeah, I'll try.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, so say it looks a little sketchy.

[Caitlin Chen]

I would ask what's in it and then maybe take a small, small bite.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Thank you.

[Caitlin Chen]

Thank you.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, you have A team meeting that starts at 9 o'. Clock. You show up at 8:55, but everyone else rolls in at 9:15. Next time, do you go by American time or Europe time?

[Caitlin Chen]

I think still American time because I would get stressed if I showed up late.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah, better safe than sorry. All right, your teammates celebrate a win at a cafe instead of blasting music in the locker room. What's your move? Do you join in or start a vibe shift?

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like you join in, like, you know, see what it's like. If it isn't great, then switch it up next time.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, so you realize that Thanksgiving isn't celebrated there. How do you recreate it abroad with your teammates?

[Caitlin Chen]

Friendsgiving. Duh. Everyone bring something.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay, so you're just gonna leave it open ended? Like everyone. All the foreigners just bring like your favorite go to dish and just have like a melting pot of Thanksgiving?

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, I guess so. Because if I made them like make American Thanksgiving food, like, it probably wouldn't be very good.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Caitlin, can you even cook? Like, what would you bring to this thing?

[Caitlin Chen]

Friendsgiving bread, pumpkin stuff.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Okay.

[Az Fudd]

She's providing the space for it to go down.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah, exactly. My humble apartment.

[Az Fudd]

Okay, so the next game is Ivy Auriemma, you both played for Gino, who's known for his quotes, and Caitlin, you went to Princeton. I'm going to read you two a quote and you tell us if it came from an Ivy League scholar or Gino Auriemma. Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.

[Caitlin Chen]

Who said this?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Ivy League.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah. We're also going to go Ivy League.

[Az Fudd]

Yep. Ivy. Jim Rohn. Sounds like Gino, though.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I feel like they're all gonna sound like it could be coach.

[Az Fudd]

Next one. If you can't play hard all the time, you shouldn't play at all.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Coach.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach.

[Az Fudd]

Definitely, definitely.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yep.

[Az Fudd]

The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Ivy League.

[Caitlin Chen]

Ivy.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yep.

[Az Fudd]

Ivy. Malcolm Forbes. If your best player isn't your hardest worker, your team's in trouble.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Coach.

[Az Fudd]

Yup. Oh, y' all are good. Excellence is never an accident. It is a result of high intentions and sincere effort.

[Caitlin Chen]

Ivy. I feel like.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, yep, that's Ivy. Aristotle. You don't need balance in your life. You need commitment.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach. Yeah, I was also gonna go coach.

[Az Fudd]

Oh, my goodness. Yeah. Some good listeners. Yes, that's Coach. The more you know, the more you realize you don't know.

[Caitlin Chen]

I feel like that's definitely something he could have said at some point.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Can you repeat that one?

[Az Fudd]

The more you know, the more you realize you don't know.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I also feel like that's something you could have said, but I think I'm still gonna go. Ivy.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

Yeah, I agree it was Ivy.

[Caitlin Chen]

But I feel like he said something like that or. I don't know.

[Ashanti Plummer]

I'm sure he has.

[Caitlin Chen]

Yeah.

[Az Fudd]

Well, maybe he got it from an Ivy League scholar. Sometimes the toughest lesson is learning to be coached.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach.

[Az Fudd]

Coach. Yep, that's coach. Knowledge will give you power, but character will give you respect.

[Caitlin Chen]

Ivy.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Ivy.

[Az Fudd]

Yes. Bruce Lee quote, we don't recruit talent, we recruit toughness.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Coach.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach.

[Az Fudd]

You got it. Y' all killed that. Y' all got every single one, right?

[Ashanti Plummer]

Well, the Ivy League ones are, like, a little more like, thoughtful and like, big words. And coaches, like, straight to the point.

[Caitlin Chen]

And coaches were all about, like, coaching.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Yeah.

[Caitlin Chen]

Coach.

[Ashanti Plummer]

All right, that is a wrap on today's episode. Caitlin Chen, thank you so much for joining us from Prague.

[Caitlin Chen]

Thanks for having me.

[Az Fudd]

Thank you, Caitlin.

[Ashanti Plummer]

Good luck this season. And everyone, thank you so much for tuning in today. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to FUD around and find out wherever you get your podcasts and we'll see you next week. Fud around and Find out is a production of I Heart Women's Sports and Unanimous Media. Executive producers are Jesse Katz, Eric Payton, Sharla Sumter, Brigitte and Stephen Curry. Co executive producer is Kalena Maria Kutney. Producers are Mike Coscarelli and co producers are Kurt Redmond, Maya Howard and Jaclyn Schoeninger. This podcast is edited by Mike Coscarelli and hosted by Me, Az Fudd and Ashanti Plummer. Ah, come on. Why is this taking so long?

[Caitlin Chen]

This thing is ancient.

[Bowen Yang]

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[Ashanti Plummer]

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[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Caitlin Chen]

7 bucks in some locations.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Available every day for a limited time at participating restaurants in the U.S. hours may vary. No substitutions not valid with other discounts or promotions.

[Caitlin Chen]

Prices may vary can small acts make.

[Az Fudd]

A real impact in the world? Sometimes a small thing has the power to become more something big and meaningful. And when it comes to helping children, no act is too small.

[Bowen Yang]

When you fill up at the Purple Giving Pump at Shell, a portion the.

[Az Fudd]

Of of your purchase will be donated to support charities in your community. The Giving Pump Easy to stop, Easy to donate from 9125-10-3125 participating Shell stations will donate a minimum of $0.01 per gallon of the fuel pump from the.

[Bowen Yang]

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[Az Fudd]

Ford was built on the belief that the world doesn't get to decide what you're capable of. You do. So ask yourself. Can you or can't you?

[Ryan Seacrest]

Can you?

[Az Fudd]

You load up a Ford F150 and build your dream with sweat and steel. Can you chase thrills and conquer curves in a Mustang? Can you take a Bronco to where the map ends and adventure begins? Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right. Ready? Set. Ford.