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- [00:00]
Sarah Spain
This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human this sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One Venture Xcard, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports did you know that the largest crowd ever to witness a women's sporting event was in 2023 at the University of Nebraska 902003 Fans filled the home of Nebraska Football Memorial Stadium to watch Nebraska volleyball defeat Omaha. 3 Nothing with Venture X Enjoy easy to use premium benefits like a $300 annual Capital One travel credit. Plus you can earn unlimited double miles on every purchase terms. Apply seecapitalone.com for details. My Hidradenitis suprativa symptoms made me pull back from my plans, my work, my friends. I wanted to pull life closer, not push it away. I talked with my doctor about Cosentyx and found real relief. Cosentyx Secukinumab is prescribed for adults and children 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe Hidradenitis suppurativa. Use if allergic to Cosentyx. Get checked for TB before starting. Increased risk of infections and lowered ability to fight them may occur like TB or other serious bacterial, fungal or viral infections. Some were fatal. Tell your doctor if you have an infection or symptoms like fevers, sweats, chills, muscle aches or cough had a vaccine or planned to, or if IBD symptoms develop or worsen serious allergic reactions and severe eczema like skin reactions may occur. Learn more at 1-844-cosentix or cosentyx.com Ask a dermatologist about Cosentyx I've learned that life rarely follows the plan that you thought it would. The wins, the setbacks, the unexpected turns, they all become part of your story. That's why I partnered with Rebel NOW to create a collection made from repurposed World cup soccer balls. Each piece carries a reminder that's guided me throughout my life. This is your journey. Live the life you imagined and every piece is handcrafted by women building new opportunities through Rebel Nell's Social Enterprise Mission. Visit rebelnell.com and wear a reminder that your story is yours to define. 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 pastor. 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.
- [02:45]
Ashanti Plummer
Hey everyone, welcome back to Futuroun and find out it's your girl Ashanti. And it might be hard to believe, but you guys, we finally reached the end of season one of the podcast. Woo. What a fun time it has been. So, since az's off with her team getting buckets and really close wins, we thought a perfect way to end the season would be to give you a compilation of some of the best moments from season one. First, we have Stephen Curry telling us why he chose to take AZ under his wing and what makes a great shooter. Having Stephen Curry on was a dream guest. He's one of the best basketball players to ever touch a ball.
- [03:23]
Az Fudd
I want to start by taking it back to 2018 curry camp when I was invited. What do you remember about that?
- [03:33]
Stephen Curry
Man, oh man, it was like a very special time in, you know, my journey in terms of what the, you know, the select camp actually meant. I had been with UA for four years at that point, and we had had like this really tight roster of all young men who were coming in the ranks looking to work on their skills. And we had this idea obviously of, you know, how can we make this better and more representative of what basketball looks like. And here you and Cambrink come in, walking into Walnut Creek, California in the gym, and as the first two female Perry select campers and one, I noticed just your confidence walking into the room of I'm supposed to be here. Even if maybe I don't know how you, what your experience was, but it felt like one, you were ready to work and you were willing to do any and everything that we asked of you. But two, it was like you could tell the talent and the skill and the dedication to the game immediately. And so from that point, it was, it was the perfect kind of transition into you taking that chance on coming and not knowing what you're getting into to now what it looks like, what, eight years later and you paving the way for so many athletes behind you now. And now as a counselor coming in and hanging out with Cannon, you're like part counselor, part babysitter when you go through now, because that's all he was looking for is where's Az at?
- [05:10]
Az Fudd
I prefer friend. You know, like me and Cannon. We're friends now.
- [05:13]
Stephen Curry
That is true. That is true.
- [05:15]
Az Fudd
If he remembers me.
- [05:16]
Stephen Curry
Oh, he, he definitely Remembers you.
- [05:18]
Az Fudd
I still remember getting my invite to that first camp. Cam and I were on the U17 USA team, I think, or six. It might have been U16, USA, whatever. We were on the USA team. Just got to Belarus. My mom called me and she was like, hey, like, you just got this invite. Have you seen it? And the WI fi was weird, so I hadn't seen it. They sent it to me. But I remember Cam and I were actually roommates and we were talking about it and it's like this whole hype video of curry camp, what that looks like, and they want to invite me. And I remember, like being confused as to why you guys wanted to invite me, but also just in shock, like, no way. And it was funny that we were roommates. We got to talk about it and then see each other a week later there.
- [05:58]
Stephen Curry
That is crazy. Just knowing we broadcast a little bit of the camp and you've seen some clips of, I think it was like 7th woods and Dennis Smith Jr. Who were our first two campers back in the day into what it was when you showed up. But now we've got. Was it 12 to 14, young men and young women, both as part of the curry camp. But none of that would have happened had y' all not accepted the invite and. And took a chance on us. So we're forever grateful for that. Because you had to walk through the door.
- [06:33]
Az Fudd
Well, we definitely appreciate, and I do too. It was definitely a life changing moment and experience and has been since. Okay, well, you've supported me through high school, my college commitment, through college, through injuries, championships, and now my rookie year. What moment has stood out to you?
- [06:53]
Stephen Curry
I mean, how much time do you have? How long does this pot. There's like so many moments, so many moments with you. I think my favorite moment, though, is you. You trying to go out here and think that you could win the three point contest in a boot. That's still my favorite. You remember that? You were hurt. You were hurt. She's hurt. Like, can't really do all the other drills, but she's still around. I think this is the second year. We came back the next year and we had our all star game at this high school in Oakland and we have a halftime three point contest and we're like, I think AZ might shoot, but she's got literally a walking boot on. And we're like, all right, let's see what happens. She's the one out here having fun, but that look of nah, I. I do this. And so she got out. There was cash from all around the court, every rack in a boot. I don't know how she calibrated the balance and all of that stuff, but that was just to me, like my favorite moment of you or your confidence, your competitiveness too. Like, doesn't matter what the situation was. You just wanted to. To compete, get out there going against the guys. And so I feel like that was my favorite moment. Just knowing that you're a killer. It doesn't matter what the situation is. The toughness, like, you had to show that and there was no stakes involved. Like, what a summertime select camp three point shootout.
- [08:08]
Az Fudd
Just wanted to win.
- [08:09]
Stephen Curry
I tell you to sit down.
- [08:12]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah.
- [08:12]
Az Fudd
Brandon was so mad at me. He did not want me to shoot or for everyone listening. Brandon is one of Stefan's basketball trainers that I work out with as well. He.
- [08:21]
Stephen Curry
Yeah, he's serious about we have to protect the asset. Like, she's not supposed to be out and you couldn't tell you anything. So he's been through that a lot with me too. So he was, he was well conditioned for that. Oh, I bet that. No answer. No, I'm good.
- [08:34]
Az Fudd
Okay. This is something that I've always wanted to ask, but why me? Why did you decide once you invited me to kind of just take me under your wing is something you did not at all need to do.
- [08:47]
Stephen Curry
Whenever people ask me this question, like, I think the answer changes just depending on what moment pops up in my head first. But I think generally it's just when you're around the game long enough, you understand somebody that has a spirit of gratitude and appreciation for every moment that they get to hoop. You get the seriousness they take it when it comes to watching you work. And you can't fake that. And no matter how talented you were or highlights I saw of you in high school or this and that, like when you, you know, understand your parents and when you got to, you know, talk to them and hear the story of, you know, how you grew up and how much the game means to you, how you treated people when you came into the building. Like the most. Not polite, but like just professional, even as a high schooler of understanding why you're here and not wasting anybody's time, that goes a long way. So, yeah, we love, like the fact that you were like one of the most talented young Hoopers that we had seen, but just the idea of just how you handle things on and off the court, that matters more than anything. Because then there's this idea that no matter what comes your way, you're going to be able to figure it out. Like, not everybody's path is. And you would know not everybody's path is straight in terms of just this, you know, easy, breezy coast to. To the wnba. But just the idea that no matter if it was an injury, no matter if it was a tough loss or bad game or a hard workout or whatever the case was, you were going to show up. And so I think we felt that from the jump. And it's pretty much gone exactly as expected in terms of your ability to be able to figure out whatever challenge is in front of you. So the fact that you're wearing that sweatshirt right now is still crazy to me. One, it means I'm getting. Means I'm getting old. But it's also dope. It's also dope that you're, you know, you're right where you're supposed to be because of what you, you know, the work that you put into it.
- [10:44]
Az Fudd
Thank you. I really, really appreciate that.
- [10:47]
Ashanti Plummer
That's so beautiful. And yeah, girl, super resilient. And you heard it from one of the goat's mouths.
- [10:52]
Stephen Curry
So I'm gonna keep giving the flowers. Don't worry. I just said, how many questions you got? We gonna hype her up. Cause she deserves it, for sure.
- [11:00]
Ashanti Plummer
Literally, me all the time. Okay. That's my favorite thing to do. So, Steph Az, you guys are, you know, two of the best shooters in the game. Steph, what makes a great shooter, first is confidence.
- [11:13]
Stephen Curry
I think that's the biggest. It's kind of undefinable trait in terms of, like, if I walk in the gym, I don't know how to say who's the most confident of the group if you got a bunch of shooters. But being able to mentally turn off, you know, amiss and have amnesia almost when it comes to what's supposed to happen next. I think there's like, mechanics that you could direct somebody to if they're starting from scratch on like, what's quote unquote, the perfect jump shot in terms of, you know, your balance, how your feet are positioned, shoulder square to the basket, what you're supposed to be looking at on the rim, ball position in the hand, like all that stuff. But I will say, everybody, all I know, you know, so many great shooters that everybody shoots differently. Me and AZ have totally distinct forms. AZ and Klay Thompson, closer, but still different and unique to each of them. So I think it's a mental part of the, like, the confidence, and you're sometimes call it irrational confidence of no matter what shot I'm taking, I think I'm going to make. And it's built on, you know, the reps. Hello, Dulu. Yeah, for sure. The reps that you put into it. But then there's. There's a repeatability that, you know, great shooters have, no matter what their shot looks like. That's what AZ has almost mastered. If you took, you know, a thousand pictures of a thousand shots, they probably would all look exactly the same at the top of her. Her jump shot. And that's why she's such a consistent, great shooter. I have a little bit like looser kind of mechanics to me, but I think when I get to the top, it all kind of looks the same as well. So you gotta have a little bit of mental and the physical connector. But it's all built on work. You can't cheat the game.
- [13:03]
Ashanti Plummer
Well said.
- [13:04]
Stephen Curry
What do you think? I would say I'm not the host of this podcast. I'm gonna ask you, what do you. What is a great shooter to you? Because I want to know from another great shooter what. What that means.
- [13:13]
Az Fudd
I agree with what you said. I feel like, if anything, when you watch basketball, you see not like no shots look the same, no form looks the same. You can have the ugliest looking buildup wind up, but if it works for you, then it works for you. If it's consistent like you make it work, then. But I agree, you have to be able to repeat. That has to be consistent.
- [13:33]
Ashanti Plummer
I like the delusional confidence where it's like everything I put up is going in.
- [13:39]
Stephen Curry
Period, period. If you could have a microphone in your brain, like at that moment when you're about to shoot, it's like there's no other option. You almost surprised if you miss. But also, I will say, you know, you get to a point where you know right away as soon as that ball leaves your fingertips, that which was about to happen, like, we could, we could pretty much predict the outcome. You might get a couple surprises or a lucky bounce, but for the most part, we know as soon as we let it go.
- [14:16]
Az Fudd
Thanks everyone for all the positivity coming out of the draft. I am so blessed to have so many people that believe in and support me. My listeners, my friends and family, and the whole GEICO team who put my family in a commercial with me that was so cool to see. The Gekko even showed up wearing my jersey. Well, a smaller version of it. And my grandfather is a huge fan of the Gecko. During my injury rehab, I was a little nervous about the future, but I've had so much support and so many people believing in me and we came through it together. I know I'm leaving the bubble of college, headed to a new city, joining a new team. It's a lot of change all at once, but I don't feel like I'm alone. The way I feel about basketball is the way I feel about life. You help your team and your team helps you. So thank you again everyone, whether you're on the GEICO team or just a fan wearing my team's jersey. Thank you all so much for all the support.
- [15:04]
Sarah Spain
This sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One Venture X Card, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports did you know that the largest crowd ever to witness a women's sporting event was in 2023 at the University of Nebraska 902003 Fans filled the home of Nebraska Football Memorial Stadium to watch Nebraska volleyball defeat Omaha 3 nothing with Venture X. Enjoy easy to use premium benefits like a $300 annual Capital One travel credit. Plus you can earn unlimited double miles on every purchase. Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details. This is Sarah Spain from Good Game with Sarah Spain. As a former college athlete, there were many moments where I second guessed myself. It's natural when you're under pressure. When I had those moments of self doubt, I found that the smallest thing can steady you like a smile. Not because it's easy, but because it reminds you you belong here. You've put in the work. You can handle this. Colgate has supported female athletes for over 50 years with the Colgate Women's Games, helping them build confidence and self esteem while competing for scholarships. The Colgate Women's Games is the nation's longest running indoor track and field series for girls and women. Colgate knows that that resilience is the key to better performance. And sometimes resilience takes the shape of a smile. So if you ever doubt yourself, remember your smile is your strength. Brought to you in part by Vital Farms let's talk eggs. Vital Farms pasture raised eggs to be exact. My favorites. The only kind I've got in my fridge. No joke. And here's why. These aren't your average eggs. The the hens live on open pastures with fresh air and sunshine. All year long. They forage on local grasses and stretch their wings. They're living their best life. That care really shows in the taste. I love mine scrambled with a little butter or whipped up into a fancy frittata. And here's something most people don't know. You could trace your eggs Back to the farm they came from. Seriously. Side of the carton you'll find the farm name. Type it in@vitalfarms.com farm and you'll get a 360 degree peek at the pasture. Plus, Vital Farms is a certified B corporation, which means they're committed to improving the lives of people, animals and the planet through food. Eggs you could feel good about. 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.
- [17:33]
Ashanti Plummer
Next we have Sue Bird talking about all things UConn and advice for AZ in the future. I felt inspired talking to Subird. I feel like when she talks, it just makes you want to be not only a better basketball player, but like a better person. She wears many hats and she aspires me to live many lives.
- [17:53]
Az Fudd
Okay, so recently we had Coach Orema on our podcast and there were a lot of comments on social media after about how he joined our pod before yours. And I was curious to know what your response was to that. But also like, why is that? Why hasn't he joined your pod?
- [18:12]
Sue Bird
Well, he hasn't been invited.
- [18:14]
Az Fudd
Oh, okay.
- [18:19]
Sue Bird
That makes sense. So for the podcast, I do by myself, Bird's eye view that right now is like, only players. I think eventually, actually only like WNBA players. And I think eventually I'll start to like, branch out, go the coaching route, college players, maybe like that kind of a thing. But right now it's just WNBA players. So he doesn't, you know, the man never played, so he doesn't fit as far as A Touch More goes. You know, Megan and I talked about it. We want to get CD on before we get anybody on.
- [18:52]
Ashanti Plummer
That'd be a good.
- [18:52]
Az Fudd
And CD support.
- [18:53]
Sue Bird
That keeps turning us down. CD keeps turning us down.
- [18:56]
Az Fudd
Oh, no, she did say that the other day. She was like, who wants to hear what I have to say? I was like, cd everyone who doesn't want to hear what you have to say?
- [19:04]
Sue Bird
Everybody. You know everything. You've been there for everything.
- [19:07]
Ashanti Plummer
She's also never hits the box.
- [19:09]
Sue Bird
One CD comes on, then maybe we'll throw the invite out to coach.
- [19:12]
Sarah Spain
I'm crying.
- [19:14]
Az Fudd
Okay, you got to keep pushing. I'll keep like, yeah, work on her for me. Not that I hold any power over.
- [19:22]
Sue Bird
Let's be honest. No, girl, nobody does.
- [19:25]
Ashanti Plummer
So on the pod, we asked Gino a question about Nil and. And it came up whether you guys would leave. What do you think if Nil existed When you played, do you think you would have still stayed at UConn?
- [19:40]
Sue Bird
Oh my God, like left early.
- [19:42]
Ashanti Plummer
I mean not even early, like each year. Yeah, you can transfer to a different school. And I also want to know your thoughts about if DT would have been leaving too.
- [19:52]
Sue Bird
Nah, I don't think we would have left. I don't think we would have left. I'm a big believer, like when your team is good, all the money's coming, all the accolades are coming. Everything's coming when your team is good. So like whatever you might get if you left to go on your own, I feel like if you stay and you win, which obviously we know that, that my era, like we went out champions, like you're just going to get just as much. So I don't think we would have left. But yeah, I mean, you know, stores would have had to figure it out. They would have to come. We would have been sponsored by like Deepie Doe and Ted's. They would have had to figure that out.
- [20:33]
Az Fudd
That would have been really funny.
- [20:34]
Ashanti Plummer
They don't have to fundraise.
- [20:36]
Sue Bird
I basically, I basically kept DP Doe afloat. Let's be honest. Single handed magic. Yeah, literally.
- [20:44]
Az Fudd
I've actually never had DP dough.
- [20:46]
Sue Bird
You've never had deepie dough?
- [20:47]
Ashanti Plummer
What's deep?
- [20:50]
Sue Bird
It's like a calzone spot. But they have like, I can't even like a ton of different calzones and you know, they deliver after midnight, so.
- [21:00]
Ashanti Plummer
Good.
- [21:02]
Sue Bird
That's what it is. That's what it is.
- [21:04]
Ashanti Plummer
So when you were looking for colleges that you wanted to go to, what other schools were you considering?
- [21:11]
Sue Bird
Yeah, so the only two other schools that I visited were Stanford and Vanderbilt. Yeah, I know Vanderbilt feels like so random for people now, but we'll give Shay a shout out. They're on the come up. They're coming back.
- [21:26]
Az Fudd
Absolutely.
- [21:27]
Sue Bird
Yeah. So those were my three final schools at the time. You gotta go way back. Like I was a big fan of Jen Az. So Stanford to me was like, oh, this is where you go to be like the best point guard, you know. So that really stuck out. And I remember Tara Vanderveer kind of recruited me to be a point guard. Vanderbilt, interestingly enough, Jim Foster was there, who's actually Coach Ayama's like one of his close friends, possibly even like a mentor. At one point they were kind of recruiting me to be a two, which thinking about that now is like crazy. But yeah, they were recruiting me to be a 2. And then UConn was kind of like, you know how they Are. They're like, hey, this is who we are. If you like it, cool, come on over. If not, all good. So they were playing hard to get a little bit, and clearly I was
- [22:13]
Az Fudd
attracted to that just the exact same way. I think that's so incredible. Like, the exact same way. If you come here, great.
- [22:20]
Sue Bird
If you don't, I know.
- [22:22]
Az Fudd
We look forward to meeting you.
- [22:23]
Sue Bird
People always ask about, like, what keeps them, what makes them great. And I'm like, the fact that they have literally been the same for. I don't even know how many years they've been there. Like, 30, 40 years.
- [22:34]
Az Fudd
This is 40?
- [22:34]
Sue Bird
Yeah.
- [22:35]
Az Fudd
This is 41. Wow.
- [22:36]
Sue Bird
41. Oh, yeah. 40th was last year. 41 years. They've literally been the same. It's. It's really incredible that they haven't gotten. And I don't say this in a negative way, but that they haven't gotten bored or, like, complacent in doing, you know, and being great and doing what works. Yeah, it's impressive.
- [22:57]
Az Fudd
Coach reminds us all the time that he's like, well, now it's a little. It's a little bit different. Before, it was. Have you guys ever won? No, I've won 11. So, like, I'm not doing this for me. I'm doing this for you.
- [23:09]
Sue Bird
I don't believe him when he says that. I'm like, it's a little bit for you. Come on. Like, you like it, too.
- [23:15]
Az Fudd
He does.
- [23:16]
Sue Bird
He was having fun. Yeah, he was having fun after last year also. He wasn't just like, oh, you guys enjoy. Nah, he's enjoying it, too.
- [23:23]
Ashanti Plummer
Do you remember your visit at UConn?
- [23:26]
Az Fudd
Of course.
- [23:26]
Ashanti Plummer
Oh, tell us about it.
- [23:27]
Sue Bird
Of course. You know, there's not really much to tell. You know, you. You know you have a host. Shay Ralph was my host. Is that correct? I think that's correct.
- [23:40]
Az Fudd
And.
- [23:41]
Sue Bird
But you spend time with everybody. You're never. You know, because we kind of. I'm sure you guys are the same. You roll pretty tight. And so you're with the whole team. They're taking you to some classes. Like, oh, this is what your day would be like. You go to practice. You watch them practice. I was there with. I went on my visit with this other player, Lindsey Yamasaki, and then Asia Jones. So it was like the three of us on our visit. And I remember at the end of it, you know, you go to Coach's house. That's the last stop, so your visit's over. And then you go to his house for, like, whatever, breakfast, lunch, before you take off. And that's when he, like, takes you into, like, a private room and he has his. Like, this is his final play. You know, he's like, all right, this is it. Like we were saying, what do you think? And I didn't commit on the spot. Some. Some players fall into that. I didn't fall into that. I didn't commit. But when Asia and I were saying goodbye, she was. She kind of looked at me. She's like, I think I'm coming here. Are you coming here? And I was like, yeah, I'm probably coming here.
- [24:42]
Az Fudd
That's funny. What is your favorite CD memory?
- [24:45]
Ashanti Plummer
Oh, God.
- [24:46]
Sue Bird
CD memory. I don't know if I. My favorite. I can't tell you on camera. How sad is that?
- [24:52]
Az Fudd
Oh, wait, we actually want to change it. What's your favorite CD memory from being a player and then to being an
- [24:57]
Sue Bird
alumni to be an alum, man. My favorite ones are. She'll kill me if I tell.
- [25:04]
Az Fudd
Okay, CD approved.
- [25:07]
Sue Bird
Yeah, well, we definitely. We played. This is like my least favorite. We played in the pantyhose era. Everybody knows about the pantyhose era. When, you know, a lot of times we have to dress up when we go out to dinner or when we travel or whatever the case. And if you wore a skirt or a dress or any kind of, know, leg revealing outfit. She forced us to wear pantyhose. It was like a rule. So that's my least favorite memory. I know that rule no longer exists, so you're welcome because we must have complimen.
- [25:36]
Az Fudd
Thank you, pioneer.
- [25:37]
Sue Bird
Anytime.
- [25:38]
Az Fudd
You went through it so I didn't have to.
- [25:40]
Sue Bird
Yep, exactly. Yeah. So that's my least favorite. So, I mean, we all had, like, clear nail polish on deck because there was no way these things weren't running, you know, like, that's like the hack if they run any.
- [25:51]
Az Fudd
Okay, actually, I have heard that. I was going to say, I don't even know what you're talking about, but I have heard that before, man.
- [25:57]
Sue Bird
I'm really dating myself here. God. My favorite. I think just like. Oh, there was one where. Let me think about a favorite. Guys, this is tough. They're all embarrassing for her. Let me think, let me think, let me think. I don't know if I have any that aren't embarrassing. She'll kill me. So I'm just going to leave it at pantyhose.
- [26:16]
Az Fudd
Yeah, no, that's perfect because we got to keep her in your good graces so she can come on your side. So exactly did you guys Have CD games.
- [26:25]
Sue Bird
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
- [26:27]
Az Fudd
So this has been going on for, like, all 41 years? Oh, for sure. Actually, you know, one of my favorite
- [26:32]
Sue Bird
CD memories is we were in the NCAA tournament. I want to say we were in Pittsburgh. It was like, a regional. And so this is actually one of my favorites. She did a scavenger hunt game that was honestly, like, so elite. She gave us disposable cameras, and we had to, like, go around the city and get different pictures with different. It was like, go find two people with a mullet. It was like, all this. We had to go. One of them was. I'll never forget this, because we were walking distance to the arena. It was like, go take a picture with someone from another team that, like, we're about to play in the regional. Yeah, it was. It was like, one of the, like, most legit elite scavenger hunt games I've ever played. And then basically, we got it all developed, and we had to, like, put it on this, like, map, and then obviously, you know, whoever got the most points. But, yeah. Oh, she's been doing games and, like, morning walks and all that stuff.
- [27:30]
Az Fudd
Yeah.
- [27:31]
Sue Bird
Oh, yeah. For forever.
- [27:33]
Az Fudd
I'm gonna have to request a fun scavenger hunt game. That sounds like a good one.
- [27:37]
Sue Bird
It really was. Yeah. You had, like, teams of, you know, two or three people each, so there's a couple teams. And you just, like, took over the city trying to find, like, all this different stuff. It was really fun.
- [27:46]
Az Fudd
Wow. I'm so impressed. I'll have to talk to her about this later.
- [27:50]
Ashanti Plummer
CDs games are legendary. Like, everyone talks about it.
- [27:53]
Az Fudd
They truly are. Like, I wish everyone could experience at least one CD game just to know
- [27:57]
Ashanti Plummer
that's what I'm saying. CD needs to take this on the road, you know, after UConn, whenever she's done, because I want to play. Okay, so, sue, let's talk about your transition from UConn into the pros. What was some of the hardest lessons you learned in transitioning from college to the wnba?
- [28:18]
Sue Bird
Yeah, I mean, honestly, just the losing right away. You're losing way more than you ever lost in your whole life, probably. And that's a learning lesson. I remember. I've told this story before. It's like, we lost our very first game, and I'm, like, coming in the locker room, like, mad. I'm like, what the fuck? You know, all this stuff. So I'm coming to the locker room, like, pissed off, not throwing shit, but, like, I'm mad, and I look around and everybody else on My team is just like, yo, where you want to go to dinner tonight? Like, life just moves on. And very quickly you realize you can't get like crazy with the losses because there's just going to be so many of them and if you let them get to you, you'll never be able to play the next game. So that was probably the biggest adjustment I felt. Like UConn does get you ready. Like, you're going to be ready physically, you're going to be ready mentally. Of course, there's different adjustments. Like, you know, everybody's older. You're playing against like legit grown ass women now who are older, smarter. They know how to like manipulate you out there. So there's like adjustments there, but those ones you just like, figure out as you go. The one that was really hard was the losing. The losing was tough.
- [29:32]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah. I was gonna say, what advice do you have for AZ as she's, you know, gonna start beginning her transition to the pros?
- [29:40]
Sue Bird
Yeah, I mean, first and foremost, enjoy this last season. You know, I feel like there's. There are a couple moments where it's cliche to say, like, make sure you're soaking it all in, but this is one of those moments where you know it's your last. Right. Sometimes we don't know what's going to happen. You know, it's your last year. So I think you can definitely take a couple moments here and there and just kind of look around and enjoy it all. Cause it's interesting. Like I would say when I look back on college, it's some of the best years of my life. So much fun. You don't have to worry about anything. I mean, you have to worry about school a little bit, but you don't have to worry about anything else. But like your teammates, basketball, your friends, you get to have fun. It's really nothing like it. And at the same time, once you become a pro, you don't really crave college years because you're a kid, you're now like an adult and there's something really exciting about that. So I think for you and your adjustment, just, you don't have to. Don't think about it yet. It's gonna come. It's gonna come. You don't have to worry about it. You're already prepared for it. You're gonna be preparing for it this whole year. So really just enjoy.
- [30:45]
Az Fudd
Now that's definitely my main goal, is to enjoy everything about this year. My teammates, the coaches. Like you said, like, there is stuff you need to worry about. But we really, truly are in a little bubble here and can't take that for granted.
- [31:00]
Sue Bird
Yeah, it's nice. It's a nice life.
- [31:08]
Sarah Spain
Latte, Iced coffee Espresso.
- [31:10]
Sue Bird
Your new Nespresso Vertuo UP machine makes the perfect cup for every morning. One button press and you can brew
- [31:16]
Sarah Spain
any coffee, any size your way.
- [31:19]
Sue Bird
New Vertuo up press to explore.
- [31:21]
Az Fudd
Shop now at nespresso.com thanks everyone for all the positivity coming out of the draft. I am so blessed to have so many people that believe in and support me. My listeners, my friends and family and the whole GEICO team who put my family in a commercial with me that was so cool to see. The gecko even showed up wearing my jersey. Well, a smaller version of it. And my grandfather is a huge fan of the gecko. During my injury rehab I was a little nervous about the future, but I've had so much support and so many people believing in me and we came through it together. I know I'm leaving the bubble of college, headed to a new city, joining a new team. It's a lot of change all at once, but I don't feel like I'm alone. The way I feel about basketball is the way I feel about life. You help your team and your team helps you. So thank you again everyone, whether you're on the GEICO team or just a fan wearing my team's jersey. Thank you all so much for all the support.
- [32:11]
Sarah Spain
This sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One Savor card, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports. Did you know that Toni Stone is considered the female Jackie Robinson? The first woman to play big league pro baseball. Stone signed with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro American League in 1953 to play second base. Hank Aaron played second for the team before her. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment and at grocery stores with the saver card from Capital One. What's in your wallet? Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details. This is Sarah Spain from Good Game with Sarah Spain. As a former college athlete, there were many moments where I second guessed myself. It's natural when you're under pressure. When I had those moments of self doubt, I found that the smallest thing can steady you like a smile. Not because it's easy, but because it reminds you you belong here. You've put in the work. You can handle this. Colgate has supported female athletes for over 50 years with the Colgate Women's Games, helping them build confidence and self esteem while competing for scholarships. The Colgate Women's Games is the nation's longest running indoor track and field series for girls and women. Colgate knows that resilience is the key to better performance. And sometimes resilience takes the shape of a smile. So if you ever doubt yourself, remember, your smile is your strength.
- [33:43]
Ashanti Plummer
Next, we have the set buds talking about all things sliding into the DMs.
- [33:47]
Sarah Spain
And.
- [33:48]
Ashanti Plummer
And when I tell you, they are so funny and so fun, and having them on was a blast, especially right after All Star Weekend. So speaking of baddies, listen, y' all good looking. Y' all get to the money. Y' all Hoopers tell me. I know the baddies are in your DMs. What is the boldest or craziest DM you've ever received? I just got one. I just told you, though, what was it? And I don't know if y' all want me to show y'.
- [34:13]
Sarah Spain
All.
- [34:13]
Ashanti Plummer
Hold on now, hold on. We actually. And they keep. I'll translate it for. For the kids.
- [34:18]
Sarah Spain
Oh, you want to see?
- [34:19]
Ashanti Plummer
Oh, I show. I'll show the room. I'mma show the room how crazy. I'mma show you how crazy these DMS get, twin. I mean, she. She not letting it die. And. And when I say she in my request, like, I ain't even opened it, and she just keep sending them. Okay. You consistent, persistent. We don't. You don't like those traits in women. This just ain't going.
- [34:42]
Az Fudd
You have to respect that. Okay.
- [34:45]
Ashanti Plummer
Get what you want. No, this is like, the DMS is just. It's just too many. Like, it's just.
- [34:51]
Az Fudd
So what do they need to say to get you to respond?
- [34:53]
Sarah Spain
First of all.
- [34:54]
Ashanti Plummer
First of all, your page can't be private because the page cannot when I click. Like, it don't matter, though. Just. That's the lamest thing. Okay. To see a private. I'm gonna write it down for the listeners. No, good one. No problem. And then it's like, you can't come, like, too strong. You gotta be a little cutesy with it. Like, if you're not cutesy, too cutesy. Like, demure. Yeah, we want cutesy. Very cutesy and very demure. That's exactly what we want. Anything else? It's usually a 3 3rd. No private, cutesy, Demuro.
- [35:26]
Az Fudd
Mm.
- [35:27]
Ashanti Plummer
For me, the third would be, I don't know, if you, like, have a dog, I want to see you post it. Oh, dog mom. Yeah, I like dog moms. Single dog moms. Single dog moms. Thank you. Don't be sharing no dogs with your ex. Do not share no dog with your A baby. Cause it ain't nothing here for you. I need your three. We already got no private QC demure dog. Oh, what you need? Hold on. Ask me a question real quick. Let me start searching. No, no, you're good. Your top three. So of like three things that they need if they're going to slide in your dm. Am I dancing? Okay. Out the gate. You gotta look good. Your profile pictures gotta grab my attention. So if your profile picture ain't like a pressure pack, then I'm probably not even gonna click on the message. You feel me? I got you.
- [36:13]
Az Fudd
Pressure pack.
- [36:13]
Ashanti Plummer
Only thing that make me click on that message is that profile gotta look like a baddie. So that one pressure pack two on the profile picture or I'm not even gonna click on your page for clarity. On the profile picture. Pressure pack on profile number two. I got em. You cannot be super duper aggressive. But nine times out of 10, most of the baddies don't even be aggressive. They wanna be so cute and simple in the DMs. Soft. Yeah, it don't even be soft. It just be like lame. Like hey. Or like cutie or like emojis. Like baddies don't send much because they know they bad. You feel me? Not too much they don't. I'm telling you what they do.
- [36:55]
Sarah Spain
They don't.
- [36:55]
Az Fudd
They got a plan, bro.
- [36:56]
Ashanti Plummer
They be having master plans. They know what they doing. Say. Because they know they don't gotta do or say too much. Period. You feel me? That too. Just bump into you and number three. I would say three in my DMs. You want me to tell the truth? Yes. You gotta be gay.
- [37:16]
Az Fudd
Duh.
- [37:16]
Ashanti Plummer
I don't play them by games. Now if you play the by games, that's your business. But for me personally, I need you to be gay, period. And they're my three. The G& LGBT. You gotta be gay. The G&LG plus the Gen. OG plus. All right, y' all got that one pressure pack on the profile. Two soft baddies don't do too much. Three gay. Thank you and drop the mic, period. No questions. And you'll have a chance with me and you'll have a chance to go on to the next show. Thank you. By the stuff. Send DMs.
- [38:01]
Az Fudd
This segment of Committed to Care, Women Health and Sports is presented by UnitedHealthcare. Alright, let's talk about something that does not get enough recovery. Yeah, I know. It's not sexy, it's not viral. No one's making a mixtape of great ice bath moments. There's no top 10 recovery plays on SportsCenter. Nobody's making a big fuss to their friends about their favorite athlete's elite hydration. But if you know, you know. Because recovery is the reason you're able to keep showing up. You don't always notice it in the moment, but it's the difference between having that extra little bit at the end of the game or not. Everybody loves the bucket, the win. The moment where we can all say, let's go. But what people don't see is everything that happens after. When your body's like, hey, so about what you just did to me. And this is where a lot of athletes get it wrong. Because every athlete learns this at some point. You can't fake recovery. You can pretend you're all good. You can say, I'm fine. You can convince yourself you're ready. But your body will absolutely snitch on you later every time. And that's where the gap really shows up. Because recovery isn't the same for everyone. And for women athletes in particular, it hasn't always been fully understood, fully prioritized, or built specifically for how our bodies actually work. So what happens? You miss the small things. You rush the process. You don't fully reset. And that's when recovery turns into injury risk. That's when something that could have been managed early turns into something that keeps you out. Recovery isn't separate from injury prevention. It's a huge part of it. And it only works if you actually have the right support around you. Because behind every athlete, and I mean every athlete, there's a whole team, coaches, trainers, strength staff, nutrition, people paying attention to details that you don't even think about. Even the girls I play with make recovery possible. Sitting in an ice bath next to Sarah, hitting the sauna with Kelis and KK make getting the rest our bodies need more fun and less like a chore. The best teams don't just show up. They communicate. They know what you need, when you need it, and how to adjust before something becomes a bigger problem. That's what's been missing in a lot of places, especially when it comes to women's health. Not enough personalization or attention to how our bodies actually respond. Not enough support built specifically around those needs. Recovery approaches were built around male athletes with women expected to just adapt. That kind of recovery doesn't take into consideration hormones, training cycles, energy levels. The list goes on. And we're learning more and more every day. That's why I partnered with UnitedHealthcare to help highlight those gaps and push toward a better way of supporting Women's Health. Because UnitedHealthcare is focused on helping connect people with care that's built around them. Support that helps you catch things earlier, understand what your body needs, and take the right steps before something becomes a bigger issue. Not just reacting, but helping with prevention. Because timing matters here, too. Catching something early, getting the right support at the right moment, Take the right steps in recovery before something becomes a bigger issue. That's what keeps you out there. Because when you actually take care of your body and you have the right support to do it, you're not just recovering, you're protecting your ability to keep playing. So take care of yourself. Actually take care of yourself. And remember, you don't have to figure it out all alone. You're not supposed to. This segment is presented by UnitedHealthcare. UnitedHealthcare committed to care.
- [41:30]
Ashanti Plummer
And finally, we have our Fighting Game segment with KK Arnold, who joined us for our Fashion Week debrief. Oh, man. Having KK and AZ on is some of the best time. It feels just like having your family on some of my sisters to talk about all things fashion and basketball. All right, you guys, we're going to play a quick game of. Would you rather. I'll start. Would you rather the fashion shows or the after parties? Fashion shows.
- [42:01]
Az Fudd
Fashion shows.
- [42:04]
Ashanti Plummer
I'm also gonna say fashion shows. Okay, how about this? Heels or flats or sneakers? Heels are sneakers. Heels. I know.
- [42:13]
Sue Bird
That's right.
- [42:14]
Az Fudd
Heels. Heels.
- [42:18]
Ashanti Plummer
I'm gonna say heels too, because I'm always in them anyways. Train or Uber? Yeah, this is the New York City version. Yeah, see, going on a train was, like, a little quicker. Really?
- [42:31]
Az Fudd
It was a lot faster.
- [42:32]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, it was a lot faster than an Uber. Like, considerably. Like traffic less. Okay, so you do train. I'll low key. Yeah, I'll do train. What about you?
- [42:40]
Az Fudd
There's a time and place, but train, like you get the full experience. Like, you never know what you're gonna get. So it makes it a little more fun, you know, Uber. Like, I sit in the car, talk or don't talk. Like, some way you might get a little something fun out of it, you
- [42:53]
Ashanti Plummer
know, girl, nah, you keep that fun. Put me in an Uber. But that's only because I'm from New York. Like, I'm used to being on the train all the time, so that is no brainer for me. Would you rather find a roach or a rat in your apartment? Yo, what's wrong with you? Is death an option.
- [43:17]
Az Fudd
I'm moving out immediately. I keep my stuff, too. I don't know anymore.
- [43:21]
Ashanti Plummer
I mean, would you rather.
- [43:22]
Az Fudd
I mean, either or.
- [43:22]
Ashanti Plummer
You gotta find something and then move out. Which one would you rather find, a rat or a roach? Oh, my goodness. It's so bad. That's so bad.
- [43:31]
Az Fudd
Oh, gosh. I think I'm going roach because they're
- [43:35]
Ashanti Plummer
smaller, but that means there's a lot. Exactly. There's a lot. Like, there's never just one rats or
- [43:42]
Az Fudd
I'm gonna say a rat because maybe, like, you know, it's ratatouille. Okay. It's gonna help me, chef. We're gonna stay positive. He's gonna get in my hair. Yeah.
- [43:56]
Ashanti Plummer
All right. Is big. It depends. Okay. Don't eat a lot. Okay. I'm gonna do rat because roach. I feel like it's like an infestation.
- [44:07]
Sue Bird
Right.
- [44:07]
Ashanti Plummer
I'm just lone rat. Ratatouille vibe. What about you? Yeah, a rat. Okay. Yeah. Okay, next one. Mini skirt or jorts?
- [44:19]
Az Fudd
Miniskirt.
- [44:21]
Stephen Curry
Jort.
- [44:21]
Ashanti Plummer
Oh, mini skirt. Doordash or restaurant?
- [44:26]
Az Fudd
Doordash.
- [44:27]
Ashanti Plummer
Door dash. I got excited about that one. Silver or gold jewelry? Silver. I'm gold. Okay.
- [44:37]
Az Fudd
You look good in the silver today, though.
- [44:38]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, thank you. I think summer gold, and then every other time, silver. I know. We're, like, toward the end of the summer, which is why silver's coming out for me.
- [44:49]
Az Fudd
Okay. Interesting.
- [44:51]
Ashanti Plummer
You just. Guys. You just don't like gold? Gold has never.
- [44:53]
Az Fudd
I don't like how it looks on me.
- [44:54]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah.
- [44:55]
Az Fudd
Like in other people, but on me.
- [45:01]
Ashanti Plummer
Hotel or Airbnb?
- [45:04]
Az Fudd
Airbnb.
- [45:07]
Ashanti Plummer
Hotel.
- [45:09]
Az Fudd
That's tough.
- [45:10]
Ashanti Plummer
It's something about a hotel bed that gets me. So hotels are typically. Yeah. Like, really nice, and.
- [45:16]
Az Fudd
And then they, like, clean up after you.
- [45:17]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, but, like, when you go into a country, like a foreign country, I like to be in, like, an Airbnb, so it kind of feels like I'm a part of the experience there. So I don't know.
- [45:28]
Az Fudd
I just like being with other people. Like a hotel, you gotta go to their room. Like, let me go to KK's room. Or like, Airbnb. Just be with them. Like, KK, come here. That's cute.
- [45:37]
Ashanti Plummer
I love that. Glasses or no glasses?
- [45:40]
Az Fudd
Glasses.
- [45:41]
Ashanti Plummer
Glasses. Yeah, glasses. Streetwear or preppy streetwear?
- [45:48]
Az Fudd
Streetwear.
- [45:48]
Ashanti Plummer
Elevated streetwear. All right, our last one. Oh, last two. TikTok Live or Snapchat stories. Miss girl, miss KK, this is a KK question. I love you. A good Snapchat story. Now, y', all not gonna lie if y' all want to see funny content and filters go on my Snapchat. What's your Snapchat? Plug K, baby. B ball one. When did you make your Snapchat?
- [46:16]
Az Fudd
Don't ask me.
- [46:19]
Ashanti Plummer
When'd you make it? Cause that's giving, like, you know when the old AOL is giving even, like, back in the day. Can't even maybe bought one. Yep. What about you? You didn't even answer. You just. You said you just love it.
- [46:33]
Az Fudd
I only post Snapchat.
- [46:35]
Stephen Curry
Yeah.
- [46:35]
Ashanti Plummer
Okay.
- [46:35]
Az Fudd
I don't really post much publicly on my Snapchat, so I'm gonna go.
- [46:39]
Ashanti Plummer
Okay, Add me to the private story, because I heard what you said. I heard that publicly. So which one?
- [46:47]
Az Fudd
I'm gonna go tick tock.
- [46:48]
Ashanti Plummer
Okay, I'm gonna say Snapchat, but hear me out. It's because my niece and nephew, they live in, like, Arizona, Utah, far away, and their mom Snapchats me every morning of them. So that's why I choose Snapchat. But TikTok's lit.
- [47:04]
Sue Bird
TikTok. No.
- [47:05]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, TikTok is lit. TikTok's lit. Always lit. All right, last one. Press ons or gel nails?
- [47:12]
Az Fudd
Press ons. I am like, the newest, biggest press on fan. I'm obsessed.
- [47:17]
Ashanti Plummer
G now did that G nails. Okay.
- [47:19]
Az Fudd
G nails. Sarah is her.
- [47:22]
Ashanti Plummer
That girl ate it up. Jill. Jill. Let me get glossy.
- [47:28]
Az Fudd
Jill.
- [47:28]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, I know this wasn't an option, but I'm like a dip powder girl.
- [47:34]
Az Fudd
Okay.
- [47:35]
Ashanti Plummer
Yeah, like, boop. And I'm dried. I'm ready to go, so dip powder for me.
- [47:39]
Az Fudd
All right, well, that is a wrap on today's episode and season one of FUD around and find out. Thank you guys so much for tuning in all season. We're gonna miss you and we're so grateful for all of your support. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to Futaround and find out wherever you get your podcasts and we'll see you soon. Fut around and Find out is a production of iHeart, women's sports, and Unanimous Media. Executive producers are Jesse Katz, Eric Payton, Sharla Sumter, Brigitte and Stephen Curry. Co executive producer is Kalana Maria Kutney. Producers are Mike Coscarelli, Grace Fuze, and Mackenzie Fitzpatrick. And co producers are Kurt Redmond, Maya Howard, and Jacqueline Schoeninger. This podcast is edited by Mike Coscarelli and hosted by me, Az Fudd and Ashanti Plummer.
- [48:24]
Ashanti Plummer
Coming out of the draft, it's been a special time for us here at Fuddaround. I want to thank everyone from the fans to the sponsors, especially geico. Not just for supporting az, but for showing up where it matters, like the business of Women's Sports Summit. That kind of thing really moves the needle. And now that AZ is starting a new life in Dallas, we don't know what next season is going to bring. But we know that we're all on the same team and it's been amazing to feel the love and support. So keep showing up for our girl. Show up for each other. Thanks to GEICO and our listeners.
- [48:56]
Sarah Spain
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 this sports spotlight is brought to you by Capital One Savor card, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports. Did you know that Toni Stone is considered the female Jackie Robinson? The first woman to play big league pro baseball, Stone signed with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro American League in 1953 to play second base. Hank Aaron played second for the team before her. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment and at grocery stores with the saver card from Capital One. What's in your wallet? Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details. This is Sarah Spain from Good Game with Sarah Spain. When I competed in track and field at the collegiate level, there were times I second guessed myself. That's why it's important for female athletes to have a space to build confidence and self esteem. Colgate supports female athletes of all levels through the Colgate Women's Games, the nation's longest running indoor track and field series for girls and women. By supporting female athletes, Colgate hopes to put more smiles out into the world. Colgate, your smile is your strength. This is an I Heart Podcast.
- [50:26]
Az Fudd
Guaranteed human.