No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show Episode: Early Challenge for South Carolina, Plus USC and UCLA Take on Paris Release Date: November 6, 2024

Hosts: Zena Keda, Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, and Ben Pickman

Season Kickoff and Bonus Episode Recap

The episode opens with Zena Keda welcoming listeners back to "No Offseason," The Athletic’s dedicated show for women’s basketball enthusiasts. She highlights the release of a recent bonus episode featuring Ben and Sabrina breaking down the Indiana Fever’s front office dynamics, including insights from GM and new coach Stephanie White. Zena emphasizes the importance of staying connected with both NCAA and WNBA developments despite the ongoing NCAA season.

Zena (04:51):
"I know it's NCAA season, but we have to keep in touch on everything that's going on in this ecosystem."

South Carolina's Season Opener Against Michigan

Chantel Jennings delves into South Carolina's highly anticipated season opener against Michigan. The discussion focuses on South Carolina's transition from an undefeated champion last season to facing a youthful Michigan team comprised mostly of freshmen.

Chantel (06:57):
"We all knew how important Camila Cardoso was to that team last year. Without her, their interior game looks really different."

Chantel praises Chloe Kits for her impressive performance, noting her 19 points and 14 rebounds, while also addressing the absence of Camila Cardoso and its impact on the team’s dynamics. She highlights the Gamecocks' ability to make significant second-half adjustments, particularly on defense, where they limited Michigan to 21% shooting from the floor.

Chantel (08:10):
"Don Staley's halftime speeches are pretty famous for being very motivational and to the point."

Zena adds that South Carolina's relaxed and joyful team demeanor, epitomized by players like Tahina Powpow and Tessa Johnson, remains unchanged despite the challenges, fostering a positive team culture even in tight games.

Zena (09:16):
"They focus on the task and keep things light. That's one thing that makes them resilient."

Analysis of Silas Swords' Standout Performance

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Michigan freshman, Silas Swords, who delivered a stellar performance with 27 points and 12 rebounds. Chantel explores her potential impact on the NCAA landscape, especially considering her professional background and coaching lineage.

Chantel (14:23):
"Silas Swords walked out and was relentless in getting on the glass. She's a true freshman with potential to be a standout player this season."

Chantel compares Swords' performance to notable players since 2017, emphasizing the rarity and significance of her achievement against a powerhouse like South Carolina.

Chantel (17:00):
"Silas is joining the conversation for freshman of the year candidates. Her performance sets a high bar for the season."

USC vs. Ole Miss: A Tough Start for the Trojans

Transitioning to the USC Trojans, the hosts examine their opening game against Ole Miss, which USC narrowly lost 68-66. Chantel attributes USC's struggles to high turnovers and the integration of new players, including freshmen like Kennedy Smith.

Chantel (19:34):
"USC had 26 turnovers due to Ole Miss's tenacious defense. It’s evident that they need more time to gel as a team."

Zena comments on the defensive prowess of Ole Miss, noting how their aggressive perimeter defense significantly hindered USC's offensive flow.

Zena (24:49):
"Ole Miss's defense was relentless, forcing USC to miss 9 of their 11 from the free-throw line. USC needs to adapt their perimeter offense."

UCLA's Strategic Adjustments and Future Prospects

The conversation shifts to UCLA, where Chantel discusses their victory over Louisville, 66-59. She highlights the strategic additions to the team, including Tamiya Gardner and Janaya Barker, who bring versatility and depth to UCLA's roster.

Chantel (26:45):
"With players like Tamiya Gardner and Janaya Barker, UCLA has fundamentally changed their playstyle, adding a new dimension to their offense."

Zena underscores the importance of star player Lauren Betts, emphasizing the need for UCLA to continue developing guard play to complement her leadership.

Zena (28:59):
"Gabriela Hawkes is an invaluable asset, always active and taking on the hardest assignments. She fills in the gaps UCLA needs."

Notre Dame's Dominant Performance and Key Players

The hosts briefly touch upon Notre Dame's overwhelming win against Mercyhurst, 105-61, while cautioning listeners about the differing competition levels. Chantel highlights Olivia Miles’ impressive triple-double performance, underscoring her role as a pivotal player for Notre Dame.

Chantel (35:40):
"Olivia Miles’ triple-double is a game-changer for Notre Dame. Her ability to balance the backcourt with Hannah Hidalgo could define their season."

Overall Season Outlook and Key Takeaways

As the season progresses, Chantel and Zena emphasize the importance of team chemistry, player development, and strategic adjustments. They note that while some teams have had dominant performances, others are still finding their footing, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable NCAA season.

Chantel (33:20):
"First games are always tough, but they provide key indicators of how teams will perform as the season unfolds."

Zena (39:14):
"There’ll be so much more to watch as the season progresses. The real test will come during conference play and beyond."

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Zena expressing excitement for the upcoming games and encouraging listeners to stay engaged with the season’s developments.

Zena (39:14):
"Appreciate you, Chantel, breaking that down. Keep listening, keep watching, keep learning, and keep loving the game."

Notable Quotes

• Chantel Jennings (06:57):
  "We all knew how important Camila Cardoso was to that team last year. Without her, their interior game looks really different."

• Zena Keda (09:16):
  "They focus on the task and keep things light. That's one thing that makes them resilient."

• Chantel Jennings (14:23):
  "Silas Swords walked out and was relentless in getting on the glass. She's a true freshman with potential to be a standout player this season."

• Chantel Jennings (19:34):
  "USC had 26 turnovers due to Ole Miss's tenacious defense. It’s evident that they need more time to gel as a team."

• Zena Keda (24:49):
  "Ole Miss's defense was relentless, forcing USC to miss 9 of their 11 from the free-throw line. USC needs to adapt their perimeter offense."

• Chantel Jennings (26:45):
  "With players like Tamiya Gardner and Janaya Barker, UCLA has fundamentally changed their playstyle, adding a new dimension to their offense."

• Zena Keda (28:59):
  "Gabriela Hawkes is an invaluable asset, always active and taking on the hardest assignments. She fills in the gaps UCLA needs."

• Chantel Jennings (35:40):
  "Olivia Miles’ triple-double is a game-changer for Notre Dame. Her ability to balance the backcourt with Hannah Hidalgo could define their season."

• Chantel Jennings (33:20):
  "First games are always tough, but they provide key indicators of how teams will perform as the season unfolds."

• Zena Keda (39:14):
  "There’ll be so much more to watch as the season progresses. The real test will come during conference play and beyond."

Conclusion

In this episode of "No Offseason," the hosts provide a comprehensive analysis of the early season challenges faced by top teams like South Carolina, USC, and UCLA. Through detailed player performances and strategic insights, Zena Keda and Chantel Jennings offer listeners a deep dive into the evolving landscape of women’s college basketball. With standout performances from freshmen and seasoned players alike, the NCAA season promises to be both competitive and thrilling.

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe for more in-depth coverage, exclusive interviews, and continuous updates on the women’s hoops scene as the season progresses.