No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show Episode: Paige Becker Goes #1 + WNBA Draft Winners and Losers
Release Date: April 15, 2025
Hosts: Zena Keita, Sabrina Merchant, Ben Pickman

1. Introduction to the Draft Night

The episode kicks off with Zena Keita welcoming listeners to the latest edition of "No Offseason," focusing on the monumental 2025 WNBA Draft. The primary highlight is Paige Becker from UConn being selected as the number one overall pick by the Dallas Wings.

2. Venue and Atmosphere

[06:32] Ben Pickman: Ben provides an insider’s view of the draft venue at the Shed at Hudson Yards in NYC, highlighting its significant expansion compared to previous years. He remarks, “The draft is just this, like, very fun event because at its core, you're just watching people realize their lifelong dreams” ([06:32]).

[08:24] Zena Keita: Zena emphasizes the growing momentum of the WNBA and how the larger venue reflects this growth, stating, “It feels very apropos for that to be the venue for this year specifically” ([08:24]).

3. Top Draft Picks and Team Analysis

a. Dallas Wings and Paige Becker

Paige Becker’s selection by the Dallas Wings is dissected thoroughly. Ben discusses the immediate impact she is expected to have both on and off the court, quoting Greg Bibb, Wings’ CEO: “On the court, she's transformative. Off the court, you're going to feel the impact she can do for Dallas on day one” ([20:35]).

Sabrina adds, “I like the Paige Calder shot right after she was taken and said I hope this is also a good night for my UConn teammates” ([19:47]).

b. Seattle Storm and Dominique Malanga

Seattle Storm’s second pick, Dominique Malanga, is lauded as a strategic fit to bolster their rebounding statistics and perimeter defense. Ben notes, “This is a pick for their future” ([25:01]).

Zena observes, “Dominique feels like the best fit in my opinion, especially with those around her” ([25:35]).

c. Washington Mystics and Guard Picks

The Washington Mystics focused on strengthening their guard lineup with three of their first four picks. Ben explains, “They recognized that they needed some backward help, and they went out and did that with three of their first four selections” ([31:16]).

Sabrina adds assurance for the drafted guards: “If you were selected by the Washington Mystics, you should feel very good about your prospects to eventually play in the WNBA” ([32:41]).

d. Chicago Sky and Haley Van Lith

Chicago Sky’s selection of Haley Van Lith is analyzed for potential team dynamics, especially her previous partnership with Angel Reese. Sabrina expresses reservations about the fit: “I don't really love Haley Van Lith in a place where like, she doesn't have the ball in her hands as often” ([35:57]).

Ben counters, highlighting the learning opportunity: “She's given an opportunity here in Chicago to really learn from Courtney Vandersloot” ([34:34]).

e. Connecticut Sun and Anissa Morrow, Saniyah Rivers

Connecticut Sun’s picks, Anissa Morrow and Saniyah Rivers, are discussed as pivotal for their rebuilding efforts. Ben predicts Morrow could lead all rookies in rebounding, while Sabrina notes, “Anissa Morrow can definitely be that player” ([40:06]).

4. Notable Moments and Players

a. Fashion and Georgia Amore

The draft night wasn't just about basketball; fashion moments stood out, particularly Georgia Amore’s choice to wear flats, showcasing her authentic style. Sabrina praises her decision: “She decided to wear flats as the shortest player in the draft... rewarded with this just complete, authentic trueness to herself” ([12:52]).

b. Paige Becker's Team Impact

Paige’s dedication to her UConn teammates resonated deeply. Zena ties this to her familial ties within the team, mentioning how Nika Mule returned to support her: “Nika Mule, who was drafted last year, came back to support her teammate because they said they wanted to be there for each other” ([20:35]).

5. Surprises and Potential Losers

a. Incomplete Grades for New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx

Ben critiques the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx picks, citing incomplete strategies and external factors affecting player arrivals. He states, “New York clearly has a plan... it's just like New York clearly has a plan” ([45:21]).

b. Sedona Prince Not Drafted

The discussion shifts to Sedona Prince, who faced challenges due to her injury history and off-court allegations, leading to her not being drafted. Ben summarizes, “Teams were weighing her upside along with her injury history and allegations” ([50:47]).

6. Unrivaled Basketball League and WNBA Tensions

A significant part of the conversation centers on Paige Becker signing a lucrative deal with the Unrivaled Basketball League, surpassing her WNBA rookie salary. Ben discusses WNBA Commissioner Kathy Engelbert’s response, noting her mixed feelings and acknowledgment of Unrivaled’s innovations ([54:24]).

Sabrina remarks on the potential impact: “Unrivaled is finding opportunities to compensate support players in a way that the WNBA has not been able to figure out yet” ([56:35]).

7. Future Topics and Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with teasers for upcoming discussions on the new era of the WNBA, featuring retiring legends and emerging stars like Diana Sue Bird and Candace Parker. The hosts also hint at an interview with Washington Mystics GM Jamila Weidman, promising insights into her leadership and vision for the team.

Zena wraps up by encouraging listeners to follow the show, engage on social platforms, and stay tuned for more in-depth analysis and interviews.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Pickman [06:32]: “The draft is just this, like, very fun event because at its core, you're just watching people realize their lifelong dreams.”

• Sabrina Merchant [19:47]: “I like the Paige Calder shot right after she was taken and said I hope this is also a good night for my UConn teammates.”

• Zena Keita [20:35]: “Dominique feels like the best fit in my opinion, especially with those around her.”

This episode provides a comprehensive breakdown of the 2025 WNBA Draft, highlighting key picks, team strategies, and emerging tensions within the league. Hosts offer insightful analysis, backed by insider perspectives and notable quotes, making it an essential listen for fans eager to understand the future landscape of women’s basketball.