No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show Episode: The Athletic's All Access: Tara VanDerveer and Kiki Iriafen on the Journey to the All-Time Wins Record, Plus DeWanna Bonner on Her Jersey Retirement Release Date: January 19, 2024

Episode Overview

In this special "All Access" episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show, hosts Zena Keita, Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, and Ben Pickman delve deep into significant milestones and personal stories within the women's basketball community. The episode features in-depth conversations with Stanford's rising star Keke Ariafin and legendary coach Tara VanDerveer, as well as an exclusive interview with WNBA veteran DeWanna Bonner, who celebrates her jersey retirement.

Part 1: Stanford's Dynamic Duo – Keke Ariafin and Coach Tara VanDerveer

Introduction and Icebreakers (04:56 - 10:16)

The episode kicks off with Zena Keita introducing Stanford's standout junior forward, Keke Ariafin, and the esteemed head coach, Tara VanDerveer. Keke is making waves with an impressive average of 17 points and 11 rebounds per game, while Coach VanDerveer is on the brink of breaking the all-time wins record in college basketball.

To warm up the conversation, Zena engages the guests in a series of basketball-themed riddles, setting a lighthearted tone for the discussion. For instance, at [07:51], Zena asks, "Why is Hannah Jump wanted by the Jamaican forestry Department?" leading to playful banter and laughter.

Building Relationships and Coaching Philosophy (10:16 - 20:38)

The conversation shifts to the heart of Stanford’s success: the relationship between Coach VanDerveer and her players. At [10:45], Keke shares, “Since my freshman year, Coach Tara has always made it a point to relate and connect with me... We're always making jokes. We're always dancing with each other in practice.” This highlights Coach VanDerveer’s emphasis on building genuine connections beyond the court.

Chantel Jennings probes deeper into Coach VanDerveer's adaptation to modern coaching dynamics, especially with the advent of social media and faster-paced lifestyles. Coach VanDerveer reflects at [13:23], “Life is so much sped up now. I try to understand Keke's life and really check in on a daily basis.”

Mentorship and Growth (20:38 - 31:53)

Discussion turns to mentorship, with Chantelle Latson asking about the influence of mentors on Coach VanDerveer’s career. Tara credits colleagues and alumni for her growth, mentioning interactions with former players who have transitioned to the WNBA. At [22:05], Tara advises, “Just soak in the moment... enjoy being at Stanford, enjoy the sisterhood.”

The segment also features a lighthearted "One Word Scout" game, where Keke and Tara provide one-word descriptors for various players and themselves, adding a personal touch to the professional insights. Notably, Tara describes herself as “Cut her quick” [31:35], prompting playful reactions from the group.

Approach to Technology and Team Dynamics (31:53 - 41:09)

The hosts explore how Coach VanDerveer manages technology use within the team. Ben Pickman mentions, “I try to be very strict about no phones when we're having meals together,” emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions. This approach fosters a strong team bond, as reflected in Stanford’s cohesive performance.

Keke discusses her leadership role and the support system within the team. At [19:48], Tara notes, “Having Erica McCall in practice, she's been amazing... pushing me every single day.”

Part 2: Celebrating a Legend – DeWanna Bonner’s Jersey Retirement

Introduction to DeWanna Bonner (33:12 - 34:37)

Zena transitions to the second highlight of the episode by introducing DeWanna Bonner, a formidable presence in the WNBA with 14 years of experience. Bonner’s illustrious career includes multiple All-Star selections, WNBA championships with the Phoenix Mercury, and her recent achievements at Auburn University. At [34:07], Zena details Bonner’s accolades: “She finished her career with 2,162 points... third in history for 1,047 rebounds.”

Navigating Social Media and Personal Growth (34:37 - 43:40)

DeWanna shares her journey into embracing social media, highlighting the challenges and motivations behind her recent return to platforms like Twitter. At [36:03], she explains, “I started working with a media marketing person who actually was like, you need to get back on Twitter... I want people to understand my accomplishments.” This move signifies her desire to connect more deeply with fans and narrate her storied career.

Zena appreciates DeWanna's openness, stating at [39:25], “Women’s basketball is getting so much visibility... you guys are the best at connecting with your fans.”

Reflecting on a Historic Career and Jersey Retirement (43:40 - 50:31)

The heart of the conversation revolves around DeWanna’s upcoming jersey retirement at Auburn. She recounts the transformation of Auburn’s basketball program during her tenure, from minimal fan support to selling out games and winning the SEC championship. At [47:33], DeWanna reflects, “We went from no fans to selling out my senior year. It was insane.”

As the event approaches, DeWanna expresses mixed emotions about seeing her jersey hang in the rafters, appreciating the honor while feeling the weight of her achievements: “It's gonna mean a lot because there are not a lot of great players that get their jersey retired at such a great university.”

Balancing Personal Life and Professional Aspirations (50:31 - 55:05)

DeWanna discusses her aspirations beyond jersey retirement, emphasizing her roles as a dedicated mother and a professional athlete. At [51:15], she outlines her goals: “I want to finish top five in scoring in the WNBA... win the WNBA Championship... be in the Basketball Hall of Fame.”

The conversation highlights her commitment to balancing motherhood with an enduring passion for basketball, underscoring her legacy both on and off the court.

Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook (55:05 - End)

As the episode wraps up, Zena commends both guests for their contributions to the sport and their inspiring journeys. She encourages listeners to continue supporting and growing the women's basketball community. The hosts sign off with reflections on the discussions, emphasizing the importance of stories like Keke’s, Coach Tara’s, and DeWanna’s in shaping the future of women’s basketball.

Notable Quotes

• Keke Ariafin [10:45]: “Since my freshman year, Coach Tara has always made it a point to relate and connect with me... We're always making jokes. We're always dancing with each other in practice.”

• Coach Tara VanDerveer [13:23]: “Life is so much sped up now. I try to understand Keke's life and really check in on a daily basis.”

• Tara VanDerveer [22:05]: “Just soak in the moment... enjoy being at Stanford, enjoy the sisterhood.”

• DeWanna Bonner [36:03]: “I started working with a media marketing person who actually was like, you need to get back on Twitter... I want people to understand my accomplishments.”

• DeWanna Bonner [47:33]: “We went from no fans to selling out my senior year. It was insane.”

• DeWanna Bonner [51:15]: “I want to finish top five in scoring in the WNBA... win the WNBA Championship... be in the Basketball Hall of Fame.”

Conclusion

This episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show offers a profound look into the dedication, leadership, and legacy of some of women's basketball's most influential figures. From Keke Ariafin's exceptional performance and growth under the mentorship of Tara VanDerveer to DeWanna Bonner's celebrated career and personal milestones, listeners gain valuable insights into what it takes to excel both on and off the court. The heartfelt stories and strategic discussions underscore the ever-evolving landscape of women's basketball, inspiring both current players and fans alike.