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Zena Keda
There to watch them.
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Keke Ariafin
For.
Zena Keda
The athletic I'm Zena Ka and this is the athletic women's basketball show. Welcome to the Athletic Women's Basketball Show. You all are in for a special Athletic All Access treat. Shantelle Jennings called it Athletic All Access and I really like that so we're gonna keep with it. Anytime we have a big time interview, we're calling it Athletic Access and trust me, you are going to love the access we're giving you today. We have had a lot of success striking gold in the Pac12 with some awesome interviews. So we're just gonna keep it going that way with our first two special guests coming out of Stanford. But do not go anywhere because we're following that up with another interview with a WNBA star and NCAA legend. And if you have any questions about free agency, this particular person might give you a little bit of insight. Don't go anywhere. Y'all definitely stay tuned for this entire episode. But let's get going with our first two guests. Out of Stanford, we've got Keke Ariafin, currently a junior forward for Stan and a double double machine. She's averaging 17 points, 11 rebounds a game. She's also one of the most improved players in the country right now and is a huge reason why the Cardinal are currently ranked number eight in the country. Alongside her, she's got her coach, coach Tara Vanderveer. She's been the head coach at Stanford since 1985. A true legend. I know she doesn't like legend because it gives the feeling of old, but, hey, legendary is proper here. She's won three national titles, the Cardinal, she's an Olympic gold medalist with Team USA in 1996 as a coach, and she is just two wins away from becoming the winningest coach in college basketball. If she wins these two games this weekend, she'd end up at 1,203 wins, beating Duke's Coach K. No biggie. Welcome to the show, ladies.
Tara Vanderveer
Thank you for having us.
Ben
Thank you.
Zena Keda
Of course, of course. Now, before I pass you off to Ben and Chantel, I want to get the conversation going with some quick riddles. And, you know, Coach, since I heard you love a good joke or a pun, I hope you enjoy these very sincere attempts at basketball jokes. And it features some of your roster. So I encourage everyone. Ben, Chantel, Keke, everyone. Guess if you know. All right, first up, why does Talana Lipolo love using payphones?
Ben
I don't know. What do you think, Kiki?
Tara Vanderveer
Why key phones? Is it rhyming? Is it gonna rhyme?
Zena Keda
Nope.
Tara Vanderveer
No. I don't know.
Zena Keda
I'll drop in because she loves dropping dimes.
Ben
Oh, that's a good one.
Zena Keda
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Ben
We should have forgotten that, Kiki.
Tara Vanderveer
We should have. We should have.
Zena Keda
All right, next up, Kiki. This is about you, so hopefully we'll get it. What do an angry Bunny, an enraged beer, and Kiki Orion have in common? An enraged Bunny, Angry Bunny, enraged Beer, and Kiki rife in.
Chantel
I Think I might know it.
Zena Keda
What is it?
Chantel
They've got. They've got hops.
Zena Keda
Mad hops. That's right, you. Mad hops.
Chantel
Obviously, I forgot the Kiki.
Zena Keda
We have seen all the videos of you dunking the ball, B. Yes, baby. Matt. Oh, no, no, no, no, ma'am. Two dribbles up. That's Matt Hopps. All right, next one. Why is Hannah Jump wanted by the Jamaican forestry Department?
Tara Vanderveer
Something about a shooter.
Zena Keda
And for the record, folks, everyone on Stanford's roster outside of Hannah Jump has taken at least, like, max 40 or so shots from beyond the ark. Hannah has taken 111 so far this season. So just to put that there, why is Hannah Jump wanted by the Jamaican forestry Department? Because she been knocking down all the trees. Boom. That was big. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Next up, why did the San Francisco Giants invite Cameron Brink to do their ceremonial first pitch?
Ben
Well, not because she's a baseball player.
Zena Keda
Not. Not that. Not that. It's because they knew she'd be good at a free throw. M. And then last but not least, before I pass you off, why is a scrambled egg like 15 of the teams that Stanford has faced this season.
Keke Ariafin
They got cooked.
Zena Keda
I like that one better. It was gonna be because they've all been beaten. But, yes, I like how fast. There you go, K. I like it. I like it. Boom. All right, I got my quick jokes out of the way. Hopefully you enjoy them. Folks. Now let's get a little bit more serious. Cause, you know, you've been winning, you've been killing it in the PAC 12. And I know Ben Chantel, you got a lot of questions for them. So let's get going.
Chantel
You know, Ben and I both wrote stories this week on Tara. We've had the chance to talk with her pretty extensively about her career and her life. But, Keke, you have spent more time around her than either of us have. Three years at Stanford. You've been there for several of Tara's WINS, not all 1201 at this point. I'm just curious. What is something that you've learned about her or were maybe surprised to learn about her over the last three years that you didn't know about her through recruitment?
Tara Vanderveer
Yeah, I'd say since my freshman year, Tara has always made it a point to, like, kind of relate and connect with me. So I feel like coming in, I was a little bit intimidated, and I think just because of, like, you know, her name precedes herself. So kind of like everything that she's done. So I was like, I Don't know how this is going to go. I was going to be like, yes, coach. But I even started coming in saying, hi, Coach Tara. And she's like, hi, player Kiki. Like, so I'd say, like, just the way that she's tried to, like, make a relationship with every single person, me especially, since my freshman year, she's always like, what TikTok dance are we doing? Even now? Like, we're always, like, making jokes. We're always dancing with each other in practice. So I think she's always a great sport with whatever shenanigans I want, want to do. And that's something that I really appreciate. I wasn't expecting coming into Stanford.
Chantel
Tara, I know relationships are such a big thing for you and coaching, but hearing you ask about Tiktoks, that's something that's new. I'm curious how. How much you know about TikTok as a social media platform. And also on a more serious note, Kiki was obviously a little. I don't know if starstruck would be the right word, but maybe like, oh, my gosh, it's Tara around you. Have you ever been starstruck around someone?
Ben
I'm trying to think of. So, you know, some of the great people I've met, I mean, obviously if you're in the Oval Office with the president, you feel a little intimidated by that. But I will say, going back to the initial, I mean, I know zero about TikTok, and if I am part of a TikTok dance is only because Kiki gives me good tutoring and coaching.
Chantel
How is. How is Kiki as a dance coach for the Tiktoks?
Ben
I think Kiki's really good. Um, you know, she's loose. She's, you know, she. She says, hey, move this way, and she just starts laughing. And, you know, I think that it's really important that we have fun at practice. And, you know, like, I think that with Kiki getting to know her and, you know, maybe doing a couple of the TikTok dances helps me coach her. You know, I want. And first of all, she is killing it, and it's just. She's having an awesome, awesome year, and it's really, really exciting to see how well she's doing.
Chantel
We'll get to that. I personally feel like, Kiki, you are the most improved player in the country this year. There's several really impressive names in that group, but certainly on the west Coast. But I would say in terms of the country as well, you're my vote.
Tania Latson
I was going to ask, on the topic of connection, Tara, are there ways in which you feel like you are now connecting with players differently than you were at the start of your career? And are there ways that you feel like your methods of connection, quote, unquote, are the same as they were, you know, a few decades ago?
Ben
You've been like, when I first started, first of all, there was. There was no email. You couldn't watch your games on the computer. Like, if I want to watch video with Kiki, we can just sit down and, you know, I can put in my Trixie and hard drive and, you know, get right to her minutes and it will take like maybe 15 minutes, so we can cover a lot. You know, things were a lot slower when I first started out. Like, players might come into the rec center and I'd rebound for them and talk to them, but life is so much speeded up now. I think that what I try to do is understand, like, Kiki's life and it's so busy and, you know, just really try to check in kind of on a daily basis. You know, there are different things I do every day. I go, you know, through the whole line as people are warming up just to, you know, just say, hi, how are you doing? Check in with people. But life is just really different. So that does necessitate coaching differently.
Chantel
Tara, I was talking with Jennifer Az earlier this week, and she was saying that when you recruited her, you know, she has letters that you wrote her from her recruitment and how different that probably is. Kiki's smiling right now.
Ben
I wrote you a letter too, Kiki.
Tara Vanderveer
You did? She actually did.
Chantel
Oh, well, then I guess my first question, Tara, is what were you trying to get across in those letters? And Kiki, maybe tell us if any other coaches sent you letters during your recruitment and what Tara's letter to you said. Tara, maybe you can go first.
Ben
Well, you know, we had a certain day that you can first contact, and it was usually the first day of September. And so, Chantel, I would write my letters at the cabin and, you know, make sure I mail them. And I mean, I just think more than anything, an introduction, you know, someone's starting their junior year now, things are a lot different. You can take visits your junior, you know, things are accelerated again. But just, you know, I don't know, like, as a young person, I love getting letters, you know. Now, I mean, this was before email and before, you know, texting and all that stuff. But there's something nice about a handwritten letter.
Chantel
Kiki, can you tell us about the letter that you got from Tara, and if any other coach sent you a handwritten letter during your recruitment.
Tara Vanderveer
Yeah. So Tara is the only person that sent me a handwritten letter. Most of the recruitment was like, FaceTime and text, which we did as well. In terms of what the letter said. Please forgive me. I do not remember. It was like the junior year of high school. I. But I know I do remember being very surprised, but then also feeling like, oh, like I felt special. Like, oh, my gosh, head coach wrote me a handwritten letter. So I think that goes back to what Tara said. Like, there's something meaningful and special and thoughtful about, you know, a handwritten note.
Ben
Can I just add one thing? My handwriting is horrible, so I have to work really hard. You know, I don't have great handwriting, so I have to work really hard. And I probably had three or four attempts before you ever got that letter. Because, you know, my mom told me one time, don't bother writing us, Tara. We can't read it.
Tania Latson
That's okay. She decided to commit anyway, despite the handwriting, so it seems like it's been okay. But I was going to ask, you know, on the letter writing, you know, Tara, when we talked last week about, you know, your time at Ohio State and getting that job initially as an assistant, you talked about Phyllis Bailey writing you a letter, the former Ohio State athletic director at the time. And that, you know, that was something. That was a personal reply to you, I guess. You know, was that always something then, you know, coming off of, you know, Phyllis Bailey writing you a letter that was significant when you were reaching out to staff applicants or candidates or recruits, did that kind of set the stage for you as you continued on in your career?
Ben
I mean, I lived a lot of my young life without email, without text messaging, without cell phones. I mean, it really cost money in the old days to make a long distance phone call. So it was. Writing letters was really a fun thing. And I like to write letters, and I like to get letters. And I think that, you know, that was something that, you know, is just part of my growing up. And Phyllis wrote me a very nice letter. She did type it, but, you know, that. That's. That's great. And Ben, I just want to say that I know you did a lot of work on that article, and it was really fun to read. Kiki, I coached the JV team, my very first coaching experience. And Ben wrote a really nice story about it.
Tara Vanderveer
I'll have to read it. That's amazing.
Tania Latson
I appreciate that. For those listening, Tara Vandevere her win streak or her win count only starts at the varsity level with Idaho when she started there in 1978, but she was actually the head coach of the Ohio State junior varsity team in 1976. And she talked about how that experience really set the stage for a lot of what's to come. So you can find that on the site right now. And Chantelle has a story going live that will be live as well when you are listening to this show. Well, I was going to say off this point of kind of mentors and mentees and relationships, Tara, you know, how did your relationship with some of your mentors, and maybe you can explain, you know, some of who those people are, interact how you now interact with young coaches and try and pay it forward and just kind of be a leader in the community. And are there any particular conversations or stories that. That jump out in your mind?
Ben
I mean, I mean, for me, as I was a head coach when I was like, 24 years old, and it was, you know, I, I learned from other coaches a lot. I was, I was at Ohio State when Fred Taylor was there. I was at Idaho with, you know, coach Bobby Knight. You know, just all, every place I've been, I've tried to be a sponge and learn from all the great coaches that I've, you know, places I've been. Don Munson was at Idaho, you know, and here, here at Stanford, not just basketball coaches, but all these other coaches and, and basketball coaches like, you know, Seal Berry was someone I learned from a lot at Colorado and, you know, just so many great coaches. Pat Summit, you know, it's just when you compete against someone, you learn a lot from them, too. But I also, I will say this. I bet I've learned more from my players than anyone else. You know, just talking to them, getting to know them, watching them, they. And, and the things that they share with me. So that's been really fun.
Chantel
Kiki, you've really stepped into a leadership role this season. I'm curious on that sort of same line. Who are the people? Or, you know, maybe it's your parents. Maybe it's former Stanford players, maybe it's current Stanford players. Maybe it's. Tara, who have you talked to through sort of this journey into really stepping forward as a vocal leader and also obviously a leader on the floor for Stanford this season?
Tara Vanderveer
Yeah, I'd say directly with our staff. I think Coach Bird, Coach Erica, she's been someone that has really pushed me to be more vocal. Something that I'm still working on, but she's been a constant person. That's like, I can continue to improve on being an even better leader. And then I'd say my upper class in my freshman year, we had about six seniors, and a lot of them were captains. So, like Alyssa Jerome, they were just such great leaders, leaders and mentors for me. Even thinking back to when I was a freshman in high school. Like, my seniors then were also great leaders and captains. So I kind of try to take bits and pieces from all of them and, like, try to, you know, make my own captain ness, I guess. But trying to emulate their great qualities and, like, be a great resource for our freshmen, for our underclassmen. But then, as Tara said, like, also being a sponge. Like, anything my freshmen have to say to me, I'm listening to them. Like, what can I do better? What are things that I can improve on?
Chantel
So, Kiki, you mentioned Coach Bird, Erica McCall, former WNBA players, former Stanford. Great. What does it do? Obviously, Tara can do tiktoks with you. She's a very relatable coach. Relationships really matter to her. But having a young person on staff who's recently in the wnba, what kind of benefit is that for a player like yourself?
Tara Vanderveer
Yeah, it's huge. I think something really important that you just said is, like, she was literally just playing professionally and having her in practice, and she's not just, like, on the sidelines. Like, she's practicing with us, she's going against us, she's, like, working with us. So I think that one on one is huge, especially for myself and, like, as I have aspirations to play professionally, so I think it's been such a blessing to have that. Also, she's close in age with us, so she knows, like, kind of what we're dealing with at this time and, like, what's going on in our minds. But she's been amazing. You know, she's someone that pushes myself every single day. She pushes me every single day. She works with the bigs a lot, so we're always in close contact. But she's very encouraging. But she's also, like, keeps it real with you on, like, you know, what you can do better, what you can be working on. So she's been a great addition to our program.
Tania Latson
Are there other alums? You know, obviously Stanford has a number of, you know, players currently in the WNBA, ranging from Haley Jones and Lexi hall to Hugo McCrayes.
Ben
Right.
Tania Latson
Like, are there others who, you know, who have gone on to have successful careers and might still be playing or might have been retired that, you know You've really connected with Kiki or that have given you pieces of advice that have really resonated as you've gone on your journey throughout college.
Tara Vanderveer
Yeah, so actually I think it was sometime last season, but I had, like, DM Neca and like, kind of spoken to her like I was going through a rut. And like, like, you know what, like, what piece of pieces of advice would you give me and what would you, like, say? And like, some of the things that she said was like, just soak in the moment and like, understand that you're okay. Like, don't try to have too many high expectations for yourself and to the point where it's like negative pressure. So kind of just like enjoying this moment, enjoying being at Stanford, enjoying the sisterhood, because it's only four years and, and it's already feels like it's going by like this, like, very quickly. So I think one of the biggest things that she has poured into me is just like, you know, enjoy this time. And I feel like having that perspective of being present instead of worrying about these outside factors of the future has been something that's been very helpful for me.
Tania Latson
Tara, is that something then? When you're recruiting a player, do you talk about the kind of network and the alumni and that you'll have access to Neca or Cheney or Haley or Jennifer Az if you have questions? Is that something that comes up in those kind of conversations with prospective recruits?
Ben
Ben? I think it does in a different way than that, though, that you're going to be part of a really strong sisterhood and that this is a lifetime, you know, a life sisterhood. It's when you're playing, you know, Kiki and Cam and, you know, whether it's a freshman noo new or Courtney or Chloe, I mean, but they're all, they're really a tight group. And when you graduate from Stanford and you've, you know, played your time at Stanford, you're still connected through that sisterhood. It's supportive of you the minute you step on the court or, you know, come to campus. And it's a very real thing. And they're, you know, they have threads, they have book clubs, I mean, all kinds of just ways that through their life, we're having alumni weekend and this weekend, and it's going to be fun to see people come back. You know, some people I've been seeing for a long time. But yes, Kiki is, you know, and everyone is so proud of Kiki. They're watching her play and they're texting Me and wow. You know, she's having a great season. She's doing so well. And, you know, they're, they're, they're really proud to be your sister.
Chantel
So we've talked a lot about basketball and we promised you guys we're not only going to talk about basketball on the pod today. So I'm curious for both of you. Tara, I kind of have an inkling of where you're going to go with this answer, given a few of the stories I've written about you. But if you had a day that had no basketball in it, like nothing at all, no film, no weight room, no recovery from when you got up until when you got went to bed, how would you spend your day? Kiki, can you start.
Tara Vanderveer
How would I spend my day? So I'm a big napper, so I'd probably sleep until like 12. And I start my day at 12. I know, Tara. Sorry. So I start my day at 12. But I actually do love lifting and not so much in terms of, like, basketball. Like, I just love to lift. So I'd definitely get into the weight room. And then I think besides that, I'd probably spend some time outdoors with my friends, like anything that's like, away from technology, honestly, and just like spend time outside. I love dogs, so, like, there's. I don't have any on campus, but like, maybe like, you know, go to a shelter or something. That's ideal. And then I love steak. So then I would come back, get all dressed up, put on my makeup, put on my nice dress, and I'd go to a five star restaurant, eat a nice ribeye steak, bone in with my friends, and then we'd come back, watch Netflix and go to sleep again.
Chantel
I like it. This is a very specific day. I feel like you've thought about this day.
Tania Latson
Yeah, yeah, I thought about it before.
Ben
I would get up early, I call Kiki and say, come on, we're walking the dogs. But you'd be sleeping. I'd walk my dogs. If it was summer, I'd go water skiing. If it was winter, you know, maybe I go snow skiing. And, you know, I, I would probably go out to the best pizza restaurant. I love pizza. And I think just, you know, maybe going to a concert, going to an opera, and I would definitely want to play bridge with my mom. That would be a great day.
Chantel
Both of these days sound very relaxing and days that I wouldn't mind having myself. I have to say.
Tania Latson
Can you just explain tar for those who don't know, and I know you've talked a little bit with Chantelle about it, your passion for bridge and where, you know, how long you've been doing that for. I see Kiki smiling as well, so she's clearly aware of it. But. But can you just explain that routine and why that's so important for you?
Ben
Well, actually, I grew up playing bridge with my parents. My parents moved when I was in the 10th grade, and I really didn't have any friends at the new school. And a lot of the people in the school, their idea of fun was kind of cruising Main street and drinking, and that wasn't my idea of fun. So my parents and my sister and I started playing bridge, and I've really enjoyed the game. I'm not really good at it, but it's such an incredible game. I always want to have Kiki start learning to play because she likes to play cards. So during the pandemic, my mom was living by herself and lonely, and so we started playing online bridge. And so that's what pretty much we do every day. Not that always happens, but for, like, an hour. During the pandemic, it was two hours. But it was a way to connect with my mom and my family. And, you know, that was. That was fun.
Chantel
For what it's worth, Tara, I believe that if you've committed an hour a day to something for the last few years, you are very good at it. I think you might be underselling yourself a bit right now. Kiki, if bridge isn't your card game, what's your card game?
Tara Vanderveer
I love Egyptian rot. I know a lot of people have a different name for it, but, like, basically, like, you put the card down, if it's double, you smack it, and basically you're trying to collect the whole deck. But I love that. I love Uno. I used to play that with my siblings during the pandemic, and we used to, like, bet, like, candies and stuff. So, like, we have a bunch of candies, and if you win, like, you get the candies, but then, like, you could put candies on the table. But I love card games as well, just as Tara does.
Tania Latson
When you guys are traveling this year, Kiki, like, whether it's on flights or on buses, what is kind of the Stanford commute? Like, are you guys playing cards, listening to music? Are people sleeping, waking each other up?
Chantel
Sounds like going on.
Tara Vanderveer
Take us behind the scenes there before games, not sleeping, but if we're, like, getting off the plane, definitely asleep. But typically there's, like, music going on. Some people are on TikTok when We get like the cool buses that have like the tables and stuff. We're definitely like all like interacting with each other. So like our last road trip, it was Cameron Janaya and I and we were like playing card games. They were playing Speed and another new game that I, I don't remember the name but like, we're definitely like trying to interact with each other. One of our like earlier road trips, we were all doing like riddles in the meal room. So definitely like to be like interacting and involved with each other. Sometimes we hang out in one room and like watch a movie or just even talk. So a lot of community time. I'd say that's great.
Tania Latson
And I guess tar back to you. Like kind of rounding out where we started before. Chantel has one other kind of exercise that she wants to explore, like social media. And TikTok has kind of come up a bunch throughout this conversation. And I guess I'd be curious like how your philosophy on, you know, some coaches say like no phones in certain settings. Some coaches say, you know, avoid social media during the NCAA tournament. Have you kind of developed a philosophy as it relates to the social media usage and technology and how your players can use it or not in team settings?
Ben
Well, the only time I, I'm, you know, I try to be very strict about no phones is when we're having meals together. I'm not going to say that it's 100 effective. Sometimes I see people like looking in their lap and I'll be like, you know. But I think that when we're together in a meal setting, we want to talk and interact. But I don't have any other really rules about it. I personally, I don't do any social media. I don't, I don't even how to do it. So I don't do Instagram, I don't do TikTok, I don't do Facebook or what's the other one, Twitter or whatever they call it X now. But I just, you know, I think that, I think that what we try to educate our team about is the fact that if you, you're going to leave a lifetime, you know, basically a lifetime footprint on there. So you want to make sure that people are getting to know who you really are.
Chantel
So I think we can close out the interview we did this last week with Brooke Wykoff and Tania Latson. It is a one word scout. So basically I will throw out names and if you can just give a one word scout. For the record, Tanaya's scout for Olivia Miles was Goggles so it can go that direction or a more serious direction. Take it however you'd like. These will be current teammates. Current opponents, former teammates. Kiki, I think we can start with you and then Tara will close out with you.
Ben
Okay.
Chantel
All right Kiki, you ready?
Tara Vanderveer
Yes.
Chantel
First word that comes to mind. One word. Scout of Cambrink blocks. Fran Belibi dunk. Utah's Alyssa Peely Strong. I believe she was your former AAU teammate and current USC opponent. Raya Marshall.
Tara Vanderveer
Unicorn.
Chantel
Hannah jump shooter. Great. Tara, you ready? All right. Jennifer Az worker. Okay. Neca Igwumike Awesome. Shanay Agwamike awesome. Don Staley, competitor. I'd like a self scout of you as a player from your playing days.
Ben
Cut her quick. I could not stand coaching myself.
Chantel
Why?
Ben
Slow, can't shoot, doesn't play defense.
Chantel
Sounds like an all around player. All right, last, last. One word. Scout Kiki Iriafin fierce. I think those are all good.
Tania Latson
Kiki, we see you're cracking up about Tara's self scout on herself. Would you agree with that assessment from what you either understand, have watched or what you think?
Tara Vanderveer
No comment on that. I plead the fifth on that one.
Ben
Kiki, I couldn't get out of here.
Chantel
Smart woman. Smart woman. She knows who controls playing time.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly.
Tania Latson
That's great. Well, we appreciate, you know, you both making a little time today and we should mention, you know, Tara is obviously coming up on the all time wins mark wins record in college basketball. Currently one win away from tying former Duke great Mike Krzyzewski with 12:02 as an overall win total the most and two wins away then from passing coach K for all time men's or women's college basketball head coaches. Stanford has a chance to set both of those marks or tie and break those marks starting this weekend. They play Oregon on Friday night and then host Oregon State on Sunday. Though of course one game at a time can't look too far ahead. But it should be an exciting weekend and as Tara mentioned, an alumni weekend as we learned on this show as well. So there should be a ton of Stanford greats in the building to take in any and all festivities in the community of it all. So we appreciate you both making a little bit of time today and thanks again for joining the Athletic women's basketball show.
Tara Vanderveer
Thank you.
Ben
Thanks Ben. Thanks Chantel. Thanks Tina.
Zena Keda
Y'all, I am so, so excited for our special guest. It's NCAA season but y'all, you know it's always W time around here and then we're having a nice Little crossover because we have Dawanna Bonner in the building. And we're actually gonna be talking about ncaa. Cause she's getting jersey retired. Dana, welcome to the Athletic women's basketball show.
Keke Ariafin
Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be here.
Zena Keda
Of course. And if you don't know who Dawanna Bonner is, it's okay. I may ask you if you're living under a rock, but that's all right. That's okay. This is a safe space. But if you're wondering why she's getting her jersey retired. Uh, yeah. So when she was at Auburn University, she was an SEC player of the year back in 2009. Two time all American. She finished her career with with 2162 points. Let me take a second real quick because that's a lot of points. That's a lot of scoring.
Keke Ariafin
That is. I didn't even know that. You just told me.
Zena Keda
There you go. Well, that's what you were doing casually. You finished at the all time scoring list for the Auburn tigers. You're also third in history for 1,047 rebounds. 1047 rebounds. You're seventh in blocks with 139. Your first in free throws. 600. And free throw attempts. 755. We'll have to break down that math to see how well percentage was.
Keke Ariafin
I hope that's a good percentage.
Zena Keda
It sounds like it to me. And then fourth in scoring. And then not to mention, that's your NCAA career. Three time all selection to the All SEC first team. 2007, 2008, 2009. All defensive pick in 2009. You are also a 14 year WNBA veteran. Casual. You've been a WNBA All Star five times. You've been All WNBA selection twice. Three time sixth woman of the year. You've won a WNBA championship in Phoenix twice back in 2009 and 2014. You tired? Are you good?
Ben
All right.
Keke Ariafin
All right. That sounds like a lot. You know, you're the first person to break it down from like college all the way to pro. That is a lot.
Zena Keda
That is a lot. Oh, and not to mention y'all casually is a twin mom.
Keke Ariafin
I am.
Zena Keda
And currently planning a wedding. Welcome, dejuanna. If you need a time to rest, this is the space. That's amazing. That is absolutely amazing. Okay, so let's just go in. Let's check in. Because in the midst of all these things that you've been doing, you've been having a life as well. You finished this season recently. Saw that you got back on Twitter or Now called X. Called X. I want to know what prompted the move.
Keke Ariafin
At this point. I mean, I'm getting my jersey retired. I also started working with a media marketing person who actually was like, you need to get back on Twitter. And I'm like, you know, like, Twitter is scary, man. Twitter is so scary because those fans and the people on there are ruthless. They're going to tell you like it is, and they will make you lose all of your confidence. So I'm like, I don't have time for that. But, yeah, just told me I need to get on Twitter. You know, I don't have to tweet much. You know, she'll help me out and understand it because it's so different from when I tweeted, like, 10 years ago. I don't even know how to work it. I'm old, old school, you know, so, yeah, that kind of to push me a little bit more so people can understand me a little bit more. I feel like I am at a point in my career where it's time to, like, you know, people understand my accomplishments a little bit. So that's kind of what prompted me to get on there and talk about my jersey retirement a little bit.
Zena Keda
Oh, yes. I mean, people want to know your journey. I just broke it down. But, like, there's so much behind that. And I'm actually really happy you said this, because when we started the athletic women's basketball show, that was my goal. Like, I was a person, I played basketball, but I. I wasn't someone that. I didn't live in a WNBA town, so I wasn't exposed to the WNBA as much, and I didn't have as much appreciation for it as I do now. And I wanted to save space in which we could talk about women's basketball without you having to know every single name or not knowing every single coach or every single accolade. Because, yeah, wnba Twitter is a scary place if you don't know everything. Okay, so you. Yeah, I'm very grateful that you just said that. But I, I now, you know, you also mentioned that you're, quote, old. You ain't old, girl, but you've gone through your college career and now your WNBA career and seen this growth, particularly in media presence. Yes, right. And women's basketball right now is getting so much visibility, especially in this digital social media space, and you guys are the best at connecting with your fans on these platforms and, like, telling your story, but that causes or that comes with a lot of visibility that you, you know, may have not had before. I want to know how are you kind of adjusting to that? How have you come into this space of exposing yourself and telling your story? How has it been for you?
Keke Ariafin
This is recently something new for me. Like I said, I was like, no, I can't get on Twitter. They get enough for me on Instagram for my pictures and you know, a little story time in here and there. But also at the same time it's like, well, now I'm in a career, now I'm ready to talk my ish, you know, like, yes, I'm gonna tell you what I've done, you know, to be great and to be up there with a grade, hopefully one day be in the hall of fame. But also I also have a side that I'm going to protect as well, which are my kids. So it's kind of like a, a balance where I don't want to give too much. I don't want to overshare them because they have a separate life that they have to live. And a lot of people get connected to them because I'm posting about them a lot. So they're like, oh, they're excited me and they think they know, but I always try to keep that side a little private. As, as in like, yeah, you'll get a picture or two. But they also, you know, still kids, but I'm still going to tell you about my accomplishments now. I want to tell you about the things that I've done because, you know, like you said, social media is huge now and a lot of people, that's college kids, you know, especially that's coming out of college, they get the chance to tell that story already. Like, we didn't have that, we did not have social media in back in the days, you know, like, so no one knows anything that I've done in Auburn. No one knows why I'm getting my jersey retired. So now it's just like I'm gonna get on, you know, social media and you guys are gonna learn and you're gonna hear about Duanna Bonner.
Zena Keda
Well, that's a gift. It's a gift that this generation's about to learn who you are.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly.
Zena Keda
And get to know your story. Because it's crazy to think your last season, this year is one of your best seasons you've had. Like, and people are like, who is this 36 year old, like Ballin lady outta Connecticut? They don't even know. They don't even know, you know, the, the time that you had at Phoenix, the time that you had in Auburn and it is surreal to think that there's a generation right now that you're even playing with. Right? Like, those are your teammates.
Keke Ariafin
Listen, it's some ballers. It is some ballers right now in women's basketball, and I'd love to see it. I keep up with college, but, man, it is some ballers out there, and it's kind of crazy that I'm actually kind of keeping up a little bit.
Zena Keda
Well, good. Well, I'm happy you mentioned that, because that's one of the questions that I wanted to ask. You know, it's been a while since you've been at Arbor. Since you've been gone, there's been a new coach, there's been new recruitment rules, there's been new transfer rules. There's nil, there's. I mean, it's a very different landscape. But like you just said, competition is high and the girlies are balling out there.
Keke Ariafin
They are balling.
Zena Keda
And so I did want to know, like, you know, what are your thoughts as you look at the NCAA women's game today? The competition, the personalities, the different, you know, the elevation of game. Like, is there any team or player that you're particularly intrigued by? Like, what. What's your thoughts on the space?
Keke Ariafin
Um, you know, I always got love for my Auburn Tigers, and I love honesty.
Zena Keda
And they just had the LSU win.
Keke Ariafin
Let's go.
Zena Keda
They took them down.
Keke Ariafin
I'm a huge fan of honesty. I keep in touch with her. Scott Grayson, you know, her story is. Is very different, and I. I'm, you know, super proud of how she's coming. But, man, juju Watkins is somebody that she's unlike anybody I've seen ever seen before. A freshman coming in on that stage and just kind of taking over. She's probably pro ready and can probably come in WNBA and produce, but I always like how skilled she is. I mean, you, of course, you have your Angel Reese and your Caitlin and Paige. But for her as a freshman, I always. I'm like, when is USC playing? Cause I'm looking at her like, man, I need to steal some of those moves. Because, I mean, you can clearly very skilled. And she's probably my favorite player right now, for sure. Hope to meet her one day.
Zena Keda
That's big praise. And I agree with you. It's not even just, you know, her caliber of play. Big guards come through. Okay? Exactly.
Keke Ariafin
Big guards, exactly.
Zena Keda
But it's not even just her caliber of play, but it also is her poise as a freshman, her ability to carry a team on her back, elevate a team. Elevate a team. Elevate her teammates. It's surreal. And then, not to mention her poise off the court. There are celebrities left and right, all these amazing WNBA athletes, actors, musicians, whomever, and she's always like, sure, I'll give you an autograph. I'll take a photo with your kids.
Keke Ariafin
Yeah, exactly.
Zena Keda
It's amazing.
Ben
Yeah.
Keke Ariafin
I hope to meet her one day because she is. Yeah, she is very skilled, and I always like to. I study her game. That's how good she is, too.
Zena Keda
Ooh, that's big praise. That's big praise. That's awesome. Let's keep talking about your story and making sure people know who you are. Of course, you're having a jersey retired at Auburn this weekend, and you're getting together with your teammates, which is so lovely.
Keke Ariafin
That's. That's the part I'm looking forward to the most. I haven't seen them in, man. It's probably since we left each other.
Ben
Yeah.
Keke Ariafin
I was just always playing, so I'm super excited to see them.
Zena Keda
That's super cool. Yeah. People don't realize is that when you're. Especially when you play at this caliber, you're constantly in a camp, you're constantly overseas, you're constantly somewhere like that. It's a cycle. Exactly. You're not. You're not able to get together as much. And so I want to talk a little bit about, like, getting back on campus, being around your teammates, seeing your jersey hung up in the rafters. Like, what's that gonna mean for you? What's that gonna feel like?
Keke Ariafin
Oh, man, I don't know. I was just telling Alyssa. I'm just, like. When they called and told me, it didn't sink in yet, but, you know. Yeah. Like, getting closer. I'm, like, nervous. I'm anxious. I'm, like, super excited. I don't know, like, what I'm feeling, but it's just. It means a lot because it's a lot of great players that get their jersey retired and at a lot of great universities in the women's basketball, you know, circle. But I mean, to do it at Auburn, there's not a lot.
Zena Keda
You're the fifth. You're only the fifth. You're the fifth.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly. It's really hard to do at such a great university. Oh, sorry. Do you still. Can you still see me? Okay. At a great university with some great athletes. Because this is, like, thousands of athletes who's come through Auburn, and then my name is going up in the rafters. It's Just. It means so much to me. I love Auburn. I love my time, and I'm so happy that my teammates and my family. I'm from Alabama, so that makes it even more, you know, special. Yeah. I don't know. I don't know what I'm feeling yet. And everybody's like, you're gonna cry. You're gonna do this. Just let me feel whatever I'm gonna feel. But I'm excited.
Zena Keda
I feel like the second you see your babies, seeing it, you're probably gonna lose it. You're just gonna lose it. That's so exciting. Are they. What do they know? Like, Cal, Demi? Like, what are they expecting or what are they thinking is gonna happen? Do they know?
Keke Ariafin
They do know. I talked to them a little about it, a little bit about it, but they're not actually coming.
Zena Keda
Oh, okay. Okay.
Keke Ariafin
Only because it's just so much going on, so it's also alumni weekend there, too.
Zena Keda
Oh, right. Okay.
Keke Ariafin
Yeah. So, like, all the alumni coming back, and it's just so many events and Calendemia are attached to my back.
Zena Keda
Oh, got it. Okay. Got it. That makes sense.
Keke Ariafin
I would never be able to leave their side.
Zena Keda
The moms listen and get it, but.
Keke Ariafin
I talk to them about it, and they're like, what, your jersey's going up there? Like, all the way to the sky? I'm like, yeah. Like, I was like, mommy was a big deal in college. And of course, I'll take tons of pictures. I'll probably call. I'll actually probably FaceTime them when it's going up just so they can see it and. And experience a little bit. But, yeah, they're super excited. But of course, they don't want me to leave, and they want to come with me, but they got to sit this one out.
Zena Keda
There you go. No, this is Mommy's time. Okay.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly. They with me 24 7. So I'm just like. And I'm sad that I have to leave them, but I'm like, I'm going to enjoy this moment, for sure.
Zena Keda
Of course. This is time for you to get respect, put on your name, and for people to, like, you know, just adulate you and love you and adore you. And I think it's a special moment when these schools do this for players because it really does give them an opportunity to say thank you, I think. You know, and now, especially in the days of. There are no. There were no NLs when you played, you know, and you dedicated. You just played and you dedicated yourself and your body and your. Your energy and Everything to these schools. And so I love that you're getting that gratitude shown back to you. I want to take you back to Auburn and ask you, like, sometimes when you ask people about memorable moments, they think about, you know, big stages. They think about, you know, oh, when we won the championship or when we won, you know, it's like the most visible things. But for me as a player, some of those memorable moments for me as a player in college were. Well, one, because we didn't have that many great moments.
Tara Vanderveer
Let's just be real.
Zena Keda
But it was like, smaller things, right? It was like the bus rides back from the games. It was studying late night. It was a practice that you don't know how the hell you walked out of because it was so hard. Like, you know, like, when you look back at your time at Auburn, like, what was a memorable moment for you that you think maybe could have predicted this moment of your jersey being retired? Like, a moment where you're like, oh, I have really cemented my impact on Auburn, Auburn.
Keke Ariafin
I don't even know if I ever felt that I deserved to get my jersey retired at Auburn. Honestly. Really, it was a total shock at, you know, when they called. Like, I was really surprised. Like, wow. Like, that's a huge. Because they don't do it often. It doesn't happen often. You have to be literally a great. Like, that's just how Auburn athletics is. But I can honestly say that I. I felt that I made an impact on Auburn. Like, you know, women's basketball, it's been so coming in. It was five of us, and it was four of us that are from Alabama, and we all were really close friends. So they committed all first. And then they called and talked to me, you know, like, come on, let's stay home. Let's do this. Because Auburn athletics at the time wasn't. We didn't have fans when I first got there. And I remember my. Yeah, it was. It wasn't fans. It wasn't like, too many people in the stands. We weren't the best team. And we were like, okay, we're gonna come together and grow this program. And we played Tennessee, and it was a sellout arena. And I'm just like, wow. Like, to go from to no fans my freshman year to my senior year, we're selling out games. I'm not talking about one game. I'm talking about we're selling out games. At this point, we only have four losses. We rank super high for the first time. It was insane. I'm just like, wow, this Is we did this. I'm a huge part of this. And it was amazing. That has never happened in Auburn history. Back when Ruthie Bolton was there, of course, in those days. But to do it and to be in it, to play in and to play in front of a sold out arena at Auburn is just no greater feeling.
Zena Keda
Oh, I got chills thinking about that. Just imagining coming in as a freshman, not having any fans or nothing. To literally standing in an arena where.
Keke Ariafin
Everyone is here for you. Flyers. I remember we went house to house to pass out flyers for our game so they can come in the cold. We're in the cold. Yes. Where we came the next day and it's like we were handing out flyers like, please come to our game, Please come, like, come to support us. And then it went from that to being sold out my senior year. Swear, we were walking up hills in the cold, like passing hanging out flies on people, door, door to door. And we came the next year and we like, selling out. It was just like, wow. Like, we, like, we really did that. Then we went on to win the SEC championship. It was just. It was amazing. My senior year was crazy. Yeah, it was fun. It was a lot.
Zena Keda
Y'all, I'm just trying to get my thoughts together. I'm so sorry. I had to hold my breath just now because I was gonna cut you all the way off. Like, I'm sorry. What? Yes, we went door to door passing flyers out.
Keke Ariafin
Yes. We didn't have social media, so the only way we can get that word.
Zena Keda
Out, like, was, oh my God.
Keke Ariafin
Crazy, right? It's crazy.
Zena Keda
Well, that's a memorable college moment. Oh, that's amazing. Okay, well, before we go, I do have two more questions for you.
Keke Ariafin
Okay.
Zena Keda
First, you said that, you know, this wasn't something that you had thought of and. Or that you thought could happen. Your jersey being retired this weekend and when you, you know, a lot of people were all were on the journey of the manifestation. Right. And the vision boards and things of that sort. Jersey being retired at your alma mater, huge milestone. And I don't even know if that's something you manifested for yourself. But, like, when you think about this being possible, a lot of things are possible.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly.
Zena Keda
And you started this conversation. You say, you know, maybe hall of fame one day, but maybe between then and now, is there an achievement that's on the list that's next for you?
Keke Ariafin
Yeah, I have a couple, actually. Well, of course, continue to be a great mom. That's always at the top of my list. I pride myself on that. And this year was huge for me because this is my first year having the off season. I'm usually always overseas. So this connection I have made with my kid is just, like. It's unbelievable, and it just makes me take my passion for basketball to another level. But I have a couple goals. I want to finish top five and scoring in the wnba. I'm pretty close.
Zena Keda
You are very close.
Keke Ariafin
So hopefully I stay, hopefully knocking wood, and I can do that and, of course, win the WNBA Championship. That's always the ultimate goal. But to do that in Connecticut will be unreal. It's never been done before, so that's a huge goal within itself. And, yeah, to be in the Basketball hall of Fame. I want to be a great. I want to be up there with the greats, and there's some greats in there, and I want to be my name, to be right next to it because of the accomplishments that I've done and the basketball that I've played and the athlete that I am and the mom that I am and my character. So to be 14 years in the WNBA, that's unheard of. That's crazy.
Ben
It is.
Keke Ariafin
Every time I feel that it's not a lot of people that. That get to year 10, you know, so let alone it'd still be playing. Yeah, I'm super excited. I'm super excited to see what's next for me, for sure. But those are a couple things that I have cooking up some.
Zena Keda
Well, I know that the entire league constantly talks about how much of an inspiration you are as a mom. And it's funny because every single game, I feel like you're asked, are the twins in the stands? Are they here? Are they watching? Everyone knows just how much you dedicate yourself to them while also dedicating yourself to your team. Speaking of that first goal, y'all, if you don't know what she means by she's close, she's talking about top five. She's sixth, so.
Keke Ariafin
No, I'm right there. I'm right there.
Zena Keda
She's sixth all time in WNBA season.
Keke Ariafin
Like, why we have to. Why did it have to end so fast?
Zena Keda
But, hey, that means you're playing again. Shout out to that.
Keke Ariafin
Exactly.
Zena Keda
That's amazing. And, you know, you just referenced, you know, wanting to win a championship in Connecticut. Free agency starts in, what, two, three days? So sounds like somebody's not going nowhere.
Keke Ariafin
No, I don't plan on it. Let's just say that. Okay, okay, okay. I don't plan on it.
Zena Keda
I wouldn't be doing my job if.
Keke Ariafin
I didn't hit it, I don't plan on it. But of course, there. There are some teams that has reached out, and my main goal is to be playing in the finals next year. I don't know what team that is. I don't really care what team that is. But my main. My personally main goal is to be on that court playing in the WNBA Finals in competing for a championship.
Zena Keda
Amen. Hey, nothing wrong with that. That's a true competitor at heart. How interesting is it with Alyssa? Like, the competition was crazy.
Keke Ariafin
I don't even want to have with this free agency. If I would have.
Zena Keda
Oh, I bet.
Keke Ariafin
If you could be a flight on the wall.
Zena Keda
Oh, I bet.
Keke Ariafin
Of course. Of course. Alyssa. There's no better competitor. There's no one that I would rather walk on the court with. And I'm not saying that as in far as a relationship, because that is my partner in crime. However, her competitive spirit makes me. Makes me my fire burn. I feel like this year she lit a fire in me that I haven't seen before because she wants to win so bad, and I want to win so bad for her saying that she's been in Connecticut so long and given, like, all these years to Connecticut, and it's just like, she's one of the most ultimate competitors, but when it comes to free agents, it's just like, you better not be talking to other teams. Why are you taking meetings with these teams? Like, don't do it.
Zena Keda
That's hilarious.
Keke Ariafin
So I was just like, you know what? I'm done telling you about my free agency.
Zena Keda
This is my business. Ma'am.
Keke Ariafin
Separate. Because she's the ultimate competitor. And then, yeah, I wouldn't want to start going to court anybody else. Man, that is one hard worker. She will. Will you to win.
Zena Keda
I'll tell you what you want to talk about sold out crowd. If the two of you had to go against each other. Oh, my God.
Keke Ariafin
God. Yeah, she told me that too. She's like, if you go, you know that you got to go through me to win a championship. You got to go through me.
Zena Keda
I love this. I need to know.
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Zena Keda
I'm gonna have a conversation with my boyfriend right now. We need to be on this level of competition, period. Okay. You gotta go through me. Oh, I love that. Oh, I love that. And that's great for the girls, too. Like, just. Yeah, okay. Sorry. Anywho, I want to say thank you because this was a wonderful, wonderful conversation. And I'm just so happy that, you know, your marketing manager Your team, your family, everyone around you is encouraging you to tell your story because you are someone that is a legendary player in this game. But you're one of the people that we don't know enough about. And so this is great that this is going to open up, you know, a door for your, even your teammates probably to learn more about who am I really balling with, like, who am I really stepping on the court with. So we, we just wish you all the best in free agency in, you know, obviously next season. But then please, please, please enjoy every single moment this weekend of people just loving on you because you deserve every single moment.
Keke Ariafin
I would try my best. I would try my best, of course.
Zena Keda
Well, you have been ape tree. Thanks for joining us on the Athletic women's basketball show. Hopefully we'll have you back when w season starts.
Keke Ariafin
Let's do it. Let's do it.
Zena Keda
Appreciate you guys listening today for another episode of the Athletic women's basketball show. For now, I'm Zena Keda encouraging you to keep listening, keep learning and keep loving the game because that's the only way we're going to continue to grow it. All right, folks, until next time.
Ben
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Keke Ariafin
We head into the playoffs, it's safe.
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Keke Ariafin
Acast.com.
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
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.
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.
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.”
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.