No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show

Episode: What makes a team a “bad” team? + Who’s catching our eye right now
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of No Offseason, hosts Zena Cato and Chantelle Jennings delve deep into the dynamics of team performance within the WNBA. They explore what constitutes a "bad" team, examine the unique hierarchy of the league, and highlight standout players who are making significant impacts this season.

Recent Events in the WNBA

The episode kicks off with a discussion about a tumultuous week in the league. Zena Cato recounts an unexpected incident during a Valkyries vs. Dream game broadcast where a bright green sex toy was thrown onto the court, causing momentary chaos. Additionally, the LA Sparks mascot was attacked by a halftime performer attempting a somersault, adding to the week's unusual events.

Zena Cato [02:15]: "We've not condoning this, but we've gotten a nice little laugh out of what happened on Wednesday night."

These incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of the league and set the stage for a broader conversation about team performance and consistency.

Hierarchy and Team Performance in the WNBA

The hosts delve into the concept of hierarchy within the WNBA, questioning how teams are ranked and perceived compared to other professional leagues like the NBA and collegiate basketball.

Chantel Jennings [05:00]: "In the WNBA, some teams are so stacked with good players that the league feels incredibly competitive and unpredictable."

Zena compares the WNBA's structure to the NBA's Western Conference, noting that while the NBA has clear top teams, the WNBA features a more fluid ranking system where performance swings are more pronounced due to the league's smaller size and shorter season.

Zena Cato [07:10]: "The WNBA and the NBA have to find a balance because you cannot feel as if you're starting lackluster in terms of the marquee matchups."

Defining "Good" and "Bad" Teams

The conversation shifts to what qualifies a team as "good" or "bad." The hosts challenge the traditional notions, especially in a league where even so-called weaker teams boast substantial talent.

Zena Cato [13:05]: "What do we mean when we say a team is a 'bad team'? Even teams at the bottom have so much talent."

Chantel highlights the closeness of the standings, pointing out that the difference between the second and sixth seeds is a mere two and a half games, emphasizing the league's competitiveness.

Chantel Jennings [14:50]: "The Fever as it currently stands would be the sixth seed, and only two and a half games separate them from the second seed."

Inconsistent Team Performance

Zena and Chantel discuss the irregular performances of top teams like the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty, questioning the factors behind predictable powerhouses faltering and underdog teams rising unexpectedly.

Chantel Jennings [05:56]: "Minnesota looked really, really good with 28 assists on 36 made baskets, a season high."

Zena expresses frustration over the lack of marquee matchups early in the season, attributing it to scheduling conflicts with the NBA playoffs.

Zena Cato [07:50]: "It feels like the WNBA is starting its season without delivering the high-profile matchups fans expect."

Media Perception and Bias

The hosts explore how media narratives influence the perception of team strength and performance, often reinforcing existing biases towards historically successful teams.

Chantel Jennings [17:40]: "Perception is everything. How you choose to evaluate teams feeds into the narrative structure of the league."

Zena points out the media's tendency to either downplay a strong team's losses or exaggerate an underperforming team's victories, further complicating the league's competitive landscape.

Zena Cato [14:00]: "It feels like the media paints a different picture for each team based on past performance rather than current standings."

Player Highlights: Rising Stars and Key Contributors

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to spotlighting players who are currently making waves in the WNBA, many of whom may not yet be widely recognized.

Veronica Burton – Golden State Valkyries

Chantel praises Veronica Burton for her consistent performance and leadership role within the Valkyries, especially in the absence of Kayla Thornton.

Chantel Jennings [31:19]: "Veronica Burton has been the one consistent player in the rotation for the Valkyries from the beginning of the year to now."

Zena echoes this sentiment, highlighting Burton's defensive prowess and her role as a vocal leader.

Zena Cato [32:35]: "Her consistency has been probably the number one thing, especially for her defense and ability to be a playmaker."

Jordan Canada – Atlanta Dream

Jordan Canada emerges as a notable player for her increased aggressiveness and playmaking capabilities, stepping up in the absence of Ryan Howard.

Chantel Jennings [30:57]: "Jordan Canada is exploding in her ability to take the ball herself and get into the rim."

Zena emphasizes Canada's evolving role as she transitions from a facilitator to a more dominant scorer.

Zena Cato [33:00]: "She is being so much more aggressive to the basket and taking care of business on her own."

Nas Hillman – Atlanta Dream

Nas Hillman is highlighted for her clutch performances and significant improvement in three-point shooting, becoming a pivotal player for Atlanta.

Chantel Jennings [35:19]: "Nas Hillman has the best on-off differential on the team and is a front-runner for six player of the year."

Zena admires Hillman's poise and timely shot-making, especially her evolution into a reliable three-point shooter.

Zena Cato [38:45]: "She gets to the top of the key and finds a way to score in clutch moments."

Arike Gumbawale – Dallas Wings

Arike Gumbawale is discussed as a player poised for a comeback, with the Dallas Wings looking to salvage her season and future prospects.

Chantel Jennings [38:44]: "Arike is set to be a free agent, and her performance in the second half will determine her next steps."

Zena mentions the challenges Gumbawale has faced this season but remains optimistic about her potential resurgence.

Zena Cato [40:43]: "There is love here with this team, and it's just a matter of schematics to figure it out."

Monique Akwaemakani – Phoenix Mercury

Monique Akwaemakani is recognized for her defensive impact and potential to be a star, despite being labeled a rookie by some metrics.

Chantel Jennings [44:40]: "Monique is one of the most delightful surprises defensively and is crucial for the Phoenix Mercury's success."

Zena appreciates Akwaemakani's grit and contribution to the team's fluid offense.

Zena Cato [44:00]: "She's putting her head down, grit, and figuring it out to contribute consistently."

Upcoming Games to Watch

As the season progresses, the hosts highlight key matchups that are crucial for playoff positioning and team trajectories.

Chantel Jennings [49:01]: "I'm tuning into the nationally televised game between the Minnesota Lynx and the Las Vegas Aces to see if past performances hold true."

Zena selects the Indiana Fever vs. Seattle Storm game, intrigued by the Fever's aspirations and the impact of players like Satu Sabale and Skylar Diggins.

Zena Cato [49:27]: "I want to see if the Indiana Fever can maintain their 11-4 outlook against seasoned teams like the Seattle Storm."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with hosts inviting listeners to share their perspectives on team hierarchies and perceptions within the WNBA. They tease upcoming discussions on the trade deadline and encourage fans to stay engaged through various platforms.

Zena Cato [50:09]: "We want to know how you evaluate good or bad teams in the WNBA. Let us know your thoughts!"

As the season heats up, No Offseason continues to provide insightful analysis and spotlight lesser-known players making significant strides in women's basketball.

Notable Quotes:

• Zena Cato [02:15]: "We've not condoning this, but we've gotten a nice little laugh out of what happened on Wednesday night."
• Chantel Jennings [05:00]: "In the WNBA, some teams are so stacked with good players that the league feels incredibly competitive and unpredictable."
• Zena Cato [07:10]: "The WNBA and the NBA have to find a balance because you cannot feel as if you're starting lackluster in terms of the marquee matchups."
• Chantel Jennings [14:50]: "The Fever as it currently stands would be the sixth seed, and only two and a half games separate them from the second seed."
• Zena Cato [13:05]: "What do we mean when we say a team is a 'bad team'? Even teams at the bottom have so much talent."
• Chantel Jennings [17:40]: "Perception is everything. How you choose to evaluate teams feeds into the narrative structure of the league."
• Zena Cato [14:00]: "It feels like the media paints a different picture for each team based on past performance rather than current standings."
• Chantel Jennings [31:19]: "Veronica Burton has been the one consistent player in the rotation for the Valkyries from the beginning of the year to now."
• Chantel Jennings [35:19]: "Nas Hillman has the best on-off differential on the team and is a front-runner for six player of the year."
• Zena Cato [38:45]: "She gets to the top of the key and finds a way to score in clutch moments."
• Chantel Jennings [44:40]: "Monique is one of the most delightful surprises defensively and is crucial for the Phoenix Mercury's success."
• Chantel Jennings [49:01]: "I'm tuning into the nationally televised game between the Minnesota Lynx and the Las Vegas Aces to see if past performances hold true."
• Zena Cato [50:09]: "We want to know how you evaluate good or bad teams in the WNBA. Let us know your thoughts!"

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and standout moments that define the current landscape of the WNBA. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to women's basketball, the episode offers valuable perspectives on team dynamics and individual performances shaping the league today.