Podcast Summary: Good Follow - Monique Billings Joins the Show, Is Phee the Current MVP? + Rookie of the Year Race & More
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
- Host/Authors: Dan Le Batard, Stugotz
- Description: From the Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami, Dan Le Batard, Stugotz, and company share their unique perspectives on all-things sports, pop culture, and more. This is the place for original content from Le Batard and Stugotz, including the daily “Local Hour” focusing on the South Florida scene, the Big Suey, and a few surprises along the way.
- Episode: Good Follow - Monique Billings Joins the Show, Is Phee the Current MVP? + Rookie of the Year Race & More
- Release Date: June 12, 2025
Introduction
In this lively episode of Good Follow, presented by DraftKings, hosts Roz Gold on Wedde and Logan Hackett dive into the current NBA and WNBA seasons, discussing the MVP and Rookie of the Year races. The episode features a special guest appearance by Monique Billings from the Golden State Valkyries, who shares insights into her team's remarkable performance and locker room dynamics.
MVP Race Discussion
Roz Gold on Wedde and Logan Hackett kick off the episode by analyzing the current MVP contenders in the league. The frontrunners highlighted include Nafisa Collier, Caitlin Clark, Asia Wilson, Brianna Stewart, and Kelsey Plum, who is noted for leading the league in three-pointers made.
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Roz's MVP Choice: Roz confidently backs Nafisa Collier as her MVP favorite, citing her early-season dominance and exceptional statistics.
"[00:32] Roz Gold on Wedde:... "She's super efficient. She leads the league in points. She's top five in rebounds and blocks. She's such, so, so good on defense... Fees my favorite for MVP right now.""
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Notable Quote: Roz reflects on her prediction and Collier's ongoing performance.
"[03:22] Roz Gold on Wedde: "Here we are. So far, she's proven me right... she's leading the league and her team is undefeated.""
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Logan's Take: Logan humorously remarks on Collier's MVP moniker.
"[03:52] Logan Hackett: "I absolutely agree her goat status is loading at this point, but it's also written in her name... That's a tongue twister right there.""
Rookie of the Year Race Discussion
The conversation shifts to the Rookie of the Year race, with Roz and Logan deliberating over the top contenders: Kiki Irofin, Paige Beckers, and Sonia Citron. They discuss each player's impact, efficiency, and potential to secure the award.
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Roz's Perspective: Roz leans towards Kiki Irofin, emphasizing her double-double average and significant role in the Mystics' success.
"[05:34] Roz Gold on Wedde: "I might go with the rookie of the month in Kiki Irafin... she's doing a double double but shooting 52% from the field.""
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Logan's Agreement: Logan praises Kiki's unexpected yet impressive contributions to her team.
"[07:56] Logan Hackett: "I'm agreeing with you on Kiki. Absolutely. ... Kiki, do you love me?""
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Notable Insight: Their debate highlights the depth of the rookie class and the variables influencing the award.
Interview with Monique Billings
Monique Billings joins the show to provide an exclusive update on the Golden State Valkyries' impressive performance, including recent wins against the Las Vegas Aces and Los Angeles Sparks.
Golden State Valkyries' Recent Performance
Monique shares the team's current form and the factors contributing to their winning streak.
"[11:35] Monique Billings: "First of all... when you're winning is... Everything feels good. We had two really good wins... We're taking care of business." [12:52]"
Team Leadership and Locker Room Dynamics
Monique discusses the leadership within the Valkyries, highlighting both veteran players and emerging stars who guide the team.
"[13:01] Monique Billings: "Katie has a voice especially on the court... Tiffany Hayes... Temi Fag Benlay... and myself...""
Team Communication and Diversity
Addressing the multicultural makeup of the team, Monique explains how language diversity enhances team chemistry rather than hinders it.
"[14:13] Monique Billings: "We're all making fun of each other all the time with accents... Hoop is a universal language.""
Coach Nakase's Leadership
Monique praises Coach Nakase for her strategic delegation and the supportive coaching staff that fosters team success.
"[14:59] Monique Billings: "She has an amazing staff... They see the vision, our team has bought in... making her job a lot easier.""
Celebrations and Team Culture
Roz and Monique explore how the team celebrates victories, focusing on effort and toughness rather than gimmicky awards.
"[16:03] Monique Billings: "Effort and toughness are the biggest things... we're not getting outworked or out tough.""
Monique's Role and Personal Insights
Monique reflects on her role coming off the bench, emphasizing her desire to contribute effectively without fixating on her position.
"[16:49] Monique Billings: "I just want to be a star in my role... bring that energy, bring that spark.""
Team's Home and Fan Impact
Monique shares her appreciation for the Bay Area and the electrifying atmosphere at Chase Center, highlighting the unwavering support from fans.
"[18:34] Monique Billings: "I love playing at Chase Center... the fans are like our sixth man.""
Team Facilities and Amenities
She describes the state-of-the-art locker rooms and recovery facilities that enhance player performance and well-being.
"[19:56] Monique Billings: "It's very Lux... cold tubs, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, player lounges...""
Teammate Spotlight: Kayla Thornton
Monique spotlights Kayla Thornton’s exceptional performance and her ability to seize opportunities, contributing significantly to the team's success.
"[21:33] Monique Billings: "She has both confidence and skill... KT stank face... she's locked in.""
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Notable Moment: Monique recounts Kayla's championship ring from the New York Liberty, symbolizing her achievements.
"[22:31] Roz Gold on Wedde: "Oh, did she show you her New York Liberty championship ring?"
[22:34] Monique Billings: "Yes, she did... It was big, like the size of it. She's playing with greats...""
Season Schedule and Player Well-being
Monique addresses the expanded game schedule, emphasizing the importance of utilizing recovery resources to maintain performance.
"[23:25] Monique Billings: "Ask me in a couple months... we're getting rest, recovery... make sure you're tapping into these resources.""
Post-Game Relaxation
After a demanding game, Monique shares her favorite ways to unwind, highlighting the balance between professional commitments and personal relaxation.
"[24:02] Monique Billings: "We're getting our nails done today... I'm just going to chill.""
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with heartfelt appreciation for Monique Billings' contributions both on the court and as a guest on the show. Roz and Logan commend her dedication and celebrate the Valkyries' ongoing success, leaving listeners excited for future episodes.
"[24:24] Monique Billings: "I just got to keep that same energy, keep it going."
[24:29] Roz Gold on Wedde: "Absolutely. ... you've changed the games for the Valkyries when you get on the court.""
Key Takeaways:
- MVP Race: Nafisa Collier emerges as a strong favorite due to her exceptional performance and team leadership.
- Rookie of the Year: Kiki Irofin stands out for her double-double average and significant impact on the Mystics' success.
- Golden State Valkyries: Monique Billings highlights the team's recent winning streak, effective leadership, and the positive impact of supportive coaching and diverse team dynamics.
- Team Culture: Emphasis on effort, toughness, and unity, with a strong focus on player well-being and professional environment.
- Player Spotlight: Kayla Thornton's exceptional performance and championship experience serve as a beacon for the team.
This episode of Good Follow offers an in-depth look into the current sports landscape, blending insightful analysis with personal stories from players like Monique Billings. Whether you're a dedicated fan or new to the scene, this summary encapsulates the essence of the show’s engaging discussions.