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Good Follow - WNBA Season Preview: Are the Fever as scary as they seem? Plus Deja Kelly joins the show & more!
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- [00:02]
Logan Hackett
You're listening to DraftKings Network.
- [00:24]
Raz Golden Woode
Hey, what's up everyone? Welcome to Goodfallo, presented by DraftKings. I'm Raz Golden Woode and that's my co host Logan Hackett. And and returning to the show, we got a big one and a good one. Our girl, WNBA vet Monique Billings of the Golden State Valkyries. What's up y' all? What's up Mo?
- [00:40]
Monique Billings
Hey, how y' all doing?
- [00:42]
Raz Golden Woode
You're in the Bay, settling in for the season, aren't you?
- [00:44]
Monique Billings
I'm in the Bay. I've been growing my roots out here for a couple weeks now. First game of the season is this week. I'm excited.
- [00:52]
Raz Golden Woode
I know. I can't believe the WNBA season is officially about to begin. So I'mma take you through what we're serving up on our good follow menu for this show. Um, we have a W NBA season preview. We are going team by team, Eastern and Western Conference. Then we're going to tap back in for the 2025 draft class. And then please stay with us for an exclusive interview with. Former Oregon guard Deja Kelly joins the show fresh off of her experience and time with the Las Vegas Aces. She shares about training camp and her experience and then what's next for her. So it's a really nice interview with Deja Kelly. Um, I can't wait to get to it.
- [01:32]
Logan Hackett
And as always, y' all, thank you for subscribing, commenting, liking pressing all the buttons, following our socials. And don't forget, new episodes drop every Wednesday at 7pm Eastern time. So let's dive into a season preview with key players, X factors and then our thoughts on each team. And we're going to start with the Eastern Conference. So we have the reigning champions, the New York Liberty, and they're a top caliber team that seem to just get better in the off season. Though we have Manija Laney Hamilton out for the season, their roster still looks pretty good. Their stars are Sabrina Unescu, Branda Stewart and John Cal Jones. And their X factor comes with Natasha Cloud's integration into the backcourt. So, Roz, you are the Liberty analyst. Give us the tea on the defending champs and do you think they can repeat?
- [02:17]
Raz Golden Woode
I do think the Liberty can repeat. I don't think it's going to be easy at all. By no means. You know, this isn't a team that's just picking up where they left off. They have a lot of new. I mean, they have a lot of returners too, but even those returners, some of them are on new roles. And then for those new faces, there's going to be a period of meshing that they need to do this season. So I've got a ton of thoughts, of course on this team in the Liberty, but if I could run through notes, I mean, Brianna Stewart, that's your MVP candidate from last season. And I wonder, is she going to have a more efficient shooting year? You know, Stewie didn't shoot that ball that well from three. In fact, probably her career worse. 29. So hey, in the first in the last preseason game, she shot seven for nine from the field. We're hoping for more efficiency from her. And of course the Liberty bring back in Marine Johannes. You know, she's a exciting player to watch and she, you know, has a lot of explosive scoring, especially from three. To add, you mentioned Natasha Cloud. I'm wondering how her and Sabrina Onescu either play with each other or in tandem with for each other. You know, Natasha said, I'm bringing a dog to New York City. I think the Liberty are going to need that dog. And Sabrina added all that dribble penetration last season. I'm wondering what the next step forward is for her. But mention I mentioned like dog grit, like without Benijah Laney Hamilton, Kayla Thornton is now playing with Yumo in the Golden State Valkyries. You got a dog over there, right? You know, you also miss players who are willing to play defense who were versatile. And so I'm looking at somebody like Rebecca Gardner as maybe an X factor. You know, she's coming off of injury. The Liberty played the long game with her, but at her when she was healthiest and at her best, you know, in Chicago, she was versatile, long, active, energetic, defensive and maybe can help fill that gap. The last things I'll say about the Liberty is this Jonathan Cole, the gm, he's got a tight like the Liberty are deep with these like five, ten and up wings who are versatile, stretch the court, can defend, are long, are competitive. You know, don't forget Leonie Phoebus comes back from Winnega chip overseas. I'm including Natasha Cloud in that. I'm including Rebecca Gardner. Hey, Kennedy Burke is going to build off of last season. They all fit that model. And then lastly Niara Sabali who we love to see like when she's been healthy, the sky's the limit for her. I happen to know and speaking with the coaching staff, they are so like high on her. So what is does she get more minutes? Does she get a bigger role? And if so, then coach, you know, Brandello how do you mix her minutes with Jonquil Jones minutes with Briana Stewart's minutes? And that's a nice problem to have, I think. So.
- [05:06]
Monique Billings
They're super deep. Like, talking about problems to have, I definitely see someone like Niara actually getting more minutes. I think she was a key factor of why they won that game. That last game last year in the WNBA Finals. She came in, brought that spark, brought that energy, and I think that's something that we'll see with New York. They're so deep. You just named a whole bunch of players. I'm like, dang, you're right. I got to guard all these players. Lifting them off in my head. Missing Benija Laney, obviously, is something that I'm not going to say will hurt the team, but they're definitely going to miss her. But Rebecca Gardner being able to be there, step up. Yeah, UCLA connect Johannes off the bench as well. Like, these are lethal guards. And so, yeah, the Liberty, they do seem like they're picking up right where they left off.
- [05:57]
Logan Hackett
The Liberty are a good team that got better, but we also have Connecticut, who are a good team that kind of went more downhill. They finished in third last year, and their team looks very different this year. Their stars are Marina Mabry and Issa Morrow and Tina Charles. And then their X Factor is added international experience and rookie talent. And I think all around, they're just in a very interesting place right now, not only with their roster, but it was announced just yesterday that they're not only being sold, but also likely relocated. So, Mo, I'll start with you. How will the sun respond to the mass exodus of their players, including one of the biggest names of their franchise, Alyssa Thomas?
- [06:35]
Monique Billings
Yeah, I mean, it's a rebuild season from what it looks like to me. They might not see it that way, but they have new players, new faces. They have a vet like Tina Charles, which the young, young ladies like Morrow are able to look up to. I think it's Mabry's team for sure. If she's able to run the show and the team kind of gets behind her, you know, having diamond to Shield will be great. I think they have a lot of key players, and it can actually talking about relocation, that can kind of bring maybe an exciting buzz. We don't know where that's going to be, but that's something that can be kind of exciting. I think they might be a sleeper team. I think they're going to be better than people expect.
- [07:14]
Raz Golden Woode
First of all, just. Just to keep on, Marina, like, this wasn't the situation she had asked for or, you know, when she asked for a trade to Connecticut and gets there. But I think this is where she showcases. She's a pro and she is and makes the most of. Of, you know, a big role with this team. And I want to come and shout out Tina Charles, who's one of the greatest players of the women's game, period. You know, you're talking about the all time leading rebounder in the history of the game, number two, all time in points. That's only after Diana. Like she just had a very. A resurgent season in Atlanta where she was a focal point of that. I think. I think Tina Charles has a lot of juice left and she comes back to the franchise that originally drafted her where she won an mv where, you know, they, they remember a lot of glory. And of course you played at UConn. I think it could be a special. It could be, like you said, it could be more special than people are making this season out to be for them. And I'm going to also keep an eye on, obviously Anissa Murrow, who missed the preseason with an injury that's mo. That's so crucial for a rookie. Like when she does get back and you're just gonna get thrown into the fire.
- [08:22]
Monique Billings
It's nice as a rookie being able to have those reps for sure. And it's like keeping it real. You're fighting for spots and so it's like you want to be able to in preseason, in camp, have an opportunity to show what you're doing.
- [08:36]
Logan Hackett
I feel like the thing I'm going to probably miss the most about Connecticut is having Alyssa Thomas and Duana Bonner. But with that, I'm very excited to see what Duana Bonner does because she's going to or she has gone to Indiana and they're going to have a turnaround of a season. Last year they finished sixth overall and. And their stars are Caitlin Clark, Aaliyah Boston and Duana, with their X factor also coming from Dewana and her veteran experience and playoff experience. But last season, Indiana had no players on their team who had won a championship. And this year they added Duana, Sid Colson and Natasha Howard, who combined for seven championship titles. Not to mention the addition of Sophie Cunningham, who is bringing a fiery personality to the team and she seems to be integrating super well. But with that, they still have their young core. So do you all think that they can turn around last year's playoff spark into a huge breakout season?
- [09:27]
Monique Billings
Yeah, I totally think so. They look scary good they look like just a really, really great team. A lot of great vets, a lot of energy, obviously, around Caitlin Clark. I think they did a great job in free agency bringing the right type of players into this market. So I think if they can figure their stuff out, they're going to be scary.
- [09:50]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, And I think the figuring out period is important. They certainly loaded up on talent, but they've got to, like, establish identity and trust and roles. And I actually like the way they brought in the right mix of personalities. Like, you know, you mentioned Dewana Bonner. She's kind of got, like, from what I've heard from doing reporting around the league over the years, a respected voice. She's got a natural nurturing about her, almost like a mom of the team. You know, Sophie's obviously got that. That special spunky toughness that's contagious. Sid Colson keeps a locker room light. I'm excited for year two for Caitlyn. We all see she's gotten bigger and stronger, and we wanted to see her develop the floaters. She did that in preseason. What I. What stood out to me is, boy, she. She feels a stat sheet, you know, like points, assists, rebounds. She's on the offensive end of the court. She makes so much happening from. From tempo and pace to playmaking. She rebounds well out of the guard position. And I like the fact that she got some rest. She was low key this. She worked out, she doubled down, stayed in Indiana, and then in her off time, she was golfing, she was at Pacers games, she went to Taylor Swift concerts. And I think that's healthy, like, mentally and emotionally coming off of just all of the attention and whirlwind that came from college to the pros. But the biggest thing, I think, for the Indiana Fever, and remember when we interviewed, you know, Stephanie White, the coach of the Fever, she said we've got to be a better defensive team. And the good news is they've really only got one way to go defensively is up from last season. And she said she's even going to hold Caitlin accountable on the defensive end. And they have an influx not just of experience and championship experience. They've got players like Dejuana Bonner, Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham Turner. They all work on defense. And so I think that's going to be a great identity shift. Also excited to see what, what Stephanie White challenges with Aaliyah Boston. She said it's going to be a lot more than just pick and roll. She's going to challenge her to be a facilitator So I think that's very exciting for Aaliyah Boston.
- [11:49]
Logan Hackett
Roz, you mentioned the vibe of the team and how they're getting along and that actually brings me to the next team, which is Atlanta. And to me, they kind of give cousin vibes whenever I see them together. Like, oh my God, just feels like a whole bunch of cousins together. I love this. But they were eighth overall last season. And their stars are Brittney Griner, Ryan Howard, Brianna Jones and Alicia Gray. With their X factor coming from experience again with Griner and walker Kimbrough bringing 20 years combined of playing professionally. But they also have a new offensive minded head coach and Carlos Mesco. But Mo, how tough is a front court of BG and Brianna Jones?
- [12:25]
Monique Billings
Oh, man, the toughest. And those are the ladies that I have to guard. They were actually the team that I was most interested to see in the preseason because I'm just like, okay, how is this going to work? You know, you have two very dominant bigs who abnormally typically played the five position. Okay, what does that look like? Obviously, you know, we see them stepping out shooting threes. That seems to be a big identity for the team. I'm actually really impressed with Tahina Powpow. She's looked really good. She just looks comfortable. It looks like a seamless transition for her from college. So that's been nice. Obviously Ryan Howard is going to do Ryan Howard things. No dropout there at all. Alicia Gray as well. Having played for Atlanta for so many years, it seems like they have like an identity shift going on. So I think that's really cool to see their team that I'm really looking forward to play against.
- [13:18]
Raz Golden Woode
You know, you mentioned the rookie Tahina Powpow. Like, you know, she might have, she might have an opportunity to do more. I'm, I'm, I'm saddened by the injury to Jordan Canada, who missed a lot of time last season and had a great unrivaled showing. And you know, they'll miss the, the defensive tone that she sets as well as she's got a quiet leadership about her. I hope the injury's not that serious. Um, but I think like, I think there's more that to go for Alicia Gray and Ryan Howard. I mean, I know Alicia was already like, she dominated all star weekend. She won the skill, she won the three. She was an all star. She was one of the best players at unrivaled. I think she's got more to do. I'm excited for it. Ryan Howard personally told me while I was reporting at Unrivaled. She said, this is a breakout season. We already know Ryan is a bucket, but I think the challenge for her is, are you gonna challenge yourself to be as great on defense as you are on offense? Because she is capable when she's locked in on defense. And then we started this all off with the big girls. I just wanna shout out, bg, we don't realize how hard it is. How could we? Coming back from everything she endured and experienced in Russia and she talked about how hard it was to lose weight. She is lean right now. She is in shape. She's described herself as rejuvenated. And it, it doesn't just happen the first year back. It takes some time. And like with this new scene set, I'm excited for her and happy for her and I, I. Let's see what she, what she does actually with that.
- [14:46]
Logan Hackett
Another team who I don't really know how to feel about, especially with their preseason, was the Mystics. And they were following the dream. Dream in ninth overall. Their stars are Brittany Sykes, Steph Dawson, Shakira Austin and Aaliyah Edwards. And their X factors come from the rookies Rikke IRO and Sonja Citroen, who had a great preseason. But with Elena Del Don's retirement marking an end of an era and their last season being derailed by injuries, do y' all think that the Mystics are able to have a successful full reset this season?
- [15:17]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, yeah, I think a successful reset, of course. I actually again, this is another team that I'm like, well, it looks like the only way is up. And so much of the issues they had last season was because of health. You can't get a continuity you can't have if you don't have availability. So I'm hopeful we see the continuance of a healthy Shakira Austin. This was a highly touted number three draft pick. I thought she shined at unrivaled. I was there in Miami, the extra space, being healthy. She held herself accountable and showcased how, how her size meets her versatility. Also, Aaliyah Edwards, another player that should be getting a lot of confidence out of unrivaled, showed us that her skill bag, her bag of skills, skill and tricks, is very deep in the one on one competition. And as you mentioned, I thought that Sonia Citron and Kiki both had at least one game in preseason where they really shined and they showed that like they understand the game at a high level and have good basketball instincts. And I just want to shout out My vets. Sometimes we forget the vets. Brittany Sykes and Stephanie Dolce, girl, yeah, you know what you're going to get from them. And so when you got a whole lot of new in your franchise, it's nice when you can look over to them and be like, hey, set the tone for the game.
- [16:27]
Monique Billings
I see a lot of just young energy. I think if they're able to figure their stuff out as well, they have a new coach. So, Roz, you brought up the word rejuvenated earlier. That's what I see as a possibility for this team.
- [16:40]
Logan Hackett
I feel like they could be pretty fast as well. But last in the east in last year's season, we have the Chicago sky. And their stars are Angel Reese and Courtney Vandersloot, with the X factor coming from the development of rookie Haley Benliffe, her synergy with Angel Reese, as well as Camila Cardoso coming off of a great off season in China. And her and angel together are called the Skyscrapers. They've already been looking great, but with a revamped roster and their new head coach, Tyler Marsh, is this a start of a new era for them?
- [17:10]
Monique Billings
Yeah, definitely the start of a new era. I think that they had a pretty solid season last year, so I think if they're able to just kind of pick up where they left off, keep building off of that, a team with a mix of young and with some vets, I think that helps. Having a veteran point guard in Vander slu, I think is super helpful. It's going to be great for a player like Angel Reese. So, yeah, I'm really excited to see what they do with their pieces.
- [17:37]
Raz Golden Woode
I think the Chicago sky have the potential to be a little surprising as a team. You know, like, there's no. There's. There's no days off in the wnba. But, you know, you mentioned Angel Reese. She rewrote the rebounding books, record books, last season. And I think the biggest question is, like, is she going to be a more efficient and skilled offensive player? I saw that she was willing to put the work in this off season at unrivaled. She did a lot of work with Lisa Leslie, and there's just something undeniable about her spirit that, like, lifts a team up. And that's part of why I think, like, Chicago, you know, could be tougher than maybe than you would expect. And then, not to mention, they surrounded Angel Reese, Camila Cardozo with veteran guards and a lot more shooting production, this. This guy team is going to shoot more threes and be better offensively and you've got Vandersloot, Ariel Atkins, you've got Kia Nurse, Haley Van Lith. I thought had a nice preseason, but those veteran guards, like, that's going to create better spacing on the court. And you know, I mentioned Camila Cardoso. She had a very nice off season as well. She played in China. It was confidence raising for her. I expect those two with more space to eat in the paint.
- [18:51]
Logan Hackett
Well, y' all, we are halfway there. So coming up, Rosmo and I will be breaking down the teams in the West. We'll be right back.
- [19:17]
Raz Golden Woode
Welcome back to Goodfellow. I'm Roz, she's Logan, and that's Mo. Monique Billings is still rocking with us as we continue to preview the WNBA teams at the start of the season here.
- [19:28]
Logan Hackett
So starting off strong with the Minnesota Links. They finished second overall last season, and this probably or this has to be the team with the least movement in the off season. They have their key players with Nafisa Collier, Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, but their X factor comes with them returning their entire starting five. So after a controversial game five loss in last year's finals, can the Lynx finish what they started?
- [19:54]
Monique Billings
I think they ended in a great place, so I think they'll pick up from where they left off for sure. When you look at them, it's like, how are they so dominant? How do they do this at such a high level? But I think it's just the work ethic that they put in. I have a lot of respect for them. Such a hard team to play against, a team that you think if you're battling with, sometimes you're going back and forth. But then they just have. When I played against them last year, closed out all of those games that I played against them. So they're very experienced. Having played in a Game five, in a finals, coming back with a lot of heat.
- [20:27]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, I think that experience goes a long way. Another advantage they'll have is continuity. But I am concerned because so many teams in the WNBA loaded up on talent, and so obviously they have Nafisa Collier coming back. When you have someone who's, you know, in the running for, she. She was so dominant in unrivaled play that it had us saying, is Fee the best player in the world, like, right now? And I mean, she really. Her dominance on both ends of the court, her high skill, her movement without the ball, her motor, her iq, her screening for others, I mean, it's just a beautiful game to watch. So you have a good starting point there. My concern Is is there more that you can squeeze out of an Atlanta Smith, out of a Courtney Williams, out of Kayla McBride? These are all players who really found a home and have had a renaissance moment last season with with the links. Do they continue to have more? Is it enough or have they hit a ceiling? Bridget Carlton, oh, she did really well with all of her extra opportunity and minutes but now everybody knows she's trying to hit that big shot. So I am concerned about that. But I think to your point, Mo like the experience and the continuity goes a long way. I'm a shout out. One more person could at least could Alyssa Peely have a bigger role this season? I was actually in Nashville at Athletes Unlimited and I saw coach Reeve there and she came there to watch her play and I think she's hopeful for her to, you know, step up and have, have more opportunity.
- [21:51]
Logan Hackett
There is nothing I love more than an Alyssa Peely three down the stretch. Like she just nails them. I love it. But I feel like Minnesota in a way is mirror mirroring Las Vegas. As in they're a very good team but you don't know what's going to happen with them. And they finished fourth last season. Their star is of course three time MVP Asia Wilson and they also have the core with Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young and then the X Factor coming with the addition of Jewel Lloyd who enhances their perimeter defense. Now with their preseason, I feel like they stepped into the villain role and they had to waive some very talented players which could be a testament to the talent on their team this year. So after falling short every 3p and losing their veterans like Kelsey Plum, Sid Colson and Tiff Hayes, do you think they can regroup and reclaim their dominance this season?
- [22:40]
Raz Golden Woode
Here's my take on the Aces. I think the Aces are going to be better than they were last season. It was a down season for them. We'll start with the reigning mvp Asia Wilson is rested. She didn't play unrivaled. She used the off season to work out to launch her signature sneaker, to hard launch her relationship in love. And I think that's going to be important for her. You know, there's a lot of wear and tear. Don't forget players like herself and much of the Aces starting lineup. They were all in the Olympics too. Like it was just like go, go, go, go, go. They played for straight through through the past couple years. Plus their last seasons have been long. Remember they played through championship runs and so it's just, it's a lot of wear and Tear on the body I was at unrivaled. I saw Chelsea Grey with my own eyes. That's enough for me to say the Aces are about to be good because Chelsea was healthy and rejuvenated in unrivaled play. And we could see how much when she's healthy, she dominates the game and controls everything that's happening for everyone else. And a large part of why the Aces struggled a bit last season. Chelsea wasn't healthy. Jackie Young, we're talking about somebody who's already an All Star and Olympian, but I think she could, like, break out from, like, star role player on a. On a stud team and maybe even be a superstar this year because she's like, her body is strong, she plays at ranges. She's great both ways. With Kelsey Plum leaving, it kind of opens up a little bit of space for her. And I think she's also just matured into, like, mentally, emotionally, just really knows who she is in this league. And so, like, I think this could be a big year for her as long as she's healthy. I mean, health is a reoccurring theme. And I covered the warriors during, like, the peak of their dynasty, and I remember Steve Kerr used to say, fresh blood matters. And obviously he would know from all the dynasties he's been a part of, there's an erosion that happens year after year after year with the same people. And so, like, the influx of, you know, Jewel Lloyd is good. Jewel had lost publicly said she lost her confidence and joy in Seattle, and she looked like it. Her efficiency in shooting was horrible. And so now she can come here. She looks like she's having more fun. There's less pressure on her. I think it's good. It's the same question every year for the Aces. It's the depth.
- [24:56]
Monique Billings
Roz, you definitely hit all the points. I'll keep it short with this one. I mean, it looks like the Aces definitely shook things up in free agency, but they're a seasoned team. A lot of great vets, a lot of star power on that team. So, yeah, I definitely agree with you. I see them having a better season.
- [25:13]
Logan Hackett
Than last season and following them in fifth, we have the Seattle Storm, which Jewel Lloyd came from, and their stars this year, Skyler Diggins, Gabby Williams and Neko Gomike. With their X factor being that the return, their core four is returning, and they have the rookie sensation Dominique Malonga now. Coach Quinn's defense first mindset is probably going to propel this team, but how do you think that they can turn their Turnovers into points.
- [25:41]
Monique Billings
When I think of Seattle, I think of just a gritty team. Very gritty. I think that starts with both Neca and with Skyler Diggins. They just have that energy about them and playing against them. It's nothing easy at all bringing Gabby Williams in for a full season. You brought up Malanga. She looks fantastic in her preseason game. Another rookie who's come in and it's looked very seamless. So I'm expecting big things for them. I think that they might have felt like they underachieved in playoffs last season. So I think they're coming back feeling like they have a lot to prove, a lot more in the tank. Another team that's kind of brought back their key players. So I think they're going to come back where they left off.
- [26:29]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, I think the Storm last season were not consistent as a team. You didn't know what version of them you were going to get from game to game. I expect them to be a lot more consistent this year. I think the continuity that they do bring back is very important and the new faces that they bring in are super veteran and very talented. I actually expect the Storm to be a strong team, you know, even just think defensively, Mo Ezzy Magbagor, Neca Ogumike Scott can get intense and lock up Gabby Williams, Alicia Clark like they they. And don't forget the length and the rim protection of Malunga the rookie.
- [27:03]
Monique Billings
Yeah, yeah.
- [27:04]
Raz Golden Woode
That's a defensive squad, right, Mo?
- [27:05]
Monique Billings
That's a squad. That's a squad.
- [27:07]
Logan Hackett
Right.
- [27:08]
Raz Golden Woode
And so I think, you know, you add that plus they were in last place last season in shooting. So you have Alicia Clark, you have Lexi Brown, who are some scorers who can space the Clark a little bit. Erica Wheeler comes in, she could play one or two. She's very buoyant. But this whole thing is going to be anchored around Skylar Diggins and Nneka Agumike, two of the greatest, very different types of leaders in women's basketball. Nneka had one of the best seasons of her career last year and sky crushed unrivaled. And I think like last season during the Storm season, she was still coming back and playing her way into shape from having a child. So I expect like this Seattle team, even though they've been crushed by ACL injuries, three key ACL injuries, I still think they're going to be a very good team.
- [27:54]
Logan Hackett
Yeah, Ros, you're talking about a sleeper team and I actually think that's going to come from Phoenix Mercury in a way. They finished seventh overall last season and their stars are Alyssa Thomas, Satya Sabley and Clea Copper. Which in my head immediately seeing those on paper I'm like, okay, as long as those three are firing on all cylinders they could have something going here. But their X factor is playing position less and up tempo basketball. And although the team is completely different from last year, losing players like dtbg, Natasha Cloud and Sophie Cunningham, it feels like it's too early to form a new identity. But Mo, you spent some time on this team last season and played a preseason game against them. So what do you see developing for the Mercury this season?
- [28:35]
Monique Billings
Yeah, it was like a little homecoming being able to go back play in Phoenix. A lot of great vibes there. They were pretty good playing against them. I think that like you said, it's early but it already seems like they bought into coach Nate system. They know how they're trying to play, they want to play fast, they want to play positionless at being able to be the point forward she was looking for saw to Palia Copper didn't play in that game, but I think when she returns she steps in and it's like their big three is just so dominant, hard to guard. They have great role players as well. Kehlani Brown bringing size off the bench, having to play against her. Celeste Taylor, another player who I played with last season, I think she has stepped up her game a lot. So you brought up the word sleeper team, Logan. I definitely see them being a sleeper team as well.
- [29:29]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, I kind of agree with that because I feel like I don't fully know what to expect for the Phoenix Mercury. I know what to expect out of that big three. I'm really clear on what they can do and I'm excited to see how this works with the three of them together. But I think for the rest of the team we've got some time here to see how rotations and spots end up rounding out around them. But you know when you have Alyssa Thomas, you're going to have a tough team. Defensive personality, physicality you can have. She's also very cerebral. You run your offense through her and she's going to get people going. Satsu Sable is the unicorn for a reason. Like when she's been healthy, she's been an all star so that's the biggest issue. And then Kalia Copper, you know, is a bucket and really puts pressure on you off the bounce and is coming off of a career season. So like I think if, if, if those are your big three that you're Building around, you're in a good spot now.
- [30:16]
Logan Hackett
It was announced that Dallas got the number one pick in the NBA draft this season. And Dallas has the number one pick in this year's WNBA draft. Picking up Paige Beckers. I think they're going to turn into a basketball city now, but last season they finished 11th overall. We don't know how that's going to go this season. Their players to watch our Paige Beckers, Erica Gamboale, Dijonay Carrington and Maddie Segris. With their X factor being a new coaching staff and offensive additions made in the off season, just watching them play in preseason, do they have the defensive strength to make a playoff run?
- [30:50]
Raz Golden Woode
That's actually one of the areas that I'm unsure about. You know, what they're going to be defensively and also how they're going to do with size. You know, Tierra McCowan is going to anchor them and you know, does her thing in the paint. And then Maisha Hines Allen as well, who's undersized but is a long time vet and has proven to be productive despite that. But I think like if we were pointing at where there's less depth, it might be there versus they're stacked as far as bodies on the wings and for the guards. And I think that that depth will be good to keep AR from having to play the most minutes in the league again this season. But even when I look at that guard group, I'm like, okay, outside of Arale in a half court set, who can create their own shot one on one? And I'm not fully sure yet because Paige is obviously the best player coming out of college this season, the number one draft pick. But on the pro level, is she going to be as, as efficient as she was in college, is she going to be able to get her shout off? We'll see. You know, she was really good at creating for others. Dijonay Carrington is the most improved player. Can she build on that? At unrivaled? She was working with Phil Handy, the, you know, renowned skill coach on adding wiggle to her offensive game and, and she's got to be able to score a bucket, especially when they're under duress. They're looking at her to be one of their go to offensive players. We know she can lock up India. And then the breakout player I'm looking at is Maddie Segrist. She's got size, she can score. She was just named champion at Athletes Unlimited. That should give her confidence. And she's a young player. Last season she Was disrupted in her rhythm with injuries and a finger injury and stuff. So I think, you know, there's room for her to establish herself as a, as a number two or number three scoring option there with AR super young team.
- [32:37]
Monique Billings
We keep bringing up the word rejuvenated, but I think that's what I see here with this team. Roz, you brought up the two players that came to my mind. Maddie Segris. I think she had a great season last year. Again, you brought up au. I think she's coming in with a lot of confidence. And then I think Dijonay too. I think those are the two players that are going to be aggressive to score. Should be aggressive to score, looking to score. I think both of them could have breakout seasons. And yeah, I'm excited to see Dallas.
- [33:04]
Logan Hackett
And with Dallas, I'm kind of getting the same vibes from the LA Sparks who finished last last season. And their stars are Kelsey Plumb, Derek Hamby, Ray Burrow and Ricky Jackson. With the X Factor just coming with the fact that they have more depth this season and getting Cambrink back will really help them, especially on defense. But after a disappointing season last year, will new coach Lynn Roberts and the addition of Kelsey Plum turn things around?
- [33:31]
Raz Golden Woode
I like coach Lynn Roberts. You remember love the Pac 12, right? I do.
- [33:35]
Monique Billings
And she has a couple coaches on her staff, actually that are from the Pac 12.
- [33:40]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah, I like what she did with Utah and I'm enthusiastic about what she can do with with la. You know, she's offensive minded. Um, you know, you mentioned Cambrink. I think that we don't know exactly when she's going to come back and like, what version of herself she'll be. So Rekia Jackson, when, when Cameron Brink went down last season, I thought, really shine. She can build off of that. And I also think Azarae Stevens, that's my girl. I thought she, I think she's so versatile with so much size. She is like, she's like yumo. She's got a lot of light to her and I thought she did well at unrivaled. Maybe she could see an even bigger presence. You know, you mentioned Kelsey Plum. She's the real deal. And Kelsey Plum has been laying low purposefully. She doesn't want. She needed some time away from the limelight and I think she has a fresh slate. She honorably played her role with the Aces and improved every year in that role. And now she gets to be the face of an offensive face of a franchise. And I know that she's ready for it, um, I'm gonna call out a name. Breakout season perhaps from Ray Burrell, who has had an a. A tough journey in the W and at Unrivaled, really showcased that. She's got, like, gazelle, like, athleticism, but she's added confidence and hard work, really hard to add skill. And I think, like, she could be a bigger contributor this year. And I know that Dericka Hamby really empowers her. That's her OG and vet. And de' Erica's been an all star level player for the last year or so now, and she's a baller. She's gonna outwork you. De' Erica is. And I know she's gonna be a leading leadership voice in that locker room, her and Kelsey Plum. And I'll just shout out our show like you. De' Erica was on our show doing an interview and talked about the healing that happened in that relationship since, you know, they both left the Aces. So there's a lot to see unfold here for la.
- [35:35]
Logan Hackett
Well, the last team we have is Mo's very own Golden State Valkyries, playing in their very first season. And we have Tiffany Hayes, Kate Martin, Kayla Thornton, and of course, Mo herself, Monique Billings. And the X factor here kind of comes with the uncertainty of this team, of the identity that they're building and their gameplay on top of that. I feel like it is very international heavy. I'll have a lot of international players, and people might not know what to expect with that. But in your first preseason game, you all played at Chase center and it was so loud that you could hear through the broadcast cast. And I remember just watching it thinking, this is so heartwarming to see something like this. And I think it was 17 between 17, 11,000 fans showing up for a preseason game.
- [36:23]
Raz Golden Woode
So mo, with that 17,000 shows over for the preseason game, o the bagels I'm already seeing.
- [36:32]
Monique Billings
I love the energy in this city, the synergy. As a team, we're figuring our stuff out. It's been exciting to get on the floor. You know, everyone is curious to see what we're going to look like. I want to say we're just as curious, too, because we're still figuring it out game by game. But the willingness is there, the want to work hard for each other, the want to buy into coach Natalie's system. I think we're all doing those things as a team. We're working really hard. I mean, every team has worked extremely hard in their camps, right? But me being daily with my team, being able to see the work, being able to see the growth. I think our chemistry will continue to grow, our identity. We want to be killers and so I think that if we bring that defensive mindset, that grittiness, tough mentality, I think that we'll get there. But I'm really, really excited for this season for us.
- [37:26]
Raz Golden Woode
What is your team strategy on the offensive end?
- [37:29]
Monique Billings
A lot of spacing, Coach Natalie likes spacing and she wants to play fast. She wants layups, she wants threes, she wants versatility, she wants players not really having to think too much, but just being able to play together in a good flow type of way. And I think that's something that will just build, continue to build over time. We had a lot of people in our training camp and so trying to figure out who they're going to keep. I know they have tough decisions to make there, but yeah, I think offensively just being able to have flow and rhythm and a lot of spacing.
- [38:06]
Logan Hackett
Well, Mo, thank you so much for joining us. I cannot wait to see you out on the court and the Valkyries in their regular season action. But y' all next up, Roz sits down with former Oregon guard Deja Kelly. We'll be right back.
- [38:28]
Raz Golden Woode
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- [40:17]
D
It was. I mean, going undrafted was tough. That was. I mean, I tell my family that was one of the hardest nights of my life, really, especially because of how unexpected it was for me. And you know, my. One of my lifelong dreams was to hear my name called, walk across the stage, hold my jersey like. And that was one of the main reasons why I went. Whether I was invited or not and to not hear my name that night and to. It was tough to figure out how do I move forward, you know, how do I continue to try to prove myself? I didn't get an opportunity at that time, like, what is this going to look like for me? What are the next couple months months like just a bunch of kind of a little bit of self doubt. But honestly, it was, it was a quick switch. Once I had a conversation with my family and lots of conversations with God, just how do I move forward? I have a couple options here. I can either just be like, okay, well, it is what it is, you know, I guess I don't belong. And I could have let those thoughts win, or it was like, okay, I can move forward, put one foot forward and really seize any opportunity that I get because all I needed was one. And that's all we kept saying, that's all. Me, my family, my team around me just kept saying like, all we need is an opportunity. And that's all I was praying for. And once the ace is called, it was a dream come true for an organization like that, a championship winning organization, to reach out to me and invite me to training camp and invite me to compete and for a spot. I mean, that was something that completely shifted my perspective and like, yeah, all I needed was that one opportunity and to see how it all panned out and how I tried to take advantage of every moment and every single day that I was a part of the Aces organization. Like it. That was something I would not have imagined three years ago. I mean, three weeks ago on draft night. So, yeah, the way the script flipped, it was such a blessing and it was so fun to see how it unfolded. But yeah, I mean, going from one of the lowest, you know, points in one of the lowest nights of my life to now walking out of training camp waved or not, with my head held high with how it all went, how it all panned out. I know that I'm going to be good. And again, I know that I belong in the league. And to be able to get that experience these past couple weeks, I'm truly grateful for.
- [42:52]
Raz Golden Woode
You're going to be good in life. Like, what has shined to me is the character. Your character has shined to this. The way you have risen to the occasion to show grace, to keep showing up, to step up. You know, you're chasing your dreams, and it's really public. You are super vulnerable. And I was. I literally, when we came on, I was like, this is only gonna make the testimony even. Even better and bigger and, you know, and all of that. And also, you know, the glory feel even better because, you know, nothing is a straight line. And one of the cool parts of your path is that you got to play with the Aces. This is a team where they've got four Olympians. You're playing with Becky Hammond, also not only a basketball legend, also went undrafted. You're playing with the reigning MVP in Asia Wilson. Like, what are some of the takeaways that you take from the experience of being around the Aces during that time?
- [43:44]
D
Like, there is no room for doubt, self doubt. Like, everything. Everyone in that gym expects greatness out of each other, and they do whatever they can to help pull that out of each other. And I think that's something that makes a championship team. So to be a part of that and see the ins and outs of an organization like that, for my first time and for my first opportunity and experience in the wnba, that is something I feel has prepared me more than ever for whatever my next step is, wherever that is. Because seeing. Seeing how we pushed each other, how Asia and Chelsea and Jewel and Jackie and down the line, how they were all so able to bring the best out of each other, even though while everyone's already at their peak, like, everyone, like, we're Olympians, the top of their game, the best in the W, and still being able to push each other and make each other better each and every day, the coaches holding everyone accountable each and every day, that from the top down, being able to see that as a. As a rookie, you can only respect it because it's like, okay, these vets who I'm learning so much from, they're also being hold held accountable, too. And just seeing how, like, that's what builds a championship culture. And again, I was just soaking up that whole culture, that environment. And I think that, like I said, has built a good foundation for expectations that I not only have for myself, but what I know I can now bring to another team or again, wherever that is. So it was such a humbling and grateful experience just being with them and again, seeing how they can just make each other better each and every day.
- [45:24]
Raz Golden Woode
Yeah. I mean, you could have got picked up by a team that's, you know, in rebuild mode, and then you're. It's. It's kind of like sometimes in some situations, that's the blind leading the blind. You don't see the cult, the culture of championship, Olympian pedigree, but you got that with the Aces.
- [45:37]
D
Yeah.
- [45:37]
Raz Golden Woode
So as. As a reoccurring theme here is like, things seem to happen for a reason. You need to get that.
- [45:42]
D
Absolutely.
- [45:42]
Raz Golden Woode
That glimpse. And I want to talk about a major highlight that basically had you going viral. So in the two preseason games, again, average 12 points per game. But in that, that game against the Mercury, you hit the game winner, you got, you know, you're setting it up with the dribble, then it's the step back, pull up, jump shot, and it's the game winner. And, boy, I get goosebumps, like, watching you turn around and run screaming back towards the bench. And what did that performance say to you in that moment and maybe to the basketball world?
- [46:16]
D
I think first for me, it just felt like a sense of gratitude, attitude of gratitude. Just being able to be on the court in that moment for Becky to trust me in that situation. It was Asia's night, so it was like, I was like, we need to win this for her. There were so many emotions around that. Having the support from all the vets, hyping all of us up like that was one of the best moments of my basketball career, really. And again, for that to be how my W career starts was such a blessed. Gosh, I'm getting emotional now. Was such a blessing because. Sorry, I was not expecting it because, you know, it was just sense of happiness. It's such a sense of joy with that team. And again, to have all that support, especially after the game, you know, seeing all the love that I was getting on social media, I think that's the toughest part because that can be brutal sometimes and dang, I'm so sorry. Okay.
- [47:33]
Raz Golden Woode
It's okay.
- [47:34]
D
Yeah. But it was an opportunity that I'll forever be thankful to that organization for because it just, it built my character. It built again, my foundation for what's to come in the future. I think, you know, you said it, everything happens for a reason. God makes no mistakes. So to be able to, like I said, take advantage and seize the opportunity, seize the moment at the end of that game and really just take advantage and do my best and give my all and doing anything that I can to, to just show why I belong, you know, just playing with an extra chip on my shoulder, that was my main thing just post draft was that's what I got to do. I just got to continue to really not prove anyone else wrong, but prove myself right because I know I belong. I know that this is where I belong. I'm supposed to be and these are the moments that I know I can be in and produce and, and so again for coach Becky to give me that opportunity and, and trust me with the ball in my hands at that time, you know, that just built a different level of confidence for me going into this next phase of, of my WNBA career.
- [48:49]
Logan Hackett
We really appreciate Deja's vulnerability and you can catch the full interview with Deja Kelly now on the Goodfellow YouTube page. Y' all do not want to miss the rest of Roz's convo with Deja Vu. Welcome back to GoodFallow. This segment is presented by DraftKings. This Friday, the red hot number one Kansas City Current face off against number two Orlando Pride. To keep it simple, Kansas City has been on a roll and players are stepping up around town watch winger to help lead them to victory. Their midfield and offense have been on lock scoring 18 goals in just eight games. And to go with that, their defense is one of the best in the league allowing only six goals. On the other hand, Orlando has had a dip in the past two games with a loss to Portland and draw against North Carolina. With that said, they are sitting in second so there has to be something there. If there is one team Orlando wants to be and know they can, it is definitely Kansas City. I'm whiling this down to one thing and that's consistency, which is Kansas City is giving just that they're sitting at the top for a reason and I'm picking them to stay there. The two players I expect to make big moves will be Barbara Banda who is rewriting the rules up top for Orlando and De Bena who continues to be the creative heartbeat of Casey's dominance. Kickoff is at 8pm Eastern time, so follow along and tweet us with your predictions at Goodfellow Show. This segment is presented by DraftKings. DraftKings. The Crown is yours it was so.
- [50:23]
Raz Golden Woode
Fun to kick it with you as always, Logan, and with all of you guys watching, listening wherever you do. Thank you so much for rocking with us for this episode of Good Follow show. Special thanks to Hoops stars Monique Billings, Deja Kelly for joining us today. Good luck to you ladies at the start of the WNBA season here. Whatever the future holds for you and whatever the season holds for you, make sure you guys subscribe. All the things social media handles like comment follow all the things we enjoy, all the engagement. We're building this Thing Together and Good Follows presented by DraftKings. We drop every Wednesday, 7pm Eastern. Make sure you're there. It means a lot. We'll see you next time.
- [51:04]
Logan Hackett
Bye guys.