Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz – "Good Follow - WNBA Season Preview: Are the Fever as scary as they seem? Plus Deja Kelly joins the show & more!"

Episode Information:

• Title: Good Follow - WNBA Season Preview: Are the Fever as scary as they seem? Plus Deja Kelly joins the show & more!
• Hosts: Dan Le Batard, Stugotz
• Guests: Monique Billings (WNBA Veteran), Deja Kelly (Former Oregon Guard)
• Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction to the WNBA Season

The episode kicks off with Raz Golden Woode and Logan Hackett outlining the show's agenda: a comprehensive WNBA season preview, an in-depth analysis of each team in both the Eastern and Western Conferences, insights into the 2025 draft class, and an exclusive interview with Deja Kelly. Monique Billings, a seasoned WNBA player for the Golden State Valkyries, joins the discussion, bringing firsthand experience and insider perspectives.

Eastern Conference Preview

1. New York Liberty

Raz Golden Woode initiates the Eastern Conference breakdown with the reigning champions, the New York Liberty. Despite losing key player Manija Laney Hamilton for the season, the team boasts stars like Sabrina Onescu, Brenda Stewart, and Jonquel Jones. Their X-factor lies in Natasha Cloud's integration into the backcourt.

Raz (02:17):
"Brianna Stewart, that's your MVP candidate from last season... we are so deep."

Monique Billings highlights the team's depth and versatility, emphasizing the importance of players like Niara Sabally and the strategic acumen of General Manager Jonathan Cole.

Monique (05:06):
"They're super deep... the Liberty are picking up right where they left off."

2. Connecticut

The Connecticut team faces uncertainty with potential relocation and significant roster changes, including the departure of star Alyssa Thomas.

Raz (06:34):
"How will the Sun respond to the mass exodus of their players, including Alyssa Thomas?"

Monique views Connecticut's situation as a rebuild year, projecting them as a sleeper team with young talents like Marina Mabry and veterans like Tina Charles.

Monique (06:34):
"They might not see it that way, but they have new players, new faces... they might be a sleeper team."

3. Indiana Fever

Discussing the Indiana Fever, the team has bolstered its roster with experienced veterans, including Dejana Bonner and Natasha Howard, alongside rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Aaliyah Boston.

Raz (08:21):
"Stephanie White, the coach of the Fever, said we've got to be a better defensive team... they're going to shoot more threes and be better offensively."

Monique anticipates a defensive transformation under Coach Stephanie White, coupled with the dynamic growth of Caitlin Clark.

Monique (09:27):
"They look scary good... a lot of great vets, a lot of energy, obviously around Caitlin Clark."

4. Atlanta

The Atlanta team, led by Brittney Griner and Ryan Howard, is entering its inaugural season. The duo brings extensive professional experience, and the team is under the guidance of new offensive-minded coach Carlos Mesco.

Raz (12:25):
"How tough is a front court of BG and Brianna Jones?"

Monique praises the team's dominant bigs and their seamless transition into shooting threes, highlighting Tahina Powpow's impressive preseason performance.

Monique (12:25):
"They have two very dominant bigs... stepping out shooting threes seems to be a big identity for the team."

5. Mystics

The Mystics, finishing ninth last season, aim to reset under new coaching with stars like Brittany Sykes and Steph Dawson. The departure of Elena Delle Donne marks the end of an era.

Raz (15:17):
"Do the Mystics have the ability to have a successful full reset this season?"

Monique envisions a rejuvenated team, emphasizing the infusion of young talent and the potential for a fresh identity under the new coaching regime.

Monique (16:26):
"I see a lot of just young energy... rejuvenated that's what I see as a possibility for this team."

6. Chicago Sky

Trailing last season in the East, the Chicago Sky are poised for a new era with key players Angel Reese and Courtney Vandersloot, alongside promising rookie Haley Beseth Benfield.

Raz (19:17):
"Is this the start of a new era for the Chicago Sky?"

Monique foresees continuity and growth, leveraging the veteran presence of Vandersloot to enhance the development of Angel Reese.

Monique (17:09):
"They had a pretty solid season last year... having a veteran point guard in Vandersloot is super helpful."

Western Conference Preview

1. Minnesota Lynx

The Minnesota Lynx, finishing second last season, retain their entire starting five, featuring stars like Nafisa Collier and Kayla McBride. Their primary advantage is continuity and the exceptional talent of Asia Wilson.

Raz (19:28):
"Can the Lynx finish what they started after a controversial game five loss last season?"

Monique commends their work ethic and experience, expressing confidence in their ability to continue their dominance.

Monique (19:53):
"They ended in a great place... they're very experienced and a team to respect."

2. Las Vegas Aces

The Las Vegas Aces are expected to rebound from a down season with key players like Asia Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young. The addition of Jewel Lloyd strengthens their perimeter defense.

Raz (22:40):
"The Aces are about to be good because Chelsea was healthy and rejuvenated."

Monique agrees, highlighting the seasoned roster and star power that could propel the Aces to a stronger performance this season.

Monique (24:56):
"They have a seasoned team, a lot of great vets, a lot of star power... I see them having a better season."

3. Seattle Storm

The Seattle Storm, led by Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike, focus on a defense-first strategy under Coach Quinn. Rookie sensation Dominique Malonga adds to their strength.

Raz (25:17):
"How do you think they can turn their turnovers into points?"

Monique emphasizes the team's grit and the seamless integration of rookies, anticipating a consistent and formidable performance.

Monique (25:41):
"When I think of Seattle, I think of just a gritty team... nothing easy against them."

4. Phoenix Mercury

The Phoenix Mercury are eyed as a sleeper team, banking on their star trio—Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, and Clea Cooper—to drive their positionless, up-tempo basketball strategy.

Raz (27:53):
"I think Alyssa Thomas's defensive personality and physicality will make them tough opponents."

Monique observes the team's offensive versatility and the potential impact of emerging players like Maddie Segris.

Monique (29:29):
"Their big three is just so dominant... I'm excited to see how this works."

5. Dallas

The Dallas team, holding the number one pick in the WNBA draft, focuses on young talents like Paige Beckers and Dijonay Carrington. The new coaching staff brings fresh offensive strategies.

Raz (30:50):
"Do they have the defensive strength to make a playoff run?"

Monique anticipates breakout performances from players like Maddie Segrist, emphasizing the team's rejuvenation and offensive aggression.

Monique (32:37):
"Maddie Segrist and Dijonay can have breakout seasons... I'm excited to see Dallas."

6. LA Sparks

The LA Sparks, with new coach Lynn Roberts and star Kelsey Plum, seek to rebound from their last-place finish. The addition of defensive stalwarts like Rekia Jackson strengthens their lineup.

Raz (33:04):
"How will Kelsey Plum and the new coaching staff turn things around?"

Monique expresses optimism about Coach Roberts' offensive mindset and the leadership of De' Erica, projecting a significant turnaround for the team.

Monique (33:31):
"Kelsey Plum has a fresh slate... De' Erica is a leading voice in the locker room."

7. Golden State Valkyries

Representing her own team, Monique Billings discusses the inaugural season of the Golden State Valkyries. With stars like Tiffany Hayes and herself, the team focuses on building a cohesive identity with an international flair.

Raz (35:34):
"What do you see developing for the Mercury this season?"

Monique highlights the team's commitment to coach Natalie's system, emphasizing spacing, fast-paced play, and versatile offensive strategies.

Monique (36:22):
"We're figuring our stuff out, building our chemistry and identity... we're excited for this season."

Exclusive Interview: Deja Kelly

In an exclusive segment, Deja Kelly, a former Oregon guard, shares her journey from going undrafted to joining the Las Vegas Aces. She discusses overcoming self-doubt, seizing opportunities, and the invaluable experience gained from playing alongside Olympians and seasoned veterans.

Deja Kelly (40:16):
"Going undrafted was tough... but once the Aces called, it was a dream come true."

Raz commends Deja's resilience and character, highlighting her game-winning performance that went viral.

Raz (42:52):
"Your character has shined... you are super vulnerable."

Deja Kelly (46:15):
"It was a sense of gratitude... winning that game was one of the best moments of my basketball career."

Deja emphasizes the championship culture of the Aces and how it has prepared her for future challenges, underscoring the importance of perseverance and seizing every opportunity.

Deja Kelly (47:34):
"Everything happens for a reason... I know I belong in the league."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Raz, Logan, and Monique reiterating their excitement for the upcoming WNBA season. They encourage listeners to engage with the show through subscriptions and social media, promising more insightful content in future episodes.

Raz (50:23):
"Thank you so much for rocking with us for this episode... Good Follows presented by DraftKings."

Notable Quotes:

• Raz Golden Woode (02:17):
  "Brianna Stewart, that's your MVP candidate from last season... we are so deep."

• Monique Billings (05:06):
  "They're super deep... the Liberty are picking up right where they left off."

• Monique Billings (16:26):
  "I see a lot of just young energy... rejuvenated that's what I see as a possibility for this team."

• Deja Kelly (40:16):
  "Going undrafted was tough... but once the Aces called, it was a dream come true."

Final Thoughts:

This episode of "Good Follow" provides a thorough analysis of the upcoming WNBA season, offering listeners deep dives into each team's strengths, challenges, and key players. The exclusive interview with Deja Kelly adds a personal and inspirational touch, showcasing the resilience and determination required to succeed in professional sports. Whether you're a die-hard WNBA fan or new to the league, this episode offers valuable insights and engaging discussions to enhance your understanding and excitement for the season ahead.