Lauren Betts: From NCAA Champion to WNBA Top Pick

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Lauren Betts: From NCAA Champion to WNBA Top Pick"

Welcome to the Party | Hosted by Treat Media
Air Date: April 16, 2026
Hosts: Julie Foudy, Abby Wambach, and Billie Jean King
Guest: Lauren Betts

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Episode Overview

This episode of "Welcome to the Party" celebrates a seismic moment in women’s basketball. Hosts Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach (with regular Billie Jean King) welcome back Lauren Betts, fresh off leading UCLA to their first NCAA women's basketball championship and being drafted as a top-five WNBA pick. The episode delves into Betts' extraordinary run: from her championship victory and draft night to life transitions, team culture, and personal growth, all while highlighting the lasting power and future promise of women’s sports.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. NCAA Tournament Run and Championship Victory (23:57–27:09)

• Abby and Julie introduce Lauren Betts: The hosts' excitement is palpable as they revel in UCLA's historic championship, with Abby joking about becoming a full-fledged Bruins fan.
• Lauren reflects on her chaotic, joyful week:

  “The craziest week of my entire life…winning the Natty was like, crazy. …We had just a week of appearances and interviews and dancing, and then we all just got drafted two days ago. I’m like, what is going on?” (25:49, Lauren Betts)

• Favorite championship moment: Lauren singles out the sheer joy of winning with her teammates, surrounded by their families in Phoenix.

  “I wish I could relive that moment over and over and over again.” (26:44, Lauren Betts)

2. WNBA Draft Night: UCLA Dominance & Sisterhood (10:00–15:33, 28:33–30:44)

• Historic night for UCLA:
  • First collegiate program with five first-round picks; six total draftees.
  • Lauren Betts to Washington Mystics; teammates join pro ranks across the league.
• Draft night emotions:

  “…all of us would’ve been a lot more nervous and, like, anxious if we weren’t all there together. …Apparently, my dad was telling me that after all the girls had been drafted, they all got together and were…giving each other hugs, and then they got into an 8 clap…in the middle of the draft. It was so cool.” (28:57, Lauren Betts)

• Reuniting with former teammates and mentors:
  Lauren discusses her excitement at joining Michael Onywede (“Coach Mick”), her former assistant coach, as a teammate—a rare and special dynamic.
• On UCLA's selection culture:

  “…Coach Corey and all the coaches…do a really good job of figuring people out and having honest conversations…when they’re recruiting people, like…we barely even talked about basketball. They want to get to know you first and foremost, and I feel like that’s really special…” (31:36, Lauren Betts)

3. Team Culture: The Secret Sauce (31:03–35:48)

• Prioritizing selflessness and chemistry:
  Lauren, Abby, and Julie emphasize that championship teams are built on bond, respect, and doing what’s best for the collective, not individual stardom.
• Corey Close's coaching philosophy:

  “She was like, guys, like, I’m telling you, people are looking at the fact that you guys are playing your role, you’re working hard, you’re doing what you need to do for the team…” (33:10, Lauren Betts)

• Life lessons:
  Lauren has internalized the value of finding fulfillment in contributing to her team’s success, a lesson she feels prepared to carry into her WNBA career.

  “At this point, I’m like, whatever this team needs from me, like, I’m going to do it, and I’m gonna be a star in my role.” (35:22, Lauren Betts)

4. Handling Transition: From College to WNBA (35:48–39:42)

• Nerves and excitement:
  Lauren describes feeling emotional about leaving her college “family,” but feels reassured by the presence of familiar faces on the Mystics roster.

  “I feel like I’m walking into, like, a little family.” (35:53, Lauren Betts)

• Parent and sibling pride:
  Lauren laughs about her mom’s recruiting efforts on social media and her family's exuberance, noting their direct involvement in the broader UCLA community.

5. Personal Growth and Identity (39:42–41:09)

• Resilience and self-belief:

  “My ability to just bounce back and always stay true to myself and trust my process…If you would have asked me like a few years ago, I never thought any of this would be possible…and now I can finally say…I'm capable.” (39:59, Lauren Betts)

• The emotional comedown:
  Abby warns Lauren about the “post-Olympic blues” and offers ongoing support as Lauren navigates the abrupt changes post-championship and draft.

  “There is this thing that we, we call on the national team…the post Olympic blues or the post World cup blues…even when you win, there's like a little bit of a…comedown…But I just want to say, like, please, if you need anything from us, please reach out. I'm like, absolutely your, your like, biggest fan.” (41:09, Abby Wambach)

6. Building New Bonds in the Pros (42:35–43:25)

• Planning to carry team culture forward:
  Lauren is determined to nurture closeness on her WNBA team, despite the inherent instability and turnover in the professional world.

  “At the end of the day…that's just who I am as a person. I really love to just connect with people and build relationships…that's what really makes a team.” (42:35, Lauren Betts)

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Obama’s shoutout:

  “To get a shout out from Obama, like, come on now. Like, that's crazy. That is crazy. I was like, wow. Honestly, nothing…can beat that.” (27:33, Lauren Betts)

• On her mother’s involvement in recruiting:

  “I told Coach Corey, I was like, you don't even need to honestly recruit at this point. Like, my mom’s got you covered.” (38:58, Lauren Betts)

• Abby's newfound UCLA devotion:

  “You…really have single handedly converted me. I…have no allegiance to UCLA. And I’m like, yes, I do, because I talked to Lauren Betts and Char and we talked to Corey Close and we're friends with Corey and they are good people.” (24:48, Abby Wambach)

• On lasting bonds:

  “…once a teammate, always a teammate. You're stuck with me forever…that's what's going to happen with you all, because I feel it with how close y' all are.” (28:33, Julie Foudy)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Intro, hosts’ UCLA & WNBA excitement: 00:00–03:14
• Recap of USWNT game and personal highlights: 03:14–07:11
• WNBA Draft breakdown & UCLA dominance: 10:00–15:33
• Lauren Betts joins, recaps championship week: 23:57–27:09
• WNBA Draft night memories & team culture: 28:33–31:36
• Coach Corey Close and the value of team chemistry: 31:36–35:48
• Transition to WNBA, building new bonds: 35:48–43:25
• Personal reflections and wrap-up: 39:42–44:51

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Closing Thoughts

This episode is a celebration not just of Lauren Betts’ incredible year but of what happens when women’s teams invest in culture, leadership, and joy. The hosts and Betts highlight the value of selflessness, resilience, and authenticity both on and off the court. Abby and Julie provide warmth, humor, and perspective as they cheer on Betts' next chapter—and invite all listeners to share in the excitement and growth of women’s sports.

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Listen To This Episode If:

• You want an inside look at what it means to win a college national championship and navigate the WNBA draft.
• You're interested in the importance of team chemistry and leadership in women's sports.
• You want advice and inspiration from change-makers who have lived the ups and downs of competitive athletics.
• You just love following the rise of women’s sports, community, and culture.

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Transcript

[A]

It's been the most amazing week. We took over that entire draft, man. It was. It was surreal.

[B]

Abby has gone on to this Bruin path that, like, I don't think she's ever gonna get on. Your mom has been working the transfer portal. Did you see her in her tweet?

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Is she on UCLA payroll? What's happening?

[A]

I told Coach Corey. I was like, you don't even need to honestly recruit at this point. Like, my mom's got you covered.

[C]

Attention, the party is about to commence.

[B]

Welcome to the party. What's up, party people? I'm Julie Foudy.

[C]

And I'm Abby Wambach. All right, Jules, I'm so excited. I know.

[B]

Control yourself.

[C]

Okay, so I'm just gonna say it. And look, I do. When I. When I get into things, I get into them.

[B]

That's what we become.

[C]

Yeah, I am. I feel like I might be in a past life. I might have gone to ucla. I am this guest's biggest fan now, might I say I am fangirling. Okay, so, party people, get ready. We are having Lauren Betts on. Oh, we're so excited. We've had her on before.

[B]

To make time in the middle of all of this madness as well.

[C]

So I. I know we've had her on before, but we did not get even close to enough. And as you know, a lot has happened in the last month since we've talked to her. We talked to her right before the NCAA tournament, and let's just say she's just gone and done. She's done a few things.

[B]

She's done it.

[C]

She's done a few things.

[B]

She's got it done.

[C]

She's won a national championship. She became a top five pick in the WNBA draft. Her life has totally changed just a wee bit. I saw this morning she signed a Reebok deal. It's just. I don't know. I just feel so excited for her. And so, folks, we're having. Lauren Betts.

[B]

We're having.

[C]

We're having a national champion on the freaking pod again. Because I love her and I want the very best.

[B]

We love her.

[C]

That's.

[B]

To be fair. She. You can share her.

[C]

We love her. I'm sorry. I don't know if I want to. I don't know if I want to share her, but here we are. And maybe you'll get a little talk time in. Maybe you'll get a little bit of time with her. But first, Jules, you.

[B]

I am a little bummed that I'm on the road, so I don't have my UCLA swag with me. I'm like, oh, what I got to wear? You have your cute UCLA gear on. Shoot. Sorry, Lauren. I'm have to apologize to her. I know I have my keep calm and party on hat. I felt that was fitting.

[C]

Oh, well, you are busy. You called the U.S. women's National Team game against Japan last night. We are recording this on Wednesday for our Thursday episode. Just so everybody knows. Jules, how. How did it go? Tell us everything about last night.

[B]

Can we start with my favorite part of the game? Because they didn't win the game, as we now know, but my favorite part of the game is the entire game. Gigi Wilson, Sophia's baby, who is honestly the cutest damn thing you have ever seen. She's so happy and so smiling, and every time I see her, I'm like, oh, my God, this baby is so happy. They put her. You know, we're in a booth calling the game, and there's glass between the two. The suites, the booths, and. And there's, like, a glass panel, and there is Gigi with her nanny sitting there the entire game, like, literally, like, two feet from me, but I can't touch her because there's a glass between us. And I was like.

[C]

I saw the videos it made. It made it on air last night. It was the cutest freaking thing.

[B]

I cannot focus right now. This is killing me.

[C]

She was so cute, and she had a little beanie on and had, like, one little piece of hair coming out, like, is there a cuter baby that's ever been born? And she kept, like, clapping at me

[B]

and, like, waving at me, smiling. I said to Luke, and I was in my talk back where you can't hear on air. I was talking to my producer. I was like, honestly, y', all, this ain't fair. I cannot focus right now. This is killing me. This is taking everything inside me to lock in and call this game. And so then they got a shot of me playing with her in the middle of the game. I'm supposed to be calling, but, yeah, she was. She's adorable. The game itself was. It was. It was a tough game. It rained the entire time. It was a slog. Emma made 11 changes, so she went, obviously, with a more experienced group in the first game. This was the second game. They play them again in Denver. I head to Denver tonight. So this was her younger group, her less experienced group, but as we know, an incredibly talented group. So, I mean, look at that midfield. Lily Johannes, Claire Hutton, Jaden Shaw, Livia Moultrie's up there. Emma Sears Ali sent Noor. I mean, it's ridiculous. Lily Rio, rookie of the year Sonnet was back because she had been out with a knock. Tierna Davidson came back, which was really fun to see. So I think that it's exactly what Emma wanted them to feel a loss. Well, she doesn't want him to feel a loss, but you get what I'm saying. Like the pain of a loss now is much better than a pain of a loss during qualifiers or during a World Cup. And Japan's so good that you, you can grow every time you play them. So that's why they are playing them three times. So I think they're going to be

[C]

incredible experience for those. Yeah, incredible experience for those younger players. And as a coach, the thing that I want to look for is after the game, in the meal room, after the game, whether you're in the locker room or on the field or in the meal room. I'm looking for the players that are pissed. I'm looking for those young players that are. That are. That, that have a deep knowing that that was, that result is unacceptable, you know, because when you're young, you're like, you're nervous. You get out there, you don't have as much time. Maybe with all the other young players, you don't have the consistency. You don't have those couple of players on the field and they're all great. But, but experience does give you a little calmness when you're on the field and you're playing a 00 game for a lot of it or you're down a goal. Like, it takes a lot of experience to be able to manage that pressure and those expectations. So I'm looking for the players who are pissed because those are the players that I know are going to show up in Denver or in the qualifying tournament and are going to fight and push and learn something from this game. I actually love, I loved it when we lost games prior to world championship qualifiers or big tournaments for sure.

[B]

So many lessons to extract. Okay. We keep talking about how Lauren has been so busy. Okay. Hello. You went to Bruce Springsteen concert with Jimmy Kimmel and Molly and I was like, wait. I text her. I was like, wait, what? You're Bruce Springsteen concert and then your daughter had her signing day. Emma, come on.

[C]

Yeah, spill the beans. It's been a big couple. It's been a big week in our family. Well, Jimmy, Jimmy and Molly, they live close to us here in la and so we're friends with them. Like they literally have a House, like a street from us. And they texted us in there and. And Jimmy had a couple extra tickets to the Bruce Springsteen concert. And they texted us, said, do you

[B]

want to come to Bruce? Okay, yeah, that'd be great.

[C]

We were like, yes. And that's a big deal for us too, because we like to be in bed by like 8:30. Ish. So, like the concert starts at 7:30 and it's like, oh, my gosh, this dude is pushing 80 years old. He is a showman like no other. And it was like this revival. Like, it was so political. He only played political songs. He wasn't supposed to go on tour. And all that's going on in our world right now, he's like, I've got to go on tour. So it was incredible. We had a chance to go backstage because we were with Jimmy and Molly. We were like walking out to go to the Cars and somebody came by and they were like, do you want to go meet him? And we were like, yeah, let me think about that. Yes.

[B]

Yes.

[C]

And so we go backstage and we got to get to have a little conversation with him. And he was. They were heading off to Phoenix. And I'm telling you something, people say this, that, you know, he's one of the greatest performers that's ever performed as a musician. And I will agree. I will also say he is so sweet and so kind in real life, like soft spoken. And of course he's probably saving his voice for tomorrow's show or whatever, but he was really great. And then last yesterday, Emma had her. Her school does an official signing day and the entire school comes to the audit, to the gym. They all get into the stands and the three athletes who sign this year, they have their own table set up. And it was just so cute. It was so cute.

[B]

So excited for her Santa Clara gear.

[C]

We did. We wore all of our Santa Clara gear and all the pictures. And they say, yeah, her high school does a really good job of celebrating, like, important moments and to like, memorialize them. So it was really fun.

[B]

Yay. That's a good week.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Let's go.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Yeah. We did. We had a good one. We had a good week.

[B]

I love it. All right, before we get to Lauren, let's quickly get to the highlights of WNBA draft on Monday night. There was a lot going on this week because it did not disappoint. So we had Az Fudd went number one. Let's go easy fun to the Dallas Wings so she gets to reunite with former UConn teammate Paige Beckers. Come on.

[C]

So happy for them, right? So happy for them too. Because I know what it is to, like, play and so like to play a part from. From the people that you love. And so I'm just pumped that they're gonna get a chance to get back on the court together. And watch out. I mean, Dallas Wings, they're gonna contend, like, with those two on. On the court. Come on.

[B]

Yeah. They also got a Reke as well. Like, come on. Okay. UCLA had a draft takeover, which is what we suspended.

[A]

Let's go.

[B]

They became the first collegiate program to have five players in selected in the first round and six total players drafted in a single year. So of course, we had Lauren Betts. Sorry, Gabriela Jacques, Kiki Rice, they went in the top six picks. Then you had Angela Dougalic, Gianna Neepkins, and Char Ledger Walker, who also went. So Betts went 4, Haquez went 5, Rice went 6, Dougalich 9, Niepkins 15, Char went 18. Come on. That's so cool.

[C]

So awesome. And there was actually a moment where, because Lauren and Lauren got drafted to the Mystics, Dougalich got drafted to the Mystics. And there was a moment where I thought Neepkins. Because the Mystics had a pick, I thought Neepkins was gonna get drafted to the Mystic. So I was freaking out. I was like watching. I was like, oh, my God. And I was texting with Corey and I was like, oh, my God. Neepkins to the Mystics. And you get three on one. One place. She's like, that's what I'm hoping for. But Neepkins ended up getting drafted to Connecticut and Char, so.

[B]

Which is really cool. Yeah. Yeah. Did you see Niepkins dad crying?

[C]

So, I mean, I cannot not cry. I cannot not cry when those moments happen. Like what? Like what? It happened, like, knowing how much work parents put into it and. And how. And I'm sure that these parents drove and flew all over the world to get these players to where they needed to be. And then supporting them throughout this national, like, just all this whole year for them has just been so incredible.

[B]

Yeah. The emotion of that moment. Did you see Lauren Betts, 7 foot 2 younger brother, getting emotional as well?

[C]

I was like, come on.

[B]

So cute.

[C]

I mean, then obviously, first of all, 7 foot 2. I know. Like, it's so tall. Like, it's so awesome.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

That there are people in the world that can be actually that tall.

[B]

Yeah, I know. Okay. And then let's just go through quickly the top 10 picks. As we said, number one, Az Fudd, went to Dallas number two, Olivia Miles went to Minnesota Lynx. Olivia Miles from TCU after she had transferred in the portal from Notre Dame. Of course, AWA Farm went to Seattle. She was thought to maybe be the number one, but Dallas had already gotten a ton of bigs so they went with fud. So she went to Seattle Storm. Lauren Betts, as we said, Washington Mystics. Gabriela Haquez went to Chicago Sky, Kiki Rice, Toronto Tempo. Ayanna Martin Carrion going to Portland Fire Flage was going to Golden State to Golden State Valkyries for a hot second and then immediately traded to Seattle. And then Dougalich, as we said, Washington and Raven Johnson. How about this one? Going to Indiana Fever. And that rival rivalry between her and Caitlin Clark and now they're going to be teammates, which I love. Do you remember that?

[C]

So good.

[B]

Do you remember that the final in 2024 when they were playing against each other and Caitlin kind of waved her off with a, like, I'm not going to guard you because you can't score from the three point.

[C]

Yeah, yeah. It's so good. It's going to be fun because like that's why it gets so interesting because you're like, oh, I hated playing against that player so much throughout my college career. And then you're like, now I have to be friends with you. This is weird.

[B]

Yeah, exactly. And well. And you're like, but I love you now that you're on my team. Right. I want that like what, what I didn't like as you and you as an opponent because you were so hard to play against. I really want on my team. And by the way, when Caitlin Clark waved her off, the South Carolina went on to win that one, that, that national title. So yeah. Az Fudd joins Paige. As we talked about, Anaria Gumbawale. So that three guard group is Fire. And here's the thing, they're coming off. Dallas is coming off back to back losing season. So I, I think Easy Fun's going to turn him around. Let's go. Easy Fun. Yeah, totally. All right. Still to come, did you bet on bets? Of course we did. UCLA and now the Washington Mystics, Lauren Betts coming up next.

[A]

And.

[B]

And party people, just in case you missed it, Abby, as you probably know, has become UCLA's biggest fan. So before we bring on AB, before we bring on Lauren, I wanted to give the party people just a little taste of Abby's fandom.

[C]

Go. Let's go. First time we've been able to win the whole game. All you gotta do is Just be strong and then fucking block that shit. Look at this. What is going on? That is how you get to a championship.

[B]

What a second half.

[C]

They put it together.

[B]

Abigail, full disclosure, I have a long history with bras.

[C]

Yes, we've got breasts, so we both do.

[B]

I don't, I don't have breasts. But here's the thing. They're either way too structured, totally or completely useless. Either I'm strapped in for battle. I mean, it's a bit tortuous sometimes. Or I'm just out there hoping for the best. So I tried the fits. Everybody triangle bralette from Skims. Yo, party people. It landed right in the middle in the best way possible because it gives you shape without pushing you up. Pushing you up is an air quotes by the way. It gives you support without compressing you. The fabric, as we know with skims, is next level soft. And I can literally wear it for work, for errands, for being on my feet. I don't, I don't even think about it, which is exactly what I want from a bra. This has become my everyday option. It's simple, it fits well. It does the job. I'm not thinking about it.

[C]

And they have them in all the different nude colors too. And that is great for when you're wearing like a white T shirt.

[B]

Yeah, Shop Skims fits everybody collection at Skims. And after you place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you select podcast in the survey and be sure to select our show. Welcome to the party in the drop down menu that follows. Okay, party people. At some point, if not for me, you've heard of Gooodles True or you've heard it from some other pasta lover in your life. And Abs hears me talk about it all the time because Goodles really does scratch that Mac and cheese itch. It tastes nostalgic. It's cozy and cheesy in the way you want it to be. But it also has ingredients that make me feel a lot better about reaching for it on a random Tuesday. Abs. I've. I've tried a few of the flavors now and they're. Honestly, I've done my three flavors a weekend testing. I'm especially into Chetty Mac. I really want to try all of them because there are a lot of them. You know, I like Shella Good because I like all the names. But each serving has protein and fiber with prebiotics plus vitamins and mineral minerals from real plant sources. And they're clean Label purity award certified, which means they've been tested for over 400 different contaminants and meet really high standards. That's what that means. It's time to get some goodles for yourself. I know you'll them as much as I do. Pick up Google's Mac and cheese and pasta on your next shopping trip. Available nationwide at Target and Walmart, plus any other major grocery stores and retailers. This show is sponsored by Liquid IV Abs. Yo, I have a feeling that you and I do vacations very similar. We are active, we are hiking, we are moving, we are pickleballing, we're surfing. We're doing it. All right.

[C]

Yes. And my family and Jules, my family, we like to find one of the most like unpopular hikes. So I guess uncrowded is the way. Like we don't want to be on the most popular trail.

[B]

Right.

[C]

So we go down these rabbit holes of like finding the off the beaten path.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Trails.

[C]

Do you guys do that or you guys popular trail?

[B]

No, I like, I like the path less traveled. For sure.

[C]

For sure. Yeah. And because of that, you have to prepare for all circumstances. And by the way, let's just say it now, family vacation is not vacation, it's trips. There's no such thing as family vacation

[B]

when you have kids.

[C]

Exactly.

[B]

Okay.

[C]

When you have children, they're trips.

[B]

We actually did a hike that's really popular because it's, it's so good. When we were in Kauai last year. That waterfall hike, that's hard.

[C]

It's really hard. Yeah.

[B]

Way up high, you pass long Hanalei Bay, you keep going, you have to take a shuttle in. And because it's so long, we know. And I've done this hike before where I didn't bring enough water and electrolytes when I was younger. And so I told the kids. So the kids and I and Ian, we just like started shoving Liquid IV packets in everything we could in the backpacks and pockets so that when we were on this hike and I. And I'm like, you have to bring enough water. Because the thing about those adventures and, and long, long travels and hikes like that, they wipe you out. So that's where Liquid IV has become our non negotiable. I literally throw those packets in and you can tear one open while you're hiking and just dump it in your water.

[C]

Yeah. And. And you can really feel the difference because Jules, I don't know if you know this. It's powered by their live hydro science formula, like an optimized ratio of electrolytes, vitamins, and clinically tested nutrients that hydrate faster than water alone. And Jules, it's going to keep you hydrated for up to four hours. So that's not. That's not nothing. When you're running and, and, and hiking some of the. And going on these long hikes like. Like you did in Kauai.

[B]

Okay, you know what my go to flavor is?

[C]

What?

[B]

Have you tried this one?

[C]

No.

[B]

Colada.

[C]

Pina colada. I've not tried that.

[B]

Oh, I. It is. Is as if you were drinking a pina colada. It's clean, it's refreshing, it's not too sweet. What's your fave?

[C]

Good white. White peach.

[B]

I love peaches.

[C]

I'm such a peach person.

[B]

Okay. And if you want sugar free, that's your white peach one. You got that?

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You got rainbow sherbet. Fun. So wherever your curiosity takes you, bring Liquid IV. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20 off your first order with code. Welcome to the party at checkout. That's 20 off with code. Welcome to the party at [e-mail]. tear poor. Live more. Hike more. Party more. Welcome back. And now to the partiest part of our party. All right, we just had Lauren Betts on not too long ago. And when your life goes from big to totally bonkers in about five minutes, we're running it back because since we last talked to her, UCLA didn't just make a run. They won their first ever NCAA national championship, taking down the powerhouse South Carolina Gamecocks. And let's not forget, Lauren became a top five draft pick in a whole new era of the wnba. Meanwhile, she was doing all of this while fully immersed in what we call her secret sauce. She calls it joy. We can relate. And why wouldn't she be full of joy? She's getting shout outs from Barack Obama. She's getting love from Lebron James. She's on Jimmy Kimme. She's dancing with the Clippers dance squad. She earned the most outstanding player of the final four. Big ten player of the year, Defensive player of the year. She deserves nothing but joy. Lauren Betts, welcome back to the party.

[C]

We've got a national champion on our hands, people. We have a national champion on our hands.

[B]

And her name is Lauren Betts.

[A]

Yeah. What's up, guys?

[C]

Let's go,

[A]

let's go.

[C]

Oh, my God.

[A]

I don't know if you can. Boxes everywhere in my room. So I'm like, trying, like it's, it's, it's just. Yeah. Stacks of boxes. Yeah. Well, you know, I'm like, I leave tomorrow morning, so It's. Yeah, it's crazy.

[B]

Oh, you're so sweet to do this.

[A]

Thank you. I was so excited when I.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

Yes, of course. One.

[B]

Abby, take over. Because, like, Abby has gone on to this Bruin path that, like, I don't think she's ever gonna get on. Like, you have converted her fully.

[A]

Let's go.

[C]

You. You really have single handedly converted me. I. My children, I have a kid that goes to Cal and I have a kid that's going to Santa Clara next year. And so they're like, side eyeing me, like, what the hell is wrong with you? You have nobody. You have no allegiance to ucla. And I'm like, yes, I do, because I talked to Lauren Betts and Char and we talked to Corey. Close. And we're friends with Corey and they are good people.

[A]

No, you're a Bruin now.

[C]

It is hard. It is hard. And I am. I'm doing it. I think I'm gonna buy something.

[A]

Let's go.

[C]

Can I. Can you buy season tickets to the UCLA Bruins women's basketball?

[B]

Yes, I'm sure you can.

[C]

I'm buying. I'm doing it. We chose you in our bracket to win. We chose UCLA in our bracket to win. And though we didn't win our bracket, I still think,

[A]

oh, for sure.

[C]

Success. But thank you for coming on. Can you tell us, like, what it's all been like? Like you winning the national, like, what it. The whole thing. Tell us.

[A]

The craziest week of my entire life. Like, I don't even know where to begin. I mean, winning the Natty was like, crazy. And then, like, I feel like we haven't. You know, I had one day of like, nothing the day after because, you know, I needed to recover from that celebration. And then we had a week of just like. Right. And then we had just a week of like, appearances and interviews and showing up to games and dancing and like, you know, and then, you know, we all just got drafted two days ago. I'm like, what is going on? It's been the most amazing week ever. And I'm just like, so thankful and, you know, to see all of my teammates, you know, and their families make their dreams come true. It was like the most special way to just like, end this little tour that we've been on. So it was super special.

[B]

Could you even pick, like, one favorite thing from that or no? Is it like, too. What's. When you think back to just this

[A]

past week, I think honestly, like, winning the Natty was maybe the most special experience I've ever had like, that. I mean, you know, to do it with that group of girls and just to feel all the love from everybody and to be in Phoenix and to have all of our fans there and families, like, it was so special. And, yeah, I. I wish I could relive that moment over and over and over again.

[C]

What has been your post? Because Julie and I have both won things before, and so we understand the complications and the stress and the intensity of the media thing that happens after. What has been your favorite thing or. Or show or person you've gotten? Honestly, since winning the national championship, I

[A]

didn't get to talk to them, but, like, to get a shout out from Obama, like, come on now. Like, that's crazy. That is crazy. I was like, wow. Honestly, nothing. I mean, I can't be sad for the rest of my life. Like, that was just unbelievable.

[C]

Well, I have a story to tell you about that. Really quick. He tweeted at me.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

When I was playing, and he tweeted like, abby Wambach, you're the blah, blah, blah. You're the goat. And I didn't know what that meant, so I texted my agent. This is like, beef. This is before they, like, were really talking about the goat.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

And my agent was like, muhammad Ali, greatest of all time. Because I was kind of like. I was like, this is kind of rude. Why does he sit on that?

[A]

Yeah. No girls.

[C]

Yeah. Idiot. Idiot.

[A]

That's so funny.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. I've had neither. No shout out, no tweet from Obama. I. I'm here for you, Brock.

[A]

Whatever you need, please, please give her a shout out. Please. Yes.

[B]

Okay. And how about when we were watching the draft, the fact that, like, again, this team that is so close is all sitting in there together, going through all this together, like, the power of that moment again for y', all, you're going to have this. These moments for the rest of your life together. Because as I say, once a teammate, always a teammate. You're stuck with me forever, so. And that's what's going to happen with you all, because I feel it with how close y' all are.

[A]

Yeah, for sure. I. I mean, like, that whole experience, I think, like, all of us would have been a lot more nervous and, like, anxious if we weren't all there together. I mean, we went through. I mean, people were probably sick of us. We were tied to the hip the entire time. Like, we would go to meetings and we'd find our table, and we're like, all right, guys, like, let's Sit. And they'd have to, like, break us up. And we were like, no, no, no, no, no. Like, we're sticking together for this. And then, you know, once we got there and, you know, just seeing, like, everyone's families, apparently, my dad was telling me that, like, after all the girls had been drafted, they all got together and were, like, jumping up and down and giving each other hugs, and then they got into an A clap. Meanwhile, Kathy has still got people to pick from in the mouse, and they're fully doing an A clap in the middle of the draft. It was so cool. So cool. Yeah.

[B]

I mean, you're like, Kathy, hold on, hold on. Can you stop the whole show for us to do our eight clap, please?

[A]

We took over that entire draft, man. It was. It was surreal. Just so amazing. And, yeah, I couldn't be prouder. I mean, the fact that I'm getting to play with Ange and Mick is insane. Like, I can't even put into words crazy.

[B]

Yeah. Can you explain to the party people who Mick is? Because that was the story.

[A]

So Michael Onywede, she was my. You know. Well, she's from Colorado. Growing up, watching her basically, for a really long time. Went to my high school, and then just became my assistant coach this past year, and now she is my new teammate. So that is great. Now she is my teammate. And, yeah, it was so funny seeing her right after, because I had finished media and everything, and then I went to my family and all the UCLA people, and I saw her, and I was like, so am I just gonna keep calling you coach for the rest of. Like, I'm like, I'll keep calling you coach Mick. I don't care. Like, just to get on your nerves. But, yeah, it's gonna be.

[B]

That's such a crazy story.

[A]

I know. I feel like. I don't know. You know, it's. It's almost like when you're going into, like, your freshman year, all the nerves and everything, but I feel like knowing that, like, her and Andrew on the team, I feel like, a sense of, like, security. Like, I'm just like, okay. Like, I'm gonna be fine. I've got people like, I'm gonna be good. You know, I think that.

[C]

That it's so cool, the draft, and you all were basically a little team just going the last couple of weeks, you know, around the country, doing all this stuff together. How do you. How do you suspect Coach Corey Close was able to build such a. Such a group of women? Not only were they incredible, obviously you all got drafted but, like, to create that closeness, how did. How did she decide on which players to pull in? And then how did she cultivate those relationships?

[A]

I mean, for you, I feel like UCLA has done, like, always done a really good job of, like, just recruiting amazing people. And, like, you know, I've never, you know, every single year that I've been on this team, we've never had any issues, like, behavior wise, like, drama. None of that. Because Coach Corey and all the coaches, they just do a really good job of, like, figuring people out and having honest conversations and, like, when they're recruiting people, like, from my experience, like, we barely even talked about basketball. Like, they want to get to know you first and foremost, and I feel like that's really special. So when they come on campus, it's like everyone just. You automatically get along, and you build such amazing chemistry just because of how mature everybody is, how selfless everybody is. And so I feel like with this group of people, it was just so easy. And considering that we were all, like, seniors as well, and it was our last year, like, we were willing to put everything aside to win a national championship. And I feel like, you know, I was telling. I was talking to Kiki about it after. I was just like, you know, I think throughout the season, you know, you obviously have anxiety and nervousness about, like, okay, well, where am I going to end up in the future? Like, am I going to get drafted? Am I going to do this? But it's like, all of us were so committed to the point where it was like, we just didn't even think about that. And now we're getting all of the, like, rewards from it, from just putting all that aside and just, like, coming together and winning, and it's just so special. It just feels like all the sacrifice was worth it. And I, you know, give so much credit to Coach Corey because she, like, consistently remind us throughout the season. She was like, guys, like, I'm telling you, people are looking at the fact that you guys are playing your role, you're working hard, you're doing what you need to do for the team. Like, people are looking at that. And most people will be like, oh, well, you know, I'm not scoring 30. I'm not doing this. But it's like, she was right, and look where we all ended up. So it was like the best way to kind of go out.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. Preach.

[C]

I wish.

[B]

I wish young kids could hear that on a loop, honestly, because they get so consumed with what am I doing and how am I scoring instead of just how am I helping the team?

[C]

Exactly.

[B]

Because if the team's winning, we're all winning, and at the end of the day, then we're all going to be that much better off. So I love that Corey has made that such a core tenant of all she does.

[C]

I just want to say how important it is to me personally, because I absolutely believe in that philosophy. And it's the reason why, like, the reverence that you and Char had when we interviewed her, when we interviewed you both, like a month ago, I just felt like there was a real bond and a closeness that. That is a priceless asset in any team environment. It is the asset. It is the difference maker in any team that I have had success on. It's like the real respect and reverence and bond that you can have. Sorry, Jules, I interrupted.

[B]

No, no, that's. And. And what you. What you realize, too, is that it's hard to get to that point, and there are few coaches that do it really well. Corey, of course, is one. Emma Hayes, who coaches our U.S. women's National Team, I would say is another. We had one back in the day called Tony DeCicco, who was with us, but like a Dawn Staley, I feel, is very similar in her style and vibe and so there. But it's hard to get to that point. But when you get there, you will be forever changed now, because you know that that is the goal and everything, and every team you're working on going forward, which is the really cool thing. Like, Abby and I always talk about it still to this day with just our podcast team, like, there's always going to be a team you're on, and how you make that feel that same way, which is you've now experience is. Is a gift, really, for sure.

[A]

I agree. I feel very, like, almost like just mentally prepared going into, like, what my future looks like, you know, Like, I'm not. I'm not going into it. Like, oh, I need to prove myself. Like, I'm like, all right, I've done the work. I've. I've got drafted, which is something I've always wanted to do. And at this point, I'm like, whatever this team needs from me, like, I'm going to do it, and I'm gonna be a star in my role. And I feel like that's, like, the biggest lesson that I took away from this past season.

[C]

And I wonder, are you feeling nervous? Like, when do you go to Washington? Are you feeling.

[A]

Yeah, I mean, I think, you know, it's. It's always A little bit scary just when you're moving, you know, your entire life. Like, it's just everything's. Everything's going to be very new. So, yes, it's going to be. It's going to be a little weird. But I'm, you know, I have more excitement than nervousness. I feel like, you know, the fact that I'm having two people that I already know, honestly, more than that. I mean, I played with Kiki, I played with Sonia growing up, so it's like, I know so many people on the team that I'm like, I feel like I'm walking into, like, a little family. So it's gonna be exciting to see everybody and catch up, you know?

[C]

Okay, so, Jules, you know, I love versatile pieces for my closet that are first and foremost comfortable and functional.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Both very important.

[C]

Exactly. But also pieces that can go, I think, from like multiple events, right from a watch party on the field to dinner with my family. And that is honestly why I love Quince. And right now, as we know that the weather is changing, all of us are looking towards those closet refreshes. I know that sometimes I look at my closet and I'm like, I hate all of my clothes. Quince makes, I think, beautiful everyday pieces using premium materials, like a hundred percent European linen, organic cotton, and, you know, the superest, most softest, denim you've ever felt. They're spring pieces, jewels. They're lightweight, they're breathable and effortless. Just like the most recent Mongolian cashmere tea that is now a go to in my closet. Have you tried it? It's good.

[B]

I actually haven't tried the tea. I have the Mongolian cashmere long sleeve, but I'm gonna try the tea.

[C]

It is a basic tea that meets sustainability sourced Mongolian cashmere that it's also softens with every single wear. It's perfect for those cooler days that we still get throughout, you know, the spring. So Quince works directly with ethical factories and cuts out the middlemen. So you're paying for quality, not brand markup. Refresh your spring wardrobe with quince. Go to quinn's.com welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365 day return. Now available in Canada also. So go to Q-U-I-N-C-E.com welcome to the party. For free shipping and 365 day returns. Quints.com welcome to the party.

[B]

We also did notice that that your mom has been working the transfer portal. Did you see her tweet?

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Is she on UCLA payroll? What's happening.

[A]

I don't know what is going on, man. I, I think she's just. Any way that she can help out, especially because, like, I'm, you know, she's

[C]

like, I love it.

[A]

I told coach Corey, I was like, you don't even need to honestly recruit at this point. Like, mom's got you covered, so. And the way that she's like, the way that she's calling people out, like, first and last name, I'm like, mom, like, please, please. Like, she's just. Yeah, it's just her, it's just her

[C]

love this so much.

[B]

Did you see Kiki, right?

[C]

She's doing Sienna jumped in.

[A]

Oh, yeah, I did as well. Yeah, yeah. If any transfers have questions or tag teaming, call them up. Call them up. Yeah, yeah.

[C]

But at least your mom has a little bit of like, dog in the fight with Sienna still playing at ucla. Like, she wants the be good, you know, she wants to.

[A]

Oh, she's committed to get the best

[C]

player, so I get it. I, I love the tact. It's good.

[B]

Have you had a moment? And I hope you do, but I know you probably haven't yet because you've been so crazy. But like, when you strip away all the, the shiny stuff, the title, the. The top five draft pick, what are you most proud about with you?

[A]

Personally, I feel like my ability to just bounce back and like, always stay true to myself and to trust my process, like, that has been the biggest thing that I've been proud of. I think, you know, if you would have asked me like a few years ago, like, I never thought any of this would be possible and like, I'd never thought I'd be in this position. And I honestly, yeah, like, it's, it's really. I really had to just like, dig deep and trust that everything will work out and to trust the people around me and buy into like, you know, what they were telling me. And I think just believing in myself, like finally just like looking at myself and knowing that like, I'm worth everything that people keep telling me, like I, I'm. I'm capable. And I feel like now I can finally say that, you know, so it's, it's been, you know, through the highs and lows, I feel like the most amazing journey and I would, you know, I feel like everything that I've experienced, it's. It was for a purpose, you know, so I'm just very grateful.

[C]

Well, coming from people who know what it's like to kind of have some experience of what you're Going through maybe not every bits of it. There is this thing that we, we call in on the national team is like the post Olympic blues or the post World cup blues that even when you win, there's like a little bit of a. There's a little bit of a comedown period where it's like, well, my life might in fact be changed, but. But I still feel like the same person in a way. And so I just want to like, not warn you, but I just want to say, like, please, if you need anything from us, please reach out. I'm like, absolutely your. Your like, biggest fan. I want to like follow you into the wnba. In fact, Washington was the place that I got drafted to DC So I know about the area. I have family that lives there if you want a home cooked meal. My family, they're normal people. They'll totally have you over for dinner if you're interested. But I just wish you so much luck and, you know, the transition from college and from the specific team that you were on, you know, are you going to try to employ some sort of, what is the word? Tact? Are you going to try to become as close with your Mystics teammates as you were with your ucla? Yeah.

[A]

I mean, at the end of the day, like, I know, you know, this is a different level. It's the pros. You never know. One day you can get really close to somebody and then you might, you know, leave the next day. So it's. It's really scary in that sense. But I feel like that's just who I am as a person. Like, I really love to just connect with people and, you know, communicate and just build relationships. So I feel like, you know, at the end of the day, like, I'm never gonna change who I am because of what might happen. But, you know, in the back of my head, knowing that, like, okay, you know, just be aware. But I feel like that's what really makes a team. And I feel like, you know, the coach at the Mystics, like, he really believes in that as well. And, you know, him and I bonded over that. So I feel like the culture that DC has really connects to UCLA's as well. So it's actually like a really amazing situation.

[B]

So thrilled for you, Lauren, and all that you've been able to accomplish and your transparency in all of it as well, which will help so many people who are going through similar things. So thanks for what you've given to women's sports already, and I can't wait to watch and cheer you on. We're gonna have to get Mystics.

[A]

Yes. Let's go.

[C]

I just think very highly of her, and she has made me a. I feel like a crazy women's basketball fan. And. And honestly, like, I'm, like. I'm, like, kind of depressed that the tournament is over.

[B]

I know.

[C]

I'm also equally sad that she's going so far. It feels like I, like, really liked her closer, but, like, what a good head on her shoulders. And she's got a good personality. She's, like, not nervous. She's not too scripted around, like, what she's saying. She's like just herself, and it's just a fresh breath of air. I wish so much goodness for this kid. She's awesome.

[B]

I know. And I love that they got to do all of that together after you win, because usually then you're like, peace out.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

But then they gotta go do the draft together. I mean, to your point, at the end of, like, the post big event blues, after having lived through this week together, it's gonna be super interesting and.

[C]

Yeah, well, they gotta jump right into it.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

She's moving to D.C. and, like, find a house, a place to live in and to start training for. You know, that she has no break. There is, like, she's just jumping into the WNBA season, which starts what, May 8th. It's wild.

[B]

How sweet, too, that she was like, I'm gonna fit this in. Like, thank you. That was really sweet of her because we know how crazy.

[C]

She didn't have to do that. Yeah, she didn't have to do that.

[B]

Abs, we get to go this weekend to love championships.

[C]

Love Championships.

[B]

League 1 volleyball championships, baby. Yes.

[C]

I'm so excited.

[B]

Well, the second match, we can't go to the 16th because I'm on the road, but we're going to the 18th, the second match, because there's two matches. Awesome.

[C]

For a golden set versus Salt Lake

[B]

City Madison Skinner set. What do you.

[A]

You.

[B]

You are hoping for?

[C]

I'm hoping for a golden set.

[B]

I know. It's gonna be so fun.

[C]

I just like it when things are interesting at the end.

[B]

Yeah. Okay. So don't forget subs. To subscribe party people, to the welcome to the party YouTube channel. Click that little bell icon so you can get updates when episodes are go live.

[C]

Yeah. And if you could just take a second, we would appreciate it. If you can rate, leave a comment and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. And be sure to follow us on Instagram or YouTube and wherever you get your socials at welcome to the Party show where Julie, Billy and I will bring the party straight to your feed. You can also email us at party people questions gmail.com. shout out to Kate Diaz for Key Music. We love it still. Very much. Jules. Bring it in. Let's, let's, let's.

[B]

Ready?

[C]

Yes.

[B]

On three. One, two, three. Usa. Usa.

[C]

Welcome to the Party is an independent production brought to you by Treat Media. Treat Media makes art for humans who want to stay human. Initial Digital is our production partner and you can also watch our full conversations on the welcome to the party YouTube channel and follow us at welcome to the Party show on Instagram and Tik Tok. Thanks for listening.