UCLA's dominance continues as they secure another signature win against UNC, raising questions about their potential rise to the number one seed. Hosts Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down Lauren Betts' defensive prowess and the Bruins' ability to quietly build commanding leads. The episode previews a crucial matchup between South Carolina and USC—a battle to determine which team truly deserves their ranking and which school owns the "USC" name. With South Carolina facing their first major test and UCLA already stacking signature wins, the rankings could shift dramatically. Plus, analysis of the upcoming Shamrock Classic featuring Hannah Hidalgo's record-breaking Notre Dame squad against Michigan's balanced sophomore trio in a high-scoring showdown.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down historic NCAA performances as Hannah Hidalgo shatters Notre Dame's scoring record with 44 points and sets a Division One steals record with 16 takeaways, while Audy Crooks drops 43 points in just 20 minutes. The hosts preview the marquee matchup between #11 North Carolina and #3 UCLA, analyzing paint presence, perimeter defense, and key players like Lauren Betts and Alyssa Ustby. They also unveil the expanded Unrivaled schedule, highlighting the league's player-first approach by eliminating back-to-backs and extending the season from January 5th to March 4th. With opening night featuring stacked rosters including Paige Bueckers' Breeze squad and the defending champion Rose, the hosts share their excitement for both established stars and emerging talent from the development pool.

Locked On Women's Basketball hosts Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down major developments reshaping women's basketball. WNBA All-Star Alyssa Thomas joins Project B alongside Nneka Ogwumike, signaling a veteran push for player empowerment and global competition ahead of crucial CBA negotiations. The hosts explore why WNBA teams are reluctant to host All-Star Weekend—with Chicago being the only bidder for 2026—due to financial constraints and league uncertainty. They also examine South Carolina's struggles, including Maddie McDaniel's suspension and Dawn Staley's pointed comments about accountability, plus the Gamecocks' offensive challenges with transfer Tanaya Latson adjusting to a balanced system. With multiple leagues competing for talent and the WNBA's future hanging in the balance, this episode captures a pivotal moment in women's basketball's evolution.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down UCLA's dominant 73-59 victory over Oklahoma, where guard play stole the spotlight from the anticipated center matchup. They analyze how Gianna Neepkins' 20-point performance and UCLA's depth proved the Bruins are more than just Lauren Betts. The hosts preview tonight's key matchups, including Clemson versus #2 South Carolina, while discussing the challenges facing new women's basketball leagues like Unrivaled and Project B. They explore why superstars like A'ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark remain hesitant to join these emerging leagues, examining the delicate balance between rest, money, and brand building. With WNBA CBA negotiations looming and a November 30th deadline approaching, the conversation reveals the complex landscape players navigate between domestic leagues, overseas opportunities, and maintaining their bodies for long-term success.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down USC's stunning upset over #9 NC State without star JuJu Watkins, highlighting freshman Jazzy Davidson's breakout 21-point performance and London Jones' two-way impact off the bench. The duo analyzes UConn's dominant 99-67 victory over Florida State, examining why Azzi Fudd's lightning-quick release and Sarah Strong's court vision make them the nation's most dangerous duo. They dissect the latest AP Poll shake-ups, including Baylor's leap into the top ten and USC's rise after their statement win. The hosts debate which teams can challenge UConn's supremacy, with particular focus on UCLA's potential to climb and South Carolina's adjustments without Chloe Kitts. A tactical deep-dive into shooting mechanics, defensive intensity, and early-season championship contenders.

A new global women’s basketball league is on the rise. Co-founder Grady Burnett says Project B isn’t backed by Saudi Arabia — but the connections run deep through Sela, a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund. We break down what that means for the players, the league’s structure, and the multi-million dollar offers that dwarf current WNBA salaries. 💰 Key Topics: Seven-figure contracts & equity stakes for players WNBA’s upcoming CBA deadline (Nov. 30) Prioritization rules & what they mean for player freedom 🔥 Segment 2 — Texas vs. Richmond Recap: Texas makes a statement with an 85–56 win led by Madison Booker (22 pts, 12 rebs, 6 stls). We break down what this means for the SEC race — and why Richmond still deserves mid-major respect despite losing guard Alicia Newell early to injury. 🏀 Segment 3 — College Basketball Week 1 Takeaways: Depth matters more than ever. Teams like Texas, UConn, South Carolina, and UCLA look ready for deep runs — while Notre Dame’s fate rests on Hannah Hidalgo’s shoulders.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down the early standout performances in women's college basketball, spotlighting players like Florida's Liv McGill (38 points, 10 assists) and Notre Dame's backcourt duo of Hannah Hidalgo and Vanessa DeJesus. They analyze UCLA's championship-caliber roster featuring Lauren Betts and the returning Kiki Rice, plus TCU's dynamic pairing of Olivia Miles and Marta Suarez. The hosts preview key matchups including Texas versus Richmond and Tennessee's bounce-back opportunity. They also examine Unrivaled's new developmental pool, featuring young talent like Haley Van Lith and Leticia Amihere, discussing how this initiative addresses roster expansion and player development—issues the WNBA continues to navigate. The conversation offers candid insights on confidence, adjustment periods, and the challenges young players face transitioning from college dominance to professional competition.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down the newly announced Unrivaled rosters for the 2025 season, analyzing eight teams including expansion clubs Breeze BC and Hive BC. They spotlight Paige Bueckers' addition to the Breeze alongside Cameron Brink and Rekia Jackson, while examining standout rosters like the Lunar Owls (featuring Skylar Diggins and Napheesa Collier) and the Mist (with Breanna Stewart and Arike Ogunbowale). The hosts identify breakout candidates including Dominique Malanga, whose mobility and skill could translate into highlight dunks in the three-on-three format. The episode shifts to Project B, a new global women's basketball league launching in 2026 with an F1-style tournament structure across Europe and Asia. WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike becomes the first publicly announced signee, attracted by equity stakes and salaries exceeding Unrivaled's offerings. The hosts explore how Project B's emergence intensifies pressure on WNBA collective bargaining negotiations and represents a paradigm shift for women's basketball economics and global reach.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down opening day action in women's college basketball, analyzing UConn's 79-66 victory over Louisville despite shooting just 15% from three. They spotlight freshman Sarah Strong's dominant 21-point, 9-rebound performance and discuss the Huskies' post-Paige Bueckers identity. The hosts examine NC State's upset win over Tennessee, highlighting the Wolfpack's defensive execution and balanced scoring attack. They also cover dominant performances from UCLA (led by Lauren Betts' 21 points), Texas's 123-point explosion, and LSU's debut featuring South Carolina transfer Malaysia Fullwiley's 35-point, 7-steal showcase. Throughout, Butler and Jones emphasize the depth of talent across women's college basketball and the growing accessibility of games for fans.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down opening day of women's college basketball, featuring Baylor's upset over top-seeded Duke in Paris and South Carolina's dominant debut. They analyze standout performances including Talia Scott's clutch fourth-quarter run, Tanaya Latson's 20-point South Carolina debut, and the emergence of a new guard-heavy Gamecocks roster. The hosts examine defensive schemes, offensive efficiency, and roster adjustments while highlighting breakout performances from Michaela Blakes (27 points for Vanderbilt), Reagan Beers' paint dominance for Oklahoma, and Yomi McMiller's Penn State debut. With candid analysis of what worked and what needs refinement, they preview the evolving landscape of women's college basketball and tease tomorrow's first look at UConn in the post-Paige Beckers era.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones preview the opening games of women's college basketball season, breaking down three marquee matchups. They analyze the top-16 showdown between Baylor and Duke in Paris, examining Duke's search for identity under Kara Lawson and Baylor's veteran-laden roster. The hosts discuss South Carolina's defensive concerns following their exhibition game and the impact of losing key frontcourt players, while highlighting their matchup against mid-major powerhouse Grand Canyon. Finally, they explore the California clash between San Diego State and third-ranked UCLA, questioning whether the Bruins can find offensive balance beyond Lauren Betts in their championship-or-bust senior-heavy season. Throughout, they emphasize how these early tests will reveal which contenders are truly ready for the grueling conference schedules ahead.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down the high-stakes WNBA CBA negotiations as the league and players union agree to a 30-day extension amid tense disagreements over revenue sharing and salary structures. The hosts examine Napheesa Collier's frustrations and the players' push for percentage-based compensation tied to league growth, while exploring critical non-financial issues like facility standards, charter flights, and family planning benefits. They analyze the Washington Mystics' promising young core and free agency outlook, highlighting Shakira Austin's development and the importance of veteran leadership. The episode concludes with Unrivaled's second season roster announcements, featuring notable additions like Paige Bueckers and Kelsey Plum, while discussing surprising absences including Angel Reese and Sabrina Ionescu. Special attention goes to Dominique Malonga's participation following her Fenerbahce contract situation, with predictions about her explosive potential development.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones break down the escalating WNBA CBA negotiations as the October 31st deadline looms. The players union rejected a 30-day extension, holding firm on revenue-sharing demands that reflect the league's explosive growth. They examine the league's anonymous spokesperson controversy and Napheesa Collier's public stance on why backing down would hurt all women's sports. The hosts then analyze critical free agency decisions facing the Seattle Storm—who have six unrestricted free agents including their entire starting lineup—and new coach Sonia Raman's challenge of establishing a fresh identity. Finally, they assess the Phoenix Mercury's Finals run and why their strong culture, solid depth, and players' genuine love for the organization make roster retention likely, despite having key stars like Kahleah Copper, Satou Sabally, and Alyssa Thomas hitting free agency.

WNBA Free Agency Frenzy: New York Liberty's Coaching Shake-up Sparks Roster Uncertainty The New York Liberty face a pivotal free agency period following Sandy Brondello's surprise firing. Will star players like Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu stay put? Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones analyze the Liberty's complex situation, dissect the Minnesota Lynx's disappointing season, and celebrate the Las Vegas Aces' championship roster. Key topics include Jonathan Kolb's confidence in retaining core players, the Lynx's "stud buds" duo, and A'ja Wilson's impact on the Aces' success. Can the Liberty overcome the coaching change to keep their superstar lineup intact? Tune in for expert insights on how the new CBA and expansion teams could reshape WNBA free agency.

The Seattle Storm have named Sonia Raman as their new head coach, bringing her NBA experience from the Memphis Grizzlies and a winning track record from MIT to the WNBA. The podcast discusses Raman's offensive expertise and how it could benefit the Storm's late-game execution. The hosts also explore the LA Sparks' free agency priorities, emphasizing the need for defensive depth and backcourt stability to complement their offensive firepower. The episode concludes by examining a letter from elected officials to WNBA and NBA commissioners, urging fair CBA negotiations and highlighting the broader implications for women's rights in the workplace.

Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones discuss the Dallas Wings' hiring of Jose Fernandez as head coach and its implications for star player Paige Bueckers. They explore Fernandez's impressive coaching record, international recruiting prowess, and connection to UConn's Geno Auriemma. The conversation shifts to the Indiana Fever's free agency priorities, focusing on retaining Kelsey Mitchell and building around young stars Caitlin Clark and Aaliyah Boston. They analyze Clark's injury-plagued second season and her potential impact on the Fever's future success. The hosts emphasize the importance of player health and recovery, discussing Clark's offseason plans and the potential effects of CBA negotiations on the upcoming WNBA season.

WNBA shakeup: Sandy Brondello to lead Toronto Tempo. Will her championship pedigree transform the expansion team's fortunes? Clea Butler and Sophia Jones dissect Brondello's move from the New York Liberty to the Tempo, exploring its ripple effects across the league. The hosts analyze Olivia Miles' decision to delay her WNBA draft entry amidst ongoing CBA negotiations, comparing her potential rookie salary to her lucrative NIL deal. Adam Silver's comments on WNBA players' financial demands take center stage as the discussion shifts to revenue sharing, league expansion, and the crucial balance between player compensation and investor incentives. Tune in for expert insights on how these developments could reshape the WNBA's competitive landscape and financial future.

🔹 Segments: 0:00 Cold Open – Valkyries: The new WNBA standard 2:30 Segment 1 – Offseason Outlook & Free Agency Targets 15:00 Segment 2 – Expansion Precedent: Portland & Toronto on deck 28:30 Segment 3 – Dominique Malonga’s FIBA contract controversy

In This Episode: 03:15 – Dallas Wings Roster Breakdown 12:50 – Free Agent Targets (Atkins, Jones) 18:40 – Connecticut Sun Rebuild & Boston Rumors 27:05 – WNBA Ratings & Relocation Insight 30:00 – AP All-Time Women’s College Basketball Team Reaction

🚨 Big news in women’s hoops! On today’s episode of Locked On Women’s Basketball , we dive into ESPN’s just-released 2026 WNBA Mock Draft — and Lauren Betts is projected to go No. 1 to the Dallas Wings! We break down top prospects like Olivia Miles, Azzi Fudd, Flau’jae Johnson, Cotie McMahon, and more. 🏀 Segment 2 covers major WNBA coaching vacancies, including the New York Liberty, Seattle Storm, and Dallas Wings. Could Sonia Raman, Dave Joerger, or even Nicki Collen be next in line? 🎙️ Segment 3 features a powerful discussion on how media can better serve women athletes, centered around recent comments from Angel Reese on the challenges of public scrutiny and misrepresentation.