🎙 ACROSS THE BRM NETWORK

NEW BEGINNINGS IN SEATTLE

Photo via the Seattle Storm.

It’s a new day for the Seattle Storm, and they’ve got a lot to figure out.

The Storm had the third pick in last week’s WNBA Draft, and they were able to select 19-year-old center Awa Fam Thiam. Fam has been a rising star across Europe and comes to the WNBA with a lot of fanfare and great expectations.

She’ll also be joining a strong frontcourt. With Dominique Malonga and newly re-signed Ezi Magbegor, Fam will have time to acclimate to the WNBA's speed and pace.

On the latest edition of Tempestade Talk, Erica L. Ayala and Roberta F. Rodrigues broke down the latest with the Seattle Storm

“I think being young, they’re going to develop together, they’re going to develop that chemistry with each other,” new Storm head coach Sonia Raman said. “There are a lot of ways that we’re going to be able to move them around and be able to kind of play off of each other in a really dynamic way.”

Not to be outdone, the Storm pulled off a Draft Day caper. The Golden State Valkyries had selected Flau’jae Johnson with the eighth overall pick, but traded her to the Storm for a 2028 second-round pick and Marta Suarez. While the Valks have had to answer for their decision, Flau’jae is excited to contribute to a team that wanted her.

"I bring the energy,” Johnson told Good Morning America. “I play hard on both sides of the ball, and I want to win. When I came to college, I won a national championship, and I was with a winning squad -- I know it takes time to build, but I'm ready to come in, I'm ready to make an impact, and most of all, I'm ready to learn.”

2026 is a good time for the Storm to reset. With a young roster and a new head coach, they can position themselves for success in the future following some disappointing seasons.

It’s a long road back to contention, but things can go well if they make the right choices.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🪽 A new era in Dallas
The number one pick met the media, and then things got complicated.

💰 Money moves
A’ja Wilson sets another record.

📰 What we’re reading
Some great writing that’s come across our desks.

🪽 BUILDING THE FOUNDATION

A NEW DAY, WITH SOME NEW QUESTIONS

Photo via the Dallas Wings.

The Dallas Wings have been on the rebuilding path for the past few years. Step 1 was an overwhelming success when they selected Paige Bueckers with the first pick in the 2025 Draft. They won the WNBA Draft lottery again and selected Connecticut’s Azzi Fudd in this year’s Draft.

Fudd has been rumored to be the first pick since last winter. Fudd’s excellent college career and shooting ability have been on the Wings’ radar for a long time and were a big factor in their draft process. 

Fudd’s defense will also be critical to the Wings’ chances going forward. The Wings franchise hasn’t finished top five in team defensive rating since 2008… when they were the Detroit Shock.

Nekias Duncan of The Dunker Spot asked Fudd and new Wings head coach Jose Fernandez about the team’s defense and how things will fit this upcoming season

Twitter tweet

Dallas has overhauled their roster this spring with the acquisitions of 2025 Co-Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith, along with backup center Jessica Shepard. For the Wings to compete, they have to be a LOT better defensively, and these moves are a step in the right direction.

However, another question took up most people’s attention.

Since the Draft, there’s been discussion about the selection of Fudd and the Wings’ thought process. It seemingly started when journalist and author Jeff Pearlman accused Fudd’s agents and the WNBA of threatening to withhold access from the media if they asked about Fudd’s relationship with Bueckers.

Kevin Sherrington of the Dallas Morning News attended the Wings’ introductory press conference on April 16th and decided to ask the following:

Before Fudd could answer, Wings Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Pam Flenke interjected and said:

"I understand why you have to ask that question, but we're going to respectfully decline from commenting on our players' personal lives.”

Twitter tweet

Inevitably, the story became about the reaction and the reaction to the reaction. A sports media self-congratulatory culture, if you will.

Generally, I’m on the side of “You can ask a personal question the first time, but once you get a response, move on.”

From experience, I’ve seen players shut down questions they deemed personal about their health or their partner's health. Once that boundary is established, everyone should respect it and proceed accordingly. It’s more than reasonable, and it appears that a dynamic was at play in Dallas.

There are so many fun, cool aspects of the WNBA. The game continues to grow, and many people are providing great coverage.

It’s up to everyone to keep basketball the main thing. If we don’t, we can fall prey to salaciousness and gossip.

Everyone loses if that happens.

💰 MONEY MOVES

SUPERMAX FOR THE SUPERSTAR

A’ja Wilson. Photo via the Las Vegas Aces.

A’ja Wilson has consistently set the standard for excellence in everything she’s done. Now, she’s set an entirely new standard.

On April 16, it was reported that Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces agreed to a 3-year, $5 million supermax contract extension. It’s the richest contract in WNBA history and another signature moment for the game’s greatest player.

"A'ja is truly one of one, who has led this franchise to where it is today," Aces president and General Manager Nikki Fargas said. "Not only has she catapulted into the history books and surpassed almost every record in existence, but she does so with the utmost confidence, authenticity, and grace. We look forward to continuing to see her thrive in an Aces uniform.”

A’ja Wilson is the gold standard. She’s won everywhere she’s been, has excelled in every role given to her, and is someone people look up to.

This contract is a well-deserved reward and acknowledgment that she is the person who drives the Aces to where they are today.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• A DREAM COME TRUE: Angel Reese is traded to the Atlanta Dream by Dawn Montgomery, Black Press USA

• Gossip around Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers’s relationship misreads the WNBA by Stephanie Kaloi, The Guardian

• Opinion: Dallas Wings No. 1 Pick Azzi Fudd Deserved Better Journalism In Her Introductory Press Conference by Grant Asfeth, Dallas Hoops Journal

• So far, the new WNBA CBA has resulted in team-building chaos over consensus by Cat Ariall, Swish Appeal

• 'A beautiful thing to witness': AJ Lee's WrestleMania moment is more than a decade in the making by Anthony Sulla-Heffinger, Uncrowned

• Paul Heyman and the making of a wrestling god by Dotun Akintoye, ESPN

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

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🗽 ACROSS THE BRM NETWORK

THE LIBERTY SHAKE THINGS UP

The New York Liberty are hoping to get back into WNBA title contention, and their most recent moves might do the trick.

On April 11, ESPN’s Alexa Phillippou and Kendra Andrews reported that the Liberty signed free agent forward Satou Sabally. Sabally makes the move east after spending the 2025 season with the Phoenix Mercury.

Satou has long been rumored to come to New York, and the dream has become a reality. With Sabally, New York has the best frontcourt in basketball, and the team is signaling it is ready to jump right back into championship contention.

Sabally joins a Liberty team that is in need of rebounding help. The Liberty went from first in the WNBA in rebounding in 2024 to 11th in 2025. Sabally’s presence makes the Liberty frontcourt longer and even more impactful as she will play alongside Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart for new head coach Chris DeMarco.

On the latest edition of Gotta Get Up, Erica L. Ayala and I went in-depth on the Sabally acquisition and what it means for New York going forward.

New York’s work didn’t stop there as they signed Rebecca Allen, Raquel Carrera, and former Liberty forward Didi Richards, among other players. The Liberty hopes to rely on increased length and athleticism to make it through a taxing regular season and potentially a long playoff run.

The Liberty has a lot on its shoulders. With the signing of Sabally, they add one of the best players in the WNBA to a championship core.

As a result, more pressure will be on them to win and win big.

Can they do it?

We're a few weeks away from finding out.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🏀 A night with the Commissioner
Cathy Engelbert had a rough time with the media.

💰 Money moves
WNBA free agency has been fantastic.

📰 What we’re reading
Some great writing that’s come across our desks.

🎙 MEET THE PRESS

CATHY ENGELBERT’S ROUGH OUTING

Cathy Engelbert has had a rough go of it in public. When she was last on a WNBA court during the Finals, she was booed out of the building by fans in Phoenix. The last time she held a press conference at a league event with members of the media, she was feeling the heat following Napheesa Collier’s public criticisms. Engelbert met with the media prior to the Draft, and she had a lot to address.

It began with a conversation about the Connecticut Sun sale. Engelbert noted that during the expansion process, ownership groups from the Boston and New England areas did not submit bids for their own teams. She was asked what she would say to Sun fans who are frustrated with how the team sale went, and she called on them to support the team and said Connecticut is a great basketball state.

Cathy also mentioned that during CBA negotiations, she learned how important housing was to the players. Citing her two mid-20s children, Engelbert said she assumed housing wouldn’t be on the players’ minds given the increased salaries, but she learned otherwise during the process.

As we noted following the CBA agreement, finding housing is difficult enough. But for athletes who change cities frequently or may even be staying somewhere on a very short-term basis, finding housing is even more challenging. It’s good to see that the players’ views made an impact on her.

However, the moment of the presser came when she was asked about her job security. Earlier this year, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver deflected when asked directly about Engelbert’s future as WNBA Commissioner past 2026. At the media availability, Engelbert was asked directly how much longer she anticipates being in this role. Here is her answer:

“I do crack up how everybody is focused on me. You should be focused on the hundreds of amazing women and thousands of women who run this league outside of myself. Our women owners, our women Board of Governors, and our women GMs and women head coaches, and my whole team of diverse women and men who are working hard every day to get the 30th season tipped off by May 8th.

But I appreciate that you're focused on me as well. I wonder whether you would ask that of a man, by the way. But I realize as women we get asked different questions than men do.”

It should be noted that after she wondered if the reporter (Madeline Kenney of the New York Post), Maddie immediately interjected and said she would. And if you’re familiar with Maddie’s excellent work, you know she isn’t one to hold back from asking tough questions of people in leadership positions.

Cathy Engelbert has had some rough moments. She’s struggled to build good relationships with players, tends to rely too heavily on corporate speak, and poorly addresses issues, etc.

As she enters a new season, all eyes will be on her to ensure the game heads in the right direction.

💰 MONEY MOVES

FREE AGENCY IS HEATING UP

Training camp is due to begin on April 19, but there’s still plenty of work to be done in free agency. Here are some of the big moves that have occurred since we last saw you:

• Skylar Diggins to the Chicago Sky

• Gabby Williams to the Golden State Valkyries

• Brittney Griner to the Connecticut Sun

• Alanna Smith to the Dallas Wings

• Brittney Sykes to the Toronto Tempo

I’m sure by the time we return with the next edition of the WBB Roundup, there’ll be even more moves to report on!

These players all join teams that are either transitioning into a new era, hoping to make a good first impression, and in the case of the Sun, wanting to end their final chapter on a positive note.

The WNBA off-season has been fascinating. Everyone's had to juggle a million things at once. Everything’s been moving at top speed with no signs of slowing down. And as we prepare for a historic 30th season, we’ll all have to adjust to the new landscape in the WNBA.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• The NY Liberty get to work in the WNBA offseason by Brian Fleurantin, The Local W

• [VIDEO] 2026 WNBA Draft: Flau'jae Trade SHOCKER, 1st Round Grades + More by We Need to Talk, CBS Sports

• [AUDIO] Reactions from the 2026 WNBA Draft by Seerat Sohi featuring Lucas Kaplan, The Ringer WNBA Show

• More than a seat at the table: Chiney Ogwumike is building the room with her voice by Rob Knox, The IX Sports

• Kiki Rice 'set the standard' for national champion UCLA, and now her WNBA Draft moment has arrived by Jack Maloney, CBS Sports

• Valkyries Report: Breaking down the Valkyries' hectic 2026 WNBA Draft by Marissa Ingemi, Valkyries Beat

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Subscribers will gain access to the Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

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🎙 ACROSS THE BRM NETWORK

THE EYE OF THE STORM

Photo via the Seattle Storm.

After two seasons, Nneka Ogwumike has decided to move on.

Late in the evening on April 9th, Ogwumike went to social media to announce that she will be leaving the Seattle Storm

Twitter tweet

In her two seasons with Seattle, Ogwumike made the All-WNBA Second Team twice and averaged around 17 points and seven rebounds a game.

With Ogwumike leaving, where will she go? Roberta Rodrigues of Tempestade Talk reports that Nneka is likely to return to the Los Angeles Sparks in free agency. Ogwumike spent the first 12 seasons of her career with the Sparks and won an MVP award along with a WNBA championship in 2016. With ownership invested in winning, and a new practice facility on the way.

This morning, a reliable source, Nneka’s sister and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, posted on social media, confirming what our BRM insider Rodrigues stated. All signs point to Nneka returning to the Sparks.

Twitter tweet

The Storm now finds itself staring down a rebuild. With Ogwumike officially leaving, all eyes turn to Skylar Diggins. Diggins appeared in 43 of 44 games for the Storm in 2025, playing through two torn menisci in her knee. What will Skylar do? Back to Roberta…

Twitter tweet

Oh my. If Diggins also leaves, the Storm will officially enter into a rebuild. It’s a fall from grace after they thought they were re-entering championship contention when they signed Diggins and Ogwumike in 2024.

With Noelle Quinn, Ogwumike, and Diggins leaving, Storm fans will have to get used to a brand new ballclub.

On the season premiere of Tempestade Talk, Roberta and Erica L. Ayala discussed the latest surrounding Seattle.

It’s a new day for the Seattle Storm. They are transitioning into a new era led by Dominique Malonga and their upcoming Draft pick.

The Storm won’t be contending for a title any time soon, but they should still be incredibly intriguing to watch.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🏀 Big business in Sin City!
The first million dollar contract in WNBA history has been signed.

☝️ The WNBA Draft is fast approaching
With the first pick, the Dallas Wings select...

💰 Money moves
WNBA expansion is officially here.

📰 What we’re reading
Some of our favorite writing that’s come across our desks.

💰 THE FIRST MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT

BIG MONEY IN LAS VEGAS

Jackie Young. Photo via the Las Vegas Aces.

Max contracts in the WNBA will be over one million dollars, and we have our first recipient.

On April 9, ESPN’s Alexa Phillippou reported that the Las Vegas Aces signed Jackie Young to a one year contract for $1.19 million. Young is the first player to receive a million dollar contract, and it’s a well deserved honor for Young. JY has been one of the best players in the WNBA in the 2020s and is someone that continues to get better every year.

Young will join A’ja Wilson as the Aces’ other million dollar player. As the Aces look to win their fourth championship this decade, Young and Wilson will be key to their success. Las Vegas has made sure to reward their players, and this agreement continues that trend.

☝️ WHO’S THE ONE?

THE DRAFT IS FAST APPROACHING

WNBA logo.

The WNBA Draft is around the corner, and everyone’s gearing up for the next generation of stars entering the league.

The league has sent out invites for players to attend the proceedings on April 13 in New York City. Draft Day is always full of activities for the new players and we’ll keep you posted on all the happenings around town.

Here are the list of invitees:

• Nell Angloma

• Lauren Betts

• Angela Dugalić

• Awa Fam Thiam

• Azzi Fudd

• Gabriela Jaquez

• Flau’jae Johnson

• Raven Johnson

• Gianna Kneepkens

• Ta’Niya Latson

• Cotie McMahon

• Olivia Miles

• Madina Okot

• Kiki Rice

• Marta Suárez

The Dallas Wings are on the clock and have a list of directions they can go with the first pick. Do they go with Lauren Betts following her amazing run with UCLA in the NCAA Tournament? Should they take Awa Fam? How about Azzi Fudd or Olivia Miles? Whatever direction they go will set the course for the rest of the evening.

For the players coming in, the new CBA will provide a lot more structure and financial security. The WNBA has grown exponentially and the CBA will provide rookies a solid foundation to build on/

"It's just a win for women and it's a precedent set and moving forward it'll only get better," Olivia Miles told USA Today on March 22. "It'll only grow and it means that women's basketball, women's sports in general is headed in the right place."

As we draw closer to the start of the WNBA season, the Draft will be a great night to celebrate the progress made in the 2020s. The game is in great hands and with awesome new talent joining the league, it will help the WNBA become even more daring and exciting.

💰 MONEY MOVES

THE WNBA OFFICIALLY EXPANDS

Photo by DJ Johnson on Unsplash

Over the summer, the WNBA announced that they were planning to expand to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. Now, it is official.

On April 9, the WNBA and NBA Board of Governors approved expansion into those three cities. Cleveland will return to the W in 2028. Before we get there, Cleveland is making sure their finances are in order.

In late March, the Cleveland team announced that they added ten new investors to the ownership team. The investors have experience in sports as they’ve previously invested in various NWSL teams. For Cleveland fans, although there’s a long way to go before Opening Day 2028, the excitement is through the roof.

“We don’t have a name, we don’t have a brand, we don’t have colors, we don’t have a mascot,” team president Allison Howard said. “Cleveland has just totally wrapped its arms around this team since we announced. I mean, we had 3,000 initial payments in the first 30 hours of announcing the team, and we really didn’t even publicize it. And so that’s actually a big reason of why we’re here now, over two years before we’re even going to start bouncing the basketball, is because of the success already of the team.

Things are looking up in Cleveland. They’ll be re-joining a WNBA that has grown exponentially. With the CBA settled, they won’t have to scramble to figure things out. And with ownership that will spend big, they’ll be able to make an impact as soon as they debut.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• WACTH: 2026 WNBA Mock Draft - We Need To Talk NOW podcast

• Rapid Reactions: WNBA Expansion Draft 2026 by Candace Pedraza, WNBA

• WNBA Draft: Why more rookies than ever will stick with their teams under the new CBA by Cassandra Negley, Yahoo Sports

• WNBA Free Agency 101: FAQs for the most expensive free-agent period in league history, which begins on April 6 by Jack Maloney, CBS Sports

• Bomani Jones: Young journalists can’t ‘build a brand through social media now like I did 15 years ago’ by Brendon Kleen, Awful Announcing

• WrestleMania 42 is the culmination of a women's wrestling evolution by Sean Coyle and Juliana Daddio, ESPN

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Subscribers will gain access to the Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀 A SHOCKER IN CHICAGO

ANGEL REESE HEADS SOUTH

Photo via Unrivaled.

And just like that, Angel Reese’s time in Chicago is over.

The sports world was in shock when Taylor Rooks broke the news that Reese had been traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream. We later found out that Reese was traded in exchange for Atlanta’s first round picks in 2027 and 2028.

It’s the beginning of a new era for the Dream, and following their franchise record 30 wins last season, they are looking to take the next step. And for Reese, this trade

“I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to join the Atlanta Dream organization,” Reese said in a statement. “I’m focused on continuing to grow my game, competing at the highest level, connecting with the fans, and giving everything I've got to the Dream.”

Reese joins an Atlanta club that features All-WNBA First Team member Allisha Gray, three time All-Star Rhyne Howard, Brionna Jones, etc. Under first year head coach Karl Smesko, the Dream were a much more proficient team from three point range in terms of attempts and percentage. They were also the best rebounding team in the WNBA last season.

Reese is one of the game’s greatest rebounders and a player that has worked to become more versatile on the offensive end as a point forward. This trade gives her a chance to take everything she’s been working on and take her game to a new level. With the dramatic increase in talent around her, Reese should be in line for a huge 2026.

For the Sky, this move represents another frustrating departure for a franchise level star. Dating back to the days of Sylvia Fowles and Elena Delle Donne, star players have sought to make their way out of Chicago and on to new teams and better working conditions. It’s another staggering indictment of this ownership group, and when you compare them to their peers in the WNBA, their efforts become even more frustrating to watch.

“While teams like the Aces and Liberty and Fever have become revenue juggernauts,” Nancy Armour wrote in USA Today, “more than getting a return on their investments into facilities, staff and support services, (Michael) Alter still operates the Sky as if it’s a charity project. And gets a comparable return.

The Sky will supposedly have their own dedicated practice facility soon, but it had to be built for them, which reduces potential revenue streams. In the meantime, they’re still practicing at a suburban rec center, with players sharing a locker room with grandmas who just finished water aerobics.”

The Sky continue to make unforced errors. They don’t hold on to talent. They don’t provide support necessary to compete. And they’ve managed to alienate the hometown fans. The Reese trade should be cause a moment of reflection, but they’re too stuck in their ways to change.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🏀 UCLA finishes the story
The Bruins make history in resounding fashion.

📝 A late night shocker!
Satou Sabally is reportedly set to leave the Phoenix Mercury.

📝 Money moves
With a new WNBA CBA, a controversial program in Las Vegas has ended.

📰 What we’re reading
Some of our favorite writing that’s come across our desks.

🏆 UCLA FINISHES THE STORY

A BRUIN DELUGE IN PHOENIX

Photo by Ross Turteltaub/UCLA.

After 48 years, UCLA is finally back on top of the mountain.

Following a gritty win over Texas in the Final Four, Cori Close’s UCLA Bruins had one more road to cross. Standing across from them were the mighty South Carolina Gamecocks. Dawn Staley’s club won an emotional, intense matchup against Connecticut that was overshadowed by the controversy involving the two head coaches at the end of the game. With a chance at their third championship this decade, could UCLA finish the story and finally capture their first NCAA title?

What we thought would be a main event match turned into a squash match.

UCLA led from wire to wire as they outplayed and outworked the Gamecocks on both sides of the ball. The Bruins won the rebounding battle by 14, held Ta’Niya Latson to only four points, made Joyce Edwards into a non-factor, and forced the Gamecocks to rely on jump shooting from their centers to provide offense. It was a dominant performance that cemented UCLA’s place in history and closed the chapter on the 2025-2026 season.

Final score: UCLA 79, South Carolina 51

Our very own Erica L. Ayala was on site at the Final Four and broke down UCLA’s dominance on We Need to Talk.

On the latest edition of Gotta Get Up, Erica and I broke down UCLA’s excellence among many other topics

This UCLA victory is a testament to perseverance. They grew together over the years and stayed together despite heartbreaking losses. Their dominance this season was historic and as their players move on to new adventures, they leave a lasting legacy in college basketball.

🌎 AROUND THE WOMEN’S HOOPS LANDSCAPE

THERE’S A LOT GOING ON RIGHT NOW

Photo via Unrivaled.

In a late night stunner, the world learned that Satou Sabally will apparently be leaving the Phoenix Mercury.

Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports reported that Sabally is not expected to re-sign with the Mercury.

Satou Sabally is not expected to re-sign with the Mercury, multiple sources tell me. Meetings with multiple teams are anticipated over the coming days when negotiations open up tomorrow.

— Annie Costabile (@anniecostabile.bsky.social)
2:40 AM • Apr 8, 2026

Where will she land next? Time can only tell, but we might have more news to share in the next edition of the Women’s Basketball Roundup. Stay tuned!

Here are some other headlines making waves across women’s basketball:

• Following a surprise run to the Sweet 16, the University of Virginia fired head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton for fostering a “toxic” environment, among others. UVA announced on April 7 that Aaron Roussell will be the new head coach.

• Staying in the DMV area, the Washington Mystics surprised the WNBA world when they fired General Manager Jamila Wideman after one season on the job.

• We’ve discussed the stunning fall of the Tennessee Volunteers, and following the entry of Jaida Civil into the transfer portal and top prospect Oliviyah Edwards deciding against enrolling at UT, the Vols are down to only one player on the roster.

• Continuing in the SEC, the University of Texas will look radically different next season following the news that Aaliyah Crump, Justice Carleton, and Aaliyah Moore have entered the transfer portal.

The news will be coming in fast and furious, and we’ll have everything you need here at Black Rosie Media!

💰 MONEY MOVES

CLOSING A TAB

Photo by tim vfx on Unsplash

The Las Vegas Aces will finally get a chance to avoid trouble with the WNBA league office.

Over the past two years, Aces players have received sponsorships from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). These sponsorships, worth $100k per player, is designed to have them promote the city of Las Vegas, attend major events that are in town, and get the players some well deserved money. The WNBA has been investigating this relationship since 2024 due to concerns it is a way to circumvent the salary cap, but there have been no updates on the status of the investigation.

As it turns out, 2025 was the last year of the program. Calling the program a “bridge” before the new CBA was agreed to, the LVCVA announced that the program will not return in 2026.

“Where we got the big bang of value was at the announcement,” LVCVA President and CEO Steve Hill told the Las Vegas Review-Journal." “The players did great, certainly followed through on that commitment to put a spotlight on Las Vegas. But a lot of what we do in marketing, where we get the biggest impact is when it’s new and exciting and different. Repeating that year after year just doesn’t provide that.”

The LVCVA program accomplished its goal. With WNBA players being underpaid, it put money in their pockets while boosting their profiles. With the new CBA, players will earn more money and have more financial security while maintaining their star power. Good job all around.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Powell: Jonquel Jones intends to re-sign with NY Liberty by Brian Fleurantin, NetsDaily

• Angel Reese’s trade another example of Chicago Sky’s inability to hold onto stars by Shakeia Taylor, The Athletic

• For former UCLA player turned assistant Michaela Onyenwere, NCAA title is sweet by Sean Hurd, Andscape

• UCLA crushes South Carolina to win NCAA women’s basketball national championship by Marisa Ingemi, Los Angeles Times

• Pac-12 Women's Basketball Finds its Epilogue In UCLA's National Title by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• The MTV Rewind: 1996 MTV Video Music Awards Review by Kat Bourne, Katstack

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀 SOUTH CAROLINA MOVES ON

HIGH STAKES AND HIGH DRAMA IN PHOENIX

Photo via the NCAA.

Final score: South Carolina 62, Connecticut 48

Connecticut’s dreams of going back-to-back melted in the Phoenix heat.

In our preview of the Connecticut vs. South Carolina matchup, I wrote the following:

“For South Carolina to get over and through Connecticut, they will need to dominate the rebounding category. The Gamecocks were seventh in the country in rebounding this year, led by Madina Okot in the middle. If SC is able to control the boards and create extra possessions on offense, it will help keep Connecticut at bay and force them into playing their style...”

The number of the game was 15.

That was the margin in favor of South Carolina in the rebounding category. SC grabbed 14 offensive rebounds and won the points in the paint matchup 34-20. Connecticut could not find success in the paint and scoring was incredibly hard to come by.

Connecticut’s 48 points were their lowest in a game since… 2022 when South Carolina held them to 49 points in the National Championship game. The dynamic duo of Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong could not find it tonight as well. Fudd’s recent struggles continued as she shot under 50 percent from the field for the fourth time in the past five games. Strong had her worst game of the season as she shot just 4-16 from the field.

Prior to the fourth quarter, Geno Auriemma spoke with ESPN’s Holly Rowe and objected to the foul discrepancy, free throw discrepancy, among other things

Geno Auriemma: "There were 6 fouls called that quarter. All of 'em against us. And they've been beating the sh*t out of our guys down there the entire game... This is ridiculous. Their coach rants and raves on the sideline, and calls the referees some names you don't wanna hear."

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing.bsky.social)
12:58 AM • Apr 4, 2026

It didn’t end there as there was a fracas during the handshake line between Auriemma and Dawn Staley in the final seconds of the game. The moment between the two coaches was part of the postgame discussion as people tried to figure out what happened.

"I have no idea," South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley said. "But I'm going to let you know this, I'm of integrity. I'm of integrity. So if I did something wrong to Geno, I had no idea what I did.”

“There are a lot of things that happened in that game,” Auriemma said. Unless you’re on that sideline, you have no idea what’s what’s happening on that sideline.”

Auriemma released a statement Saturday, apologizing to South Carolina.

After sleeping on it, the winningest coach in NCAA Basketball seems to have come to his senses. However, is the statement too little, too late?

Reply to this email with your thoughts on the matter!

Either way, South Carolina moves on and Connecticut heads to the off-season.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🏀 Final Four, take 2
Who will be joining South Carolina in the Final?

📝 Expansion Draft results
The WNBA Expansion Draft is complete as the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire start putting their rosters together.

📰 What we’re reading
Some of our favorite writing that’s come across our desks.

🏀 ONE MORE SHOT AT HISTORY

CAN UCLA FINISH THE STORY?

Photo via UCLA.

Following South Carolina and Connecticut, Texas and UCLA took center stage. It was a gritty, bruising matchup that came down to the final moments as both teams desperately tried to find enough offense to survive.

It was a frustrating night for both offenses as shots that would normally go in just bounced off the rim, there were a lack of foul calls, and the rhythm felt… rugged. That’s usually how it goes in postseason games so UCLA and Texas were part of a long tradition across basketball history. The game wasn’t as aesthetically pleasing as the teams would have liked to delivered on such a huge stage.

“It wasn’t the sport I thought I was coaching,” UCLA head coach Cori Close said. “I think it was more rugby than it was basketball. I wanted to apologize to all the fans that we couldn’t give them a cleaner game, with 23 turnovers.”

In a game like this where the margins are so close, you need your best players to step up, and that’s what UCLA received from their leader and likely WNBA Draft lottery pick, Lauren Betts. Betts has been essential to UCLA’s run to the Final Four and with Texas trying to pull off a miracle late, Betts made the play of the game.

What a block from Lauren Betts on Madison Booker

— CJ Fogler (@cjzero.bsky.social)
3:44 AM • Apr 4, 2026

That block exemplified the struggles Booker had on the evening. She shot a career worst 3-23 from the field with zero free throw attempts. Despite her best efforts, she couldn’t power her team to the win and their first National Championship appearance in 40 years.

It was a wild night of basketball, and Black Rosie Media’s very own Erica L. Ayala was on the scene in Phoenix to break it all down on We Need to Talk with Alicia Jay:

UCLA moves on and has a chance to win their first NCAA Title on Sunday afternoon. Can they finish the story? We’re about to find out.

Final score: UCLA 51, Texas 44

📝 THE WNBA EXPANSION DRAFT IS COMPLETE

THE LIBERTY HAVE SOME STARS SET TO RETURN

Nyara Sabally. Photo via BSE Global.

Before Final Four Friday tipped off, the WNBA finally held its expansion draft. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire have started to put their teams together, and some familiar faces will be heading to new places.

With the first pick in the expansion draft, the Portland Fire selected Bridget Carleton from the Minnesota Lynx. As a do everything forward and steady performer, Carleton was essentially to the Lynx’s success in recent years and will be a feature player in her new city.

”Bridget really stood out,” Portland Fire General Manager Vanja Černivec said. “We wanted secure her to make sure she is on our roster, and the way to do that was to take her No. 1. Bridget is someone everyone wants to play with. What she brings on both ends of the floor, we’re very excited.”

The Fire were able to supplant the roster with players such as Carla Leite, Luisa Geiselsöder, Haley Jones, Chloe Bibby, etc.

With their first pick, the Toronto Tempo selected Julie Allemand from the Los Angeles Sparks. Following that pick, the Tempo filled the roster out with solid players such as Marina Mabrey, Nyara Sabally, Aaliyah Nye, etc. As they build their inaugural roster, these additions speak to the type of team they want to build.

“Our goal was to construct a roster that reflects the style of play and culture we want to establish — one that balances competitiveness with long-term flexibility, and features players who bring versatility, toughness and winning experience,” Tempo General Manager Monica Wright Rogers said. “This group gives us the ability to compete from Day 1 while continuing to build, and embraces the opportunity to help shape something new in a new country as Canada’s first WNBA team.”

When will WNBA free agency begin? Who knows! Thankfully for the Fire and Tempo, they’ve been able to start putting their rosters together and have something to present to free agency once that starts. Opening Day is closer than we think, and the clock is ticking.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• NY Liberty lose Nyara Sabally in expansion draft to Toronto Tempo by Brian Fleurantin, NetsDaily

• WNBA expansion draft winners and losers: Portland’s depth, Toronto’s future scoring by Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic

• UConn's undefeated season dissolves into tears, tension thanks to South Carolina by Meghan L. Hall, USA Today

• Transfer Ta'Niya Latson rises to big role in South Carolina's upset of UConn by Mitchell Northam, USA Today

• Final Four 2026: Lauren Betts, UCLA shut down Texas in 'ugly' game to reach national championship by Ryan Young, Yahoo Sports

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

COMPETITION IS HEATING UP!

WHO WILL STAND ON TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN?

Image via the NCAA.

Four teams, four unique stories, four chances to make history. Our five month women’s college basketball journey ends at the Final Four!

In the first matchup, we have a rematch between the last two National Champions. South Carolina captured the title in 2024 while Connecticut won it all in 2025. For Connecticut, they had to go through South Carolina in order to do it.

In fact, the win was so resounding that in postgame, head coach Dawn Staley kept it real:

A year later, these teams meet again. However, the past will have no bearing on this clash of titans tonight.

"I wouldn't say chip on the shoulder,” South Carolina’s Raven Johnson said. We have one goal, that's to get to the national championship. They're in our way of getting to the national championship. I think that's how we're thinking of it. It wouldn't matter if they were UConn, if they were Benedict College, it doesn't matter. They're in our way."

For South Carolina to get over and through Connecticut, they will need to dominate the rebounding category. The Gamecocks were seventh in the country in rebounding this year, led by Madina Okot in the middle. If SC is able to control the boards and create extra possessions on offense, it will help keep Connecticut at bay and force them into playing their style. Jana El Alfy helped Connecticut on the boards against Notre Dame and don’t be surprised if Geno Auriemma turns to her again to help counter South Carolina’s size.

For Connecticut, they will look to beat the Gamecocks from deep. The Huskies are second in the nation in three point percentage at 38.7 percent and take almost 24 three pointers a game. Although South Carolina is fourth in three point percentage, they only take 16 three pointers a game. South Carolina’s offense has reached new heights this season, and if this turns into a high scoring affair, they will be prepared to adjust.

Led by two iconic coaches, UConn and South Carolina set the standard for college basketball. They’re the last two champions and will remain contenders going forward. With the stakes at its highest, we’ll see who presses the right buttons to get their team into the Final on April 5.

In the nightcap, Texas will take on UCLA. Even though the Longhorns were a one seed, they dealt with their share of adversity this season. Following a disappointing loss to Vanderbilt, head coach Vic Schaefer called out his team, questioned their heart, etc. It was a tough time for the Longhorns and their lowest point of the season.

Since then, the team has righted the ship. They’ve won 12 straight games and are peaking at the right time. Schaefer’s words have driven the team and is pushing them to be even better.

"I feel like everyone on this team was kind of just mad," Texas forward Madison Booker told CBS Sports. "We didn't like the words that he said and thought of us, so we went and changed it. We made sure that he would never, ever have to say through his mouth, through his lips, that this team has no heart. Because we honestly do."

That heart and toughness will be essential against an experienced UCLA ballclub. Led by their six seniors, the Bruins have been dominant throughout the season and made a case to be the number one overall seed in the Tournament. Their only loss this season came to Texas during the Players’ Era Tournament in Las Vegas. The defeat taught UCLA some valuable lessons that they hope to apply to the rematch.

“It’s not one person versus Texas, it’s a full team.,” UCLA center Lauren Betts said. “You know, we as a team are trying to beat them. So, I think, just coming out with a certain level of aggression is going to be really important, and I’m going to make sure that I do that from the very beginning.”

For Betts, that starts with making the paint her home. She only scored eight points in the first meeting, but has been excellent otherwise throughout the regular season and in the NCAA Tournament. She has shot at least 60 percent from the field in each Tournament game and has blocked ten shots in her last two games. Kyla Oldacre will have the tall task of slowing Betts down one more time, and if she’s successful, it will throw a big wrench in Cori Close and UCLA’s plans.

History will be made tonight. It’s been 40 years since Texas last played in a National Championship game while UCLA has never made it to an NCAA final. For as momentous as the moment will be for the winner, they’ll have one more mountain to scale on Sunday afternoon.

With so many rich storylines to discuss, our Erica L. Ayala is on the scene in Phoenix and joined a special Final Four edition of We Need to Talk with Alicia Jay, Lisa Leslie, and Renee Montgomery!

The season has built to this moment. These were the top four teams entering the season and they’re the last Four standing.

It should be a fantastic Final Four and we can’t wait to watch the game’s greats take center stage.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🌪 Exodus in Ames
Iowa State is at a moment of truth following the departure of their superstar.

🗽 Laying the groundwork
The WNBA offseason is starting soon, and the New York Liberty have some key players ready to return.

💰 Money moves
Connecticut’s investment in basketball continues to pay off.

🌪 EXODUS IN AMES

The Iowa State Cyclones will look radically different going forward

Audi Crooks. Photo by Photo by Luke Lu/Iowa State University.

Audi Crooks has been an institution in the state of Iowa. An Algona, IA native, she has been a staple in the community and one of the best players in Iowa State history. However, she has decided to start over.

On April 2, Alexa Phillippou of ESPN reported that Crooks placed her name in the transfer portal. Crooks is the eighth player on the 2025-2026 team to enter the portal this offseason. The Cyclones had gotten off to a tremendous start earlier in the year, but steadily lost their footing and were eliminated in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

It was a frustrating end to another fantastic season for Crooks. However, she is grateful for her time and will always call Iowa home.

"I still believe the grass is greener where you water it, and I've done that here,” Crooks wrote in her goodbye message. “It's why I want you to hear from me directly that I have decided to enter the portal and explore what it means to take root again in new ground."

For Iowa State, they have to rebuild quickly. Their Athletic Director, Jamie Pollard, posted a video on social media and discussed the departures across the program

Twitter tweet

Head coach Bill Fennelly thanked his departing players in a message and promised ISU fans that they will have a team that they can remain enthusiastic about. It’s a hard task, but one he and the University will have to get right if they want to be competitive next season and beyond.

Audi Crooks has reached a critical moment. She’s one of the best players in the game. Now, she’s looking to find a team where she can succeed & boost her WNBA draft odds. She has a lot of pressure on her shoulders and will have all eyes on her.

What will she do? Time will tell.

🗽 SOME GOOD NEWS IN NEW YORK

THE LIBERTY HAVE SOME STARS SET TO RETURN

Photo via Brandon Todd/NY Liberty.

We don’t know when WNBA free agency will begin, but the New York Liberty won’t have to worry about two of their best players leaving town.

Breanna Stewart removed any sense of doubt when she announced on her podcast, Game Recognize Game with Stewie and Myles, that she was going to stay with the Liberty.

“I’m not planning on taking any free-agency meetings even though I am an unrestricted free agent,” Stewart said on the show.

“My family is set up here. We’re solid here. … I’m gonna be back here in New York, and that’s all there is to it. So good luck to everyone else in free agency, but I’m not a part of that.”

While at Team USA camp in Phoenix, Sabrina Ionescu mentioned that she’s where she’s supposed to be and will be returning to the Liberty as well.

"I feel like that's something that we can kind of hang our hats on and knowing we obviously have a new coaching staff that's coming in, which is going to be a lot of new change, but I think being able to understand we have our core coming back and continuing to add new pieces is going to be really exciting as well, to see how we can continue to get back to a championship team," Ionescu said.

As we discussed in the most recent episode on Gotta Get Up, the Liberty have a lot of questions they need to figure out this off-season as they enter the new season with Chris DeMarco as head coach.

The Liberty hope to get back to contention. As they enter a new era, they hope the foundation they’ve built helps them adjust to the new WNBA.

Having Stewart and Ionescu returning will go a long way in helping New York return to the top of the WNBA mountain.

💰 MONEY MOVES

A CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLE PLAY?

As the Connecticut Huskies look to capture championships in women’s and men’s basketball, the school’s level of investment in basketball has come under focus.

Chantel Jennings of The Athletic reports that in 2025, UConn spent $34.5 million on its basketball programs compared to $20.5 million for the football program. It’s a refreshing change of pace compared to the rest of the NCAA landscape as college football and the college football playoffs have been the driving factor behind much of the conference realignment of the 2020s. Football is king in the United States and every other entity is fighting for the funds left over. Fortunately, there are some institutions that believe in prioritizing other sports and will properly invest in them across the board.

Success begets success, and UConn’s excellence on the court has translated to the box office. From Jennings’ report:

“On the women’s side, UConn’s $8.5 million revenue leads the way among Final Four teams and, per Sports Business Journal, it’s nearly double the Huskies’ revenue from 2023.”

Connecticut was also one of the leaders in the nation in attendance at 12,375, trailing only South Carolina and Iowa. With their home arena set to undergo renovations, there’s a chance the attendance and revenue will rise even higher.

When you invest in a good product, good things happen. That support gives the talent room to focus and do their best.

Connecticut’s investment in basketball continues to pay off and with a chance at two championships this weekend, they can remain one step ahead of their peers.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• [VIDEO] Jen Rizzotti on the Connecticut Sun's final season, Houston Comets return, + a new era for the WNBA by In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams

• UT Women’s Basketball Could Win March Madness. It Wouldn’t Be the First Time. by Jessica Luther, Texas Monthly

• Audi Crooks landing spots: Iowa State star entering transfer portal, so where could she end up? by Jack Maloney, CBS Sports

• Raven Johnson’s winning compass guiding South Carolina as it seeks revenge over UConn by Madeline Kenney, New York Post

• UConn women’s basketball, South Carolina face off for clash of dynasties in Final Four by Emily Adams, Hartford Courant

• Why halftime speeches aren’t always necessary for UCLA’s Cori Close by David Mendez-Yapkowitz, The IX Sports

• Audi Crooks landing spots: Iowa State star entering transfer portal, so where could she end up? by Jack Maloney, CBS Sports

• The Ride of a Lifetime by Ace Anbender, The Bucket Problem

• Are players nostalgia-baiting too? by dxnmuk, Substack

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰 THE CONNECTICUT SUN HAVE BEEN SOLD

THE SUN SETS IN UNCASVILLE

Image via the Connecticut Sun.

After a months long journey, the Connecticut Sun have been sold.

On March 27, Paper City Magazine reported that the Sun have been sold to the Fertitta family. ESPN’s Alexa Phillippou reported that the team was sold for $300 million, however the current Sun ownership will apparently not receive relocation fees.

If the name Fertitta sounds familiar, you might recognize them as the owners of the NBA’s Houston Rockets. And this ownership will be moving the Sun from Uncasville to Houston starting in 2027. The sale signifies the end of the Sun’s history and rebirth of the Houston Comets.

For fans in Houston, this moment calls for celebration as the WNBA’s original dynasty returns. For the basketball community in the New England, it’s a moment of sadness, disappointment, and frustration.

"I think the people at Mohegan Sun, I think they stepped up when they were needed and brought a team to Connecticut as Connecticut deserves to have a team, because we're a proven basketball, women's basketball (fanbase), you know, where people will support women's basketball," UConn head coach Geno Auriemma said. "So them now moving, yeah, I think it leaves, a void.”

If the WNBA and NBA offices have their way, that void will be filled by Boston during the next round of expansions. From Tom Friend of Sports Business Journal:

“Boston obviously has an NBA arena, too, but sources said the WNBA was willing to pass on them in the near team with the expectation the city would be in line for an expansion team in the early 2030s — when, by then, W franchises could sell for $400M to $500M.”

Throughout the process, the league office has deterred Boston based owners from buying the Sun and moving them to a new city. As we’ve discussed here at the Women’s Basketball Roundup, NBA owners get priority treatment when it comes to acquiring WNBA franchises, and this move is the latest in a long trend.

Sun fans are left with an awkward and uncomfortable situation as they watch their team for the final time in 2026. There will be games in Hartford, CT and Boston this year, and the atmosphere promises to be emotional. For Cathy Engelbert and the league office, the atmosphere will be… well it’ll be something!

The WNBA should have handled this situation better. Connecticut was a strong market when others abandoned the league. Their contributions helped the league stay afloat even during tough times. However, the lure of an original city and NBA dollars made the Sun a non-starter for this era of the WNBA.

As Houston returns to the league, we should take a moment to appreciate what Connecticut did and challenge leadership in the WNBA and NBA to be better.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🏀 From Sweet to Elite
Who’s heading to the Final Four in Phoenix?

🎙 Across the BRM Network
The “Gotta Get Up” podcast is back and there’s a lot to cover

💰 Site issues
The NCAA’s new format is still causing trouble.

🏀 ELITE HOOPS ON DIPLAY

The Tournament continues to deliver amazing moments

2026 Women’s Final Four logo.

We are down to Four.

The Elite Eight tipped off on March 29 with Connecticut taking on Notre Dame. It’s been over a year since UConn last lost a game and they are looking to simultaneously go back-to-back and undefeated. Led by the amazing Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame has been on a terrific run throughout the Tournament.

The Fighting Irish made things tough on the All-American duo of Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd. Fudd only scored 13 points and tied a season high with five turnovers. Strong shot under 50 percent from the field for the first time since a UConn victory over Marquette on Valentine’s Day.

However, Blanca Quiñonez had the best game of her career with 20 points off the bench and although she only scored four points, Jana El Alfy’s four offensive rebounds in the third quarter helped keep Notre Dame. From there, the Huskies were able to keep the Fighting Irish at bay as the game wound down to the finish line.

Final score: Connecticut 70, Notre Dame 52

The win secured UConn’s 25th appearance in the Final Four, the most in NCAA history. UConn has bigger goals at this stage of the game, but an accomplishment like this is certainly worth appreciating.

Later on Sunday, 1 seed UCLA faced their biggest test of the season. Duke’s resurgence has been one of the biggest stories of the women’s basketball season and Kara Lawson’s club was riding high following a miraculous buzzer-beater by Ashlon Jackson against 2 seed LSU in the Sweet 16

Duke with the toilet bowl buzzer beater to reach the Elite Eight !!!

That basketball hung on the rim FOREVER !!!

#MarchMadness

— Daniel Thompson (@dr-thompson.bsky.social)
4:26 AM • Mar 28, 2026

In the Elite Eight, Duke got off to a tremendous start and led by double-digits for much of the game. However, UCLA’s experience and perseverance shined the deeper this game went. Angela Dugalic powered Cori Close’s team off the bench as her 15/6/4/2 got the Bruins back in the game and helped slow Duke down.

After intermission, the Bruins outscored the Blue Devils 39-19 after halftime and punched their ticket to their second consecutive Final Four.

Final score: UCLA 70, Duke 58

For Close and UCLA, they set a school record for victories in a season with 35. They’ve also won 29 games in a row and their only loss this season was to Texas in the Players’ Era Championship final.

On Monday night, the other number one seeds took the stage. In the first matchup, Michigan looked to make it to the first Final Four in school history. However, they were overmatched by an experienced Texas club that was the number one seed in their bracket. Texas took control early, never trailed, and held Michigan to a season low in points. Put it all together, and you’ve got yourself a resounding win for the Longhorns.

Final score: Texas 77, Michigan 41

And in the nightcap, TCU tried to do the impossible. Led by likely WNBA lottery pick Olivia Miles, the Horned Frogs jumped out to an early lead and gave South Carolina all that it could handle. As the game progressed, the Gamecocks’ depth and perseverance shined through. Powered by a superstar caliber performance from Joyce Edwards, the Gamecocks went on a 14-0 run to begin the fourth quarter and put the game out of reach.

Final score: South Carolina 78, TCU 52

It’s an all chalk Final Four, but also a repeat of last year’s Final Four as these four teams made it here in 2025.

Now that the best teams are left standing, we’re in for a special weekend. Whether it’s UConn looking to go back-to-back, South Carolina looking to get revenge for last year’s championship loss, Texas trying to reach the Final for the first time since 1986, or UCLA trying to reach their first NCAA Tournament final, there is a lot of history at stake. We’re in store for great basketball this weekend.

🏀 ACROSS THE BRM NETWORK

GEARING UP FOR A SPRINT

Image via BSE Global.

The women’s basketball calendar is packed beyond belief. Here are some of the events that are set to occur in April:

• April 3: WNBA Expansion Draft

• April 3-5: Final Four and National Championship game

• *April 7-12: WNBA free agency negotiations can officially begin

• *April 12: Teams can sign free agents

• April 13: WNBA Draft in New York City

• April 19: Training camp begins

• April 25: Preseason begins

• May 8: Opening Night in the WNBA

*NOTE: These are the last dates reported, but the league has not confirmed the free agency window.

Whew!

It’s a lot to handle all at once, and on the Season 4 premiere of Gotta Get Up, Erica L. Ayala and I bounced around the women’s sports landscape

From Phoenix to New York and everywhere in between, we’ll have you covered here at Black Rosie Media!

💰 MONEY MOVES

SITE ISSUES, PART II

NCAA logo.

In Issue 023 of the Women’s Basketball Roundup, we discussed the issue players and coaches have had with the NCAA’s decision to split the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight into two regionals instead of the four regionals that their peers on the men’s side have. It was a point of contention then, and it remains a point of contention this year.

This year’s regionals were in Sacramento, CA and Fort Worth, TX. Having two sites made it difficult for teams to get practice time on the court and the rest necessary to compete at their best.

The NCAA has decided that it will maintain the two site format until at least 2031. Safe to say, this decision has not been well received.

“Total attendance yesterday at both places - 18,000,” Geno Auriemma said at media availability on March 28. “If we had four regions, and you got a minimum 5,000 people… I think that comes out to 20,000. So, what are we doing here? Do you know when the last time they had a regional in the northeast?

“Probably because we were a No. 2 seed, and NC State was a 1-seed, and we had to play in Bridgeport. So, there will be no more regionals north of, I don’t know, I guess there’s one in Philly coming up. That’s just a personal pet peeve, because we’ve gone to the Final Four no matter where the regional was.”

The NCAA frequently drops the ball. We’ve seen them make basic errors and have to be shamed into providing the bare minimum for women’s basketball. This situation with the regional sites is another in a long, frustrating tradition.

Players and coaches have to always overcome their circumstances, but they shouldn’t have to.

As women’s sports continues to gain prominence, it’s up to powerful institutions like the NCAA to do better and provide real support for players and coaches.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Keia Clarke reflects on 30 years of the WNBA by Brian Fleurantin, The Local W

• [AUDIO] BREAKING NEWS: The Sun is Going to Houston! by Levels to This with Sheryl Swoopes and Terrika Foster-Brasby

• Déjà Bruins by Wyatt Crosher, The Hoopla Newsletter

• UCLA Returns to the Final Four With a More Confident Lauren Betts Leading the Way by Emma Baccellieri, Sports Illustrated

• For women's hockey fans, the league's first U.S. broadcast is a watershed moment by Kayla Hayempour, NBC News

• WNBA Players Had an Ace Up Their Sleeve in Pay Negotiations: A Nobel Laureate by Rachel Bachmann, Wall Street Journal

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀WNBA EXPANSION DRAFT DECISIONS LOOM

Image Credit: Toronto Tempo

The two-team Expansion Draft is set for April 3rd at 3:30 PM EST.

Similar to the 2024 expansion draft, it will air live on ESPN. However, this draft features two teams, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, who will officially begin building their rosters.

For months, people have been waiting for the WNBA league office to provide the rules of this double expansion draft. We finally have them, and this section in particular stands out:

Additionally, if a player is selected by either the Tempo or Fire, only those teams can offer the selected player a supermax contract.

The provision that only five players can be selected and previously cored players can be included is a change from the last expansion draft. When the Valkyries were drafting players, teams could protect six players, and players who had been core for two or more seasons could not be selected. 

These developments make the process for teams a lot more complicated.

As an example, the New York Liberty will have to protect Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart if they want to prevent them from getting selected and offered supermax contracts by either the Fire or Tempo.

Jones and Stewart are expected to return to the Liberty, but potentially losing out on offering their franchise stalwarts supermax contracts could create trouble for the Liberty.

There’s a lot to juggle, and on March 31, Erica L. Ayala and I will delve into all the expansion draft machinations on Gotta Get Up, a podcast for New York Liberty fans

Liberty GM Jonathan Kolb has amassed a fair share of depth over the years, and with a returning Betnijah Laney-Hamilton in 2026, the team has even more options to work with. However, he can only protect five.

With six players – Natasha Cloud, Sabrina Ionescu, Leonie Fiebich, Laney-Hamilton, Stewart, and Jones – along with key reserves like Nyara Sabally, a championship player will be left exposed and at risk of being selected by the Fire or Tempo.

Of course, with just about everyone being a free agent, they don’t have to sign with the expansion team if selected.

This WNBA off-season is all gas, no breaks. We’re on the fast track to Opening Night, and everyone has to figure out what they’re doing now.

As competition continues to rise, front offices have to ensure every decision is the right one.

The Lineup

Here’s what you need to know today:

🔏 Lock In: Saturday’s Sweet Sixteen Matchups Set for Must-Watch Drama
Can South Carolina get their lickback against Oklahoma?!

📺 Big Move: WNBA Coverage on CBS Levels Up
More games, more exposure, and a sign of where the league is headed.

💰 Money Moves: Dallas Wings Make a Statement Off the Court
A new facility signals bigger ambitions in Dallas.

🏀 Appointment Viewing: 4. Oklahoma vs. 1 South Carolina

Brian’s Game to Watch!

Sweet Sixteen Friday has four excellent matchups on deck, and the same can be said for Sweet Sixteen Saturday. Our focus today is on a rematch from earlier in the season as the SEC Rumble takes center stage.

Image via the NCAA.

Run it back!

On January 22, Oklahoma faced the University of South Carolina in Norman, OK. The game went into overtime before Aaliyah Chavez took over and powered the Sooners to a shocking 94-82 victory.

These teams meet again as Oklahoma aims to reach the Sweet Sixteen for the first time since 2010. Although these teams are familiar with one another, we shouldn’t draw too much from their late January meeting.

“It's not like we played this perfect game when we played South Carolina, and it's not like they played a perfect game and we just got them,” Oklahoma head coach Jennie Baranczyk said.

“That game was a long time ago. We're both different. We've both grown a lot at this point.”

If the Sooners want to pull off the upset, they’re going to need a career game from their star freshman. Aaliyah Chavez has been in a slump recently as she’s only shot above 40 percent from the field once in the past seven games. Chavez is a guard who can get her own shot at any time and heat up at a moment’s notice.

The Sooners will also need a huge game out of senior center Raegan Beers. South Carolina has been outrebounded in each of their three losses this season, and as a team, the Sooners are second in the nation in rebounding. Beers will have to battle the SEC’s leading rebounder, Madina Okot, on the inside and stay out of foul trouble tonight.

There’s always an extra pep in your step when you see a team that beat you once already. For the Gamecocks, they’re ready to get some payback as they look to make their sixth consecutive Final Four.

“I’ve been thinking a lot about Oklahoma ever since we lost to them,” Joyce Edwards said. “I feel like this team has a special place for people who we lose to.”

If the Gamecocks want to win, they’ll need huge games from Edwards and Raven Johnson. Johnson has been one of South Carolina’s most important players throughout her time in Columbia, and the future WNBA draft pick will be tasked with slowing Chavez down.

If Johnson and South Carolina are able to control the boards and make things tough on Chavez, they’ll be moving on to the next round.

The Sweet Sixteen promises to be incredible, and to break it all down, our own Erica L. Ayala joined Alicia Jay and Terrika Foster-Brasby to break it all down on the latest edition of We Need to Talk:

The Oklahoma vs. South Carolina has a date with the winner of TCU and Virginia in the Elite Eight.

Tip-off on March 28 at 5 PM on ESPN.

📺 THE WNBA AND CBS LOCK IN

A NEW DEAL SHOWCASES THE GROWTH OF WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Image Credit: WNBA.

The WNBA and CBS will be partners for the foreseeable future.

On March 25, it was announced that the two sides reached a “long-term” media rights agreement. As part of the new deal, CBS will increase its WNBA game inventory from eight to 20. Also, all of the games will be available on CBS and Paramount+, and no longer on CBS Sports Network.

Having your games on a channel everyone can access will go a long way toward helping the WNBA expand its cultural footprint.

The new agreement increases the WNBA’s reach and is a sign of where the league is going.

“The WNBA’s growth and cultural impact have never been stronger, and CBS Sports is proud to deepen our longstanding partnership with a league that continues to drive the evolution of women’s sports,” Dan Weinberg, CBS Sports Executive Vice President of Programming, said.

“With our entire schedule of games on broadcast television, we are broadening the league’s reach and amplifying the WNBA’s momentum with best‑in‑class coverage that reflects the excellence of its athletes and resonates with fans.”

Similar to the WNBA’s agreement with ION, this agreement is independent of the NBA and the 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights agreement signed in 2024 with Disney, Amazon, and NBC Universal.

2026 will be huge for the WNBA. The CBA is complete, fan excitement is through the roof, and the games will be even more accessible to viewers.

This CBS partnership is another win for the league, and we should be in store for something special this spring.

💰 MONEY MOVES

THE LATEST ON THE DALLAS WINGS PRACTICE FACILITY

Dallas Wings logo.

Throughout the winter, the Dallas Wings have been pushing to build a practice facility. The team has run into trouble because the Dallas City Council has questions about the facility's costs and when it will be built.

We’re starting to get more clarity.

On March 26, the Dallas Morning News reported that it will take over construction of its new practice facility from the city of Dallas and will be responsible for building it. The facility costs $81 million, and the city will cover $57 million, with the Wings franchise covering the remaining costs going forward.

The Dallas City Council voted 13-2 in favor of this arrangement, with the two no votes citing the high costs and desire to use the funds on community needs like libraries, etc.

The Wings are still aiming to have the facility up and running by April 2027, and real construction is expected to begin by the end of April 2026 at the latest.

For Wings fans, it’s been a frustrating saga, but everyone on the team is working to get this facility built.

“Despite the delays and the ups and the downs, we remain as committed as ever to our long-term partnership with the City of Dallas,” Dallas Wings CEO Greg Bibb said.

The Wings are hoping to level up. They want to contend and be a destination for players going forward.

That starts with a great practice facility and a strong relationship with the city of Dallas. If they’re able to accomplish both, the sky is the limit.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Are the Liberty Still Contenders? 2026 Roster Breakdown + WNBA Changes by Erica L. Ayala, Black Rosie Media

• Why Longhorns' Rori Harmon is the 'epitome of Texas basketball' by Dave Wilson

• LISTEN: Inside the 2026 WNBA CBA Negotiations by In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams

• WNBA Media Answers Draft Questions - Part 1 by Jeff Brown, Storm Chasers WNBA Journal

• A thorough review of Janiah Barker by Lucas Kaplan, Lucas’ W Newsletter

• Career Minor Leaguer Still in Big Leagues by Jen Ramos-Eisen, Placeholders

• Exclusive: The Jay-Z Interview by Frazier Tharpe, GQ

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀 MADNESS ACROSS THE NATION

THE STAKES ARE GETTING HIGHER IN THE NCAA TOURNAMENT

Photo by Ceci Young via the University of Minnesota

One weekend in, and this year’s NCAA Tournament is as wild as ever!

In Iowa, the 10th-seed Virginia Cavaliers pulled off a stunning double-overtime upset over the Hawkeyes on Monday afternoon. Despite how the journey ends for UVA, they’ve accomplished some magical firsts:

• First Tournament win in their first Tournament appearance since 2018

• First trip to the Sweet Sixteen since the year 2000

• Only First Four team to reach the Sweet Sixteen

Going from the First Four to the Sweet Sixteen is an incredibly challenging task, which makes this Virginia run all the more special.

“From the time we played Arizona State, we've been talking about one more, just fighting for one more,” Virginia head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton said.

“One more moment, one more memory, one more practice, one more game, one more team activity, whatever it is. That's what they were playing with. They were just fighting for one more.”

There’s been a lot of great hoops on display so far, and on the latest edition of We Need to Talk, Erica L. Ayala and Alicia Jay broke it down

Minnesota 65, Ole Miss 63

The UVA win wasn’t the only one that came down to the wire!

In Minneapolis, the Minnesota Golden Gophers trailed in the fourth quarter and rallied to take a late lead before Ole Miss tied the game at 63 on a Latasha Lattimore baseline drive. With three seconds to go, Amaya Battle became a Golden Gopher icon…

Amaya Battle!!!!!!!!!!!!! There is time on the clock, Minnesota leads by 2

— CJ Fogler (@cjzero.bsky.social)
8:11 PM • Mar 22, 2026

Minnesota advanced to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2005 and will face the number one seed, UCLA.

We also saw some WNBA Draft lottery picks say their final goodbyes to their home crowds.

In Connecticut, Azzi Fudd outscored the entire Syracuse team by herself in the first half (26-12) as UCONN dominated the Orange on the way to a 53-point victory.

In Baton Rouge, Flau’jae Johnson said goodbye to the LSU faithful as the Tigers dominated Texas Tech on the way to a 54-point victory.

One final time from the PMAC floor...

No. 4 Flau'jae Johnson 💜💛

— LSU Women's Basketball (Unofficial) (@lsuwbkb-mirror.bsky.social)
12:01 AM • Mar 23, 2026

More on LSU in a bit.

The stakes are getting higher. With the Final Four a week away, teams will put their best foot forward as they try to make history and stay one step ahead of the competition.

Who will survive the pressure? Time to find out.

The Lineup

What’s trending in women’s basketball right now:

🔏 Sweet Sixteen Showdown: Must-Watch Sweet 16 Matchup

Brian’s Pick of the Round is LSU vs. Duke. Can the Tigers repeat their performance from earlier this season? Or will higher seed Duke show what they’re all about?

🤔 Wait… the WNBA Is Playing Where? Phoenix vs. Chicago in South Dakota: 
The league heads to a new market—here’s what it signals for expansion, fan growth, and visibility.

💰 The WNBA’s Schedule Shift Could Change Everything
A deeper look at how calendar shifts could reshape the global women’s basketball economy.

🏀 Appointment Viewing: 3 DUKE VS. 8 LSU

We’re officially in the Sweet Sixteen, and one of the biggest matchups will be a rematch of a season-defining matchup from earlier this season.

Image via NCAA.

Run it back! Brian’s Game to Watch

On December 4, LSU went into Cameron Indoor Stadium and beat Duke 93-77.

The game was an early peak for LSU as they picked up a dominant road win before the calendar turned to conference play. For Duke, it was the low point of their season and capped off a dispiriting four-game losing streak.

Shortly after that loss, Duke ran off a 17-game winning streak, saved their season, and captured the ACC Conference Championship.

This is the seventh meeting all-time between the two schools, with the series tied 3-3, and their first NCAA Tournament meeting since 2010. For Duke, this is a chance to measure how far they’ve come and see if they can avenge their most disappointing loss of the season.

“I know how much we’ve improved throughout the year, all the things we’ve worked on, all the hard practices and all the hard times, especially after games at the beginning of the year,” Toby Fournier said.

“It was really difficult, but we were able to figure it out and figure out what we do well and how we’re able to work as a team. This game really helped prove the progress that we’ve had and all the things that we went through; it was worth it in the end.”

The game tips off in Sacramento, California, on March 27 at 10 PM EST on ESPN.

🚗 Wait …the WNBA is playing WHERE?

THE WNBA HEADS TO SOUTH DAKOTA

During CBA negotiations, the WNBA released the 2026 season schedules.

Now that the CBA is complete, we’re on the road to Opening Day. Before the big night on May 8, the preseason will take place in late April. And for the Phoenix Mercury, they’ll be taking their show on the road.

On April 25, the Mercury will host the Chicago Sky in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. To celebrate the occasion, Mercury players and coaches will host an all-girls youth basketball clinic on April 24.

This will be the first WNBA game ever to take place in the state and doubles as a homecoming for Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts. Tibbetts was born in Sioux Falls, played for the University of South Dakota, and served as an assistant coach at the University of Sioux Falls.

South Dakota isn’t known for their athletics, but their history might surprise you.

“We’re a very small state, so one thing I think people sleep on is the basketball in South Dakota,” Las Vegas Aces head coach and South Dakota native Becky Hammon said.

“Mike Miller is another South Dakota guy. Eric Piatkowski. ... Mark Ellis played Major League Baseball. We were in the same graduating class. That’s crazy to have two professional athletes in a school that size in a state that size. So that’s what we do. We do outdoors and sports.”

Games like this will help the WNBA grow. Taking the games and presenting them to fans who previously didn’t have access will go a long way in creating long-term fans.

It’s a perfect, low-risk opportunity that could lead to the highest possible rewards if everything goes right.

💰MONEY MOVES

EXPANDING THE CALENDAR

The WNBA CBA has been ratified by the Board of Governors, and we are officially on the road to Opening Day this May. As we look ahead to the future, we’re starting to get an early idea of how things will form.

ESPN’s Kendra Andrews and Alexa Philippou reported that under the new CBA, the latest season end date will be November 21. Along with that, the number of games per person will gradually increase over the next few seasons and

Faithful readers of the Women’s Basketball Roundup will recall last summer in issue 044 when we discussed the reporting from our own Erica L. Ayala and Terrika Foster-Brasby over at CBS Sports about the WNBA expanding the schedule.

Twitter tweet

"There's this thought that we shouldn't be playing on NFL Sundays,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said last summer. “We actually do better ... because people are sitting home watching sports," Engelbert said. "We're not scared of going further in (to the fall)."

The schedule poses some questions. Project B is debuting in November and features a lot of star power.

Players will also continue playing in various leagues during the WNBA offseason.

How will the new schedule impact players and leagues around the world? 

We're about to find out.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• The Social Justice Fund’s new partnership shines in Brooklyn by Brian Fleurantin, NetsDaily

• I Want To Be Here by Lauren Betts, The Players Tribune

• The Great NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament Home Site Debate by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• With historic new CBA, WNBA players' sense of lack is a thing of the past by Cassandra Negley, Yahoo Sports

• Muscular dystrophy took his mobility. His voice carried him to the Hall of Fame by Andrew Marchand, The Athletic

• The Houston We Are And The Houston We've Become by Shelby Stewart, Haus of Lean

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰MONEY MOVES

LEARNING THE DETAILS

The WNBA has a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, and we’re starting to learn what the terms are.

Revenue sharing had been the major sticking point in negotiations. The players wanted gross revenue share (money before expenses) while the WNBA wanted to pay via net revenue (money after expenses).

On the latest edition of We Need to Talk, Erica L. Ayala and Alicia Jay broke down everything we know about the CBA so far:

Marissa Ingemi of the Los Angeles Times reports that the players will receive 20 percent of gross revenue in the new CBA. It’s a dramatic gain for the players as they have fought for years to obtain that level of revenue and had to fight the WNBA throughout negotiations to reach that number. It’s not as high as their original ask of 40 percent, but they’ve established a baseline going forward and will likely never retreat from receiving gross revenue.

Housing was another front line item in negotiations, and the WNBPA came away with some victories there as well. Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports reports that teams will provide housing for all of its in the first three years of the CBA.

Once that time period concludes in 2029, players making under $500,000 will qualify for team-provided housing. Finding housing is difficult on its own, and can be even more tenuous for players that may not have permanent teams. This solution makes life easier for players and gives them more time to focus on doing their best on the court..

Players on rookie deals also come away as winners in the new CBA.

Costabile that the rookie minimum in the new CBA will be $270,000. Players who have 1-3 years of service are set to earn at least the minimum salary are set to earn at least $277,500.

For young players such as Leonie Fiebich, Nika Muhl, and Julie Vanloo, they will see immediate jumps in their pay and have their previous contracts upgraded to meet the new standards.

For star young players, they’re in line for a bigger prize. Meghan L. Hall of USA Today reports that players on rookie contracts that made All WNBA teams are eligible to sign to sign maximum contracts following their fourth seasons and are ineligible to receive core designations from their teams.

This issue will come to the forefront soon as 2025 All WNBA Second Team member, Aliyah Boston, is eligible to receive a max contract as she enters her fourth season in the WNBA.

The supermax is reportedly $1.4 million, and the game’s greatest player is set to cash in immediately. Callie Fin of the Las Vegas Review-Journal was first to report that A’ja Wilson is expected to sign a supermax extension once free agency begins. Wilson is the gold standard in professional basketball and will be one of the leaders as the WNBA enters a brave new world.

News of the agreement was met with praise and appreciation across the basketball landscape:

Twitter tweet

It’s a great time for the WNBA. Now that the CBA is complete, the business of the league can resume as we gear up for the 30th season.

We have to see how things play out under this new CBA, but so far things look promising. It's an exciting start to a hopeful future.

The Lineup

Here’s the news you’ll read in the rest of today’s newsletter:

🔏Lock in — Why NC State vs. Tennessee is the MUST-WATCH game of Round 1

🤔Tanisha Wright at Penn State — Is This the Move That Changes Everything?

🎬 Breaking Glass: Robin Roberts gives us the Pat Summitt story the World Needs to See

🏀 Appointment Viewing: NC State vs. Tennessee

Brian’s Game to Watch!

The NCAA Tournament is officially underway, and NC State vs. Tennessee is the must-watch game of Round 1! On paper it's a 10 vs. 7 matchup — in reality, it's a powder keg with a short fuse.

NC State is looking to go on another deep run. They’ve reached the Sweet 16 in six out of the past eight seasons and are two seasons removed from the first Final Four in team history.

Tennessee hopes a win can erase the nightmarish end to their season. They’ve faced mountains of questions and have failed to meet expectations. A win can help build goodwill towards the future. A loss would lead to an even more challenging offseason for Kim Caldwell.

Take it Back!

On November 4, Tennessee and NC State opened the season at the Greensboro Invitational. Both teams were ranked in the Top 10 and appeared destined for really good seasons. NC State finished fourth in a tough ACC slate while Tennessee went into a freefall to end the season.

Now that everything starts over at zero, we can throw the records out the window. However, there are lessons to take from the early November matchup.

“I think a lot of mistakes that we were making early on in the year we cleaned up,” NC State forward Khamil Pierre said. “Having better team chemistry, a better feel for the game. I think we've just come a long way. Individually, yeah, but also as a team.”

Managing possessions will be crucial in this matchup. Tennessee loves to full court press as it helps disrupt opposing offenses and force turnovers.

NC State is one of the best teams in the nation in terms of preventing turnovers and they will look to generate as many good shots on offense as possible.

The game tips off in Ann Arbor, Michigan on March 19 at 8:00p.m ET on ESPN.

🏀 PENN STATE GOT IT WRIGHT

Is Penn State Finally Serious About Women's Basketball?

Tanisha Wright. Image via USA Basketball

Following her dismissal from the Atlanta Dream in 2024, Tanisha Wright spent a year as an assistant coach under rookie head coach Tyler Marsh with the Chicago Sky. Now, coach Wright is moving back to the lead chair.

On March 19, the Penn State Nittany Lions women’s basketball team announced that they will be hiring Wright to be their new head coach. Wright takes over for Carolyn Kieger, who went 84-123 in seven seasons as head coach with one season above .500 and zero NCAA Tournament appearances.

Wright spent four years in Penn State as a student from 2001-2005 and was named a third team All American in 2005. After the hiring was announced, her alma mater shared the news on social media

Twitter tweet

“Penn State women’s basketball has a proud history, a strong tradition and a standard of excellence. Tanisha Wright embodies everything this program stands for. She is one of the greatest to ever wear a Lady Lion uniform, and she went on to spend 19 years competing and coaching at the highest level of women’s professional basketball, including winning a championship as a player,” Athletic Director Dr. Patrick Kraft said in a statement.

“As we begin this exciting new chapter with Coach Wright at the helm, her leadership, experience and deep connection to Penn State will be instrumental in building upon our proud tradition and returning this program to the national stage where it belongs.”

This job gives Wright a chance to rebuild her alma mater. She had success on the WNBA level and joins a school that's trying to find itself.

If this goes well, both sides will be able to benefit immensely.

📺 1ST LOOK AT BREAKING GLASS: The Pat Summitt Story

She Built the Foundation — Breaking Glass Honors Pat Summitt's Legacy

Pat Summitt. Image via the University of Tennessee.

Pat Summitt is one of the greatest coaches in basketball history. The legendary coach was an institution in Tennessee and her presence is still felt many years after her passing. This spring, we will get to learn more about the life and times of Pat Summitt.

On March 19, the trailer for “Breaking Glass: The Pat Summitt Story” was released

The documentary, executive produced by Robin Roberts and directed by Dawn Porter, will premiere on Disney Plus on March 29 with a worldwide airing on ESPN2 on April 5.

Pat was beloved by many in the basketball community, and Roberts’ participitation in this documentary takes on extra meaning for the Summitt family.

“I’m honestly grateful to Robin Roberts for making this happen,” Tyler Summitt said. “As I was growing up, Robin was like a family member, and there’s nobody better to tell my mom’s story than Robin Roberts.”

As women’s basketball continues to grow, fans will get to learn more about the people who laid the foundation.

Summitt’s impact will never be forgotten and this documentary allows fans of all ages and backgrounds to learn about one of the most important people in hoops history.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• The WNBA Players Didn’t Just Get Paid—They Took Control by Seerat Sohi, The Ringer

• The Orange Smoke Rises and the WNBA Has a CBA Again by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• Inside the final seven days of the WNBA CBA negotiations by Jackie Powell, The IX Sports

• [VIDEO] Episode 75: Pull Up with Lucas Kaplan by Myles Ehrlich and Owen Pence, Pull Up with Myles and Owen

• ABC should fill Sunday primetime window with women’s basketball after ‘The Bachelorette’ cancellation by Drew Lerner, Awful Announcing

• Dolores Huerta: “My Silence Ends Here” by Dolores Huerta, The Nation

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰MONEY MOVES

🏆 THE WNBA'S NEW CBA IS HERE — AND IT'S HISTORIC

At long last, it appears we have a new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement!

Early in the morning on March 18th, Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports broke the news we’ve all been waiting for

BREAKING: The WNBA and WNBPA have reached a tentative verbal agreement for a new CBA, sources tell me. Term sheet will now go to the players and WNBA Board of Governors for a vote to ratify the new agreement.

— Annie Costabile (@anniecostabile.bsky.social)
6:37 AM • Mar 18, 2026

It took about 100 hours of in-person negotiations in New York to get it done, but you got a sense that business was starting to pick up.

On March 17, Tom Friend of Sports Business Journal reported that the WNBA and WNBPA were about four percent apart on the revenue share split. Revenue splits appeared to be the biggest hurdle in these talks, and now that it appears to be resolved, we wait to see what the final terms are.

The last report indicates players will take 20% of revenue and a $7 million salary cap, up from $1.5 million. Early returns, these seem like wins for the players. The next step will be for the WNBPA and the league Board of Governors to officially ratify the agreement.

Per a @shamsbot.bsky.social report, the new CBA includes:

- New salary cap starting at $7 million, up from $1.5 million

- Average revenue share of nearly 20% across deal

- Supermax starting at $1.4M

- Average salary in range of $600K, minimum above $300K

— Meghan L. Hall (@itsmeghanlhall.bsky.social)
2:09 PM • Mar 18, 2026

As we wait for this process, we at Black Rosie Media will be keenly looking for and analyzing the details of this deal with respect to:

• Revenue percentage pre-expenses

• The impact on prioritization and International players

• Blanket standards for teams (Housing, player locker rooms & lounges, etc.)

• If the charter flights have been ratified

• Maternity & family planning benefits

• Retired players fund

The road to this moment has been taxing. The WNBPA had to find its resolve and manage pressure from all sides.

The WNBA had to step up and truly invest in the game and the players. A new CBA represents exciting new possibilities for all.

🏆TIME TO DANCE!

THE NCAA TOURNAMENT BEGINS

Image via NCAA.

The NCAA Tournament is officially here!

In a twist, the first 16 seeds were announced on Saturday afternoon during a full day of men’s college basketball action on ESPN. That set the stage for Sunday as the entire bracket was revealed. There was debate as to who would be the number one overall seed, and the undefeated UConn Huskies earned that distinction.

There are a lot of fascinating subplots in this year’s edition of the NCAA Tournament.

Connecticut’s quest to go back-to-back is at the top of the list as they try to complete a perfect season and be the first team to go undefeated and back-to-back since 2016. These will be the final games of Azzi Fudd’s college career and the likely Lottery pick will look to enter the WNBA in style.

South Carolina is looking to make the Final Four for a school record sixth consecutive season and capture their third championship this decade. Dawn Staley’s club is also looking to exact some revenge as Connecticut denied them their second straight championship last year. If they want to do so, they will more than likely have to go through UConn to do it, as they could potentially meet in the Final Four.

After the first Final Four appearance in school history, UCLA is looking to finish the story and capture its first women’s basketball national championship. Cori Close has kept her team unified and one step ahead of the competition as they dominated Big Ten play and captured the number two overall seed.

Tennessee is hoping the Tournament can cure its late-season woes. The Volunteers have lost seven straight games, and Kim Caldwell has faced a lot of criticism for her team’s freefall. If Tennessee wants to save its season, it’ll have to beat NC State in the first round before a likely showdown against the number two seed Michigan in Ann Arbor in the second round.

On an individual level, two star freshmen will be making their Tournament debuts. Aaliyah Chavez has been outstanding for the 4-seed Oklahoma Sooners, who were one of the better teams in the SEC this year. There were some rough moments early on, but Jazzy Davidson had a very good freshman season for a USC team that fought through various injuries and tough losses. Davidson is a bit banged up, but will play in the Tournament and do the best she can.

There’s a lot to dig into, and on the latest episode of We Need to Talk, Erica L. Ayala and Alicia Jay dove into the Madness

The First Four will serve as a nice appetizer to the main course, and here’s the schedule of action on March 18

The next few weeks will be outstanding. With everything on the line, teams and players will do everything they can to win and become household names.

The Road to the Final Four is officially underway, and we can’t wait to watch it unfold.

🌍 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS - It’s a Wrap!

WHICH TEAMS ARE BERLIN-BOUND?

Image via FIBA

The World Cup Qualifying Tournament is over! Up next, the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Germany. Here’s a recap of each of the four Qualifying Tournaments and who punched a ticket to Berlin:

With the Qualifying Tournaments concluded, here are the 11 teams that joined the five previously qualified teams in the field of 16 federations for the World Cup in Berlin:

• China

• Czechia

• France

• Hungary

• Italy

• Japan

• Korea

• Mali

• Puerto Rico

• Spain

• Türkiye

In the Puerto Rico, the United States completed a solid run of play with a 84-70 win against a game Spain club. Kahleah Copper led the game in scoring with 20 points and made four three-pointers.

A lot of eyes were on the Spanish club and likely Lottery pick, Awa Fam. Fam had a solid outing off the bench as she scored ten points and grabbed two steals in 19 minutes. New York Liberty international prospect Raquel Carreras shined as she tied Meg Gustasfon in scoring with 15 points. Carrera’s play will likely draw the eyes of the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire scouting departments ahead of the WNBA Expansion Draft.

Caitlin Clark looked increasingly comfortable as the tournament progressed, and was named MVP of the San Juan portion of the Tournament. Clark was also named to the All Star Five, joining Kelsey Plum (USA), Cecilia Zandalasini (Italy), Megan Gustasfon (Spain) and Imani McGee-Stafford (Puerto Rico).

In the Istanbul region, Australia was one step ahead of the competition. The Opals went 5-0 after surviving a great challenge from Canada, 82-76. Sami Whitcomb had another outstanding outing as she led the team in scoring with 23 points and helped steady Australia after Canada made it a two point game deep in the fourth quarter.

Whitcomb won MVP of the region and was joined in the All-Star Five by Kennedy Burke (Turkey), Mai Yamamoto (Japan), Aaliyah Edwards (Canada), and Dorka Juhasz (Hungary).

France went 5-0 in their Qualifying Tournament, but suffered a pretty big loss. Dominique Malonga suffered an injury in France’s game against Colombia and was later diagnosed with a concussion. All the best to Dom.

Janelle Salaün played outstanding ball as she was named MVP of the France region. In four games, she averaged almost 17 points and six rebounds a game while shooting 79 percent from the field and 61 percent from three point range. Salaün had a breakout 2025 season with the Golden State Valkyries and was able to build on that here in the tournament. She was also named to the All-Star Five alongside Leeseul Kang (Korea), Frieda Buhner (Germany), Victoria Maccaulay (Nigeria), and Marine Johannes (France).

And in China, Belgium set the pace as they went 5-0 and punched their ticket to Germany. Julie Allemand filled up the box score for the Cats as she took home MVP honors.

FIBA Basketball (@fiba) on Threads

MY EYES ARE HAVING A FEAST 🤩 #FIBAWWC

www.threads.com/@fiba/post/DV_VgOTDGcy?xmt=AQF02H11nkRMfxiJ6hc4HoryiQyyXew1AW92S25uWIRLBA

In this region’s All-Star Five, she was joined by fellow Belgian Cat, Emma Meesseman, Shuyu Yang (China), Maimouna Haidara (Mali), and Emma Cechova (Czech Republic).

The World Cup should be awesome this September. The Qualifying Tournaments served as a nice appetizer for the action this fall and with a chance at history on the line, each country will be sending their very best to capture the trophy.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• WNBA CBA agreed to in principle, max salary increases by four fold by Cydney Henderson & Meghan L. Hall, USA Today

• Why the WNBA CBA negotiations may be taking so long: Legal experts weigh in by Meghan L. Hall, USA Today

• [VIDEO] CBA Negotiations UPDATES from Behind-the-Scenes by Noa Dalzell, WNBA Today on CLNS

• From Vanderbilt to Notre Dame, UConn's Fort Worth 1 Region features plenty of storylines by Daniel Connolly, UCONN WBB Weekly

• #96: Projecting the 2028 Women's Team USA Roster by Michael Waterloo, Walking Bucket

• The World Baseball Classic, Team USA, and the war problem by Joshua Diemert, Pinstripe Alley

• 'It was meant to be': Bayley vs. AJ Lee connects the past, present and future of women's wrestling by Anthony Sulla-Heffinger, Uncrowned

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

 💰 MONEY MOVES

The Langham Standoff: WNBA CBA Talks Enter Uncharted Territory

Photo by Koty Moore on Unsplash

The WNBA-imposed March 10 negotiation deadline came and went — now what?

When you get more time for an assignment, it’s usually a good thing. The WNBA and WNBPA have more time for their assignment, but this doesn’t seem good, and it certainly came as a surprise to a lot of people.

In issue 098 of the Women’s Basketball Roundup, we discussed the WNBA’s deadline the league set. WNBA leaders stated a new CBA needed to be agreed to by then in order to prevent the 2026 schedule being negatively impacted. The date served as a guiding light of sorts as the sides picked up the pace and tried to get things back on track.

March 10 came and went with no deal, but the WNBA and WNBPA spoke of progress being made.

But the deadline, you ask? Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports provided more on that:

Well I’ll be darned.

The league and Players’ Association have been meeting for marathon sessions inside the Langham Hotel in Manhattan.

On the outside, our fearless reporter friends have braved the trickiness of false New York spring to keep up with the negotiations and report on any news that may trickle out of the high stakes proceedings

Day 3 of marathon WNBA CBA talks: Nearly nine hours of meetings down, hot drinks/caffeine in hand in case of another long night

— Alexa Philippou (@alexaphilippou.bsky.social)
11:42 PM • Mar 12, 2026

After three days of in-person sessions, the league has started to make some movement. However, one fundamental issue remains. Per Front Office Sports, the WNBA is offering “a higher salary cap but the same revenue-sharing system.”

As Erica L. Ayala and Professor David Berri discussed in an exclusive interview for Black Rosie Media, that’s a non-starter.

It’s great that the WNBA and WNBPA are still negotiating. They understand the importance of getting a deal done and a season on the books. While there’s been progress, there needs to be a lot more.

The money is there, now it’s just a matter of the league doing right by players.

 🏀 ROAD TO THE FIBA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP!

USA, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Belgium remain undefeated in Qualifiers

Image via FIBA.

The FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments are officially underway, and we’ve seen familiar faces shine for their home countries.

FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers Recap: Standings & Top Players 2026

Twenty-four women's basketball teams seek to earn the remaining 11 spots for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 in Berlin, Germany.

www.blackrosiemedia.com/post/fiba-women-s-world-cup-qualifying-tournaments-day-2-recap

In the France portion of qualifiers, Dominique Malonga is building on her time in Unrivaled and has led France to a 2-0 record in the group stage.

Dom scored 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds in just 19 minutes as France won 115-66 over the Philippines. Malonga continues to be a sensation and her highlights have awed basketball fans around the globe

Instagram post

In the Turkey region, Ezi Magbegor has been a force in the frontcourt for Australia. The 2024 Olympics bronze medalist helped the Opals rally from a nine point fourth quarter deficit to rally past a tough Japan team, 81-71.

Australia had a much easier time of it against Argentina as Magbegor’s 16/7/2/3/1 helped lead them to a comfortable 91-65 victory. The games represent a chance for Ezi to shine on the global stage after a somewhat disappointing 2025 with the Seattle Storm. As one of the best defenders in basketball, Magbegor can be a force every time she’s on the court. Another great outing will remind fans of why she’s such a special player.

In the China qualifiers, a young big is looking to find her way. Brazil is 1-1 in the group stage, but Kamilla Cardoso has been a shining light. Although she didn’t have a huge impact in their loss to Emma Meesseman and Belgium, games like that can be valuable learning lessons as she looks to enter the upper echelon of frontcourt players in the world.

The Belgian team is one of the best in the world and a threat to win the World Cup this fall in Germany. These qualifiers serve as a great opportunity for them to see where they are as a team before the stakes rise this fall and give them a first hand look at the competition.

With the games being broadcast on TNT Sports, basketball fans get to span the globe. There’s so much amazing talent out there and fans having more access helps grow the game and showcase the skills of the players.

It’s a long way to Germany, but we’re off to a great start.

Caitlin Clark DAZZLES in return to play

Drops Double-Double in USA Basketball debut after eight-month absence

After being sidelined for eight months, superstar Caitlin Clark returned to the hardcourt and dropped a double-double in her USA Basketball debut.

Impressive!

Caitlin Clark made her long awaited return to the court on March 11 in Puerto Rico with Team USA. Clark missed most of the 2025 WNBA season with a variety of injuries that dated all the way back to the 2026 Indiana Fever preseason.

Twitter tweet

Playing with a bunch of new players is always a challenge, but Clark is someone that has a history of picking up the pace and making great decisions when she has the ball in her hands. It makes the transition to the national team a bit easier and gives a guide as to how she’ll make the biggest impact.

“So I just try to come in and play as fast as I can, play up-tempo,” Clark said after the win against Senegal. “It's not like any of us are going to be playing 35 minutes. When you're out there, just compete as hard as you can. You give everything you’ve got.”

USA Basketball is the gold standard. The team hasn’t lost a game in decades and has endless amounts of talent.

As they transition into a new generation, stars like Clark will keep them a step ahead of the world. As the game continues to grow, the USA remains the team to beat.

🌟 THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR

THE DANCE IS A FEW DAYS AWAY

Image via NCAA.

March Madness is right around the corner, and the Selection Committee will have some tough choices to make.

This weekend, the NCAA Tournament brackets will be revealed. Connecticut is the only undefeated team remaining and will officially begin their quest to be the first team to go undefeated and back-to-back since the 2016 edition of UConn, led by Breanna Stewart.

Although Connecticut is undefeated, should they be the number one overall seed? The 31-1 UCLA Bruins have a pretty great case as our Erica L. Ayala discussed with Alicia Jay on We Need to Talk:

Once the seeds are announced, we’ll have a clearer picture as to what to expect and the road some of the preseason contenders will have to take to the Final Four.

March Madness is always excellent. There's no margin for error and the stakes are at its highest. Over the next month, we’ll watch these players shine in the biggest games of their lives as they chase history.

The road to the Final Four is challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

📺UPCOMING GAMES

THE WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS CONTINUE ON

Here’s the broadcast schedule for the World Cup qualifiers

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Recap: Standings & Top Players by Erica L. Ayala, Black Rosie Media

• PWHL to broadcast first national TV game in the US by Meghan L. Hall, USA Today

• A Night at the WNBA CBA negotiations — Behind the scenes of UCLA’s Big Ten title by Jackie Powell, The IX Sports

• After 51-point rout of Iowa in Big Ten final, can UCLA steal the No. 1 overall seed from undefeated UConn? by Jack Maloney, CBS Sports

• Black women were disproportionately impacted by DOGE cuts. A year later, they’re rebuilding careers for themselves and each other by Jennifer Liu, CNBC

• 10 Accounts Every Women's Soccer Fan Needs To Follow by Frankie de la Cretaz, Bustle

• My year as a degenerate gambler by McKay Coppins, The Atlantic

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Please share this with a friend so they can stay informed as well.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰MONEY MOVES

JUDGMENT DAY?

The WNBA imposed deadline of March 10 has come and gone, and we don’t quite know where things stand.

After over 12 hours, both Cathy Engelbert and Terri Jackson spoke briefly with reporters camped out outside a NYC hotel to get immediate updates after the final meeting before the deadline. Players, union and league staff arrived around 5pm ET on Tuesday and left at 5am Wednesday morning.

Players reported in attendance were Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart, Bri Turner, and Alysha Clark.

WNBA-WNBPA CBA meeting now going into the fifth hour. Ask us anything

— Alexa Philippou (@alexaphilippou.bsky.social)
1:05 AM • Mar 11, 2026

While talks were classified as “ continuing” and headed in the “right direction”. However, there is no deal to report.

League management and the union will continue negotiations, but seemingly remain stuck on two critical issues: Revenue share and housing. This has also prevented the sides from tackling other issues such as retirement benefits, maternity benefits, etc.

There haven’t been any leaks as to what the latest proposals have been. Is that a sign that things are moving in the right direction?

One can only hope.

Even if an agreement is miraculously reached, it doesn’t guarantee the league will be able to operate under their new paradigm immediately. Madeline Kenney of the New York Post reports that it would take lawyers around three weeks to ratify a formal contract.

As negotiations drag on, the eyes of Congress are on the WNBA.

“We are also aware of recent reports suggesting that the league may be trying to divide players during these negotiations,” the Democratic Women’s Caucus wrote in a letter to Cathy Engelbert.

“If accurate, such actions could raise concerns under the NLRA, which protects workers’ rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining free from employer interference.”

It’s been a complicate, frustrating road to this point. In a special video on Black Rosie Media, Erica L. Ayala conducted an interview with Professor David Berri!

Erica and Dr. Berri discussed the current CBA talks, the history of sports labor organizing, the NBA’s fuzzy math, and plenty more essential topics.

The WNBA and WNBPA have a lot to figure out. League business remains on hold and new players entering via the Draft are joining a league in uncertainty.

At this point, everyone has to put their best proposals forward so business can resume. There's no more time to waste.

⛹️‍♀️ ASSOCIATED PRESS TOP 25

DANCING TO THE TOURNAMENT!

Here’s the latest in the AP’s Top 25 rankings:

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15
Week 16
Week 17

🇺🇸 BACK IN ACTION

THE DYNASTY RETURNS

Image via USA Basketball

USA Women’s Basketball is the most successful and dominant sports team in the world. They haven’t lost a game in the Olympics since 1992 and haven’t lost a game in the World Cup since September 2006.

As the game of basketball has grown over the decades, USA Basketball has been the one constant across generations. And this week, the team returns with some new faces in search of a familiar goal.

The squad is in Puerto Rico for the World Cup Qualifying Tournament beginning on March 11. Although the US is guaranteed to appear in the World Cup this September, these games are a great chance for the players to develop chemistry with one another and make their debuts on the international stage.

FIBA Qualifiers are happening in Puerto Rico, China, and Türkiye. To learn more about the FIBA Women’s Basketball Qualifiers, check out this article at Black Rosie Media.

In this cycle, Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Kiki Iriafen will be making their first appearances for the senior national team. For Clark in particular, the Qualifying Tournament represents a long overdue return to the court after a taxing 2025.

Clark only appeared in 13 games for the Indiana Fever in 2025 as a series of injuries and setbacks kept her out of action. She’s been working hard to get back to full strength, and there’s no time better than the present to test yourself and see how you are against some of the world’s greatest players.

"I feel like I've put myself in the best possible shape I could be in at this point," Clark told reporters on March 9. "The first game is the hardest, but once you get in kind of a flow of things, you figure things out."

Team USA’s journey begins with a game against Puerto Rico.

This tournament helps new players get acclimated with USA Basketball and gives an early idea as to who might make the World Cup team.

With a limitless talent pipeline, hard roster choices will have to be made. It's an exciting opportunity and a great showcase on the global stage.

📺 COAST TO COAST

NEW WAYS TO WATCH

Here at the Women’s Basketball Roundup, we’ve discussed the ability to watch games. If you can’t get the games on channels everyone has access to, it makes watching very difficult.

The WNBA has worked to address this problem over the years, and as Team USA begins its’ World Cup journey, one of the biggest sports networks in the United States will showcase their journey.

On March 5, TNT Sports announced that it had entered into a multiyear agreement with FIBA to broadcast the men’s and women’s World Cup along with the 2029 FIBA Eurobasket. It’s a move that’s long overdue and one that will help basketball fans now and in the future.

“I think making this more accessible to our fans and to the younger generation,” Caitlin Clark said on March 7, “whether young girls or young boys that want to watch basketball or enjoy basketball [is a good thing]. There's people that are really craving this product right now, so that makes me super excited. I think that adds a fun element and I think people will certainly be tuning in.”

FIBA Qualifiers are happening in Puerto Rico, China, and Türkiye. To learn more about the FIBA Women’s Basketball Qualifiers, check out this article at Black Rosie Media.

For the U.S., the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from March 11-17. The U.S. will open qualifiers against Senegal today at 4:45 pm ET on truTV and HBO Max.

USA Basketball FIBA Qualifiers Tournament

When you make a good product accessible, people will tune in. For USA Basketball, this arrangement will introduce new people to the game during non Olympic years.

As women's basketball continues to grow, platforms like TNT will help create new stars as we head into a new era.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Slaying the Trolls: Economics, Equity, and the Growing Value of Women’s Sports by Erica L. Ayala, Black Rosie Media

• How FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments work? 24 federations compete in four FIBA Qualifiers from March 11th-17th by Erica L. Ayala, Black Rosie Media

• The pride and power of Iowa State basketball's Audi Crooks by Katie Barnes, ESPN

• Big Questions as WNBA Labor Negotiations Heat Up by Sara Germano and Jacob Feldman, Sportico

• One Thing To Watch in Every Conference Tournament This Week: March 10, 2026 by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• Conference Tournament Takeaways by Wyatt Crosher, The Hoopla Newsletter

• It's quite easy to believe in Lauren Betts by Lucas Kaplan, Lucas’ Newsletter

• Sports romance novels give readers a reason to cheer by Jane Burns, The Crossover

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏆 THE MIST CAPTURE THE CROWN!

YEAR 2 ENDS WITH A CLASSIC

Photo via Unrivaled.

Congratulations, Mist BC!

As Unrivaled closed out its second season, the championship game was a great representation of the league and what they provide.

The Mist and Phantom were the top two teams in the regular season. The Phantom had the best record at 11-3 while the Mist had the best point differential at +114. The two clubs balled out at Barclays Center on Monday night’s semifinals to punch their ticket to the championship game.

The Mist were in control for much of the game and built a lead as large as 12 points in the fourth quarter. However, one of the league’s best players stepped up and almost pulled off the impossible.

Kelsey Plum has a lightning quick first step and has been a great finisher at the rim throughout her career. In the Final, she scored a season high 40 points and helped the Phantom make it a four point game late.

In her debut season at Unrivaled, Plum finished third in scoring and was named to the Unrivaled 1st team. Throughout this season, we’ve gotten to see her scoring prowess on full display.

But the comeback fell just a bit short as Breanna Stewart was fouled on a drive and sealed the championship with a free throw. Stewart’s all around excellence was on display as she scored a season high 32 points and tied a season high with three three-pointers.

Stewart’s three point shooting has been a point of concern for many years, but she made them when they count. And when you do that, you rightfully earn the MVP.

To the victor goes the spoils and a chance to learn about an Australian tradition!

Twitter tweet

Looks like fun!

Unrivaled’s second season had some struggles, but ended on a high note. They went to new cities and gave fans great basketball. If you present a great product, the fans will come.

As they prepare for next year, the lessons learned in 2026 can help them build a brighter future.

💰 MONEY MOVES

DAMAGE CONTROL

Image via Wikipedia.

Perception goes a long way. If you look like you know what you’re doing, your life is a little bit easier. It gives everyone around you a sense of comfort and reduces any anxiety people may have. If you don’t look like you know what you’re doing, that’s where the problems begin.

Everyone gets nervous, no one is organized, and the pressure increases by the minute. It’s not a good place to be, and when you’re in a high-stakes environment, that pressure multiplies rapidly. For the WNBPA, they’ve been feeling the heat all week.

In the 100th edition of the WBB Roundup, we discussed the circumstances the WNBPA currently find themselves in. A letter written by Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum that was addressed to WNBPA Executive Director Teri Jackson and sent internally wound up in the hands of ESPN. After ESPN reported on the letter and its contents, the PA went into a meeting where they hoped

"Sometimes hard conversations need to be had," Stewart told the Associated Press. "I felt better after it and know that we finished that call understanding that we're representing the larger body [of players] and we have work to be done, and we're going to do that work."

That work included putting out a statement of unity that sought to dispel any notions that the union is splintering. They acknowledged that there have been “tough moments,” but they’re resolute and together in their goal of getting a good contract and a 2026 WNBA season.

“Nobody wants a strike,” WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson told Annie Costiable of Front Office Sports. “I think that is absolutely what you’re hearing. Do I hear division in that? I don’t. I hear players saying they are frustrated. They are disappointed that a negotiation that started early with the intention of having significant progress at All-Star, with the intention of wrapping up in October,” she added.

Jackson pinned the delays in getting a CBA done on the league, and as we’ve discussed here at the WBB Roundup, management always has the upper hand in part because they can simply run out the clock.

With all that in mind, we got a chance to talk all things WNBA CBA with renowned economist, journalist, and hoops fan, Professor David Berri!

Erica and David have another interview coming soon, which we’ll post to Black Rosie Media! In the meantime, check out Berri’s book, Slaying the Trolls! Why the Trolls are Very, Very Wrong about Women and Sports, co-authored by Dr. Nefertiti Walker. 

Check out this and several other BRM-approved books to add to your library!

Black Rosie Media Book Suggestions Bookshop

Greetings all: Here is where you can find reading resources I often mention on the Black Rosie Media channels. These books focus on women and other 'marginalized' groups in sports. I'm also curating wellness and healing books.

bookshop.org/shop/BlackRosieMedia

In looking to get the best contract possible, the PA polled its members and revealed that 84 percent would not accept the league’s proposal of “50 percent of net revenue.”

A statement released by the Women’s National Basketball Players Association on March 4

Reporters got their hands on the survey members received and went over them on YouTube on March 5. Interesting scene there.

We’re closer to the WNBA deadline, and things are out of sorts. The WNBPA have taken major hits this week and have a lot to figure out.

As we get closer to the season, they have to figure out what’s the best path forward to get a CBA that members will approve.

Time is almost up.

🌟 THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR

WHO’S THE BEST IN THE CONFERENCE?

We are one week away from the beginning of the women’s NCAA Tournament. Before we get there, we’ve got conference tournaments to get through!

In Indianapolis, the Big Ten tournament is in full swing. USC’s Jazzy Davidson suffered an arm injury and revealed to the media that she couldn’t lift one of her arms. USC’s NCAA Tournament status is at risk following their fourth straight loss.

A team that’s trending in the other direction is Oregon. The Ducks pulled off the upset in the last game on the docket against No. 14 Maryland, 73-68. Oregon looks to pull off another upset when they take on No. 8 Michigan in primetime on March 6.

Over in Duluth, GA, superstar guard Hannah Hidalgo made some more history. Hidalgo won ACC Player of the Year for the second consecutive season and in Notre Dame’s win against Miami, Hidalgo set the ACC single season steals record. The Fighting Irish are looking to fortify their tournament position and can help their cause with a win against NC State on March 6.

Down in Greenville, SC, the SEC Rumble has begun. Unfortunately for Tennessee, they got thrown over the top rope immediately. The Vols have now lost seven games in a row after losing to Alabama, 76-64. They’re still expected to make the NCAA Tournament, but it’s not looking good right now in Knoxville.

On a positive note, No. 17 Kentucky is off to a great start. They improved their SEC Tournament record to 2-0 after a 76-61 win over No. 22 Georgia. Clara Strack tied her career high with 33 points and set a new career high with five three-pointers. Kenny Brooks and the Wildcats are going to need something similar from Strack as they try to upset South Carolina in South Carolina.

The Wildcats almost pulled off the upset against the Gamecocks on March 1, and they hope their superstar can put forth another huge performance. Strack’s performance is key to Kentucky’s chances, and a recent conversation with head coach Kenny Brooks seems to have unlocked something in the junior center:

“She came out on Sunday, and she was unbelievable, and she has had that same look because she understands her importance, her value to us. But more importantly, in mine and her relationship, I can say that to her. I can’t say it to anyone else, but I can say it to her, and she knows where it’s coming from,” Brooks added.

It takes superstar level performances to dethrone a Final Four contender, and Kentucky hopes Strack can dial it up one more time.

Conference tournaments are a great proving ground. It tests all the progress you've made throughout the year and helps you maintain good habits.

As we draw closer to the Tournament, teams hope all of their work in the regular season carries them on a magical run.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Unrivaled’s Spirits Sponsorship Reflects New Reality In Women’s Sports by Roberta F. Rodrigues, Forbes

• Unrivaled's second season was a testament to the power of community in women's basketball by Lindsay Gibbs, CBS Sports

• As CBA Endgame Nears, WNBPA Set to Learn Tough Lessons For Future Labor Fights by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• EuroLeague Women’s Final Six is set after Galatasaray and Venezia close out play-ins with key wins by Eric Nemchock, Swish Appeal

• Lost Recipes by Abe Beame, Defector

• Behold Australia’s Grossest Drinking Tradition: The Shoey by Tacey Rychter, New York Times

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Please share this with a friend so they can stay informed as well.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰UNRIVALED FINALS ARE SET

A WORLD-CLASS SHOWCASE IN BROOKLYN

Photo via Unrivaled.

There’s an unexplainable energy to playoff basketball. Everything is heightened; you feel the importance of every moment, and everyone is ready to take their game to another level. The games are more intense, and it takes more to win. It makes for a wonderful viewing experience, and for the good folks in Brooklyn, it made for a magical March night.

In front of a sold-out, energetic crowd of 18,261 at Barclays Center, the Unrivaled semifinals delivered a show for the ages. Before the game, Unrivaled leadership met with the press and were asked if the New York reception was what they expected.

“It's so exciting to see,” Unrivaled Commissioner Mickey Lawler said.

“It's so reassuring, so validating. And we're always surprised, but we're not surprised. It's very obvious to us that the voice economy is very strong in women's basketball, and the fans really carry us as much as the players, and so it's a flawless partnership. And so we're eternally grateful.”

Unrivaled showed their gratitude by giving Barclays Center the best basketball they’ve seen in 2026.

In the opener, no. 1 seeded Phantom took on Vinyl. Phantom was shorthanded as they are without Defensive Player of the Year Aliyah Boston. However, Kelsey Plum has carried the team all season long and poured in another 30+ point outing as the Phantom continued their magical season with an 83-75 win. That set the stage for the main event.

In the nightcap, the Mist found themselves down by nine points in the fourth quarter. However, they went on a furious rally to tie the game late. With the game on the line, Arike Ogunbowale capped off her 29th birthday in the best way imaginable

Arike Ogunbowale misses her first attempt at the winner but Stewie grabs the rebound and Arike doesn't miss again, Mist move on to the championship

— CJ Fogler (@cjzero.bsky.social)
3:50 AM • Mar 3, 2026

It’s been a hectic year and change for Ogunbowale, and a game like this goes a long way in providing joy and happiness.

“It's definitely special to be able to work and win on my birthday,” Ogunbowale said. “I wrote 29 things I was thankful for this morning. Being able to play basketball for a living… People get off of work and go play basketball as an extracurricular activity, but I wake up, and all I have to do is work out and play basketball, and I get paid a good amount of money. So it's definitely a blessing,” she added.

Unrivaled’s games were a hit. They reached a huge market on short notice and packed the house. As they debate more road trips, nights like these are very encouraging. The interest in women’s hoops continues to rise, and with more opportunities comes more chances to make history.

The championship game will be on March 4 at 9:30 PM EST. Join Black Rosie Media for a special watch party livestream!

Click image for link - Stream starts at 9:15 pm ET

We should be celebrating a magical Monday for Unrivaled and WNBA players was. However, we got snapped back into reality less than 24 hours later.

More on that in a bit.

⛹️‍♀️ ASSOCIATED PRESS TOP 25

LAST CALL!

Here’s the latest in the AP’s Top 25 rankings:

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15
Week 16

👑 AU CROWNS A CHAMP

WHO TOOK HOME THE CROWN?

Photo via Athletes Unlimited.

It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. Over a stretch of games, you’ll have enough opportunities to bounce back from early struggles. If you trust your process, good things will come your way. And for one of Athletes Unlimited’s most experienced players, she’s trusted her process, and it’s helped her overcome the odds.

Odyssey Sims’ story is one of resilience. The 11-year veteran has played for six teams in her WNBA career, but she always finds a way to make a positive impact wherever she lands.

She’s been an underdog throughout her career, but she’s always ready to step up and do what she can to win. And after falling a bit short in back-to-back seasons, the lefty finally came out on top.

AU wrapped up its second season in Nashville. Entering week four, Sims was in first place after a week-one ranking of 18th. Sims jumped to first after two outstanding weeks as she showed why she was such a key part of the Indiana Fever’s miracle run in the 2025 WNBA playoffs. With teams constantly changing, it takes a lot of focus to succeed and adjust to the changing environments. Luckily, Sims is an expert at that.

“I mean, at this point, just to touch on my W career, the last few years, going to one team, getting cut, picked up, you know, that kind of thing, I think that’s helped,” Sims said. “It’s easy for me to adapt. Just do my job. I do my best. That’s pretty much it. Just have fun, make sure I’m having fun with it, and just enjoying the people that are around me.”

All that experience paid off as Sims finished in first place and won the Championship!

Twitter tweet

Aneesah Morrow, Rebekah Gardner, and Tina Charles rounded out the top four.

Athletes Unlimited is a great basketball environment for veterans and rookies alike. The level of competition is excellent, and the players are invested in each other’s success. As they prepare for the future, seasons like this will make the league a premier destination.

💰 MONEY MOVES

A MOMENT OF CRISIS

Photo via Unrivaled.

Labor negotiations are a series of tests. They test your character, your endurance, your desire, and your ability to achieve a set goal. It’s a punishing process that takes a long time and requires a lot of energy before you reach the finish line. They’re a battle of endurance, and it takes total discipline and teamwork to get the job done.

If you fall short in one of those areas, the opposition will take full advantage and put you on the defensive. For the WNBPA, they’re experiencing this at the absolute WORST possible time.

On March 3, ESPN’s Alexa Philippou and Don Van Natta Jr. published a bombshell report on the WNBPA’s handling of CBA talks. In it, they report that Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum, two executive members of the WNBPA, sent a letter to WNBPA executive director Terri Jackson on March 1 in which they shared their “serious concerns” about how the WNBPA is handling negotiations.

They noted their frustration with the “lack of progress” they feel the PA has shown in advance of the WNBA-imposed March 10 deadline for a CBA to be signed.

The letter reportedly goes into detail about not having access to certain information, such as breakdowns of WNBA expenses and revenue, descriptions of rookie salaries, and plenty more.

Per ESPN’s reporting, the duo “believe it is time to begin negotiating off the league's proposals when it comes to revenue sharing.” The WNBA has consistently put forth only net revenue as part of its revenue-sharing ideas, and it’s been a non-starter for the majority of union leadership.

Stewart and Plum are deeply concerned by this process, and it appears they’re not alone.

"When we and other players have attempted to express concerns about negotiations, we have been made to feel as though we are acting against the interests of the PA” the letter states.

“Many other players across the league feel these same frustrations and have expressed them to us, but feel afraid or unable to speak out."

This is a disaster for the WNBPA.

In CBA negotiations, you never argue with your team in front of management. And in high-stakes talks like this, you NEVER air dirty laundry in front of the world.

Having this leak with a deadline rapidly approaching is disastrous and puts the PA at an even greater disadvantage in negotiations. The WNBA has time and money on its side, and any infighting amongst labor makes its lives easy.

The WNBPA lost its momentum.

The longer the talks have gone, the more flaws have been exposed. They’re running out of time and are falling apart, while the WNBA is unified.

When this saga is over, they need to figure out where things went wrong. And maybe make some changes, too...

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Conference tournament rankings: Five most intriguing women's hoops tourneys to watch this week by Isabel Gonzalez, CBS Sports

• Fiifi Frimpong: WNBPA has its eyes on questionable prizes in CBA fight by Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News

• Unrivaled puts on a Barclays Center show with sellout that ‘felt like a W game’ by Madeline Kenney, New York Post

• Unrivaled playoffs 2026: Phantom and Mist to play for championship, both winning semifinals on 3-pointers by Ian Casselberry, Yahoo Sports

• Burn It All Down by Ace Anbender, The Bucket Problem

• Why all major photo services are boycotting college basketball games managed by The Gazelle Group by Ben Koo, Awful Announcing

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀 THE PLAYOFFS TEAMS ARE SET!

WHO WILL CAPTURE THE CHAMPIONSHIP?

Photo via Unrivaled

Postseason basketball is always a treat. After a great regular season, the intensity reaches new heights and we get to see players go deeper into their bag of tricks. To win in the playoffs, it takes special play, teamwork, and a little bit of luck. We’re drawing closer to the playoffs, but before we get there, Unrivaled welcomed one of its young stars back to the court in a special way.

Rickea Jackson returned to the court on February 21. She’s been away from the league for a few weeks for personal reasons following a recent domestic incident in which she was attacked in Florida by her former partner.

While she’s been away, the basketball community has come together to offer support and love for Jackson. When she entered the court, the fans at Sephora Arena gave her a nice standing ovation once she was announced in the starting lineup

Once the game started, Jackson was back in action. The young forward scored 22 points and collected three steals as Breeze BC picked up a critical win against Vinyl.

Following the game, Paige Bueckers showed some love and appreciation to her teammate:

Community matters. Being there for someone and making sure they’re ok matters so much. By doing so, you create a better and safer environment for everyone. It’s wonderful to see Rickea Jackson back, and I hope she continues to receive the love and care from the community.

Breeze’s win helped their playoff chase, but they needed some help to secure their spot in the big dance. They got it when Phantom defeated Hive on February 22. The win secured a first-round bye for the league-leading Phantom and a trip to Barclays Center for the semifinals on March 2.

Phantom has been sensational, featuring two MVP candidates in Kelsey Plum and Aliyah Boston.

Laces had a chance to get one step closer to a bye with a win, but lost a thriller to Chelsea Gray and Rose BC. The win secured Rose’s spot in the first round of the playoffs on February 28.

The Mist and Laces have the same record at 9-4, but due to a +34 advantage in point differential, the Mist have the tiebreaker and can secure a trip to Barclays Center with a win or Laces loss on February 27. The

Unrivaled’s on-court play has been top-notch in 2026. We’ve seen new players step up and make names for themselves. As the postseason approaches, we’ll see who can do a bit more to bring home the championship.

🌟 BLACK ROSIE SPOTLIGHT

AN INTERNATIONAL ICON

A’ja Wilson. Image via Nike.

As part of Black History Month, we here at the Women’s Basketball Roundup will spotlight some icons who have made the game what it is today.

Today, we’ll discuss the M’VP as she prepares for a World Tour.

A’ja Wilson is the best basketball player in the world. The four-time MVP and three-time WNBA champion serves as an inspiration to fans and her peers alike. She's turned the Las Vegas Aces from a wandering franchise to one of the gold standards in professional basketball. As her reign continues, her leadership is what draws her teammates to her.

“Her relatability, her being down to earth, makes her a great superstar,” Aces head coach Becky Hammon told the Associated Press. “Her skill set is unmatched, but she’s also the easiest player to coach. To have that mixture of humility, grace, and skill, there’s a reason why she’s doing things that have never been done.”

One of those things is a world tour! Wilson was the first Black woman to have her own signature sneaker line since Candace Parker, and the A’Ones have been a box office sensation. Wilson's international will take her across Europe as she will visit Paris, London, Berlin, and the Netherlands starting in early March. With the second edition of her shoes set to hit the market this spring, this trip is a tremendous opportunity to reach even more fans.

Even as she enters new spaces, Wilson always makes sure to bring people on the journey with her

As A'ja Wilson continues her career, her presence and excellence will set the tone for the rest of women's basketball. Her story is far from over and we can’t wait to see how the rest of it unfolds.

💰 MONEY MOVES

CONSTRUCTION TROUBLE

Image via Wikipedia.

2026 was supposed to be the beginning of a new era for the Dallas Wings. They have the number one pick in the upcoming Draft and have the chance to pair another great young talent to go with superstar guard Paige Bueckers. However, there’s plenty of uncertainty as to when/if the WNBA season will even take place.

They were supposed to move into a new practice facility this year, but that won't be happening any time soon. We’ve started to learn about the struggles behind getting the facility built, and a heck of a lot is happening all at once.

This week, the Dallas City Council met to discuss the Wings’ facility. They revealed that the cost of building the facility has increased from $54 million all the way up to $81 million. Thanks to the delays and rising costs, the Council is hesitant to provide $58 million in grant funds to cover the rising costs. The city is trying to figure out why there are delays, and we’re starting to figure out why.

Andrew Haubner of No Cap Space reported that in the meeting, Rosa Fleming, the Director of Convention and Event Services, informed the council that the delays were, in part, caused by the facility looking to add new whirlpools and more exercise equipment to be compliant with WNBA league standards. Concerningly, there are issues with the developers, McKissack & McKissack, as they have changed leadership and have had "persistent problems. Whether the team or the developer is most responsible for the delays, the City Council's patience is running thin.

“The Wings have also changed what they've been asking for,” councilman Chad West said, “and our contractor in this case, which is McKissack, has severely sat back on their haunches and missed deadlines on this. So, for those joint reasons, a lot of the costs have escalated and caused this delay and all of the confusion that's come with it.”

The Wings need to figure this situation out. In a hyper-competitive league, they have to make the most out of every opportunity available. By building a world-class practice facility, they will put themselves on the path back to respectability. Anything less is asking for trouble.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• WNBA players make minor revenue share, housing concessions in CBA talks by Meghan C. Hall, For The Win

• Everett Fitzhugh stands alone in NHL, but not among Seattle Kraken by Clinton Yates, Andscape

• Amid Delays, Dallas Wings Find Themselves in Middle of Convention Center Development Drama by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• What a March CBA deal would mean for WNBA free agency, expansion and the draft by Sabreena Merchant and Chantel Jennings, The Athletic

• The Wildest Win Ever by Ace Anbender, The Bucket Problem

• Finn Balor is sick and tired of hearing your what-ifs by Cameron Hawkins, Uncrowned

• The Trump Administration Can’t Kill Black History Month by Clint Smith, The Atlantic

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Please share this with a friend so they can stay informed as well.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰MONEY MOVES

WE’RE IN THE ENDGAME

Image via WNBA.

Deadlines always create a sense of anxiety. When you see a clear finish line, everything starts to crystallize. You know you have to make the absolute most of the time you have left and put your best foot forward. The deadline is usually a clarifying moment, and knowing that a project is about to end can provide some sense of relief. The WNBA might be an exception to that rule.

Early in the morning on February 23, ESPN’s Katie Barnes reported that the WNBA generated enough revenue in 2025 to trigger player revenue sharing. This is a notable and historic achievement, as the 2020 CBA stipulated that revenue sharing would only take effect if certain benchmarks were met.

From Barnes’ story:

As we’ve chronicled here at the WBB Roundup, there’s a lot of money coming into the WNBA, and it’s going to be a battle to see who gets what and when. And when may be coming pretty soon.

Later in the day on February 23, ESPN’s Alexa Philippou reported that the WNBA informed teams and the WNBPA that a new CBA would need to be agreed to by Tuesday, March 10, in order for the season to start on time. The league still has to conduct two expansion drafts, set a salary cap, free agency, etc., and that’s before the Draft itself on April 13.

The deadline of the 10th is somewhat sudden, considering the league has been dragging its feet throughout this entire saga

With an actual deadline in place, will that lead to a swift resolution and a CBA everyone is happy with? Based on recent discussions between the two sides, the sense of optimism is there.

“I think there has to be a lot of movement in a lot of places in the CBA,” Napheesa Collier recently told Yahoo Sports, “but the fact that we are moving, I think, is really hopeful."

Decision time is here. It’s been a two-year journey to reach this point, and the WNBA has grown immensely during that time. A new CBA should provide the long term stability to help the league grow even more. If we don’t get a CBA, we enter a world of uncertainty. Clock's ticking.

⛹️‍♀️ ASSOCIATED PRESS TOP 25

ONE WEEK TO GO!

Here’s the latest in the AP’s Top 25 rankings:

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15

🤔 ROCKY TIMES AT ROCKY TOP

TENNESSEE IS IN A FUNK

Image via Wikipedia.

Losing streaks test a team’s character. When losses pile up, so do the frustrations. Nothing is working, you’re falling down the standings, and the amount of time you have to turn things around decreases by the second. There’s still a chance to fix things, but your margin of error is basically zero. For the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, they’ve reached a moment of truth.

In issue 096 of the WBB Roundup, we made mention of Tennessee’s recent struggles. Kim Caldwell bemoaned her team’s lack of effort and chastised them for “quitting” against South Carolina. The team is still on pace to make the NCAA Tournament, but its flaws are becoming increasingly evident by the day.

Going into Sunday afternoon’s road matchup against Oklahoma, Tennessee’s struggles were the subject of national discussion. ESPN analyst and UT alum Andraya Carter discussed the team’s recent struggles and highlighted an issue that is bubbling to the surface

Twitter tweet

There was a lot of roster turnover for the Vols from last season to this one. Before the season began, the team dismissed Ruby Whitehorn from the program after two off-season arrests.

The team has had to adjust a lot, and they’re still trying to find their way as we approach the end of the season.

“I think last year we were very consistent in who we played and how we played them, and our substitution patterns were consistent all year long, and they’re not this year,” Caldwell said following the game against Texas A&M. “We don’t have consistent substitution patterns. We are not playing the same rotations. We’re very inconsistent about who can be on the floor, who shows up, who’s what, and then you’ve been inconsistent with injuries, as well. But I think consistency of knowing what we’re going to get out of each player can get better down the stretch.”

For at least one game, they had to do it without their second-leading scorer.

Prior to the game against Oklahoma, it was announced that Janiah Barker would miss the game. Barker did not travel with the team as she “didn’t meet the team standards.” Caldwell said Barker will be fine, so maybe this was only a single-game issue.

With all of that in the air, the Vols faced a tall task against the Sooners. Tennessee was competitive for most of the night, but ultimately fell short 100-93. It was the team’s fourth straight loss and sixth in their last seven games. As a result, the team has fallen out of the Top 25 rankings.

Despite the loss, there is some room for optimism in Knoxville.

“Tonight, honestly, our team was fun to coach,” Caldwell said in the postgame. We definitely made some basketball errors but the people that were on the phone, played hard, and played together. Not a good third quarter for us, but we can make some adjustments from today’s game going forward and be OK.”

The SEC Rumble continues as the Vols travel to Baton Rouge for a game against LSU on February 26 before ending the regular season at home against Vanderbilt on March 1.

It’s been a rocky road for Tennessee. They’re on a losing streak and frustration is mounting. They still have time to turn things around, but they need to do so soon. If they stick together, they might be able to get out of this slump. One win could cure everything.

🕊 IN MEMORIAM

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL LOST A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY

Image via the WNBA.

On February 22, the WNBA announced the passing of former All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, Kara Braxton.

Instagram post

Braxton’s basketball journey began in Oregon as she was one of the greatest high school players in state history. At the University of Georgia where she won Freshman of the Year and helped the Bulldogs to three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.

As a professional, Braxton helped the Shock win the WNBA Championship in 2006 and 2008. The 2006 team will be honored by the Detroit Pistons on March 3, as this season marks the 20th anniversary of the championship-winning club.

Braxton ended her WNBA career after ten years with the New York Liberty, but played overseas and won championships in Poland and China before retiring from basketball in 2019.

Her son, Jelani Thurman, is an athlete in his own right and like mom, won a championship. He previously spoke about what lessons he learned from her

Instagram post

Braxton was beloved by fans and her peers in sports alike. She returned to Georgia in 2024 and achieved a lifelong dream of obtaining her degree.

"I think that I come with a different perspective, and I've been there, and I've done it. Nothing I'm telling you is fake," Braxton said in 2024. "It's raw, and it's real, and it's me."

Our condolences to Kara’s family and loved ones.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Working for the Olympic Winter Games 2026: through the eyes of Erica L. Ayala by Olympics.com

• Winter Olympics: USA’s Jack Hughes laughs off missing teeth, scores overtime golden-goal winner by Erica L. Ayala, Olympics.com

• 2026 Winter Olympics: Alysa Liu's remarkable comeback from early retirement culminates in gold medal triumph by Jasmyn Winbush, CBS Sports

• Tennessee’s issues go beyond Kim Caldwell. Rocky Top is no longer a prestige destination by Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic

• Madina Okot's new 3-point shot gives South Carolina's Dawn Staley an undefendable option by Lulu Kesin, Greenville News

• On belonging by Ruth Kapelus, Musings

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

🏀 NO CBA AGREEMENT YET

STILL WAITING…

Image via Wikipedia

When you’ve been in a collective bargaining agreement negotiation, there are certain things you come to expect. You know that the bosses are going to tell you that they can’t afford to pay you what you truly want.

You expect them say “we’d LOVE to give you this, but it’s just not fiscally possible.” And perhaps most importantly, you know that they can run out the clock. Management always has the financial advantage and can just wait and wait and wait until labor agrees to their terms.

It’s an ugly part of the game, but the game nonetheless. It appears the WNBA negotiations are heading down this path.

On the evening of February 17, the WNBPA sent its latest CBA proposal over to the WNBA. The main takeaway was the players reducing their request for gross revenue to 27.5 percent from their previous ask of 30 percent. 

It marked the latest move by the PA to meet the league in the middle, so an agreement could be reached and WNBA business could resume. There was optimism amongst fans online that this was a sign that a deal was on the horizon and that this saga would end.

That optimism lasted about three hours.

Shortly before midnight on the 17th, the WNBA issued a statement calling the union’s proposal “unrealistic.” The league also said that everyone’s running out of time. It should be noted that the league did not bring a proposal to the last in-person meeting between the two sides and had to send it a few days later.

The league has started to move, but with so much work to be done, the pressure has started to mount. At All-Star Weekend, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver mentioned that we’re getting “awfully close” to the 11th hour in negotiations here. For people more directly involved in negotiations, there’s still some level of optimism.

“We are not where we want to be, but I think negotiations are trending in the right direction,” WNBPA Vice President Napheesa Collier told Yahoo Sports.

“And that’s what you want. You want movement. You don’t want to be in a stalemate. You want there to be hope for the future, and I do have that. I think there has to be a lot of movement in a lot of places in the CBA, but the fact that we are moving, I think, is really hopeful.”

The WNBPA is fighting the clock and a strong opponent in the WNBA/NBA. As talks continue, player solidarity will be critical as the PA tries to secure as many benefits as possible.

The past, present, and future of women’s basketball are on the line. They have to get it right.

🌟 BLACK ROSIE SPOTLIGHT

AN ADVOCATE FOR THE PAST AND PRESENT OF THE WNBA

Rushia Brown. Photo via the National Basketball Retired Players Association.

As part of Black History Month, we here at the Women’s Basketball Roundup will spotlight some icons who have made the game what it is today.

Today, we’ll discuss an original Cleveland Rocker who has been a key advocate for retired WNBA players.

Rushia Brown’s WNBA career lasted six seasons, during which she played for the Rockers and the Charlotte Sting. She played alongside basketball icon Dawn Staley in Charlotte before eventually retiring after playing overseas. Brown’s story wasn’t over, and she went on to make an even bigger impact.

Brown founded the Women’s Professional Basketball Alumnae, an organization that helped female athletes transition from basketball to other aspects of society. As a small organization, they did the best they could with what they had.

However, they didn’t have the history and reach of the more established National Basketball Retired Players Association. The NBRPA initially didn’t serve women, but that eventually changed over time. Brown's advocacy played a big part in that.

“One of my first duties was to find Rushia and sit down with her,” former NBRPA President and CEO Scott Rochelle said in 2024. “To her credit, she held my feet to the fire. She really asked the right questions. I went to Atlanta to meet with her. We sat down, we talked, and from there, I just had to do what I said I was going to do and be very intentional about growing.”

Brown’s work has made an impact. With more money coming into women’s sports, now is the time to give back to the people who paved the way.

Thanks to Brown’s advocacy, retired players have a seat at the table and hopefully take part in the women’s sports renaissance.

💰 MONEY MOVES

SERIOUS ACCUSATIONS IN PITTSBURGH

Image via Wikipedia.

The University of Pittsburgh women’s basketball program is being sued, and the accusations are incredibly serious.

On February 6, six former players filed a lawsuit against the university and head coach Tory Verdi. In the suit, the players alleged that Verdi retaliated against them, abused them psychologically, and created a hostile environment. In one instance, Verdi is alleged to have told an international player, “Go back home because ICE is coming.” 

These allegations are incredibly shocking and, if true, represent a dramatic abuse of power by one of the University's most powerful people.

"Verdi used his position of authority to engage in emotionally abusive conduct, retaliation, and psychological manipulation that transcended poor coaching and entered into constitutional violations," according to one of the lawsuits.

"The program was defined by fear and emotional volatility as players were routinely demeaned, psychologically isolated, and pressured to perform under abusive conditions."

In a statement to USA Today, the university called the lawsuits and allegations “meritless” and said they will defend themselves vigorously.

Even in a new college sports landscape, the coach is in charge and can determine the fates of the athletes they’re supposed to support.

If these allegations are true, then Pitt and Verdi created a hostile environment that damaged the students and made life worse for them.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Winter Olympics 2026: USA’s Hilary Knight dazzles in her final, victorious women’s ice hockey gold medal game by Erica L. Ayala, Olympics.com

• Canada’s Marie-Philip Poulin in a league of her own: wins praise, admiration after setting women’s Olympic ice hockey goal-scoring record by Erica L. Ayala, Olympics.com

• WNBA players CBA confidential: Negotiations get mixed reviews by Katie Barnes, ESPN

• By Drawing a Line in the Sand Against Revenue Share, the WNBA Reveals a Problem with the Business Model by Andrew Haubner, No Cap Space

• What Do You Do When the Biggest Platforms For Readers Are Kind of Evil? by Marisa Kreizman, LitHub

• Jesse Jackson Knew Better Than to Forget by Joel Anderson, The Ringer

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Please share this with a friend so they can stay informed as well.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

☝️THE POINT GAWD STANDS ALONE

THE ONE IN THE 1-ON-1 TOURNAMENT

Photo via Unrivaled.

Valentine’s Day is for lovers and for lovers of great basketball!

On Saturday night, the Unrivaled one-on-one tournament concluded with the semifinals and finals. In the first semifinal matchup, it was a Team USA/Las Vegas Aces showdown as former teammates Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray faced off.

Leading up to the semis, Gray defeated Natasha Cloud, Jackie Young, and Paige Bueckers while Plum beat Natisha Hiedeman and Kelsey Mitchell. Plum gave her former teammate a heck of a battle and jumped out to an 8-0 lead, but Gray rallied and advanced with a 12-8 win.

The other semifinal matchup was a battle of South Carolina Gamecocks. To get to this matchup, Allisha Gray defeated Saniya Rivers and Rae Burrell. On the other side, Aliyah Boston beat Breanna Stewart and Aaliyah Edwards.

The class of 2017 defeated the class of 2023, 12-10. Gray jumped out to a 9-0 lead, but Boston went on a 10-0 run of her own to take the lead. Gray battled one of the best bigs in basketball, and it certainly took a lot to come away with the win

Instagram post

The Finals were set as the two stars faced off for the $200,000 prize

The game was a battle of will and toughness throughout. I love when you see the desperation and resolve kick in during a close game. It shows just how much the players want to win, and as a viewer, it’s what you want to watch in a game with stakes.

For Chelsea, this win was extra special.

“I think this one is just different because I keep on defying expectations, man, and that's what I'm all about,” Gray said in the postgame. “I'm trying to just be great every single time I step on the floor.”

The tournament was a success for Unrivaled. We got to see players showcase their expansive skill sets in a series of great games. And with the postseason coming soon, the weekend will serve as a springboard to even more exciting basketball.

⛹️‍♀️ ASSOCIATED PRESS TOP 25

THE DUKE RESURGENCE CONTINUES!

Here’s the latest in the AP’s Top 25 rankings:

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14

🤔 TEXAS TRIES TO FIGURE THINGS OUT

HOW WILL THE LONGHORNS RESPOND?

Photo via the University of Texas.

Sometimes, you just have a feeling. Deep in your gut, you know something is wrong and you can’t figure out how to fix it. You see the problem, want to fix it, but you just can’t. It’s an unsettling feeling and one you hope doesn’t come back to hurt you. For Vic Schaefer and the University of Texas, they’ve got a feeling that they can’t quite shake.

On February 12, Texas went on the road to face Vanderbilt in a Top 5 showdown. There were a lot of expectations that this latest installment of the SEC Rumble would be a thriller. However, Texas had its worst showing of the season, losing 86-70.

The 16-point margin doesn’t tell the whole story of Vanderbilt’s dominance, as they led by as much as 26 points during the game. It was a disappointing effort for the Longhorns, and one that Vic Schaefer wasn’t going to stand for.

Following the game, Schaefer joined the postgame press conference and got down to business immediately. He began by crediting Shea Ralph and Vanderbilt for their toughness and effort. But for his team? This is how he began:

“Quite frankly, we had no heart.”

Oh dear. Schaefer bemoaned the team’s lack of aggressiveness and physicality in the game, took the blame for the loss, called them the softest team he’s ever had, questioned their heart, was frustrated with the team not sticking to the scout the coaching staff developed over the past two weeks, etc. With another tough road game waiting for them in Tennessee, here’s how he ended the opening statement part of the presser:

“We're going to have to bring our hearts with us. Some of us left our heart back in Austin, Texas.”

With that, Texas made its way to Knoxville for a Sunday afternoon matchup against the Volunteers. This was the third Sunday matchup against a Top 5 team this month for Kim Caldwell’s club. How did the first two games go?

A 30-point loss to Connecticut on February 1 and the worst margin of defeat in school history, a 43-point defeat to South Carolina on February 8. Two disastrous losses like that were enough for Kim Caldwell to share an uncomfortable truth about her team.

"We just had a lot of quit in us tonight," Caldwell said following the South Carolina game. "And that's been something that's been consistent with our team is ― we're not comfortable, and things don't go our way, and I have a team that'll just quit on you. And you can't do that in big games, can't do that anytime in the SEC, but you certainly can't do that at a program like this."

We’ve got two teams desperately in need of a win and a national TV showcase to shake off the recent stigma surrounding their teams. Texas looked like itself for much of the night and had a ten-point lead with around 3:36 to go.

However, Tennessee went on a bad dash to the finish line and had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds. Tennessee couldn’t get a shot up to tie as Texas's tremendous help defense disrupted its final possession, leading to a 65-63 Longhorns victory.

After the game, some of the discussion centered on the coaches’ comments during the week. Here’s Schaefer:

Twitter tweet

The road to the Final Four is arduous. The pressure is always on, the margin for error is minimal, and one bad stretch can end your season.

Texas has a lot of pressure on them to win, and they’re going to need to stick together if they want to reach their goals.

💰MONEY MOVES

ROAD TRIP!

Unrivaled in Philadelphia was such a hit that they’ve decided to raise the stakes.

On February 13, the league announced that the semifinals of this year’s playoffs will take place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The games will take place on Monday, March 2, and the winners will advance to the Final on March 4.

Philadelphia was announced months in advance, which helped lay the groundwork for the January games. This trip is more spur-of-the-moment, a fact not lost on Unrivaled leadership.

“This is very much a pop-up,” Unrivaled CEO Alex Bazzell told Front Office Sports. “We’re not going to judge our success the same way we would Philly. But of course, we want to sell as many seats as possible.”

Barclays Center has been a tremendous host for women’s basketball with the New York Liberty and various women’s college basketball events.

It’s shaping up to be a great women’s basketball week in New York City as Connecticut will play St. John’s at Madison Square Garden on March 1 and Unrivaled the next day.

The Brooklyn games will be crucial for Unrivaled. Big arenas like Barclays will go a long way in helping Unrivaled build its fanbase. Brooklyn is a great atmosphere and will add even more to the games. Another great showing will power Unrivaled into an exciting future.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Why Jack Eichel is key to USA men’s ice hockey gold at 2026 Winter Olympics by Erica L. Ayala, Olympics

• The business of Angel Reese: acting, modeling, branding and, of course, basketball by Shakeia Taylor, The Athletic

• South Carolina edges LSU: What we learned from the crucial SEC showdown by Isabel Gonzalez, CBS Sports

• Build It and They Will Win by Ace Anbender, The Bucket Problem

• No matter where she’s eventually selected, TCU’s Olivia Miles will enter the 2026 WNBA Draft an even better player by Edwin Garcia, Swish Appeal

• ‘He gave me my wings’: Jesse Jackson opened doors for Black women in politics by Errin Haines, The 19th

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE! Feel free to share this with a friend so they can also stay informed.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!

💰MONEY MOVES

ANGEL REESE RETURNS TO UNRIVALED

Photo via Unrivaled.

Rose BC is about to get a major boost as they look to defend their championship.

On February 11, it was announced that Angel Reese signed a rest-of-season contract. Reese was not among the initial players in this season’s pool of players in Unrivaled last fall. She joins a Rose basketball club that is 5-6 and hanging on to one of the final playoff spots.

In 2025, Reese won Defensive Player of the Year and helped Rose to an 8-6 record before a hand injury ended her season. Reese has spoken about her experiences with the development staff at Unrivaled, and with the increase in coaches for players, she can build on her skills even more.

She will make her Season 2 debut on February 20 against Hive BC.

Reese’s WNBA season ended in controversy as she and the Chicago Sky butted heads towards the end of the year. It was a blip on an otherwise bright season for the LSU star as she collected her second consecutive rebounding title and All-Star appearance. Off the court, she expanded her reach and has become an even bigger star in pop culture.

Angel Reese’s return is a welcome sight. Unrivaled has had some struggles, but they’ve also had plenty of big wins.

Reese is one of the biggest stars in sports, and watching her play ball is always a fun sight. Her presence will help lift Unrivaled in various ways.

💜 PRIMETIME IN BATON ROUGE

LSU TRIES TO BEAT THE STREAK

Photo by Kristen Young/Louisiana State University.

14 years. The last time LSU beat Dawn Staley and the University of South Carolina, A’ja Wilson was a high school sophomore, Kim Mulkey was on the path to her second National Championship at Baylor, and Staley had yet to win her first championship. Despite LSU’s run of success in the 2020s, South Carolina has been the one mountain they haven’t been able to conquer. On Valentine’s Day, they get one more chance to do the impossible.

LSU hosts No. 3 South Carolina, and there are a lot of big stories in this one. In addition to trying to stop the losing streak, this is the first meeting for MiLaysia Fulwiley against her former team. Fulwiley had a good two years in South Carolina and contributed to the National Championship-winning team in 2024, but you got the sense that Dawn Staley and the coaching staff wanted just a little bit more out of her. It didn’t quite connect the way they and Fulwiley wanted it to, but there are no hard feelings

"Internally, a competitor wants to do really good against the former team,” Kim Mulkey said after LSU’s win against Auburn.

“In my talks with her, she's never said anything ugly about South Carolina. She just wanted to go somewhere where she would have an opportunity to learn the point guard position. She liked our style of play."

For LSU to finally beat South Carolina, they’re going to need big games from their dynamic duo of Mikaylah Williams and Flau’jae Johnson. Williams has never shot above 30 percent from the field against South Carolina, and Johnson has had her struggles over the years as well.

The Tigers are the number one offense in the nation and number three in rebounding. In both of South Carolina’s losses this year, they were out-rebounded by their opponents.

Following the win against Tennessee, rebounding was a point of emphasis for the team, and they will look to follow through here.

For the Gamecocks to push the streak to 15, they’ll turn to leading scorer Joyce Edwards and ace defender Raven Johnson. Edwards is third in the SEC in scoring at 20.3 points per game while Johnson is the lead defender of a Gamecocks club that is second in the SEC in opponents’ points per game, but still has room for improvement. The Gamecocks have plenty of depth and experience, and it’s helped them stay a step ahead of the Tigers over the years.

Primetime matchups are always special. The world is watching, you’re the center of the basketball universe, and you've got a sold-out crowd in the arena.

South Carolina and LSU see themselves as title contenders, and this game will go a long way in determining how ready they are for March.

🌟 BLACK ROSIE SPOTLIGHT

SALUTING AN ICON

Photo via the Atlanta Dream

As part of Black History Month, we here at the Women’s Basketball Roundup will spotlight some icons who have made the game what it is today.

Today, we’ll discuss one of the game’s most impactful players on the court and inspirational figures off of it.

The story of Brittney Griner is a story of resilience. She came out in college at a University and for a coach that wasn’t especially welcoming or supportive. As a college superstar at Baylor and a franchise stalwart with the Phoenix Mercury, she was one of the best and most impactful centers in basketball history, having won everywhere she’s been. As impactful as she is on the court, her experience off it has shaken up the world.

In February 2022, Griner was in Russia playing overseas basketball as she normally did. Like many players, she was overseas to supplement her income and make up for where the WNBA fell short. She was stopped by authorities due to having a small vaporizer cartridge in her luggage and was unfairly detained by Russian authorities.

While she was detained, the women’s basketball community rallied to fiercely support their friend and colleague. Through that support and through the work of the Joe Biden x Kamala Harris administration, BG was freed before Christmas 2022 and has been home ever since.

Following her release, Griner has used her platform to speak up and support Americans unfairly detained overseas as part of the Bring Our Families Home campaign. Her experience in Russia was life-changing, and is now the subject of a critically acclaimed documentary.

“The Brittney Griner Story” premiered at the Sundance Festival and it details BG’s experience in Russia and how she has managed following her release. Griner and director Alexandria Stapleton were at the Festival and spoke with media who were on site.

During her interviews, she and Stapleton discussed the technical aspects of the film as well as Griner’s time in Russia. There are a lot of important things in Griner’s life these days, and there’s one thing in particular that stands out above all:

“Setting a good example for my son,” Griner said. “Leaving something behind for him to be him. Showing him that you can go through trials and tribulations, but you can come out on the other side, and there’s going to be support for you and community.”

Brittney Griner is one of the most important athletes of the 21st century. Her excellence made her a legend. Her resilience inspired a nation and helped shine a light on injustices around the world.

Her journey is far from over, and she will continue to be a positive force.

 📰 WHAT WE’RE READING

At Black Rosie Media, we love to give flowers to other writers and creators in the women’s basketball community.

Here’s what we’re reading:

• Sidney Crosby: Canada captain eyes gold in Winter Olympics 2026 men’s ice hockey by Erica L. Ayala, Olympics

• The Bye, Double Bye, Qualify Situations by Wyatt Crosher, The Hoopla Newsletter

• Takeaways from a 2-1 Slump by Ace Anbender, The Bucket Problem

• Exclusive Preview: Get to know Dr. Opal Lee in FIRST FREEDOM – THE STORY OF OPAL LEE AND JUNETEENTH by Samantha Puc, Comics Beat

• 2026 NWSL Media Day: Top 16 moments by Phuoc Nguyen and Abraham Zepeda, All for XI

• Hockey’s New Cold War by Alex Kirshner, Slate

• One in a Million by Alphonse Pierre, Pitchfork

📲 STAY CONNECTED!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, consider subscribing to receive the latest updates from Black Rosie Media directly in your inbox—it's completely FREE!

Please share this with a friend so they can stay informed as well.

Join our Black Rosie Media Slack Channel to interact directly with our contributors, participate in game-day chats, and much more!

You can also connect with us on BlueSky, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube!