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Rivals Week tipped off over the weekend, and the WNBA brought plenty of drama, big performances and storylines to unpack.
Zena and Annie break down Caitlin Clark’s quick rescinding of what would have been her eighth technical foul of the season, the fallout from DiJonai Carrington’s ejection after a hard foul on Sophie Cunningham, and whether load management could become a necessary strategy in the WNBA. They also discuss Kayla McBride making WNBA history by setting a new three-point record.
But first, the duo dives into the Washington Mystics’ acquisition of veteran forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton and what the move means for their playoff push. Then, they discuss Sabrina Ionescu being left off the Team USA roster, her reaction to the decision and whether injuries could open the door for her to get another opportunity. From there, they unpack WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s league-wide memo and what it says about the league’s approach to inclusion.
Plus, we wrap things up with a special shoutout to the listeners who continue to tune in, share their feedback and support the show.
REFERENCES:
Washington Mystics claim former Liberty forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton off waivers by Annie Costabile
WNBA commissioner stresses integrity, respect on topic of transgender athletes in league-wide memo by Sabreena Merchant
Breanna Stewart ‘surprised’ by Sabrina Ionescu’s omission from Team USA World Cup roster by Annie Costabile
Caitlin Clark earns 1-game suspension after her eighth technical foul by Brian Hamilton
Sophie Cunningham says DiJonai Carrington ‘just trying to get attention’ with flagrant foul by Brian Hamilton
Sky’s DiJonai Carrington cites White privilege after ejection for flagrant foul on Sophie Cunningham by Brian Hamilton
WNBA has spiraled into a rinse-and-repeat drama, and it's taking a mind-numbing toll by Candace Buckner
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"Rivals Weekend Heat: Techs, Ejections & Tensions" is an episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show. Runtime 52 min. Published August 11, 2026. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.
