Good Game with Sarah Spain

ESPN soccer reporter Jeff Kassouf joins Sarah to discuss Mia Fishel’s big-money move to the Seattle Reign, his thoughts on the rollout of expansion team Denver Summit FC, the top storylines he’s keeping an eye on in the second half of the NWSL season and the biggest challenges facing the league in the next five years. Plus, what’s with the quiet start to Leo season? It's time to ROAR! Follow Jeff Kassouf on Bluesky here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle Storm forward and French national team star Gabby Williams joins Sarah to talk about overcoming early struggles in the WNBA, her priorities for the ongoing CBA negotiations, how her tattoos connect her to family, and the W’s efforts to cement itself as the globally preferred league. Plus, Summer McIntosh continues to dominate in the pool, Naomi Osaka makes a staffing change, and we’re soooo close to getting new Ted Lasso episodes. Follow Gabby Williams on Instagram here The full USWNT schedule is here, and you can purchase tickets here Watch Dallas Wings players test their spelling skills here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retired pro soccer player-turned-broadcaster Darian Jenkins joins Sarah to talk about the NWSL’s return to action, the Rivalry Weekend games she’s most looking forward to, why she thinks the Seattle Reign will make a run up the table, and the league storylines she’s keeping tabs on in the second half of the season. Plus, they’re chanting "It’s coming home," a mascot goes gaga, and Sarah recaps a wonderful women’s sports weekend in Portland. Watch Ellie the Elephant's Lady Gaga-inspired egg arrival here and watch her halftime dance here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AU Pro Sports senior reporter Savanna Collins joins Sarah to preview this weekend’s Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) Championship Series, discuss how the Talons and Bandits carved their paths to the final weekend, and share what surprised her most about the league’s inaugural season. Plus, the Portland Thorns give a superstar her flowers, the Phoenix Mercury celebrate a homecoming, and a “What The Fact” about players and porta-pottys. Follow Savanna on Instagram here Follow the AUSL’s Bandits here, Blaze here, Talons here, Volts here The AUSL All-Star Cup schedule and list of players is here Check out the video of Torchy here  Read the Guardian’s report on the investigation into the San Diego Wave here Keep updated on the World Aquatics Championships here Read more about why Courtney Williams can’t show off her Moolah Kicks here The Tour de France Femmes schedule is here Check out the tribute video the Phoenix Mercury made for Brittney Griner here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) drag racers Ida Zetterström and Leah Pruett join Sarah to talk about recognizing their need for speed at a young age, why NHRA races are naturally co-ed events, how they handle the extreme toll racing can take their bodies, and the importance of having strong teams to ensure safety and aid success. Plus, a cowardly decision from the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Venus Williams has still got it and one PWHL team has a new leader. Follow Ida Zetterström on Instagram here Follow Leah Pruett on Instagram here Find info on the NHRA Sonoma Nationals here Read Nancy Armour’s column on the USOPC’s decision here The WNBA schedule is here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s episode features Sarah’s conversation with WNBA legend Candace Parker from the WISE/R Symposium, a professional development event that was held during WNBA All-Star festivities last weekend in Indy. Parker discusses the impact coach Pat Summitt had on her life, what she learned about herself raising her daughter Lailaa on the road, and how she and her wife managed to keep their relationship private until it was time to welcome the world in. Plus, a “Yes, And” about the woman who was Caitlin Clark before Caitlin Clark ever existed. The AUSL schedule is here Pick up your tickets to Athlos NYC here Check out the Denver Summit FC logo and branding here  Listen to Post Moves, Candace Parker’s new podcast with Aliyah Boston, here Listen to Unsupervised, Sydney Colson and Theresa Plaisance’s new podcast, here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s episode features Sarah’s conversation with UConn women’s basketball star Azzi Fudd from this weekend’s live show in Indianapolis. They discuss how winning a national championship showed her a different side of Geno Auriemma, how Fudd handles moments of self-doubt, how working with a sports psychologist changed the game, and using her famous friends (cough *Paige Bueckers* cough) to help get guests for her new podcast, Fudd Around and Find Out. Plus, Unrivaled makes some monster NIL signings, the American women’s mile record goes down, and bros with zero brain cells get deservedly dragged.  Subscribe to Fudd Around and Find Out here Check out The Athletic’s player poll results for: The WNBA’s best player & biggest trash talker here Which player will be the face of the WNBA in five years here Which city is ideal for expansion & what CBA priorities should be here The WNBA’s best & worst-run organizations here The best rivalry in the WNBA & who will win the championship here The WNBA schedule is here Read about Unrivaled’s NIL signees here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah and producer Mish are back from WNBA All-Star in Indianapolis and they dish on allllll the weekend happenings. From Sarah’s live shows with Candace Parker and Azzi Fudd, to the StudBudz stream, star sightings at the game, and, of course, the parties. Plus, broken records, the WNBPA makes a statement, and Trinity Rodman’s return to training. Grab your WNBPA “Pay Us What You Owe Us” shirt here And get your Good Game with Sarah Spain merch here Read more about the WBL ladies Mish mentioned here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women’s hoops journalist Greydy Diaz joins Sarah to discuss being the only lady in her “mildly washed” pickup basketball club, why she quit her job at ESPN to pursue her passion, her mid-season picks for WNBA MVP, and what she’s hoping to see at this year’s All-Star Weekend. Plus, one WNBA star moves up a list while another is honored with a mural, and we say goodbye to poet Andrea Gibson. Follow Greydy Diaz on Instagram here Pick up a copy of one of Andrea Gibson’s books here The AUSL schedule is here The announcement of the Diana Taurasi docuseries can be found here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three-time Olympian and two-time World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe joins Sarah to talk birthday celebrations, being on the good side of 40, finding joy post-retirement, what’s on her decade to-do list, co-hosting a podcast with her fiancée Sue Bird, what is lost when athletes don’t use their voices, and being a target for far-right foolishness. Plus, hear from some of the stars at the USWNT Players Ball. Listen to A Touch More with Sue Bird & Megan Rapinoe here Purchase tickets to WNBA Live here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

USA TODAY sports columnist Nancy Armour joins Sarah to discuss WNBA All-Star Weekend, whether Caitlin Clark could be doing more (and we’re not talking about defense), and what the three new expansion teams say about the WNBA’s relationship with the MNBA. Plus, a Fire is rekindled, a footy player makes her way back to the states, and the women’s Euro 2025 soccer tournament smashes some records. Follow Nancy Armour on Bluesky here Read Nancy’s column about how Caitlin Clark could quiet the worst part of her fanbase here  Check out the Portland Fire’s logo and branding here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Pickman, women’s basketball writer and podcast host at The Athletic, joins Sarah to talk about the WNBA’s newly-announced expansion teams, DeWanna Bonner’s midseason move to Phoenix, what to expect at this weekend’s All-Star game, and his thoughts on the discrepancy between media, fan and player All-Star voting. Plus, the Diana Taurasi bench unveiling is set, when hotties can’t hoop and other Slice emails, and one young soccer player’s legacy is already in full bloom. Watch The L Word’s painful basketball scene here Listen to Sarah on Jemele Hill’s Spolitics podcast  here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Season Two of Good Game with Sarah Spain! To celebrate the start of a sequel that's sure to be even better than the original, Sarah catches you up on all the news you need to know and Big Citrus dives into all of the WNBA drama that unfolded during our summer break. Plus, there aren't as many "mebounds" as you think and we welcome softball to the world of gay shit. Check out the new WNBA expansion team sites! Cleveland is here, Detroit is here, and Philadelphia is here Watch Allie Quigley’s congratulatory video here  Details on the WNBA Portland’s launch party at the MODA center is here  Watch a highlight of DiJonai Carrington's Andscape interview here  Watch Tobin Heath’s tribute video here  Read The Athletic’s story on Amanda Anisimova’s journey here Check out the WNBA All-Star voting breakdown here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Game is back for season two as your one-stop shop for the biggest stories in women’s sports. Every day, host Sarah Spain gives you the stories, stakes, stars, and stats to keep up with your favorite teams, leagues, and athletes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Allyson Felix—retired track star and mother-of-two—speaks with Sarah about her legendary career and the joys and challenges of juggling parenthood and multiple business endeavors. They discuss her new management company Always Alpha, her new documentary "She Runs The World," and her longtime advocacy on behalf of women and mothers, from calling out Nike's pregnancy policies to pushing for the first-ever nursery in an Olympic Village. This episode is the latest in our “Life Beyond” series, showcasing the extraordinary resilience and strength of successful women, diving deep into their lives, highlighting their personal journeys and sharing the ways they’re "Living Beyond" the labels they’ve been given by others. Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Citrus presents: The Summer Squeeze! Books, music, movie and getaway recs as the days heat up and your office summer Friday policy kicks in. Plus, a look back at Season One of the show, nobody knows where the Ozarks are, and it might be summer break but we’ve still got a little homework for you Slices to do…  Check out Joey Maldonado's calendar here And check out Erin Raw’s excellent summary of Good Game recs here   Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a Big Citrus summer hang! Sarah, Alex, and Mish get together to discuss the storylines they’re watching in the WNBA, question the worth of exhibition games during the NWSL hiatus, and share their favorite summer sports traditions (badminton and archery, anyone?). Plus, what season is the citrus season? Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Look on the bright side, y’all! On this episode, Sarah joins Simone Boyce on Hello Sunshine’s “The Bright Side” podcast, and talks about why being pushed out of your “dream job” isn’t the end, what it means to be a woman who contains multitudes in a world that wants you to shrink, chasing big dreams, creating lasting change in women's sports and the power of owning every part of your story. Check out The Bright Side here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacie deHoop and Ellen Hyslop, co-founders of the popular sports media company The GIST, join Sarah to discuss their company’s origin story, reaching one million subscribers, and how they’ve handled managing an ever-expanding brand in a changing industry. Plus, a court in a 'port, a friend of the show goes way up, and team Good Game goes on summer vacation! Subscribe to The GIST here  Follow The GIST on Instagram here  Get tickets to the live taping of The Women’s Game podcast in D.C. here  Check out Kathryn Bertine’s post about summiting Denali here  The WNBA schedule is here The full schedule of NWSL exhibition matches is here  Watch the Women’s Elite Rugby Legacy Cup here  Watch the FIBA 3x3 World Cup here The Wimbledon schedule is here The Amundi Evian Championship schedule can be found here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pamela Grundy and Susan Shackelford, co-authors of “Shattering the Glass: The Remarkable History of Women’s Basketball,” join Sarah to talk about trying to fit the history of women’s basketball into one book, the interesting way they became friends and co-authors, and their recent trip to the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Plus, a high profile breakup, Number 13 is headed to the rafters, and it’s almost game time—get out that eyeliner, baby. Pick up a copy of “Shattering the Glass: The Remarkable History of Women’s Basketball” here See the PWHL Draft results here Check out Sportico’s latest WNBA franchise valuations here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and breast cancer survivor Melissa Etheridge joins Sarah for a deeply personal conversation about the power of resilience and reinvention. Melissa talks about how a women's soccer team helped her get discovered, why she had to re-record her very first album, and how her cancer battle transformed her approach to life and advocacy. Beyond the diagnosis, she shares her ongoing passion for empowering women — including her vocal support of women’s sports, from championing equal pay to performing at key moments in the rise of women's soccer. This episode is a tribute to living boldly, loving deeply, and refusing to be defined by a diagnosis. Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this suuuuuper gay episode, Big Citrus celebrates Pride with a PowerPoint Party! Each member of Big Citrus does a presentation on the intersection of women’s sports and LGBTQ issues. Plus, a high school grad in a different league than her peers, the night when hockey dreams come true, and a story that reminds us - once again - that sports are political. See the adorable Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd moment here The WNBA schedule is here And watch Skylar Diggins gush about Nneka Ogwumike here See the 2006, 2007, and 2008 WNBA Draft class photos And see a photo of producer Mish in their straight-passing days here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lindsay Gibbs, creator of the women’s sports newsletter Power Plays, joins Sarah to discuss why she launched the newsletter, the importance of history and context in understanding the current moment in women’s sports, and why even dream jobs come with challenges. Plus, Title IX is 53, a friend of the show bids farewell to the beautiful game, and a soft hard launch that made our Pride month. Follow Lindsay on BlueSky here  Check out Power Plays here  Read Lindsay’s first ever story for Power Plays here  And read the other newsletter Lindsay referenced here  Watch Coach Jackie’s video about Azzi Fudd showing off her “Paige Bueckers’ girlfriend” phone case here And watch Paige and Azzi’s take on the restaurant bill trend here Listen to Meghan Klingenberg’s interview with Becky Sauerbrunn and Lindsey Heaps for the newly launched U.S. Soccer podcast here  Check out the Gender Equity Dashboard here Check out slice Dana’s ridiculous fake poster in honor of Sarah’s interview with Laura Stacey and Marie-Philip Poulin here Check out Jennifer King’s postgame interview with members of the Texas Elite Spartans here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey – partners on Team Canada, the Montreal Victoire, and in life – join Sarah to discuss their goal of bringing the Walter Cup to Montreal, the memorable moment sparks first flew for them and the decision to be more public with their relationship. Plus the joy of being dog owners, their reaction to Boston leaving Hilary Knight unprotected, and Laura explains why she wanted PWHL GMs to consider her as her own player and not Pou’s plus-one.  No idea who Marcus is? This post from The Gist will get you up to speed. Follow Marie-Philip Poulin on Instagram here  Follow Laura Stacey on Instagram here   Watch Ali Riley’s return to practice here  The PWHL transaction tracker is here The latest USWNT roster is here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keeper Notes creator and official NWSL historian Jen Cooper and Her Hoop Stats contributor Richard Cohen join Sarah to discuss how they each discovered their passion for record keeping, why it's so important for leagues like the WNBA and NWSL – and women’s sports as a whole – to have advanced statistics, building relationships in order to source information that fans need, and whether their stat brains allow them to watch games for fun. Plus, at what point does a record become untouchable? Read Henry Louis Gates Jr.’s story about Juneteenth here And read Derrick Bryson Taylor’s story on the celebration here Check out Keeper Notes here Follow Richard on BlueSky here Check out all of the CBA and rules info Richard has helped compile for Her Hoop Stats here Watch Jeff Kassouf’s interview with Emma Hayes here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports Illustrated women’s sports staff writer Emma Baccellieri joins Sarah to talk about her SI cover story on the Indiana Fever and their accelerated timeline in search of a title, why she’d love to write a long form profile of Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, the women’s basketball book she’s working on with friend of the show Jordan Robinson, and her soda Substack side-quest. Read Emma’s Sports Illustrated cover story on the Indiana Fever here See the moment Bria Hartley gets a handful of Angel Reese’s braid here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thirsty? Take a swig of some Big Citrus! The gang gathers to give you the juice on Mish’s weekend trip to Portland for the Athlete Ally summit, Alex’s answer to a slice’s question about WNBA contracts and payments, and Sarah’s take on Angel City’s “Immigrant City Football Club” shirts. Plus, PWHL free agency is in full swing, Angel Reese turns trolling into a trademark, and a precise formula determines the gayest teams in the WNBA. Get your ACFC “Immigrant City Football Club” shirt here And learn about the work of Camino Immigration Services here Watch pop artist Nezza sing “El Pendón Estrellado” even though the Dodgers organization told her not to here Learn more about Athlete Ally’s work here The full WNBA schedule is here Read Stephen Noh’s story disproving the theory that Angel Reese is a rebounding stat-padder here Check out Angel Reese’s “Mebounds” trademark application and thank you to the trolls here Find out how gay your favorite WNBA team is here Read Cassandra Negley’s story here The full AUSL schedule is here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actors James Roday Rodriguez and Tom Everett Scott join Sarah to discuss the WNBA fantasy league that brought them together, the W players surprising them most this year, and how two degenerate fantasy football players brought their sickness to a WNBA league in the first place. Plus, an explanation rooted in tongue waggling, seeing double while breaking records, and a strong message of support from the City of Angels. Read Lindsay Gibbs’s 2021 thread on Shey Peddy here and the related story here Submit your WNBA All-Star ballot here Don’t forget to send us your fave pride activations! Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Howard Megdal, founder and editor of The IX Newsletter and The Next Women's Basketball Newsroom, joins Sarah to talk about his book Becoming Caitlin Clark, putting Clark’s meteoric rise in context, his experience covering women’s sports, and his role guiding young writers in the evolving women’s sports media landscape. Snag your copy of Becoming Caitlin Clark here Check out The IX Newsletter here Check out The Next newsroom here Learn more about Stephanie Case’s nonprofit Free To Run here And read or listen to the NPR story about Case here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports joins Sarah to talk WNBA, Napheesa Collier’s MVP campaign, making the move from the Chicago Sun-Times to her new gig, and a little softball, including NiJaree Canady’s impact on Texas Tech softball and the way her 7-figure NIL contracts could affect salaries at the professional level. Plus, PWHL Seattle and PWHL Vancouver have rounded out their rosters, Allie Quigley says an accidental Irish goodbye, and another edition of Gimme a Minute with Big Citrus that’s all about snap judgments. The full PWHL expansion draft results are here Vote for the players you want to see in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game here Read Philip Bump's column on youth sports here Watch Kendall Fletcher tell the US Women TST team about her IVF baby here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first episode of our special six-part series "Life Beyond: Living Beyond Labels," World Cup champion and activist Ashlyn Harris joins Sarah to talk about finding identity and strength beyond the goalie box. Now retired from pro soccer, Ashlyn reflects on motherhood, advocacy, mental health, facing criticism and the work required to heal from the pressure of constant performance. Check out Ashlyn’s podcast “Wide Open” here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media influencer Coach Jackie J and multi-hyphenate entertainer and improv teacher Shannon O’Neill join Sarah to talk about creating content, the intersections between women in comedy and women in sports, and how Jackie came up with her famous social media series “Are you gay or do you just coach women’s basketball?” Plus, an awesome new initiative from the WNBA, the Nutmeg Queen returns to Gotham City, and a high schooler’s athleticism puts us all to shame. Follow Coach Jackie on TikTok here Follow Shannon O’Neill on Instagram here Order Sarah’s book here Watch hurdler's Brooklyn Anderson winning somersault here Tell the WNBA about a park that needs a WNBA 3-point line and learn about the league’s Line ‘Em Up initiative here The AUSL website is here, and the league’s schedule is here Get your Good Game merch here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Big Citrus meeting is called to order to talk about the Texas Longhorns' first softball national championship, the Boston Legacy’s newly unveiled logo, and Coco Gauff’s French Open win. Plus, saloon doors and invisible guns--Sarah shares her favorite moments from AUSL’s big opening day. The PWHL expansion draft is tonight at 8:30pm ET! You can watch it here and keep tabs on the round-by-round progress here Check out the slow-mo video of Coco Gauff winning the French Open here And watch Coco’s celebration with the ball kids here Read a fascinating story about Cyril, the mascot of Swansea FC, here Check out Angel Reese’s new PE shoes here And take a look at Satou Sabally’s shoes here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Softball Hall of Famer and Athletes Unlimited Softball League advisor Jennie Finch joins Sarah to discuss the inaugural AUSL season starting on Saturday, the beauty of softball stakeholders all working toward the same goal, and Major League Baseball’s groundbreaking investment in the AUSL. Plus, the PWHL is moving and shaking, the Seattle Storm is under the microscope again, and a special treat for all you puzzle lovers. Follow AUSL on Instagram here Listen to the Puzzler podcast here Watch Mulligan the dog on SNL here  The NWSL schedule can be found here The AUSL schedule is here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin, co-hosts of The Athletic podcast "Full Time with Meg Linehan," join Sarah for a mid-season NWSL check-in. They discuss the current standings, Gotham FC’s CONCACAF W Champions Cup win, the Alex Cooper-led Unwell FC league supporters group, and commissioner Jessica Berman’s vision for league expansion. Plus, the Women's College World Series heats up, PWHL teams protect players ahead of the expansion draft, and a Hoops and Gay Shit hard launch fit for Pride month. Listen to Wednesday’s Jocks in Jills episode here See the full French Open schedule here Listen to Wednesday’s episode of Full Time here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kansas City Current defender Izzy Rodriguez joins Sarah to discuss the Current’s success this NWSL season, what it’s like training against Temwa Chawinga, and keeping her cool when celebrity fans show up at games. Plus, the Sports Bra’s Jenny Nguyen returns to break some news about the first four Sports Bra franchises. Follow Izzy on Instagram here Follow the Sports Bra on Instagram here  Watch members of the Chicago Stars make ya feel old here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a very special episode, slices. Sarah is joined by Raiders running backs coach Deland McCullough, the co-author and subject of her new book, Runs in the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and Belonging. They discuss the writing process, the sometimes uncomfortable act of excavating your past, reactions from Deland’s friends and family, his emotions ahead of launch day, and the serendipitous circumstances of his new job with the Raiders. Order your copy of Runs in the Family here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former LPGA pro turned analyst and podcast host Mel Reid joins Sarah to talk about her Irish goodbye to pro golf, how her young son helped her let go of the game, coming out because a company pissed her off, and her hopes for an LPGA evolution. Plus, a controversial call in the Women's College World Series, French Open fairness discourse heats up, and the Scripps Spelling Bee winner also wins a lil' piece of our hearts. Pre-order Sarah’s book here Watch Makayla Garcia steal home here Read about the review that upheld Megan Grant’s homer for UCLA here The French Open schedule is here Watch current college softball players react to the first ever NCAA championship softball game here Read about Asterisk Talley here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connecticut Sun guard Marina Mabrey joins Sarah to discuss finding her focus and purpose in Connecticut after being denied a trade, developing a reputation as a Grade A trash-talker, the WNBA’s top dawgs, the life lessons she’s helping impart to younger teammates, and the state of her spice cabinet. Plus, the USWNT gets friendly during the NWSL break, the WNBA rolls on, and a What The Fact that illuminates a recent attendance record. Follow Marina on Instagram here Pre-order Sarah’s book here The WNBA schedule is here The U.S. Open schedule and tune-in info can be found here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ESPN softball analyst and two-time Olympic medalist Jessica Mendoza joins Sarah to talk through the stars she’s got her eyes on in this year’s Women's College World Series, squads she thinks could upset perennial powerhouse Oklahoma, how the pace and passion of softball differs from baseball, and her LA 2028 hot take. She also helps us tease a one-of-a-kind partnership that will change the softball landscape. Plus, the French Open gets called out for prioritizing the men’s tournament, Big Citrus debuts a new segment, and we revisit middle school spelling trauma.  Follow Jessica on Instagram here The College World Series schedule can be found here Got ideas for what we should call our new segment? Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LPGA player Mariah Stackhouse joins Sarah ahead of this weekend’s U.S. Open to discuss growing up as a golf prodigy, the high cost of being on tour, the injury keeping her out of competition right now and her dream women’s sports collabs. Plus, the Minnesota dynasty has begun, Caitlin Clark is sidelined for the first time in a long time, and college lacrosse hands out a trophy in front of a record audience. Follow Mariah on Instagram here  The NCAA softball bracket can be found here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beach volleyball legend and three-time Olympic medalist April Ross joins Sarah to discuss her decision to retire at the end of last season, the success of NCAA beach volleyball, and her new role with USA Volleyball ahead of the 2028 LA Olympics. Plus, a R-E-M-I-N-D-E-R that anything can be sports.  Follow April on Instagram here Watch the Scripps National Spelling Bee! The broadcast schedule is here Do you remember the word that was your downfall in the spelling bee? Tell us! Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Long weekend = no NTK today! Instead, we’re giving you a re-air of Sarah’s conversation with Chicago Stars goalkeeper and former USWNT player Alyssa Naeher. She and Sarah talk about the origin of “Uncle Naeher,” succeeding Briana Scurry and Hope Solo on the national team, and how she knew it was time to retire from international competition. Grab tickets to the USWNT’s friendlies against China and Jamaica here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hilary Knight, an Olympic gold medalist, 10x world champion and captain of the PWHL's Boston Fleet, joins Sarah to talk about her decision to make the Milan Cortina Olympics her last Games, share her scouting report for the PWHL Finals series between Ottawa and Minnesota, reveal the story of her secret MBA, and explain why an SNL invite saw her taking an Uber from D.C. to New York. Plus, Northwestern’s golf team makes history, the French Open offers more access, and Gotham FC eyes a championship. The NWSL schedule can be found here The PWHL schedule can be found here The WNBA schedule can be found here Check out the Atlanta Dream x Cash App x Playa Society court here And grab your Atlanta Dream x Cash App x Playa Society shirt here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico's deputy editor and co-host of the Sporticast podcast, joins Sarah to discuss his reporting on the potential sale and relocation of the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun, how pro sports team valuations are calculated, and why the WNBA’s unique ownership structure affects investment and expansion. Plus, French stars say “non” to EuroBasket, a salute to the start of our show side’s season, and one last, long mute. Read Eben’s reporting for Sportico here Listen to the Sporticast podcast here Read more about the Minnesota Lynx’s partnership with Bon Iver here And watch Napheesa Collier and Justin Vernon discuss the partnership here The USWNT training camp roster can be found here  The WER schedule can be found here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Houston Dash players Michelle Alozie and Diana Ordóñez join Sarah to discuss the NWSL season so far, the squad’s possession-focused strategy under new head coach Fabrice Gautrat, and playing for their respective national teams. Plus tattoos, TikToks and tunnel fits--the pair dish out some superlatives to their Houston Dash teammates.  Follow Michelle on Instagram here Follow Diana on Instagram here Check out the photos of the NCAA women’s basketball players on RuPaul's Drag Race here Read about why softball player Michaela Edenfield says makeup is her competitive advantage here  Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minnesota Frost goalie Maddie Rooney joins Sarah ahead of the PWHL Finals to talk about being back in the ‘chip for the second straight year, give her scouting report on opponent the Ottawa Charge and reminisce about winning gold with Team USA at the Pyeongchang Olympics. Plus, an historic upset in college softball, the Ballon d’Or folks make a long-awaited change, and an Italian footballer takes saying it with your chest to a whole new level. Watch the video of Maddie Rooney’s fiance and Taylor Heise’s boyfriend mic’d up here Find tune-in, ticket and schedule info for the PWHL Finals here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to one of the most wonderful weeks of the year, when the WNBA, NWSL and PWHL stars are all aligned and in season. It’s better than a solar eclipse! We give you the top headlines from those leagues, Sarah’s back to dish on her experience at the Golden State Valkyries’ first regular season game, and Big Citrus convenes to talk top headlines from the opening weekend of WNBA games and get ya fired up for the PWHL Finals. Read Frankie de la Cretaz’s piece on the NWSL’s Call Her Daddy partnership here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 WNBA season has finally arrived and we are celebrating with the final installment of The Shootaround. Today we discuss the WNBA’s new expansion team: the Golden State Valkyries. In addition to giving you the stars, stakes, stats and stories you need to know, Sarah also catches up with Valkyries President Jess Smith about how she’s feeling ahead of the team’s first ever regular season game tonight. Plus, the PWHL Finals are coming into focus, Paige Bueckers gets some hometown love, and the NWSL players association speaks out. The WNBA schedule is here The PWHL playoff schedule is here Watch the PWHL playoffs here The NWSL schedule can be found here Read the full NWSLPA statement here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in the home stretch of The Shootaround, our team-by-team previews getting you ready for tipoff of the 2025 WNBA season. Today’s subjects are the Dallas Wings and Los Angeles Sparks, two teams with nowhere to go but up. We’ve got you covered with the stars, stakes, stats and stories, a little history, a little lore, a little gossip and a little more. Plus, an update on Angel City FC defender Savy King, Brazilian soccer star Marta unretires from international competition, and could the Connecticut Sun be on the move? Watch Simone Biles’ commencement speech at Washington University in St. Louis here, about one hour and 45 minutes in See Toronto Tempo owners Serena Williams and Lilly Singh in their stunning suits here and here Check out Arike Ogunbowale smiling after a dime from Paige Bueckers here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at [email protected]  Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Misha Jones! Bluesky: @mishthejrnalist.bsky.social Instagram: @mishthejrnalist Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.