BRADENTON, Fla. — Raven Johnson reaches for a steal at the top of the key, poking the ball free. MiLaysia Fulwiley is a blur in transition, completing a behind-the-back finish at the basket that elicits oohs and aahs from the crowd — and expletives from the bench — while Johnson tells her no one can guard her.
There’s Aziaha James and Kate Martin splashing 3s in transition, Saniya Rivers bringing the energy on both ends, and Nika Mühl glaring at a referee as a defender tries to petition for a moving screen.
Two weeks after the national semifinals, echoes of the Final Four reverberate at IMG Academy. Instead of the packed crowds and bright lights of Cleveland, this gym is mostly empty. This is the quiet work that will get these players back to the bright lights next season, or to whatever stage is next in their careers.
In the middle of every drill and scrimmage is Kelsey Plum, the WNBA All-Star who has caused these collegiate stars to flock to Florida mere days after the WNBA Draft and the end of their NCAA seasons. This is the second iteration of her annual Dawg Class, designed to bring together the best guards in the country, the ones who aspire to be a pro like her. Whether the WNBA awaits in a matter of weeks, months or years, Plum wants to make sure she aids in the…
