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Longest active NCAA women’s basketball tournament streaks

ncaa.com — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0000

Since the women’s NCAA basketball tournament began in 1982, just one team has appeared in every edition of it: the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, one of the teams synonymous with excellence in women’s college basketball.

But several other schools have pieced together impressive streaks too, some lasting more than two decades.

Here are longest active appearance streaks in the NCAA women’s basketball tournament.

Tennessee (41)

Tennessee hired the late, great Pat Summitt as its head coach in 1974, and four years later they were in AIAW Final Four, the tournament that preceded the NCAA women’s basketball tournament. Summitt’s teams appeared in four AIAW Final Fours, and made the Final Four in the first year of the NCAA tournament in 1982 too. Summitt’s teams went to 18 Final Fours and won 16 SEC tournament titles.

Stanford (35)

Stanford appeared in the first ever NCAA tournament in 1982, but lost in the first round and were spectators for the next five season. In 1988, the streak began with a Sweet 16 trip under head coach Tara VanDerveer.

During their…

Skylar Diggins-Smith: A Fashion Icon Dominating the Court

Hannah Waddell — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:22:15 +0000

When it comes to the perfect blend of style and athleticism, one name stands out above the rest: Skylar Diggins-Smith. This basketball sensation has left her mark on the court and has become a fashion icon in her own right. Her ability to effortlessly transition from a game-winning shot to a runway-worthy ensemble has captured the attention of sports and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Skylar Diggins-Smith has consistently shown her flair for fashion as a Puma-sponsored athlete. Her ability to seamlessly fuse high-end fashion with athletic wear sets her apart from her peers and solidifies her position as a style icon. Recently, she made waves in the fashion world by working as an ambassador for the renowned luxury brand, Balmain, in the Puma x Balmain collection.

This collaboration showcases the collision of fashion and athleticism. The Puma x Balmain collection effortlessly combines Balmain’s signature high-fashion aesthetic with Puma’s sporty edge. This dynamic partnership resulted in a line of apparel and footwear that blends luxury and functionality flawlessly. Skylar Diggins-Smith, with her fierce attitude and eye for style, is the perfect ambassador for this unique collaboration.

Balmain x Puma Collection

Wow. It’s no wonder Skylar was hand picked to be an ambassador for this collaboration. Her style and fierce attitude match this collaboration perfectly. Skylar is decked out head-to-toe in this collaboration. Look how versatile this collection is, perfect for take you both to and from the court.

Here Skylar is seen wearing the Puma x Balmain black basketball jersey, which features co-branded logos for both Balmain and Puma. Next, Skylar is wearing the parka jacket and its coordinating jogging pants. To finish off the look, Skyler is sporting the breathtaking court sneakers. If there is one thing you should pick up from this collection, it’s the court sneakers. They’re stylish and chic, and with the rise in popularity of dunk-style basketball shoes, you’ll be right on trend.

One of the most captivating aspects of Skylar’s fashion journey is her ability to make a statement both on and off the court. She understands that fashion is not just about looking good but also about expressing oneself. Just look how at her in these pictures, in her element and thriving. Skylar’s bold fashion choices showcase her personality and individuality in a way that captivates her audience.

Skylar Diggins-Smith’s collaboration with Puma and Balmain exemplifies the power of fashion to transcend boundaries. By combining sports and luxury fashion, this collection allows fans to experience the best of both worlds. Skylar’s involvement in this collaboration not only showcases her fashion-forward mindset but also highlights her ability to inspire others to push boundaries and embrace their unique sense of style.

In conclusion, Skylar Diggins-Smith’s fashion journey is nothing short of remarkable. Her involvement in the Puma x Balmain collaboration has solidified her position as a fashion icon. With her ability to effortlessly blend sports and high-end fashion, Skylar Diggins-Smith continues to inspire fans to embrace their personal style and make a statement on and off the court.

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Brittney Griner: A Triumphant Return to the WNBA Court

Hannah Waddell — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:12:45 +0000

Ladies, gentlemen, and basketball enthusiasts, buckle up because we have some fabulous news! The one and only Brittney Griner has made a triumphant return to the WNBA court after nearly a year of detainment in Russia. And, she’s here to make an incredible comeback!

Brittney’s Time in Russia

Griner, like many other WNBA stars, had been playing basketball in Russia during the offseason. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was arrested in February 2022. It all happened when two cannabis vape cartridges were discovered in her carry-on luggage.

Although Griner claimed that packing those cartridges was a mere oversight, she found herself facing drug smuggling charges. After returning to the US through a prisoner swap, she made her return to the US!

After 572 days off the court, Brittney made her return to the court, and while she states that she feels she needs to “knock off some cobwebs” before reaching the level of play that made her a seven-time WNBA all-star, the crowd at her first WNBA game went wild.

Brittney’s First Game in 10 Months

In the Phoenix Mercury’s preseason finale, Griner, the fierce and unstoppable force, graced us with her presence. She played a solid 17 minutes, showing everyone that she hasn’t lost her touch. With her signature moves and dominating presence, she effortlessly scored 10 points, reminding us why she’s a legend in her own right.

Now, we know what you’re thinking. This was just a preseason game, a warmup for the upcoming season. But let me tell you, the gravity of the situation is not lost on Griner. Every minute on that court mattered. Every point she scored was a statement. She showed the world that she’s back and ready to reclaim her rightful place among the elite.

We can only imagine the emotions coursing through Griner’s veins as she stepped onto the court. The anticipation, the excitement, and maybe even a hint of nervousness. After all, she had been away for so long. But once that ball was in her hands, she proved that she’s a force to be reckoned with, no matter the circumstances.

Griner’s return not only brings joy to the fans but also adds a new layer of excitement to the upcoming WNBA season. Her presence alone elevates the competition and raises the stakes for all the teams in the league. You better believe they’ll be strategizing and game-planning to contain her unstoppable force.

So, let’s celebrate this extraordinary moment. Brittney Griner is back, and she’s ready to conquer the court once again. The stage is set for an exhilarating season filled with breathtaking plays and awe-inspiring moments. Get your popcorn ready, because this is going to be a wild ride.

As we bid adieu to Griner’s almost 10-month detainment in Russia, let’s welcome her back with open arms. The WNBA court is her domain, and she’s here to remind us all why she’s a true basketball icon. The journey ahead promises excitement, passion, and, most importantly, the brilliance of Brittney Griner.

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Rhyne Howard: The Rising Star of the WNBA

Hannah Waddell — Mon, 15 May 2023 13:43:58 +0000

Rhyne Howard is the name on everyone’s lips in the WNBA these days. And it’s no wonder why. This rising star was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft and has been making waves ever since.

Rhyne Howard’s Career

Rhyne Howard’s career in basketball began in her hometown of Cleveland, Tennessee. She grew up playing basketball with her three older brothers, and quickly fell in love with the game.

After graduating from high school, Howard chose to attend the University of Kentucky, where she continued to shine on the basketball court. In her freshman season, she was named the SEC Freshman of the Year, and was also named to the All-SEC First Team.

Over the next two seasons, Howard continued to establish herself as one of the top players in the country. She was named to the All-SEC First Team each season, and was also named an AP All-American in both her sophomore and junior seasons.

Following her junior season, Howard declared for the WNBA draft and was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Atlanta Dream. In her rookie season, Howard quickly acclimated to the WNBA game and made the All-Star team. But she didn’t stop there. She went on to be named Rookie of the Year, cementing her status as one of the league’s most exciting new players.

WNBA Achievements

Last season, Howard was 12th in the league in scoring with an impressive 16.4 PPG. But that’s just the beginning. She also posted solid peripheral numbers, including 4.5 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.8 BPG, and 2.5 3PG. In short, she is a do-everything player who can impact the game in a variety of ways.

Looking ahead, there’s no doubt that Howard is the foundation of the Dream moving forward. With her talent and versatility, she has the potential to become one of the league’s most dominant players.

One thing that sets Howard apart is her ability to score from anywhere on the court. She’s equally comfortable driving to the basket as she is knocking down shots from beyond the arc. And when defenders try to shut her down, she has the vision and passing skills to find her teammates for open looks.

Of course, Howard is still young and has plenty of room to grow. But her potential is off the charts. Last season, she set career highs in points (29), rebounds (11), assists (7), steals (6), and made three-pointers (6) in a single game. That’s the kind of performance that has fans and analysts alike buzzing about her future.

So what can we expect to see from Rhyne Howard moving forward? More of the same, and then some. With each passing game, she seems to gain more confidence and develop new facets of her game.

In short, Rhyne Howard is a name you need to remember. She’s already making a name for herself in the WNBA, and it’s only a matter of time before she becomes a household name. This is only the beginning of what promises to be an incredible career for one of the most exciting players in the league.

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Aliyah Boston: The Game-Changer for the Indiana Fever

Hannah Waddell — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 16:49:21 +0000

It’s official! The Indiana Fever has snagged Aliyah Boston as their number-one draft pick for the 2023 WNBA season! If you aren’t familiar with Aliyah Boston, you will be soon. She’s talented beyond belief, and with an already impressive NCAA career under her belt, we expect to see big things from her in the WNBA!

Aliyah Boston’s Career to Date

Let’s start with Aliyah’s impressive list of accolades. Not only was she the 2022 Naismith Player of the Year, but she’s also a two-time Naismith Defensive Player of the Year. Talk about a double threat! With her incredible skillset, Aliyah is an interior force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court.

At only 21 years old, Aliyah has already achieved so much on the court. During her time at South Carolina, she was a key player in helping the Gamecocks reach the NCAA Final Four twice, including winning the National Championship in 2021.

Aliyah also played as a member of the USA Basketball team, winning four gold medals! With her outstanding performance during the 2017 FIBA U16 Americas Cup, she led the team with an average of 11.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, earning her the title of Most Valuable Player.

1st Round WNBA Draft Pick

Aliyah Boston is joining the Indiana Fever as a forward player. On the court she’s constantly in motion, anticipating her opponent’s moves and reacting with lightning speed. Her precision and focus are unmatched, and her dedication to the game is awe-inspiring.

Indiana Fever has not made the play-offs since 2016. Aliyah is expected to have an immediate impact on the team! One thing that sets Aliyah apart is her leadership skills. As a natural born leader, she inspires her teammates to give it their all on the court. Not only that, she also leads by example with her relentless work ethic and commitment to the game. She’s expected to bring that same level of leadership and motivation to her new team, Indiana Fever, to help guide the team to victory!

What excites me the most about Aliyah joining the Fever is how she’ll elevate the team’s defense. With her exceptional defensive skills, she’ll be able to shut down even the most talented players in the league. And when it comes to offence, her ability to dominate around the basket will be a game-changer for the team.

The Fever made a smart move by drafting Aliyah Boston. And in fact, this draft has been much anticipated since news of Indiana landing first draft pick broke back in November of 2022. Aliyah will also be joining former South Carolina Gamecocks teammate Destanni Henderson! With this dynamic duo, I have no doubt Indiana Fever will see an immediate improvement.

So, let’s all give a warm welcome to Aliyah Boston, the newest member of the Indiana Fever. Her combination of skill, strength, and tenacity will be a breath of fresh air for the Fever, and I can’t wait to see how she’ll help lead the team to victory!

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Breanna Stewart x Puma: Stewie 1 “Four Time” Sneaker

Hannah Waddell — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 15:28:37 +0000

By now, most of you may know Breanna Stewart. If you don’t know Breanna Stewart, she’s a professional basketball player and the definition of girl power. From hooper to fashion designer. The latest news in the WNBA world is the superstar’s exciting collab with Puma. I know Puma has been making headlines lately, with their announcement of the rekindled Fenty collab, but this one is history-making. Breanna Stewart and Puma are collaborating for the Breanna Stewart x Puma Stewie 1 “Four Time” sneaker. Dropping this week, I break down all the details.

Who is Breanna Stewart?

Let’s start with Breanna. Breanna Stewart is a professional basketball player who currently plays for New York Liberty in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She’s a force to be reckoned with on the court, having won multiple championships and accolades throughout her career. In college, she was a standout player at UConn, leading her team to four consecutive NCAA championships. And since joining the WNBA, she’s won two championships, been named the Finals MVP twice, and earned the league’s MVP award in 2018.

But Breanna’s impact goes beyond just her stats. She’s been a vocal advocate for social justice and equality, using her platform to speak out on issues like police brutality and the gender pay gap. She’s also been open about her own struggles with mental health, shining a light on the importance of mental wellness for athletes.

Puma – Stewie 1 “Four Time”

Now, onto the collab. The Stewie 1 “Four Time” sneaker is a big deal for a few reasons. For one, it showcases Puma’s commitment to supporting female athletes. The brand has been making a push to elevate women’s sports and athletes, and partnering with someone like Breanna, who’s not only a dominant player but also a leader off the court, is a smart move.

The Stewie 1 “Four Time” colourway is devoted to Breanna’s time at UConn. It’s release during March Madness is a nod to the incredible run she had there. Notable details include the numbers under the tongue. The 13, 14, 15, and 16 represent Breanna’s four national titles, hence the name “Four Time.” Another important detail is the red slashes on the lower portion of the heel, which are meant to look like scars and represent her achilles injury.

The sneaker is a lightweight low-top basketball shoe model, suitable for all players. This is the second iteration of the Breanna Stewart x Puma collab, with the first release being the “Quiet Fire.” For this iteration, Breanna opted for a more muted and wearable blue colour. The sneakers are available in women’s sizes 5.5-16.5. Set to drop on March 17th, these sneakers will retail for $120 USD.

Overall, the Stewie 1 “Four Time” sneaker is a must-have for any Breanna Stewart fan, hooper, or sneakerhead. But beyond the cool design, it represents something bigger: a celebration of a talented and inspiring athlete, and a step forward for women’s sports. With all the hype surrounding these sneakers, I’d set your alarm and be ready to check out on release day!

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Durable Osborne working toward strong, “normal” finish

womenshoopsworld.com — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 13:42:55 +0000

Charisma Osborne. UCLA Athletics photo.

Senior guard Charisma Osborne walks past photos of UCLA greats each time she is in Pauley Pavilion. They remind her of the program standard, which in recent years has included four straight trips to the Sweet 16, one Elite 8 appearance, a WNIT championship, and a slew of individual program records set.

At an athletic juggernaut like UCLA, legacy is usually a fairly straightforward thing. But Osborne’s imprint on Westwood, like the person that she is, is far more complicated than statistics and all-time marks.

The collegiate path of the two-time state high school basketball champion and top-10 recruit has been a complex weave of disruption, pivoting on-court duties, injury, and heaping lessons in life. And whether she chooses to declare for the WNBA draft this spring or stay another year, she will leave a legacy on the Bruin program like no other before her.

“Banners hang in gyms and rings collect dust, but who you become and who you impact are with you forever,” coach Cori Close said. “To watch Charisma impact the people around her, and then to see her becoming proud of who she’s becoming through all of her work…….I’m surprised, but only because I didn’t know what this was going to look like for her. And I’m thrilled…

It didn’t have to be this way: UConn has gone from great to endangered

womenshoopsworld.com — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 13:50:31 +0000

Despite widespread injuries, Husky reserve players have not seen much court time this season. UConn Athletics photo.

To say UConn has gone through it this year is an understatement.

They have played the nation’s most demanding schedule while battling a steady stream of injuries that have been unceasing since last summer. First, All-American Paige Bueckers tore her ACL, after which star guard Azzi Fudd hurt her knee – twice. Starter Caroline Ducharme missed 12 games in concussion protocol. Starter Dorka Juhasz broke her thumb.

Only two players – Aaliyah Edwards and Lou Lopez-Senechal – have started every game. Pre-season Naismith candidate Fudd (still their leading scorer) has played just nine games. She may or may not return to play this season. Ducharme played her first game of 2023 just this week.

The team was so injury-depleted that they had to postpone the Jan. 8 game against DePaul because they could not dress seven players, as required by the Big East Conference.

Despite all that, the Huskies looked great up and through their close loss to South Carolina on Feb. 5, a game which could have finished differently with better officiating.

But everyone has known for a month that the team was exhausted. After a stretch of five games in 12 days spanning January into…

Maturity, teamwork, defense put Indiana in rarified territory

womenshoopsworld.com — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:58:58 +0000

Mackenzie Holmes. Indiana Athletics photo.

Indiana has been climbing the last few years, but this season, they have arrived.

Last week they were ranked No. 2 in the AP top 25 poll – the highest in program history. At 22-1 and a Big Ten-leading 13-1, they have beaten five top-ten teams, and eight ranked teams.

By comparison, undefeated No. 1 South Carolina has played just three ranked teams and No. 3 LSU, who was also unbeaten until falling to the Gamecocks yesterday, has played two ranked teams.

So, why aren’t the Hoosiers getting the shine that others in the rankings are getting? It isn’t as though they snuck up on this lofty ranking; their first top-25 win was in December.

But as far as the national media is concerned, the Big 10 has been all about Iowa and Caitlin Clark, or Ohio State and its stellar core. Yet, Indiana has beaten both teams in the last two weeks, by nine and 13 points, respectively.

The Hoosiers are a mature, disciplined, balanced, tough, and calm group of players. Nobody overwhelms opponents more with their outstanding athleticism (which is not to say they aren’t superb athletes). They play an up-tempo but controlled game of basketball, focus on being patient enough to defend as a group for a full 30 seconds, and they will pass up a good shot for two…