Hoops Off

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Sports! Athletes! Activism! Hoops Off is sports talk from a woman’s point of view. Each week, Liz Lapp and Karen Uyenco discuss the latest ways Sports is intersecting with women’s issues, culture and society. Sports journalists, athletes, activists, agents, talent, comedians, and more join them to bring additional perspectives to the discussion. New episodes weekly.

5 DAYS AGO

FEELINGS About the WNBA Draft + Who Hurt You, NBA?

The WNBA Draft Lottery numbers are in, and Liz and Karen are not sure if everyone is happy about the top 5 drafting teams. With Paige Bueckers as a major first-round draft pick, predictions as to who will hit the target are still up in the air. With the league poised to grow to 16 teams by 2028, Karen and Liz kick around the cities they think would be natural contenders and lively additions. And, from the women-in-business buzz come these juicy updates: the new JuJu Watkins docuseries (On the Rise) premiers this week; Whoopi Goldberg is launching the All Women's Sports Network, and U.S. Soccer gets a huge cash contributor. Ka-ching. Meanwhile, the NBA is not looking as shiny as the realm of womens sports: a boatload of injuries is plaguing the league and it’s really hitting the starting lineups. Not to mention there is still lots of pettiness going around with Inside the NBA: Clay vs. The Bay and the same old stale foolery. In the face of so many injuries, Liz and Karen share Fantasy League tips to help keep thing optimized from week to week, then they. take their hoops off for some real talk, and tie up this episode with a bow of gratitude. MENTIONS NBC, Peacock to premiere docuseries featuring USC Star Juju Watkins: https://www.si.com/college-basketball/usc-star-juju-watkins-docuseries-nbc-peacock Whoopi Goldberg launches All Women's Sports Network: https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/all-womens-sports-network-whoopi-goldberg-launch-november-2024/ NBA Injuries Up 35 percent over last season: https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/278024/NBA-Injuries-Up-35-perc-Over-Last-Season In Street Clothes covering sports injuries from the perspective of a certified athletic trainer and backed by analytics: https://instreetclothes.com/

1h 6m
15 NOV

Belly Up to the Sports Bra! Also: the NBA Cup's New Identity

Hoops Off podcast welcomes Jenny Nguyen, founder of the The Sports Bra, located in Portland, Oregon, and dedicated ENTIRELY to women's sports. Jenny’s origin story and her journey to getting the bar off the ground travel a fascinating trail--from the shoe-squeaks of hoops courts through professional kitchens, the pandemic, rounds of deep introspection, amateur Keynote pitch decks, and wildly encouraging rejections, Listen to her immersive journey and find out what's next as she discusses the current infusion of monetary investment from Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, who is also husband to award-winning tennis champion Serena Williams, as well as life in the world of franchising. Also in this episode, Karen breaks down the Emirates Cup (formerly known as the In-Season Tournament) including the renaming, how it works, fancy new courts and foolish heist marketing. MENTIONS There's never been a better time to run a women's sports bar: https://www.thecut.com/article/how-jenny-nguyen-the-sports-bra-owner-gets-it-done.html This popular women's sports bra in Portland is bringing its winnning formula to other cities: https://www.fastcompany.com/91111766/sports-bra-womens-sports-bar-portland-franchise-alexis-ohanian The Sports Bra announces plan to franchise with investment from Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian: https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2024/04/the-sports-bra-announces-plans-to-franchise-with-investment-from-alexis-ohanian.html NBA's Emirates Cup Features New 2024 Courts. What's Changed: https://frontofficesports.com/nbas-emirates-cup-features-new-2024-courts-whats-changed/

1h 9m
8 NOV

Women's Hoops Stay 🔥! Plus: NBA Beefs, Injuries, and Trades

Women's basketball courts are still going strong with the start of Women's College Basketball. Meanwhile, the revolving door of WNBA head coaches are making heads spin. Liz and Karen run through the firings that have popped up just a few weeks into the WNBA offseason. Then, Money Mama Karen breaks down the millions--in both dollars and reach--for the college WBB. The NBA's numbers are trending in a less favorable direction than the W's, particularly in the viewership department. Liz and Karen discuss what the league can do to be better. Plus they breakdown the slew of injuries happening way too early in the season, reflect on the Joel Embiid suspension, dig into the on court player beefs, and Giannis trade rumors, before laying up some insightful Fantasy NBA tips. To close it all out, this week's Hoops Off segment gets personal. Give us your thoughts and questions in an email or, better yet, a voicemail: Send it here: hoopsoffpod@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @thehoopsoff https://www.instagram.com/thehoopsoff/ MENTIONS Over Half of WNBA Coaches Have Been Fired. What's Happening? https://frontofficesports.com/half-of-wnba-coaches-have-been-fired-whats-happening/ Opinion: The NBA is causing its own failure: https://www.dailynebraskan.com/opinion/nba-viewership-declines/article_f6b829f2-9a26-11ef-8aaf-83b76cb16d34.html Joel Embiid suspended three games for shoving columnist: https://nypost.com/2024/11/05/sports/joel-embiid-suspended-three-games-for-shoving-reporter/ Nets predicted to cut ties with $177 million guard to acquire Bucks superstar: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/milwaukee-bucks/news/nets-predicted-cut-ties-177-million-guard-acquire-bucks-superstar/a03bb4e3cf4bfb31a3f46070

1 hr
1 NOV

Kavitha Davidson's Journey, and a Jonquel Jones Celebration

Award-winning sports journalist and host of the Sportly podcast on Immigrantly, Kavitha Davidson, joins Liz for a one-on-one interview about her remarkable sports journey. From the sights and sounds of old Yankee Stadium to her memories of former Yankees Center Fielder and musician Bernie Williams, Kavitha reflects on her unique path, including her parents’ inspiring immigrant story. But before that great convo, Liz and Karen kick off the episode by savoring the electric ending to the 2024 WNBA championship, where the New York Liberty clinched the title, and dive into the journey of the team’s Finals MVP-winning Center, Jonquel Jones. Drafted with the 6th overall pick in the 2016 WNBA draft, this Bahamian basketball star’s career reads like a movie script, and the women of the Hoops Talk pod are here to give her her flowers!

1h 9m
25 OCT

Liberty Ends 28-Year Drought! NBA's Courts Are In Session!

This is a whopper of an episode! Liz and Karen recap the WNBA 2024 Finals with a big congrats to the New York Liberty champions, as well as MVP of the finals, Jonquel Jones. The duo also takes a look at court side fashions spotted during the series, including Angel Reese's iconic Stewie/Napheesa jersey, made by the talented Jocelyn Hu. Liz and Karen also unpack Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve's post-game comments: her emotional critique of the officiating and her shady congrats to the Liberty. And, of course Ellie the Elephant, the MVP of mascots, gets her flowers in this episode. With the start of the 2024-25 NBA season upon us, Liz and Karen tee up burning questions about teams and players (i.e.Will the Celtics repeat? Can the Knicks beat Boston? How many games will Lebron play? Or Curry?) This over/under round of predictions is coming in hot. Closer to home, it’s time to look at the Hoops Talk Fantasy League, critiquing the 8-teams draft and trades, while also passing along some fantasy team tips. MENTIONS Liberty finally give New York City a basketball championship: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/21/nyregion/new-york-liberty-champions.html?unlocked_article_code=1.UE4.Ojqv.eXM8ZO79uei8&smid=url-share Jocelyin Hu: https://jocehu.com/ Jocelyn Hu Instagram Reel: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBZFqopuHOQ/ Jocelyn Hu Brittney Griner 42 Weeks: https://jocehu.com/42-weeks Fantasy Basketball All-Fades Team: 5 players you should avoid in drafts for the 2024-25 NBA Season: https://sports.yahoo.com/fantasy-basketball-busts-2024-25-121000752.html

1h 6m
18 OCT

From James+James-Town to Hoop York City

Leaves fall, the W ascends, NBA fantasy leagues draft, “Les Brons” debut: this season’s many transitions are ripe for hot takes, and Liz and Karen are here to deliver. Plus, special guest Alex Taylor, founder of Hoop York City, sits in with the Hoops Off Pod for a chat about her journey, drive, and mission to create a NYC-based women's basketball collective. Taylor reveals the devastating incident that triggered her into action, and shares the special meaning behind one of her favorite Hoop York City logos. Liz and Karen also discuss rookie of the year Caitlin Clark's offseason plans to joins LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam on the green and at the Women's Leadership Summit. Then, due to a listener's correction, Liz sets the record straight by providing a deep dive into the ownership and head coaching changes for the WNBA Los Angeles Sparks. Karen gets a good chuckle at the "Elder" nomenclature being used to differentiate the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James from his son Bronny James, making history as the first Father/Son duo to play on the same team in the NBA. Liz and Karen also show some love to Shamwow, share NBA Fantasy League tips and of course, take off their hoops! MENTIONS Hoops York City: https://www.hoopyorkcity.com/ WNBA's Caitlin Clark to compete in the LPGA Pro-Am hosted by Annika Sorenstam in November: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10138470-wnbas-caitlin-clark-to-compete-in-lpga-pro-am-hosted-by-annika-sorenstam-in-november JuJu Watkins and Nike reach a lucrative deal: https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/41684352/sources-usc-juju-watkins-nike-reach-lucrative-extension Lebron, Bronny James first father and son to play together: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/41653840/lebron-james-bronny-james-share-court-first-nba Can Zion Williamson, Ja Morant reach their 'potential' after years of starts and stops? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5825604/2024/10/08/zion-williamson-ja-morant-usa-basketball-void-pelicans-grizzlies/?source=freedailyemail&campaign=601983&userId=728016 ESPN hires Shams Charania: https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/10/08/shams-charania-espn-move?publicationSource=sbd&issue=33a8f5eecf1f4d208320439ad68169e2 Fans are outraged that Josh Giddey is playing during NBA Investigation: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/fans-outraged-josh-giddey-playing-220001062.html

1h 12m
10 OCT

A League of Their Own

Liz and Karen, spirits high, are loving the WNBA playoffs (with one tiny, but very relatable, exception.) The duo shine a light on the historical rises in playoff viewership. They also try to understand the short lifespan of WNBA coaches—now that a third head coach has been fired. On the announcement of Big Brittney Griner signing as a founding member of the Unrivaled League, Liz and Karen do a deeper dive into the rules, players, equity, salary and more, of the league. Update on the Hoops Off NBA fantasy league open spot: it has been filled! But Liz is still feeling commissioner's woes, and half of the teams are still needing to register and pay! This week’s Hoops Off segment gets personal for Karen. For Liz, she looks directly into the recording camera to give the so-called “new-look” Los Angeles Lakers a much needed kick in the pants MENTIONS WNBA Most Viewed Semi-finals in 22 Years: https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2024/10/sundays-wnba-matchup-between-las-vegas-aces-new-york-liberty-delivered-wnbas-most-viewed-semifinal-in-22-years/ Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark deserve better sophmore seasons from everyone: https://andscape.com/features/angel-reese-and-caitlin-clark-deserve-better-sophomore-seasons-from-everyone/ What Wright's Firing Means for Dream, WNBA coaching landscape: https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/41576332/wnba-2024-atlanta-dream-fire-tanisha-wright-coach-openings-vacancies-next Unrivaled League: https://www.unrivaled.basketball/ All-Star Brittney Griner joins Unrivaled's 3-on-3 hoops league https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/41572520/all-star-brittney-griner-joins-unrivaled-3-3-hoops-league Lindsay Gibbs Power Plays Substack: https://substack.com/@powerplays Natasha Cloud Get Out The Vote: https://www.powerplays.news/p/get-out-the-vote-with-natasha-cloud Give us your thoughts and questions in an email or, better yet, send us a voicemail: hoopsoffpod@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @thehoopsoff https://www.instagram.com/thehoopsoff/

1h 1m
4 OCT

Lessons in Chemistry

With an expansion draft for the W coming up, and NBA trades making news, Liz and Karen deliver some spicy astrological perspectives on building team chemistry. But first: Playoff basketball is special, and Liz and Karen are LIVING for the excitement of these high-caliber WNBA semifinals! Once again Liz breaks down the box score and goes deeper into the +/- category for individual players. The Golden State Valkyries will soon have players. (The expansion draft is scheduled for December 6th). Karen explains the expansion draft rules, and names the players she’d recommend for potential draft picks. Overall, things can get messy because current teams can only protect 6 players from the draft; and the head coaching job is a chance for the WNBA to do better! The NBA Media Days offered no shortage of drama and fun. The ladies discuss the impact, and astrological signs, of the blockbuster trade with the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves that included Karl Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo and a first draft pick from the Detroit Pistons. Lastly, the Hoops come off when Liz takes a stand for Fantasy League Commissioners, and Karen slams the WNBA for a slow response to protect players against threats. Plus, The ladies also choose the first listener to take one of the two spots available in the Hoops Off NBA Fantasy league. Give us your thoughts and questions in an email or, better yet, a voicemail: Send it here: hoopsoffpod@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @thehoopsoff https://www.instagram.com/thehoopsoff/ MENTIONS WNBA Playoffs https://www.wnba.com/playoffs/2024 Golden State Valkyries Expansion Draft: https://valkyries.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-expansion-draft-set-for-december-6-20240930/ Golden State Valkyries Expansion Draft Rules: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAjPpZDyU5B/?img_index=3 Draymond Green already mad at media days: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/draymond-green-nba-reporter-fans-teammates-fan/2821a8c1f31398250c299f54 Lonzo Ball is Back: https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/lonzo-ball-with-a-brand-new-knee-hopes-to-play-in-bulls-season-opener-after-two-and-a-half-years-away/ Knicks and Karl Anthony Towns trade: https://www.nba.com/news/knicks-await-official-arrival-of-karl-anthony-towns WNBA won't tolerate racism: https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba-says-wont-tolerate-racism-191322093.html

1h 17m

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TRAILER

We're Back! (Re)Introducing: Hoops Off

Liz Lapp and Karen Uyenco are taking their hoops off to bring you the saltiest, spiciest takes on all things ball. Episodes drop weekly. Follow us on Instagram @thehoopsoff, or take YOUR hoops off by recording a voice note and emailing it to hoopoffpod@gmail.com 💋

S4

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1 min

Music. Conversation. Debate. Hosts Dave Chappelle, yasiin bey, and Talib Kweli bring you a new genre of audio—like nothing you've ever heard. Listen, then listen again. You'll discover something new every time.

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COMEDY
A weekly interview series from Russell Brand that examines what's beneath the surface—of the people we admire, the ideas that define our time, and the history we’re told. Speaking with guests from the worlds of academia, popular culture, and the arts, Russell seeks to uncover the ulterior truth behind our constructed reality. And have a laugh.On his new podcast ‘Above the Noise’ Russell guides us all—curious beginners, spiritual skeptics, and experienced practitioners—in brief, 10-minute meditations. Listen to Above the Noise on Luminary

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SOCIETY & CULTURE
Russell Brand guides us all — curious beginners, spiritual skeptics, and experienced practitioners (including the Dalai Lama!) — in brief, 10-minute meditations. Using ancient techniques and some of his own personal practices, Russell offers a path towards moments of peace and awareness that can help us navigate life's ups and downs. For more Russell, listen to his weekly interview series ‘Under the Skin’ on Luminary.

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MENTAL HEALTH
The Black List founder Franklin Leonard talks movies with people who love them and people who make them. He and Black List Director of Community Kate Hagen speak with filmmakers, producers, and creators of all kinds, deep diving on movie watching rituals, sharing career highs, and revisiting highly regarded films from the Black List itself. Guests include: Spike Lee, Janelle Monae, Ed Helms, Lulu Wang, Jason Hehir, Rhada Blank, Bowen Yang, Katrina Longworth, Gabrielle Union, and many, many more.

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TV & FILM
Everyone has their own fight, whether they know it or not. On Til This Day, broadcast journalist Radio Rahim travels through the most compelling life chapters of the greatest thinkers, artists and fighters of our time: from Questlove to Michael Che, Jon Stewart to Rosie Perez. Each guest shares how they earn their slice, find their opening, and, ultimately, prevail.

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SOCIETY & CULTURE
Comedians Mo Amer and Azhar Usman ask the big questions the modern world makes you forget. Are we living in a simulation? What is money? What is life after death? They get real when it gets uncomfortable and funny when it gets serious. Are they joking . . . or not? New episodes drop every Thursday.

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COMEDY