https://simplecast.com Bleav in the W Bleav in The W with Tyler Byrum is your go-to podcast for comprehensive coverage of the WNBA and the rapidly growing world of women’s sports. From breaking news and game analysis to player storylines and league trends, Tyler Byrum brings informed, engaging takes on everything happening across the W. Each episode dives into WNBA matchups, team performances, standout players, and key moments shaping the season — while also spotlighting the broader impact of women’s basketball and the continued rise of women’s sports at every level. Whether you’re following stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Caitlin Clark, or tracking your favorite WNBA team, Bleav in The W delivers consistent, insightful coverage for dedicated fans and new listeners alike. 2026 Bleav en Sat, 30 May 2026 13:00:00 +0000 Sat, 30 May 2026 13:00:12 +0000 https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/ Bleav in the W https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/2d2984a4-0b68-4dd8-9f9b-f94bb1f55cfa/3000x3000/the_w_1.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/ episodic Bleav in The W with Tyler Byrum is your go-to podcast for comprehensive coverage of the WNBA and the rapidly growing world of women’s sports. From breaking news and game analysis to player storylines and league trends, Tyler Byrum brings informed, engaging takes on everything happening across the W. Each episode dives into WNBA matchups, team performances, standout players, and key moments shaping the season — while also spotlighting the broader impact of women’s basketball and the continued rise of women’s sports at every level. Whether you’re following stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Caitlin Clark, or tracking your favorite WNBA team, Bleav in The W delivers consistent, insightful coverage for dedicated fans and new listeners alike. Bleav false https://feeds.simplecast.com/EzdqrnqO basketball,caitlin clark,w,wnba,womens basketball Bleav admin@bleav.com f6fbb749-9cf9-43f2-8228-1033bcae9cd6 Caitlin Clark injury controversy | Making sense of the late pregame scratch and why people are making it a big deal When Caitlin Clark was a late scratch before the Indiana Fever's game against the Portland Fire on May 20, the tin foil hats were all pulled out. Controversies and rumors were everywhere. Now that the dust has settled, Tyler Byrum brings in Indiana Fever reporter Tony East from Circle City Spin to clear the air about what happened.

We also go through a comprehensive history of Caitlin Clark's injuries and why what happened in 2025 is the backdrop to this story. Plus, Tony explains why Caitlin has made a point in the past to power through injuries.

Subscribe to Tony East's publication Circle City Spin: https://www.circlecityspin.com/

Follow Tony East on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyreast.bsky.social
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]]> Sat, 30 May 2026 13:00:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&p=36 When Caitlin Clark was a late scratch before the Indiana Fever's game against the Portland Fire on May 20, the tin foil hats were all pulled out. Controversies and rumors were everywhere. Now that the dust has settled, Tyler Byrum brings in Indiana Fever reporter Tony East from Circle City Spin to clear the air about what happened.

We also go through a comprehensive history of Caitlin Clark's injuries and why what happened in 2025 is the backdrop to this story. Plus, Tony explains why Caitlin has made a point in the past to power through injuries.

Subscribe to Tony East's publication Circle City Spin: https://www.circlecityspin.com/

Follow Tony East on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyreast.bsky.social
Follow Tony East on X/Twitter: https://x.com/TonyREast

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]]> Caitlin Clark injury controversy | Making sense of the late pregame scratch and why people are making it a big deal Bleav 00:19:46 When Caitlin Clark was a late scratch before the Indiana Fever's game against the Portland Fire on May 20, the tin foil hats were all pulled out. Now that the dust has settled, Tyler Byrum brings in Indiana Fever reporter Tony East from Circle City Spin to clear the air about what happened. When Caitlin Clark was a late scratch before the Indiana Fever's game against the Portland Fire on May 20, the tin foil hats were all pulled out. Now that the dust has settled, Tyler Byrum brings in Indiana Fever reporter Tony East from Circle City Spin to clear the air about what happened. false full 23 0d6911f8-a4b9-4aac-be16-9f961d31cd3f Hailey van Lith gets waived by Connecticut, why? | Explaining why the Sun chose van Lith to make room for Leila Lacan Former Big 12 Player of the Year and 2025 first-round draft pick Hailey van Lith was waived for the second time this month. Tyler Byrum explains the logic behind the move and why she was chosen to make room for Leila Lacan.

The podcast concludes with potential landing spots for Van Lith as she searches for new opportunities.

ESPN's Alexa Philippou reporting on Hailey van Lith and "transparency": https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48903007/sun-activate-standout-guard-leila-lacan-waive-hailey-van-lith

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 15:36:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/hailey-van-lith-waived-by-connecticut-explaining-why-the-sun-chose-van-lith-to-make-room-for-leila-lacan/ Former Big 12 Player of the Year and 2025 first-round draft pick Hailey van Lith was waived for the second time this month. Tyler Byrum explains the logic behind the move and why she was chosen to make room for Leila Lacan.

The podcast concludes with potential landing spots for Van Lith as she searches for new opportunities.

ESPN's Alexa Philippou reporting on Hailey van Lith and "transparency": https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48903007/sun-activate-standout-guard-leila-lacan-waive-hailey-van-lith

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Hailey van Lith gets waived by Connecticut, why? | Explaining why the Sun chose van Lith to make room for Leila Lacan Bleav 00:12:39 Former Big 12 Player of the Year and 2025 first-round draft pick Hailey van Lith was waived for the second time this month. Tyler Byrum explains the logic behind the move and why she was chosen to make room for Leila Lacan. Former Big 12 Player of the Year and 2025 first-round draft pick Hailey van Lith was waived for the second time this month. Tyler Byrum explains the logic behind the move and why she was chosen to make room for Leila Lacan. false full 22 d48fe0ee-2711-40e4-a944-96db98ab99c2 The Portland Fire is foregoing shootarounds | This isn't a new practice in the WNBA and why more teams are going that way Portland Fire head coach Alex Samara has not scheduled morning shootarounds for his expansion team this season, a topic that has made waves in WNBA media. Tyler Byrum dives into why this is becoming a common practice and the studies behind finding peak athletic performance time.

Also, hear from Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson on the subject.

Answer from Alex Sarama on eliminating morning shootarounds, from Richard Deitsch: https://bsky.app/profile/richarddeitsch.bsky.social/post/3mmkvoktors2b

The IX Basketball's/ Lucas Seehafer's WNBA injury tracker: https://www.theixsports.com/features/wnba-injury-tracker-who-gets-hurt-how-often-and-why-it-matters/

American Academy of Sleep Medicine on West Coast NFL teams having an edge in night games: https://aasm.org/circadian-timing-may-give-edge-to-west-coast-nfl-teams-in-night-games/

Mayo Clinic, When's the best time to workout: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/best-time-of-day-for-your-workout

BBC, What's the best time of the day to exercise: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240105-whats-the-best-time-of-the-day-to-exercise

ABC News, What science says about the best time of day to break an Olympic record: https://abcnews.com/Health/science-best-time-day-break-olympic-record/story?id=41266207

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]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/portland-fire-are-foregoing-shootarounds-this-isnt-a-new-practice-in-the-wnba-and-why-more-teams-are-going-that-way/ Portland Fire head coach Alex Samara has not scheduled morning shootarounds for his expansion team this season, a topic that has made waves in WNBA media. Tyler Byrum dives into why this is becoming a common practice and the studies behind finding peak athletic performance time.

Also, hear from Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson on the subject.

Answer from Alex Sarama on eliminating morning shootarounds, from Richard Deitsch: https://bsky.app/profile/richarddeitsch.bsky.social/post/3mmkvoktors2b

The IX Basketball's/ Lucas Seehafer's WNBA injury tracker: https://www.theixsports.com/features/wnba-injury-tracker-who-gets-hurt-how-often-and-why-it-matters/

American Academy of Sleep Medicine on West Coast NFL teams having an edge in night games: https://aasm.org/circadian-timing-may-give-edge-to-west-coast-nfl-teams-in-night-games/

Mayo Clinic, When's the best time to workout: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/best-time-of-day-for-your-workout

BBC, What's the best time of the day to exercise: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240105-whats-the-best-time-of-the-day-to-exercise

ABC News, What science says about the best time of day to break an Olympic record: https://abcnews.com/Health/science-best-time-day-break-olympic-record/story?id=41266207

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> The Portland Fire is foregoing shootarounds | This isn't a new practice in the WNBA and why more teams are going that way Bleav 00:18:15 Portland Fire head coach Alex Samara has not scheduled morning shootarounds for his expansion team this season, a topic that made waves in WNBA media this week. Tyler Byrum dives into why this is becoming a common practice and hear from Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson on the subject. Portland Fire head coach Alex Samara has not scheduled morning shootarounds for his expansion team this season, a topic that made waves in WNBA media this week. Tyler Byrum dives into why this is becoming a common practice and hear from Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson on the subject. false full 21 13fe0c6b-3c1d-43b8-8e84-61297d147042 Shakira Austin speaks on her free agency goals | Exclusive interview with Mystics forward Shakira Austin joined Tyler Byrum for an episode of 'Bleav in the W' to discuss her free agency approach, to her balancing her competitive fire on a rebuilding team, to what defines a successful season for the Mystics this season and Shakira.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Fri, 22 May 2026 17:36:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&p=33 Shakira Austin joined Tyler Byrum for an episode of 'Bleav in the W' to discuss her free agency approach, to her balancing her competitive fire on a rebuilding team, to what defines a successful season for the Mystics this season and Shakira.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Shakira Austin speaks on her free agency goals | Exclusive interview with Mystics forward Bleav 00:20:17 Shakira Austin joins the show - and when I mean join the show, Tyler Byrum tracked her down for a 1-on-1 interview at a Mystics practice. From her free agency approach, to her big contract and where she wants the Mystics to go everywhere, Tyler and Shakira set the table for her 2026 campaign. Shakira Austin joins the show - and when I mean join the show, Tyler Byrum tracked her down for a 1-on-1 interview at a Mystics practice. From her free agency approach, to her big contract and where she wants the Mystics to go everywhere, Tyler and Shakira set the table for her 2026 campaign. false full 20 d543ad18-866e-4d9b-b3b6-0cbec8ae6939 Valkyries are worth $850 million | WNBA valuations with Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen released their annual WNBA franchise valuations before the season started, ranking the Golden State Valkyries as the top franchise for the second year in a row. Tyler Byrum interviews Kurt to discuss his franchise valuations and the rapid ascension in the value of WNBA teams.

Other discussion topics include how an expansion team, Golden State, became the standard-bearer for the league; what valuations mean and how it does not correlate to money on hand; the Caitlin Clark effect for Indiana; how some of the bottom teams in the W can rise up the rankings; and where do we see the valuations going in future seasons.

Read Kurt's article and his analysis on his valuations at Sportico: https://www.sportico.com/valuations/teams/2026/wnba-team-values-2026-valkyries-liberty-fever-1234891620/

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Thu, 21 May 2026 09:01:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&p=30 Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen released their annual WNBA franchise valuations before the season started, ranking the Golden State Valkyries as the top franchise for the second year in a row. Tyler Byrum interviews Kurt to discuss his franchise valuations and the rapid ascension in the value of WNBA teams.

Other discussion topics include how an expansion team, Golden State, became the standard-bearer for the league; what valuations mean and how it does not correlate to money on hand; the Caitlin Clark effect for Indiana; how some of the bottom teams in the W can rise up the rankings; and where do we see the valuations going in future seasons.

Read Kurt's article and his analysis on his valuations at Sportico: https://www.sportico.com/valuations/teams/2026/wnba-team-values-2026-valkyries-liberty-fever-1234891620/

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Valkyries are worth $850 million | WNBA valuations with Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen Bleav 00:28:54 Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen released their annual WNBA franchise valuations before the season started, ranking the Golden State Valkyries as the top franchise for the second year in a row. Tyler Byrum interviews Kurt to discuss his franchise valuations and the rapid ascension in the value of WNBA teams. Sportico's Kurt Badenhausen released their annual WNBA franchise valuations before the season started, ranking the Golden State Valkyries as the top franchise for the second year in a row. Tyler Byrum interviews Kurt to discuss his franchise valuations and the rapid ascension in the value of WNBA teams. false full 19 b89e9306-b7c5-4da7-abcb-ed1fd44c7eac Atlanta Dream 2026 Season Preview w/ Meghan L. Hall | Angel Reese joins a contender After a stellar Year 1 in Karl Smesko's system, the Atlanta Dream brought in Angel Reese to add to what is an emerging championship contender. Atlanta-based USA TODAY Senior WNBA Reporter Meghan L. Hall joins Tyler to discuss everything that has led to the Dream using 2026 as a year to launch themselves into championship contenders.

Follow Meghan L. Hall on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/itsmeghanlhall.bsky.social
Follow Meghan L. Hall on X/Twitter: https://x.com/ItsMeghanLHall

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]]> Fri, 15 May 2026 18:36:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/atlanta-dream-2026-season-preview-angel-reese-joins-a-contender/ After a stellar Year 1 in Karl Smesko's system, the Atlanta Dream brought in Angel Reese to add to what is an emerging championship contender. Atlanta-based USA TODAY Senior WNBA Reporter Meghan L. Hall joins Tyler to discuss everything that has led to the Dream using 2026 as a year to launch themselves into championship contenders.

Follow Meghan L. Hall on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/itsmeghanlhall.bsky.social
Follow Meghan L. Hall on X/Twitter: https://x.com/ItsMeghanLHall

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]]> Atlanta Dream 2026 Season Preview w/ Meghan L. Hall | Angel Reese joins a contender Bleav 00:24:05 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. USA TODAY's Meghan L. Hall joins Tyler Byrum to preview the Atlanta Dream, the #3 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. USA TODAY's Meghan L. Hall joins Tyler Byrum to preview the Atlanta Dream, the #3 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 18 9a867c11-8e4c-4529-9698-00a4b496bf19 Indiana Fever 2026 Season Preview | Emerging as a championship contender This past offseason consisted of the Indiana Fever re-signing Kelsey Michell and Aliyah Boston. Other than that, there were no major additions to a team led by Caitlin Clark. Still, that gives the Fever - a team that was seconds away from advancing to the WNBA Finals - two MVP candidates in their first legitimate quest for a WNBA Championship.

Also addressed are the expected improvements on the defensive side, mostly through their minor offseason additions; salary cap constraints;   how much of a factor the No. 10 overall pick, Raven Johnson, will be; and how realistic a championship for Indiana is.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Thu, 14 May 2026 19:03:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/indiana-fever-2026-season-preview-emerging-as-a-championship-contender/ This past offseason consisted of the Indiana Fever re-signing Kelsey Michell and Aliyah Boston. Other than that, there were no major additions to a team led by Caitlin Clark. Still, that gives the Fever - a team that was seconds away from advancing to the WNBA Finals - two MVP candidates in their first legitimate quest for a WNBA Championship.

Also addressed are the expected improvements on the defensive side, mostly through their minor offseason additions; salary cap constraints;   how much of a factor the No. 10 overall pick, Raven Johnson, will be; and how realistic a championship for Indiana is.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Indiana Fever 2026 Season Preview | Emerging as a championship contender Bleav 00:17:49 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever, the #4 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever, the #4 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 17 cf7cfbe8-cb9c-4386-a15e-61465bcb71be Los Angeles Sparks 2026 Season Preview | Trading for experience and defense If it weren't for the Chicago Sky trading Angel Reese, the Rickea Jackson trade would have been the biggest blockbuster move of the offseason. The Los Angeles Sparks shipped off their star third-year player for veteran presence and improvement on defense. That set the table for a 2026 season that projects the Sparks to leap forward.

The Sporting Tribune's Rey Moralde joined the show to dissect why the Rickea trade was made. Tyler and Rey also discuss Nneka Ogwumike coming back home in free agency, how the moves will make Kelsey Plum more of a distributor on offense, Rae Barrell's growth, the non-controversy surrounding Cameron Brink and debate the true ceiling of the team.

Follow Rey Moralde on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rey-rey.net

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]]> Tue, 12 May 2026 23:33:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/los-angeles-sparks-2026-season-preview-trading-for-experience-and-defense/ If it weren't for the Chicago Sky trading Angel Reese, the Rickea Jackson trade would have been the biggest blockbuster move of the offseason. The Los Angeles Sparks shipped off their star third-year player for veteran presence and improvement on defense. That set the table for a 2026 season that projects the Sparks to leap forward.

The Sporting Tribune's Rey Moralde joined the show to dissect why the Rickea trade was made. Tyler and Rey also discuss Nneka Ogwumike coming back home in free agency, how the moves will make Kelsey Plum more of a distributor on offense, Rae Barrell's growth, the non-controversy surrounding Cameron Brink and debate the true ceiling of the team.

Follow Rey Moralde on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/rey-rey.net

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Los Angeles Sparks 2026 Season Preview | Trading for experience and defense Bleav 00:25:04 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The Sporting Tribune's Rey Moralde joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Los Angeles Sparks, the #5 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The Sporting Tribune's Rey Moralde joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Los Angeles Sparks, the #5 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 16 4f0b6b81-5d12-4055-b4fb-6b2c4bb558e6 Phoenix Mercury 2026 Season Preview | Will continuity help the Mercury repeat success? It was a free agency that could have been transformative for the Phoenix Mercury. Instead, the Mercury focused on continuity in their offseason plans despite the loss of All-Star Satou Sabally.

Pair that with the Mercury's focus on international scouting and Aya Abdeen reports that Phoenix is high on their aspirations for 2026. Last season, the squad made it all the way to the WNBA Finals, led by superstar Alyssa Thomas. Just the presence of AT on the squad will probably be enough to keep this team in the mix come the postseason.

Follow Aya Abdeen on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ayabdeen.bsky.social

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]]> Mon, 11 May 2026 14:57:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/phoenix-2026-season-preview-will-continuity-help-the-mercury-repeat-success/ It was a free agency that could have been transformative for the Phoenix Mercury. Instead, the Mercury focused on continuity in their offseason plans despite the loss of All-Star Satou Sabally.

Pair that with the Mercury's focus on international scouting and Aya Abdeen reports that Phoenix is high on their aspirations for 2026. Last season, the squad made it all the way to the WNBA Finals, led by superstar Alyssa Thomas. Just the presence of AT on the squad will probably be enough to keep this team in the mix come the postseason.

Follow Aya Abdeen on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ayabdeen.bsky.social

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Phoenix Mercury 2026 Season Preview | Will continuity help the Mercury repeat success? Bleav 00:27:08 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The IX Basketball's Aya Abdeen joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Phoenix Mercury, the #6 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The IX Basketball's Aya Abdeen joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Phoenix Mercury, the #6 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 15 d761d0ff-583c-4d7c-82c6-f36f20118cf1 Minnesota Lynx 2026 Season Preview | Napheesa Collier's injury and comments to hang over season This Minnesota Lynx season will be defined by both Napheesa Collier's injury and her revealing conversation with NPR. But despite being without Phee for a month AND losing two starters in Alanna Smith and Bridget Carelton, Minnesota is still a team with the coaching and star power to be a contender come the playoffs.

Other topics include a disappointing free agency, where the team fell short in luring other key players to Minnesota and a star new point guard on the roster in Olivia Miles.

NPR's full story and interview with Napheesa Collier: https://www.npr.org/2026/05/05/nx-s1-5793789/napheesa-collier-wnba-salary-increase-womens-sports

Follow Terry Horstman on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/terryhorstman.bsky.social

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]]> Mon, 11 May 2026 01:10:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/minnesota-lynx-2026-season-preview-napheesa-colliers-injury-and-comments-to-hang-over-season/ This Minnesota Lynx season will be defined by both Napheesa Collier's injury and her revealing conversation with NPR. But despite being without Phee for a month AND losing two starters in Alanna Smith and Bridget Carelton, Minnesota is still a team with the coaching and star power to be a contender come the playoffs.

Other topics include a disappointing free agency, where the team fell short in luring other key players to Minnesota and a star new point guard on the roster in Olivia Miles.

NPR's full story and interview with Napheesa Collier: https://www.npr.org/2026/05/05/nx-s1-5793789/napheesa-collier-wnba-salary-increase-womens-sports

Follow Terry Horstman on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/terryhorstman.bsky.social

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Minnesota Lynx 2026 Season Preview | Napheesa Collier's injury and comments to hang over season Bleav 00:34:44 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The IX Basketball's Terry Horstman joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Minnesota Lynx, the #7 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. The IX Basketball's Terry Horstman joins Tyler Byrum to previews the Minnesota Lynx, the #7 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 14 fa6eed2c-4cbc-400b-b62e-483f2cb4f799 Dallas Wings 2026 Preview | A team for Wings' fans to be excited about Beyond just Paige Bueckers and adding her girlfriend, Azzi Fudd, the Dallas Wings roster has massively improved. Not just from a talent standpoint, but also from a roster construction perspective, that brought in Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith and Lynx teammate Jessica Shepard.

Tyler breaks down how this could be the building block season for the Wings that will propel them to not only success this year, but beyond as they build a core around Bueckers and Fudd. Playoffs should be the baseline goal for the season and there is reason to be optimistic for me.

Listen to more on the Paige and Azzi relationship pod -
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paige-bueckers-speaks-on-relationship-with-azzi-fudd/id1895276693
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ffavLT7s8pPM3gjvrlURG

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Sun, 10 May 2026 15:57:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/dallas-wings-2026-preview-a-team-for-wings-fans-to-be-excited-about/ Beyond just Paige Bueckers and adding her girlfriend, Azzi Fudd, the Dallas Wings roster has massively improved. Not just from a talent standpoint, but also from a roster construction perspective, that brought in Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith and Lynx teammate Jessica Shepard.

Tyler breaks down how this could be the building block season for the Wings that will propel them to not only success this year, but beyond as they build a core around Bueckers and Fudd. Playoffs should be the baseline goal for the season and there is reason to be optimistic for me.

Listen to more on the Paige and Azzi relationship pod -
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paige-bueckers-speaks-on-relationship-with-azzi-fudd/id1895276693
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ffavLT7s8pPM3gjvrlURG

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Dallas Wings 2026 Preview | A team for Wings' fans to be excited about Bleav 00:15:00 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Dallas Wings, the #8 team in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Dallas Wings, the #8 team in his preseason power rankings. false full 13 d14e1a3a-2a40-43bb-a24f-40af8d8f1644 Golden State Valkyries 2026 Preview | Roster building and future cap space What an inaugural season it was for the Golden State Valkyries, surprising everyone by making the WNBA Playoffs and finishing .500 in the standings. This year, they have another tall task ahead of them and Marisa Ingemi, who covers the Valkyries for her independent publication Valkyries Beat, joined Bleav in the W, to project what they can do this year.

The big focus is that Golden State brought nearly everyone back from last season's squad, including a healthy Kayla Thornton. Is the defense going to be good enough to make up for the talent gap, like it was last year? Then there's a deep discussion in the Flau'Jae Johnson draft pick trade and why the Valkyries HAD to trade the pick to make the cap space all work out. We wrap things up with a discussion on how Marisa thought this could be a breakout season for Kate Martin, who was waived following the recording of this podcast.

Subscribe to Valkyries Beat for as low as $5 per month: https://www.valkyriesbeat.com/subscribe

Marisa's story on Kate Martin: https://www.valkyriesbeat.com/p/valkyries-insider-is-this-kate-martin-s-breakout-season

Follow Marisa on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mingemi.bsky.social

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Sat, 9 May 2026 20:30:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&p=25 What an inaugural season it was for the Golden State Valkyries, surprising everyone by making the WNBA Playoffs and finishing .500 in the standings. This year, they have another tall task ahead of them and Marisa Ingemi, who covers the Valkyries for her independent publication Valkyries Beat, joined Bleav in the W, to project what they can do this year.

The big focus is that Golden State brought nearly everyone back from last season's squad, including a healthy Kayla Thornton. Is the defense going to be good enough to make up for the talent gap, like it was last year? Then there's a deep discussion in the Flau'Jae Johnson draft pick trade and why the Valkyries HAD to trade the pick to make the cap space all work out. We wrap things up with a discussion on how Marisa thought this could be a breakout season for Kate Martin, who was waived following the recording of this podcast.

Subscribe to Valkyries Beat for as low as $5 per month: https://www.valkyriesbeat.com/subscribe

Marisa's story on Kate Martin: https://www.valkyriesbeat.com/p/valkyries-insider-is-this-kate-martin-s-breakout-season

Follow Marisa on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mingemi.bsky.social

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Golden State Valkyries 2026 Preview | Roster building and future cap space Bleav 00:25:24 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Guest Marisa Ingemi from Valkyries Beat joins Tyler Byrum to preview the Golden State Valkyries, the #9 team in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Guest Marisa Ingemi from Valkyries Beat joins Tyler Byrum to preview the Golden State Valkyries, the #9 team in his preseason power rankings. false full 12 1cd0ffb7-f792-47e1-9336-7809f78fc07f Chicago Sky 2026 Season Preview | A successful roster flip Many folks have mixed opinions on how the Chicago Sky approached their offseason, centering their moves around the decision to trade franchise centerpiece Angel Reese. But when you look at last year's roster and compare it to this year's, there's no doubt they improved and doing so in every position up and down the roster.

Trading Reese will give Kamila Cardoso the space to take a leap forward. Azura Stevens will come in with All-Star aspirations. Rickea Jackson is now the young centerpiece and of course, there will be the veteran playmakers of Skylar Diggins-Smith, Natasha Cloud and Courtney Vandersloot guiding the way. All of those stars project them to be a playoff team, but I have them on the outside looking in. They need to make that postseason run, though, because GM Jeff Pagliocca and head coach Tyler Marsh may be on the hot seat.

Stay all the way to the end for a projected starting lineup, all players who are either All-Stars or could be shaping up for an All-Star season.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Sat, 9 May 2026 14:41:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/chicago-sky-2026-season-preview-a-successful-roster-flip/ Many folks have mixed opinions on how the Chicago Sky approached their offseason, centering their moves around the decision to trade franchise centerpiece Angel Reese. But when you look at last year's roster and compare it to this year's, there's no doubt they improved and doing so in every position up and down the roster.

Trading Reese will give Kamila Cardoso the space to take a leap forward. Azura Stevens will come in with All-Star aspirations. Rickea Jackson is now the young centerpiece and of course, there will be the veteran playmakers of Skylar Diggins-Smith, Natasha Cloud and Courtney Vandersloot guiding the way. All of those stars project them to be a playoff team, but I have them on the outside looking in. They need to make that postseason run, though, because GM Jeff Pagliocca and head coach Tyler Marsh may be on the hot seat.

Stay all the way to the end for a projected starting lineup, all players who are either All-Stars or could be shaping up for an All-Star season.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Chicago Sky 2026 Season Preview | A successful roster flip Bleav 00:19:26 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Chicago Sky, the #10 team in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Chicago Sky, the #10 team in his preseason power rankings. false full 11 cc2c082f-898f-42a0-a5f7-e7b058577fed Interview with legendary sportscaster Bonnie Bernstein on her new show, 'The Champions Edge' Tyler Byrum welcomes esteemed guest Bonnie Bernstein to unveil her new weekly show coming to ABC affiliates nationwide, 'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein.'

'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein' is a groundbreaking women's sports leadership series, showcasing industry leaders, entrepreneurs and newsmakers harnessing life skills honed as athletes to drive career success. The series is inspired by research revealing an astounding 94% of female C-suite executives played sports, more than half of whom were college athletes. An Academic All-American gymnast at the University of Maryland, Bernstein has channeled her "inner athlete" during her three-decade career covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college football and basketball, while also founding her company, Walk Swiftly Productions.

Bonnie and Tyler also discuss girls' participation in sports and the stagnant coverage of women's sports. There is hope that change may soon be on the horizon.

Follow Bonnie on X/Twitter: https://x.com/BonnieBernstein

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Fri, 8 May 2026 16:40:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/interview-with-legendary-sportscaster-bonnie-bernstein-on-her-new-show-the-champions-edge/ Tyler Byrum welcomes esteemed guest Bonnie Bernstein to unveil her new weekly show coming to ABC affiliates nationwide, 'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein.'

'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein' is a groundbreaking women's sports leadership series, showcasing industry leaders, entrepreneurs and newsmakers harnessing life skills honed as athletes to drive career success. The series is inspired by research revealing an astounding 94% of female C-suite executives played sports, more than half of whom were college athletes. An Academic All-American gymnast at the University of Maryland, Bernstein has channeled her "inner athlete" during her three-decade career covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college football and basketball, while also founding her company, Walk Swiftly Productions.

Bonnie and Tyler also discuss girls' participation in sports and the stagnant coverage of women's sports. There is hope that change may soon be on the horizon.

Follow Bonnie on X/Twitter: https://x.com/BonnieBernstein

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Interview with legendary sportscaster Bonnie Bernstein on her new show, 'The Champions Edge' Bleav 00:16:37 Tyler Byrum welcomes esteemed guest Bonnie Bernstein to unveil her new weekly show coming to ABC affiliates nationwide, 'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein.' Bonnie and Tyler also discuss girls participation in sports and the stagnant coverage of women's sports. Tyler Byrum welcomes esteemed guest Bonnie Bernstein to unveil her new weekly show coming to ABC affiliates nationwide, 'The Champions Edge with Bonnie Bernstein.' Bonnie and Tyler also discuss girls participation in sports and the stagnant coverage of women's sports. false full 10 0685692f-6337-47cb-8c24-0e8f1351406b Washington Mystics 2026 Season Preview w/ Kareem Copeland | Does "44 and more" mean playoffs? It's very clear where the Washington Mystics are building to with a young core of Shakira Austin, Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen. But are the playoffs an aspirational goal for the team this season? That's what the players want.

Tyler is joined by his former beat-mate Kareem Copeland, now with ESPN, to preview the Mystics' season and discuss if head coach Sydney Johnson could put it all together with their young stars for a playoff run. They also bring attention to how important a season it is for both Austin and Georgia Amoore in their development and for the ceiling of this year's team. Then, they look at how the player development shift and how that is starting to permeate throughout the rest of the WNBA.

Follow Kareem on Twitter: https://x.com/kareemcopeland

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Thu, 7 May 2026 21:49:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/washington-mystics-2026-season-preview-does-44-and-more-mean-playoffs/ It's very clear where the Washington Mystics are building to with a young core of Shakira Austin, Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen. But are the playoffs an aspirational goal for the team this season? That's what the players want.

Tyler is joined by his former beat-mate Kareem Copeland, now with ESPN, to preview the Mystics' season and discuss if head coach Sydney Johnson could put it all together with their young stars for a playoff run. They also bring attention to how important a season it is for both Austin and Georgia Amoore in their development and for the ceiling of this year's team. Then, they look at how the player development shift and how that is starting to permeate throughout the rest of the WNBA.

Follow Kareem on Twitter: https://x.com/kareemcopeland

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Washington Mystics 2026 Season Preview w/ Kareem Copeland | Does "44 and more" mean playoffs? Bleav 00:45:29 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Two former Mystics beat reporters, ESPN's Kareem Copeland and Tyler Byrum preview the Mystics, the #11 team in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Two former Mystics beat reporters, ESPN's Kareem Copeland and Tyler Byrum preview the Mystics, the #11 team in his preseason power rankings. false full 9 5351dd78-2829-4eb8-875c-a35e1bc6fae8 Toronto Tempo 2026 Preview | A fun guard room to teach Kiki Rice Toronto's first season in the W will have some spice. Some of the league's best characters, Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand, will all lead the expansion Tempo in their own way.

Tyler starts by breaking down how Toronto won the coaching carousel by nabbing Sandy Brondello, a mere year removed from coaching a team to a championship. Then, it's time to break down the uber-talented guard room where Tyler makes it clear who is going to be the star player of the eclectic bunch. But the end goal for all of the Tempo's guards will be show No. 6 overall pick Kiki Rice the ropes.

The podcast ends with projecting who has the best chance to be a breakout player - much like Kayla Thornton was last year in Golden State and what the ceiling is for this team. It may very well be competing for the playoffs in Year 1.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Wed, 6 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&p=20 Toronto's first season in the W will have some spice. Some of the league's best characters, Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand, will all lead the expansion Tempo in their own way.

Tyler starts by breaking down how Toronto won the coaching carousel by nabbing Sandy Brondello, a mere year removed from coaching a team to a championship. Then, it's time to break down the uber-talented guard room where Tyler makes it clear who is going to be the star player of the eclectic bunch. But the end goal for all of the Tempo's guards will be show No. 6 overall pick Kiki Rice the ropes.

The podcast ends with projecting who has the best chance to be a breakout player - much like Kayla Thornton was last year in Golden State and what the ceiling is for this team. It may very well be competing for the playoffs in Year 1.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Toronto Tempo 2026 Preview | A fun guard room to teach Kiki Rice Bleav 00:17:40 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Toronto Tempo, the #12 team in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum previews the Toronto Tempo, the #12 team in his preseason power rankings. false full 8 f9295c0e-489b-49c8-ab98-14d6488af207 Connecticut Sun 2026 Season Preview w/ Emily Adams | The Sun-set season in Connecticut It's the final season in Connecticut before the Sun move to Houston to bring the Comets back into the WNBA. And to discuss the happenings of this final version of the Sun, Emily Adams from the Hartford Courant joins Bleav in the W to chat about everything from the signing of Brittney Griner to the outlook of the young pieces.

We break down and analyze the entire saga of the Mohegan Tribe's sale process, the WNBA involvement and why the move to Houston was made. It's also a chance to reflect back on their stewardship of the franchise, helping bring professional basketball to Connecticut, one of the hubs of women's basketball. Of course, there's also Brittney Griner's decision to come to the Sun for a one-year deal and how she can guide a team of promising young players, including Aneesah Morrow, Saniya Rivers and Aaliyah Edwards.

The podcast ends with a discussion of the career and legacy of Tina Charles, who announced her retirement this week and won her MVP award with the Sun in 2012.

Follow Emily Adams on X/Twitter: https://x.com/eaadams6
All of her work covering the Connecticut Sun and the UConn Huskies can be viewed here: https://www.courant.com/author/emily-adams/

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Wed, 6 May 2026 14:39:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/connecticut-sun-2026-season-preview-w-emily-adams-the-sun-set-season-in-connecticut/ It's the final season in Connecticut before the Sun move to Houston to bring the Comets back into the WNBA. And to discuss the happenings of this final version of the Sun, Emily Adams from the Hartford Courant joins Bleav in the W to chat about everything from the signing of Brittney Griner to the outlook of the young pieces.

We break down and analyze the entire saga of the Mohegan Tribe's sale process, the WNBA involvement and why the move to Houston was made. It's also a chance to reflect back on their stewardship of the franchise, helping bring professional basketball to Connecticut, one of the hubs of women's basketball. Of course, there's also Brittney Griner's decision to come to the Sun for a one-year deal and how she can guide a team of promising young players, including Aneesah Morrow, Saniya Rivers and Aaliyah Edwards.

The podcast ends with a discussion of the career and legacy of Tina Charles, who announced her retirement this week and won her MVP award with the Sun in 2012.

Follow Emily Adams on X/Twitter: https://x.com/eaadams6
All of her work covering the Connecticut Sun and the UConn Huskies can be viewed here: https://www.courant.com/author/emily-adams/

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Connecticut Sun 2026 Season Preview w/ Emily Adams | The Sun-set season in Connecticut Bleav 00:38:07 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum gets Emily Adams from the Hartford Courant to preview the Connecticut Sun, the #13 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum gets Emily Adams from the Hartford Courant to preview the Connecticut Sun, the #13 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 7 5ddf956b-2c5c-4dac-bab5-b8eb3da00220 Seattle Storm 2026 Season Preview w/ Storm Chasers | Why the Storm decided it was time for a rebuild A year removed from many picking the Seattle Storm as a dark-horse team in the WNBA Playoffs, the franchise has decided to lay dormant in free agency and jump into a rebuild. Joining Tyler to preview the Storm is Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers, an independent substack for in-depth coverage of the team.

Topics range from why the organization decided to fully jump into a rebuild when there was an opportunity to be aggressive. We also revisit the 2026 WNBA Draft class and how the Storm walked away with Awa Fam and Flau'Jae Johnson, then discuss when Awa is expected to join the team. Unlike other teams, the Storm have brought in veterans, like Stef Dolson, to lead the young Storm that has a ton of exciting young talent with Dominque Malonga, Jordan Horston and Jade Melbourne.

The podcast ends with a debate on what will make this a successful season for Seattle.

Make sure to check out Jeff's work at Storm Chasers here: https://www.stormchasersbasketball.com/

See his story on the Seattle Storm rookies detailing their experience at their first WNBA training camp: https://www.stormchasersbasketball.com/p/storm-wnba-training-camp-rookie-experience

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Wed, 6 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/seattle-storm-2026-season-preview-w-storm-chasers-why-the-storm-decided-it-was-time-for-a-rebuild/ A year removed from many picking the Seattle Storm as a dark-horse team in the WNBA Playoffs, the franchise has decided to lay dormant in free agency and jump into a rebuild. Joining Tyler to preview the Storm is Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers, an independent substack for in-depth coverage of the team.

Topics range from why the organization decided to fully jump into a rebuild when there was an opportunity to be aggressive. We also revisit the 2026 WNBA Draft class and how the Storm walked away with Awa Fam and Flau'Jae Johnson, then discuss when Awa is expected to join the team. Unlike other teams, the Storm have brought in veterans, like Stef Dolson, to lead the young Storm that has a ton of exciting young talent with Dominque Malonga, Jordan Horston and Jade Melbourne.

The podcast ends with a debate on what will make this a successful season for Seattle.

Make sure to check out Jeff's work at Storm Chasers here: https://www.stormchasersbasketball.com/

See his story on the Seattle Storm rookies detailing their experience at their first WNBA training camp: https://www.stormchasersbasketball.com/p/storm-wnba-training-camp-rookie-experience

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Seattle Storm 2026 Season Preview w/ Storm Chasers | Why the Storm decided it was time for a rebuild Bleav 00:47:47 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum gets Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers to preview the Seattle Storm, the #14 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. Tyler Byrum gets Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers to preview the Seattle Storm, the #14 team in Tyler's preseason power rankings. false full 6 2c63bcf2-70b1-4704-b5fd-52aa333a3cca Portland Fire 2026 Season Preview | Building a franchise around Bridget Carleton in Year 1 A quick preview of the Portland Fire's first season back in the WNBA. This expansion team isn't shaping up to have the same historic success that the Golden State Valkyries did last season but there are a handful of encouraging players on the roster. Tyler Byrum will explain why it shouldn't take long for the team to establish a culture and identity with players like Emily Engstler, Carla Liete, Karlie Samuelson and Meg Gustafson anchoring the squad. It's also an opportunity for Bridget Carelton to step up and be the focal point of a team for the first time in her career, earning big-time money in Portland.

The podcast ends with reasonable expectations for the team this season and creating a framework to build on in 2027 and 2028.


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]]> Tue, 5 May 2026 17:30:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/portland-fire-2026-season-preview-building-a-franchise-around-bridget-carleton-in-year-1/ A quick preview of the Portland Fire's first season back in the WNBA. This expansion team isn't shaping up to have the same historic success that the Golden State Valkyries did last season but there are a handful of encouraging players on the roster. Tyler Byrum will explain why it shouldn't take long for the team to establish a culture and identity with players like Emily Engstler, Carla Liete, Karlie Samuelson and Meg Gustafson anchoring the squad. It's also an opportunity for Bridget Carelton to step up and be the focal point of a team for the first time in her career, earning big-time money in Portland.

The podcast ends with reasonable expectations for the team this season and creating a framework to build on in 2027 and 2028.


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]]> Portland Fire 2026 Season Preview | Building a franchise around Bridget Carleton in Year 1 Bleav 00:15:20 Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. First up, we have the Portland Fire who Tyler Byrum has ranked 15th in his preseason power rankings. Get ready for the start of the WNBA season by previewing all 15 teams, from bottom to top. First up, we have the Portland Fire who Tyler Byrum has ranked 15th in his preseason power rankings. false full 5 cf9e4e66-714d-46d8-a57e-3e96894abf4d A history of WNBA media coverage, bias and the intersectionality of the league and society | Crossover episode with The MidMajors Bleav in the W host Tyler Byrum joins Tacarra Barnes and Courtney Lumpkin of The MidMajors for a special crossover episode to get you ready for the 2026 WNBA season. We take a larger look at the WNBA media landscape from roster cuts and player development to the impact of media coverage, race, and marketability in women’s basketball. We also dive into: The rise of Caitlin Clark and her impact on the league, the dynamic between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, WNBA roster strategies and surprising cuts, championship predictions and team outlooks, plus discussion on the Washington Mystics and more.

Follow The MidMajors Podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-midmajors/id1831553850
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/02yTqhrOm25XHram7dqHOc


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]]> Tue, 5 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/a-history-of-wnba-media-coverage-bias-and-the-intersectionality-of-the-league-and-society-crossover-episode-with-the-midmajors/ Bleav in the W host Tyler Byrum joins Tacarra Barnes and Courtney Lumpkin of The MidMajors for a special crossover episode to get you ready for the 2026 WNBA season. We take a larger look at the WNBA media landscape from roster cuts and player development to the impact of media coverage, race, and marketability in women’s basketball. We also dive into: The rise of Caitlin Clark and her impact on the league, the dynamic between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, WNBA roster strategies and surprising cuts, championship predictions and team outlooks, plus discussion on the Washington Mystics and more.

Follow The MidMajors Podcast:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-midmajors/id1831553850
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/02yTqhrOm25XHram7dqHOc


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]]> A history of WNBA media coverage, bias and the intersectionality of the league and society | Crossover episode with The MidMajors Bleav 00:54:47 Get ready for the WNBA season with a crossover episode with The MidMajors podcast where we talk everything from media coverage of the WNBA, sports greater impact and reflection of society and, of course, a preview of the 2026 season. Get ready for the WNBA season with a crossover episode with The MidMajors podcast where we talk everything from media coverage of the WNBA, sports greater impact and reflection of society and, of course, a preview of the 2026 season. false full 4 4dbe8bda-492b-49ac-8986-39405a98a9a7 Natasha Cloud FINALLY is signed and changes the trajectory of her new team Point guard Natasha Cloud has signed with the Chicago Sky for a reported $555,000, one-year deal, according to ESPN. How does Natasha Cloud fit with Skylar Diggins-Smith? What is the team's ceiling? A quick reaction to Cloud now joining the team and being on a roster in 2026.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Mon, 4 May 2026 18:43:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/natasha-cloud-finally-is-signed-and-changes-the-trajectory-of-her-new-team/ Point guard Natasha Cloud has signed with the Chicago Sky for a reported $555,000, one-year deal, according to ESPN. How does Natasha Cloud fit with Skylar Diggins-Smith? What is the team's ceiling? A quick reaction to Cloud now joining the team and being on a roster in 2026.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Natasha Cloud FINALLY is signed and changes the trajectory of her new team Bleav 00:12:09 Ten-year veteran and always outspoken Natasha Cloud is finally rostered after signing with the Chicago Sky. All of sudden, there is a ton of talent in Chicago and a team that should have playoff aspirations. Ten-year veteran and always outspoken Natasha Cloud is finally rostered after signing with the Chicago Sky. All of sudden, there is a ton of talent in Chicago and a team that should have playoff aspirations. false full 3 85866d07-b14d-4407-a996-02c4fe62c668 Paige Bueckers speaks on relationship with Azzi Fudd | What should and should not be asked about their relationship? Last year's No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers spoke on Monday to reporters with a prepared statement on her relationship with this year's No. 1 pick Azzi Fudd. This continued a saga where just last week, the Dallas Wings' PR staff shut down a reasonable question asked by a reporter to Azzi about her and Paige's relationship.

To an extent, their relationship should be none of our business. But when it comes to how it affects the Dallas Wings, their play on the court, how successful both Paige and Azzi can be, and their futures, those are questions that need to be asked. After all, it's a great story and great stories can't be written unless you ask the question.

Full quotes from Paige Bueckers were from this Associated Press story: https://apnews.com/article/wings-uconn-paige-bueckers-azzi-fudd-a05e2857493da604be4711545b97f9eb

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:37:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/paige-bueckers-speaks-on-relationship-with-azzi-fudd-what-should-and-should-not-be-asked-about-their-relationship/ Last year's No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers spoke on Monday to reporters with a prepared statement on her relationship with this year's No. 1 pick Azzi Fudd. This continued a saga where just last week, the Dallas Wings' PR staff shut down a reasonable question asked by a reporter to Azzi about her and Paige's relationship.

To an extent, their relationship should be none of our business. But when it comes to how it affects the Dallas Wings, their play on the court, how successful both Paige and Azzi can be, and their futures, those are questions that need to be asked. After all, it's a great story and great stories can't be written unless you ask the question.

Full quotes from Paige Bueckers were from this Associated Press story: https://apnews.com/article/wings-uconn-paige-bueckers-azzi-fudd-a05e2857493da604be4711545b97f9eb

Follow Tyler on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetylerbyrum.bsky.social


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]]> Paige Bueckers speaks on relationship with Azzi Fudd | What should and should not be asked about their relationship? Bleav 00:16:53 Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers made a public statement on her relationship with teammate and 2026 No. 1 draft pick Azzi Fudd. She's said their relationship is none of our business and she's right... to a certain extent. Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers made a public statement on her relationship with teammate and 2026 No. 1 draft pick Azzi Fudd. She's said their relationship is none of our business and she's right... to a certain extent. false full 2 76a9356a-efa9-456b-a0c0-af6a84577ef1 Are you optiMystic? | Analyzing the good and the bad of Washington Mystics rebuild plan Is the Washington Mystics rebuild going in the right direction? After an encouraging Year 1 of the plan, this past offseason left Tyler with some areas of concern. Mystics beat reporter Jenn Hatfield from The IX Basketball joined Tyler to break down where things stand in the rebuild, Jamila Wideman parting ways with the team and the decision not to sign WNBA veterans this offseason.

After that, Tyler and Jenn discuss what they saw from the play of rookies Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalic, Cotie McMahon, Georgia Amoore and Rori Harmon.

The episode ends with a debate on whether the Mystics go over or under their 17.5 win total.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky
Follow Jenn on BlueSky


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]]> Sun, 26 Apr 2026 22:20:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/are-you-optimystic-analyzing-the-good-and-the-bad-of-washington-mystics-rebuild-plan/ Is the Washington Mystics rebuild going in the right direction? After an encouraging Year 1 of the plan, this past offseason left Tyler with some areas of concern. Mystics beat reporter Jenn Hatfield from The IX Basketball joined Tyler to break down where things stand in the rebuild, Jamila Wideman parting ways with the team and the decision not to sign WNBA veterans this offseason.

After that, Tyler and Jenn discuss what they saw from the play of rookies Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalic, Cotie McMahon, Georgia Amoore and Rori Harmon.

The episode ends with a debate on whether the Mystics go over or under their 17.5 win total.

Follow Tyler on BlueSky
Follow Jenn on BlueSky


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]]> Are you optiMystic? | Analyzing the good and the bad of Washington Mystics rebuild plan Bleav 00:43:24 Tyler Byrum and Jenn Hatfield from The IX Basketball take stock of the Mystics' rebuild. Now in Year 2 of a new philosophical build, Tyler and Jenn talk about the vision of Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger all the way down to the current players on the roster. Tyler Byrum and Jenn Hatfield from The IX Basketball take stock of the Mystics' rebuild. Now in Year 2 of a new philosophical build, Tyler and Jenn talk about the vision of Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger all the way down to the current players on the roster. false full 1 5e0c2147-b3d3-47ff-ad17-59842a9bdf1e Introducing 'Bleav in the W' | A WNBA podcast Stay up to date with the latest in the WNBA. Hosted by long-time Mystics reporter Tyler Byrum, we'll go beyond the headlines and deep into the stories with commentary on the latest news and controversies. From the newest viral moment surrounding Caitlin Clark, to A'ja Wilson's dominance on the basketball court, to how the next young stars of Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron and Dominique Malonga are guiding their clubs forward, we have you covered. Expansion, the latest wrinkles in the new CBA will all be discussed as no topic is off limits.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:48:00 +0000 admin@bleav.com (Bleav) https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-the-w/episodes/introducing-bleav-in-the-w-a-wnba-podcast/ Stay up to date with the latest in the WNBA. Hosted by long-time Mystics reporter Tyler Byrum, we'll go beyond the headlines and deep into the stories with commentary on the latest news and controversies. From the newest viral moment surrounding Caitlin Clark, to A'ja Wilson's dominance on the basketball court, to how the next young stars of Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron and Dominique Malonga are guiding their clubs forward, we have you covered. Expansion, the latest wrinkles in the new CBA will all be discussed as no topic is off limits.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Introducing 'Bleav in the W' | A WNBA podcast Bleav 00:02:15 Welcome to the 'Bleav in the W' podcast where you can get all your latest news, updates and commentary on the WNBA. Join longtime Mystics reporter Tyler Byrum to discuss everything happening in the W. Welcome to the 'Bleav in the W' podcast where you can get all your latest news, updates and commentary on the WNBA. Join longtime Mystics reporter Tyler Byrum to discuss everything happening in the W. false trailer