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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today
1. ESPN Expands Partnership with Athletes Unlimited 📺
Athletes Unlimited and ESPN have agreed to an expanded three-year deal that includes all AU Pro Basketball games airing across ESPN platforms. (Athletes Unlimited)
WHY IT MATTERS: This is a win-win-win. The deal gives Athletes Unlimited the consistent visibility that can help grow its fanbase and players’ profiles. ESPN continues to invest in women’s sports as a proven audience and revenue driver. And for us fans, it means reliable access to watch stars like Alysha Clark, NaLyssa Smith, Bree Hall, and Te-Hina Paopao.
In the past, AU games were scattered across different networks and streaming services. Starting in 2026, all games will be likely air on ESPN+ or ESPNU, with the full broadcast schedule coming later.
2. NFL Players Union Backs the WNBPA ✊
WNBA players just scored a touchdown. The NFL Players Association publicly voiced support for the WNBPA as its members negotiate their next collective bargaining agreement. (NFLPA)
WHY IT MATTERS: The NFL is the biggest league in U.S. sports. Having its players union stand beside the WNBPA is huge public relations boost for the players. It drives more media attention to their demands, and signals solidarity from an extremely powerful peer group. This is a 3rd party endorsement that could help strengthen the WNBPA’s position at the bargaining table.
3. Paige Bueckers to Star in Apple’s Jess & Pearl 🎬
Paige Bueckers is heading to the big screen. She is set to star in Jess & Pearl, a new Apple Original Films fictional drama about two up-and-coming basketball players. (Deadline)
WHY IT MATTERS: WNBA and college stars keep expanding their influence beyond the court, and Bueckers’ casting shows Hollywood is betting on women’s basketball stories to draw viewers. It’s another sign of the sport’s growing cultural pull.
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OVERTIME ⏱️
Storm Tested: Tina Charles shared what it was like being in Jamaica during Hurricane Melissa this week. Thankfully, she’s safe.
Make It Rain: NBC sideline reporter Zora Stephenson hit 6 of 10 three’s during a timeout in Milwaukee, her first shots since returning from pregnancy.
P’uppy Love: A’ja Wilson introduced her new puppy Tre’ and, yes, he’s adorable.
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