Transfer Portal Frenzy: Final Moves Incoming 🔁

April 22: Big-name players are on the move, the WNBA launches a task force to combat hate, and the Chicago Sky hit a facility delay.

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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today

1. Big-Time Moves in Final Days of the Transfer Portal 🌀

With only two days left before the NCAA Division I transfer portal closes, a flurry of last-minute moves is shaking up college basketball. Among the most notable transfers in recent days:

  • Janiah Barker – UCLA to Tennessee

  • Londynn Jones – UCLA to USC

  • Kiyomi McMiller – Rutgers to Penn State

WHY IT MATTERS: The frenzy that is college’s unofficial “unrestricted free agency” is about to come to an end with the transfer portal closing this week. On Thursday, April 24, the portal will be closed and athletes won’t be able to transfer without meeting far stricter criteria. In these final days, expect more high-profile moves, including updates from MiLaysia Fulwiley, as players seek bigger roles, better team fits, and stronger NIL opportunities.

2. WNBA Launches Task Force to Combat Hate 🛑

The WNBA has launched a new task force aimed at addressing rising levels of online and in-person hate directed at players. The initiative will roll out a four-pronged approach that includes:

  • Monitoring social media and other digital platforms using advanced tech to flag harmful content and threats

  • Strengthening conduct standards across league platforms and in-arena environments

  • Enhancing security measures at both the team and league levels

  • Providing access to dedicated mental health clinicians for players (ESPN)

WHY IT MATTERS: As the league’s visibility increases, so too has the volume of online harassment, often laced with racism, misogyny, and hate. Some players and their families have even reported harassment in public spaces. While criticism comes with the spotlight, targeted hate does not belong in the game. With this task force, the WNBA is looking to do what it can to protect its players.

3. Chicago Sky’s New Training Facility Delayed 🚧

The Chicago Sky announced Monday that their new $38 million training facility in Bedford Park won’t be ready until 2026. Originally slated to open by this October, the team now expects it to be completed in time for next year’s training camp. (Yahoo Sports)

WHY IT MATTERS: High-end training facilities are becoming a must in the WNBA. The league has made them a requirement for future expansion bids, and players are increasingly vocal about demanding professional-level infrastructure. Former Sky star Kahleah Copper cited the team’s lack of adequate facilities as a key reason she requested a trade after the 2023 season. With this delay, the Sky could face added challenges in attracting top-tier talent and rebuilding toward playoff contention.

OVERTIME ⏱️

🗳️ Poll Results from Yesterday: 58.2% of you said the biggest concern for early WNBA careers is losing momentum due to injuries. It’s a tough reality—especially with how competitive roster spots are.

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