WNBA Transactions (waivers etc)

[HuskyMJ]

Kysre gondrezick is the #4 pick in 2021. What happens to WNBA?

She was not nearly the 4th best player in that draft.

 

[shiverz45]

I don't think this is really a Henderson vs. Allen scenario.
The salaries that probably are doing Allen in are those of Bria Hartley and Danielle Robinson. While both of those players bring their unique talents to the floor, one could argue that they both are a bit more of a "I'll look for my shot" if it's there.

BTW, Allen is a consummate point guard. Henderson is faster, but we'll see how her three-pt. shot holds up in the pro game versus college. As for upside, well....potential is a promise not filled yet. Allen, once again, was second-team All-Aussie league and MVP of the playoffs for her league-winning Melbourne Boomers. Leadership is part of the gig, too.

Once again, let's see what happens on Friday after the mandatory 48-hr. period.

I saw that Allen's play got better once she got to Indiana. Did not know about her accolades overseas. It could just be a temporary salary dump for cap space.

 

[amb3096]

I've been thinking it for a while, the WNBA almost doesn't need to bother having a draft. It's next to worthless. Many of the teams don't appear to use it as a way to improve themselves. With players like Boston and Bueckers coming along soon, obviously there will be a lot of jockeying for the #1 pick in the next few drafts, but you get outside the top 3 or 4 and it's almost like throwing darts at a wall blindfolded rather than really doing due diligence with draft picks. It CERTAINLY doesn't need to be 3 rounds.

That's my opinion as well. There's no reason for it to be 3 rounds. Sometimes, it's hard to fill 2 rounds with players that have a snowball's chance in hell of making a roster.

 

[HuskyMJ]

That's my opinion as well. There's no reason for it to be 3 rounds. Sometimes, it's hard to fill 2 rounds with players that have a snowball's chance in hell of making a roster.

this is why wnba mock drafts one year in advance, or even some I have seen mock draft for like 2025? Pure click bait

 

[pvdoggy]

Given this is how it is with the WNBA years after years, why do a lot of college players continue to fool themselves into thinking that they have a chance to go play in the W. I say their goal should be to get the best education they can get for free.

 

[amb3096]

Given this is how it is with the WNBA years after years, why do a lot of college players continue to fool themselves into thinking that they have a chance to go play in the W. I say their goal should be to get the best education they can get for free.

I think there is a lot of straight-up delusion with the WNBA players. They seem to think that the NBA owes them huge salaries and more financial investment. The believe that the league's growth strategy is simply, "Hey NBA! We want more money!" And this now trickles down to the college players getting ready to (attempt to) enter the league.

They should have paid more attention during their Econ and Accounting classes. It's like they have zero idea how about how businesses operate financially.

 

[bballnut90]

Kysre gondrezick is the #4 pick in 2021. What happens to WNBA?

She was way over drafted in one of the worst drafts in league history.

 

[cancontent]

I think there is a lot of straight-up delusion with the WNBA players. They seem to think that the NBA owes them huge salaries and more financial investment. The believe that the league's growth strategy is simply, "Hey NBA! We want more money!" And this now trickles down to the college players getting ready to (attempt to) enter the league.

They should have paid more attention during their Econ and Accounting classes. It's like they have zero idea how about how businesses operate financially.

I don't believe that's a fair assessment. There's nothing wrong with pointing out the disparity while working on ways to improve the situation. It's also not all on the players to improve the financial situation. The league has to do a lot of the work to help them get to that point. The NBA was bleeding money for a long time before things improved. That was decades if I remember correctly.

Several of the players involved with the union are capable and have a good understanding about finance. Look at what many of them are doing off the court with their personal businesses. The CBA they negotiated made significant inroads in comparison to previous deals.

In the past year, viewership has increased and the WNBA has take advantage and negotiated a better broadcasting deal which will help build viewership. These types of inroads is what will help the league. Add in the increased interest in NCAAW, I believe the momentum will continue to build.

This generation of WNBA players are a lot more media and business saavy. Look at Destiny Henderson having a clothing line running before she even graduated. They're fully aware that there's more to life than basketball and are planning accordingly.

Unfortunately it's going to take time even though we as fans wish it would happen faster. We have to be patient and support the game wherever we can.

 

[amb3096]

I don't believe that's a fair assessment. There's nothing wrong with pointing out the disparity while working on ways to improve the situation. It's also not all on the players to improve the financial situation. The league has to do a lot of the work to help them get to that point. The NBA was bleeding money for a long time before things improved. That was decades if I remember correctly.

Several of the players involved with the union are capable and have a good understanding about finance. Look at what many of them are doing off the court with their personal businesses. The CBA they negotiated made significant inroads in comparison to previous deals.

In the past year, viewership has increased and the WNBA has take advantage and negotiated a better broadcasting deal which will help build viewership. These types of inroads is what will help the league. Add in the increased interest in NCAAW, I believe the momentum will continue to build.

This generation of WNBA players are a lot more media and business saavy. Look at Destiny Henderson having a clothing line running before she even graduated. They're fully aware that there's more to life than basketball and are planning accordingly.

Unfortunately it's going to take time even though we as fans wish it would happen faster. We have to be patient and support the game wherever we can.

What's the disparity? Two separate leagues, so it would be expected that they have two compensation models. The unpleasant truth for the WNBA is that it has fairly low market value in the grand scheme of professional sports and has a niche following. There would be no WNBA if not for the fact that the NBA is willing to lose money each year that the WNBA is on their P&L. That's not exactly a secret, so for the players to then complain that they aren't being paid their fair share is just complete delusion on their part.

While viewership has improved, it's still paltry. Less than professional bowling and other sports shown "ESPN The Ocho". And there's probably a fairly low ceiling. Women's basketball is just not that popular. College is an anomaly because of the association with schools, but how many of those school fans follow their graduates to the WNBA? Probably not a lot...even UConn as evidenced by posts in the main board.

I will give you that this generation of WNBA players is more media and business savvy...but for their own personal benefit. Frankly, they don't give back enough to the WNBA to help grow the sport, and that's a crying shame. You get all the complaining about the salaries, and some really disrespectful stuff from players like Cambage saying it's "not worth my time" and even veterans like Taurasi who take a check to skip the summer play so she can be rested for her Russian team season. If the players don't care about the league, why should the fans? I've supported the league since inception, but the attitudes and entitlement of the current players has been a huge turn-off for me. I doubt I'll be a regular follower once Candace Parker retires, if I'm being honest...unless the players get a reality check and realize how lucky they are to even have an opportunity to play in the USA.

 

[KY Card Fan]

Looks like five rookies made the Fever's 12-player roster - Egbo, Engstler, Henderson, Hull and Smith. Makes sense for a bad team in total rebuild mode. And they get some cap relief with those rookie salaries.

 

[cancontent]

What's the disparity? Two separate leagues, so it would be expected that they have two compensation models. The unpleasant truth for the WNBA is that it has fairly low market value in the grand scheme of professional sports and has a niche following. There would be no WNBA if not for the fact that the NBA is willing to lose money each year that the WNBA is on their P&L. That's not exactly a secret, so for the players to then complain that they aren't being paid their fair share is just complete delusion on their part.

While viewership has improved, it's still paltry. Less than professional bowling and other sports shown "ESPN The Ocho". And there's probably a fairly low ceiling. Women's basketball is just not that popular. College is an anomaly because of the association with schools, but how many of those school fans follow their graduates to the WNBA? Probably not a lot...even UConn as evidenced by posts in the main board.

I will give you that this generation of WNBA players is more media and business savvy...but for their own personal benefit. Frankly, they don't give back enough to the WNBA to help grow the sport, and that's a crying shame. You get all the complaining about the salaries, and some really disrespectful stuff from players like Cambage saying it's "not worth my time" and even veterans like Taurasi who take a check to skip the summer play so she can be rested for her Russian team season. If the players don't care about the league, why should the fans? I've supported the league since inception, but the attitudes and entitlement of the current players has been a huge turn-off for me. I doubt I'll be a regular follower once Candace Parker retires, if I'm being honest...unless the players get a reality check and realize how lucky they are to even have an opportunity to play in the USA.

Not denying that the WNBA is in a different position than the NBA however it doesn't mean that the league can't get there eventually. Like I pointed out, the NBA suffered with attendance, TV viewership, etc., for decades before things changed in the 80s. People thought the NBA wasn't worth the effort and fortunately the owners stuck with it and see where the league is now. So why couldn't it be the same for the WNBA if it gets a similar level of support and is given the time to grow?

I agree that the popularity of women's basketball is growing in North America, but it's still a long ways away from what it's like in Europe. Viewership will continue to build provided the WNBA continues to get more exposure. With the new TV deal in place, it should help give us a better indication as to where things stand. I was pleasantly surprised that the WNBA also has a contract with TSN, our major sports network in Canada to broadcast games as well. The fact that they've been able to land these deals a couple years since the new commissioner came on board gives me hope that their plans are on track.

I disagree with your point that the current generation of WNBA players are in it for themselves. We don't know all of what these players are doing in their spare time. Sure, they're building their brands but they could also be doing things in the community that we may not be aware of. Similar to people assuming NBA and NFL players are in it for themselves when they have their own personal foundations that they support and fund in their spare time. I believe a lot of these players do realize they're lucky if they get their opportunity to play in the US.

It's unfortunate that you've soured on the players in the WNBA because I think the upcoming generation is going to be a lot of fun to watch and could help further expand the impact of the league. Only time will tell.

 

[KingKong139]

Not denying that the WNBA is in a different position than the NBA however it doesn't mean that the league can't get there eventually. Like I pointed out, the NBA suffered with attendance, TV viewership, etc., for decades before things changed in the 80s. People thought the NBA wasn't worth the effort and fortunately the owners stuck with it and see where the league is now. So why couldn't it be the same for the WNBA if it gets a similar level of support and is given the time to grow?

I agree that the popularity of women's basketball is growing in North America, but it's still a long ways away from what it's like in Europe. Viewership will continue to build provided the WNBA continues to get more exposure. With the new TV deal in place, it should help give us a better indication as to where things stand. I was pleasantly surprised that the WNBA also has a contract with TSN, our major sports network in Canada to broadcast games as well. The fact that they've been able to land these deals a couple years since the new commissioner came on board gives me hope that their plans are on track.

I disagree with your point that the current generation of WNBA players are in it for themselves. We don't know all of what these players are doing in their spare time. Sure, they're building their brands but they could also be doing things in the community that we may not be aware of. Similar to people assuming NBA and NFL players are in it for themselves when they have their own personal foundations that they support and fund in their spare time. I believe a lot of these players do realize they're lucky if they get their opportunity to play in the US.

It's unfortunate that you've soured on the players in the WNBA because I think the upcoming generation is going to be a lot of fun to watch and could help further expand the impact of the league. Only time will tell.

The big miscalculation here is comparing the 80s to the 2020s.

 

[cancontent]

The big miscalculation here is comparing the 80s to the 2020s.

Why? Back then, people didn't see the sport being able to compete with established leagues like MLB, NFL and the NHL. All I'm stating is that it took time for the NBA to take hold and that it was given time to succeed once the right people were in place.

 

[WFFL]

I think a lot of people who complain about the WNBA and these brutal cuts honestly dont watch it LOL yes these players /rookies are college stars but they are NOWHERE near the competition they face in the WNBA so some of these things have to be done financial wise and talent wise.

 

[Rb335]

It’s a shame that there aren’t more available roster spots, but I’d be interested to see a list of the top 20 players that didn’t make rosters, once all rosters are finalized. Good players but nobody that really stands out.

 

[WFFL]

It’s a shame that there aren’t more available roster spots, but I’d be interested to see a list of the top 20 players that didn’t make rosters, once all rosters are finalized. Good players but nobody that really stands out.

Yes it is a shame but dont blame the WNBA if anything blame the Oligarchs in america who only focus on investing in NBA teams or Soccer teams MLS/NWSL...and not womens basketball smh very sad.

 

[UHF]

Yes it is a shame but dont blame the WNBA if anything blame the Oligarchs in america who only focus on investing in NBA teams or Soccer teams MLS/NWSL...and not womens basketball smh very sad.

Why not blame the WNBA?

People are not obligated to pay for the services of any athletes in any sports.

How many of these women have invested in any women's professional sports league?

The Richest Women in America in One Graphic


Feel free to invest your own money in the WNBA or any other cause you see fit.

 

[UHF]

1946 : NBA was born.

1970 : first year that entire NBA Finals were on national TV. Game 7 was tape delay broadcast in NY, despite the Knicks playing.

1979 thru 1981 : NBA some weeknight games were tape delayed broadcast after the late news.

WNBA finals TV coverage is ahead of the curve versus NBA finals TV coverage - historically.

 

[Dillon77]

Regarding approach to (final) roster compiling/cuts, I came across this quote from Connecticut Sun Coach & GM Curt Miller:

“What people fail to realize is that it’s not always the best 11 players, it’s the best 11 players that fit under the cap together,” Miller told The Next. “There are certain combinations that didn’t fit, and it contributed to some of those tough decisions.”

Sub in the number 12 for 11 in some instances and I'm sure most other GM's would agree: lot of variables that factor into roster prep.

 

[KingKong139]

1946 : NBA was born.

1970 : first year that entire NBA Finals were on national TV. Game 7 was tape delay broadcast in NY, despite the Knicks playing.

1979 thru 1981 : NBA some weeknight games were tape delayed broadcast after the late news.

WNBA finals TV coverage is ahead of the curve versus NBA finals TV coverage - historically.

So again, this is extremely flawed. We do realize how technology, media, and general player talent developed from 1940->1970->2020 right. These things aren’t even close to 1:1.

 

[UHF]

So again, this is extremely flawed. We do realize how technology, media, and general player talent developed from 1940->1970->2020 right. These things aren’t even close to 1:1.

Neither is the NBA:WNBA, which the executives, players, and fans refuse to acknowledge.

WNBA executives and players should stop whining about inequity. Improve attitudes, performance, product, marketing, etc. Stop complaining about NBA and rich men not financially supporting their egos.

WNBA is an opportunity and a privilege. No one owes them anything.

 

[amb3096]

So again, this is extremely flawed. We do realize how technology, media, and general player talent developed from 1940->1970->2020 right. These things aren’t even close to 1:1.

You're correct, but it developed in favor for accelerated growth for the WNBA. The WNBA formed with advantages that the NBA could only dream off...not to mention the safety net of the deep NBA pockets.

UFC started a few years before the WNBA and brought in $1.5b in revenue last year. "Time" isn't the limiting factor; "product quality/attractiveness" is.

 

[WFFL]

Why not blame the WNBA?

People are not obligated to pay for the services of any athletes in any sports.

How many of these women have invested in any women's professional sports league?

The Richest Women in America in One Graphic


Feel free to invest your own money in the WNBA or any other cause you see fit.

You do understand in order for players coming out of college to have a better shot in the WNBA against proven vets is to have more teams aka more roster spots / opportunities and those just don't grow out of air lol . An owner has to be willing to sacrifice at least 2 million and pray for a profit lol that's the reason we have yet to expand other than Cathy's priorities being making all 12 profitable before expansion in which makes total sense but it also makes the league tougher to crack. Expansion is literally at the doorstep of the WNBA now relax im confident we will have at least 2 more teams in the next 2 years making 24 extra spots for the 24 best college athletes and vets that nobody else wanted aka making the product less competitive. I like what the WNBA is doing you better be a true talent coming out of college otherwise your not going to play here. We want the best of the best not fringe college players.

 

[UHF]

You do understand in order for players coming out of college to have a better shot in the WNBA against proven vets is to have more teams aka more roster spots / opportunities and those just don't grow out of air lol . An owner has to be willing to sacrifice at least 2 million and pray for a profit lol that's the reason we have yet to expand other than Cathy's priorities being making all 12 profitable before expansion in which makes total sense but it also makes the league tougher to crack. Expansion is literally at the doorstep of the WNBA now relax im confident we will have at least 2 more teams in the next 2 years making 24 extra spots for the 24 best college athletes and vets that nobody else wanted aka making the product less competitive. I like what the WNBA is doing you better be a true talent coming out of college otherwise your not going to play here. We want the best of the best not fringe college players.

You do understand that my post, which you quoted, was a direct reply to you stating "blame the Oligarchs in america".

LOL. But thanks for the lecture.

 

[WFFL]

You do understand that my post, which you quoted, was a direct reply to you stating "blame the Oligarchs in america".

LOL. But thanks for the lecture.

Chitty Chitty Bang bang UHF

 

[KingKong139]

Neither is the NBA:WNBA, which the executives, players, and fans refuse to acknowledge.

WNBA executives and players should stop whining about inequity. Improve attitudes, performance, product, marketing, etc. Stop complaining about NBA and rich men not financially supporting their egos.

WNBA is an opportunity and a privilege. No one owes them anything.

Hey I’m all onboard with you.

 

[Dillon77]

Dallas Wings Announce Friday Roster

Unique Thompson was cut. Draft picks Veronica Burton and Jasmine Dickey have both made the opening-night roster. Once Sabally and McCowan are back from overseas, roster cuts will be necessitated but at least players get a longer period to prove themselves.
Here's the Wings' release:

Arlington, Texas (May 5, 2022) – The Dallas Wings finalized their 2022 opening day roster, the team announced today. Forward Satou Sabally and center Teaira McCowan have been placed on the temporary suspended list, as they are still with teams overseas.

The Wings open their season, Saturday, May 7 at 7:00 p.m. CT at home at the College Park Center. Fans looking to attend the home opener can purchase tickets by visiting wings.wnba.com/tickets/

2022 Dallas Wings Alphabetical Roster
No.	Player	Pos.	College	Exp
12	Veronica Burton	G	Northwestern	R
35	Charli Collier	F-C	Texas	2
23	Jasmine Dickey	G	Delaware	R
15	Allisha Gray	G	South Carolina	6
52	Ty Harris	G	South Carolina	3
20	Isabelle Harrison	F	Tennessee	6
4	Moriah Jefferson	G	Connecticut	6
28	Awak Kuier	F	Finland	2
3	Marina Mabrey	G	Notre Dame	4
7	Teaira McCowan*	C	Mississippi State	4
24	Arike Ogunbowale	G	Notre Dame	4
0	Satou Sabally*	F	Oregon	3
6	Kayla Thornton	F	Texas El-Paso	7

 

[Kaizen]

 

[Talon]

You do understand in order for players coming out of college to have a better shot in the WNBA against proven vets is to have more teams aka more roster spots / opportunities and those just don't grow out of air lol . An owner has to be willing to sacrifice at least 2 million and pray for a profit lol that's the reason we have yet to expand other than Cathy's priorities being making all 12 profitable before expansion in which makes total sense but it also makes the league tougher to crack. Expansion is literally at the doorstep of the WNBA now relax im confident we will have at least 2 more teams in the next 2 years making 24 extra spots for the 24 best college athletes and vets that nobody else wanted aka making the product less competitive. I like what the WNBA is doing you better be a true talent coming out of college otherwise your not going to play here. We want the best of the best not fringe college players.

The intent of the WNBA or any professional league is to make a profit, not to give anyone a platform to show off their skills. If they see a path to profit, they'll invest.

 

[maccca3232]

The intent of the WNBA or any professional league is to make a profit, not to give anyone a platform to show off their skills. If they see a path to profit, they'll invest.

I disagree with this statement.

The purpose is to make an overall profit but not necessarily every league.

Is the NBA G league profitable? Probably not, but it does assist in the ability of the NBA to make a profit.