Being a sports fan isn’t for the weak — especially now that we’ve reached Bravo-level drama. On the one hand, the Disney-YouTube TV blackout has people scrambling to figure out how they’ll watch the upcoming matchups on ESPN. On the other hand, the NFL trades this week have people in literal tears — no one is safe from the emotional damage, not even the children. And if you’ve ever wondered how the traded athletes feel? These players are spilling the tea.
Thankfully, there are some bright spots — well, at least for Dodgers fans who got to enjoy an epic parade. Lastly, I’ll leave you with Giannis Antetokounmpo, who revealed how he actually got that mysterious black eye. Spoiler: It’s a real hero’s story. Now, let’s get to the rest of the sports headlines…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Let's Discuss
A Season Built for Breakouts — and Believers
What's going on: Women’s college basketball is officially underway — and with Paige Bueckers shining in the WNBA and USC star JuJu Watkins out for the season, the race for this year’s breakout star is wide open. Here’s who to keep an eye on: Look out for UCLA’s Lauren Betts (not hard, at nearly 6'7"); the Big Ten defense player of the year is on track to become the WNBA’s No. 1 draft pick (for a reason). LSU’s Flau’Jae Johnson — a national champ, rapper, and America’s Got Talent alum — brings the energy every time she hits the court. UConn’s Azzi Fudd is finally back and healthy — watch out for her three-pointers. And sophomore Sarah Strong is out to prove UConn can deliver on a second championship win.
Our take: One player doesn’t make a season — just ask USC. But this year’s breakout stars could redefine a program, a player’s career, and even the WNBA’s future. Just look at Iowa: Nearly two years after Caitlin Clark left, the Hawkeyes are still selling out arenas with enthusiasm that rivals college football. That’s the kind of ripple effect waiting for whoever seizes this moment. Now, with 18 weeks before Selection Sunday, the door’s wide open, the talent runs deep, and the storylines are stacked.
