Lisa Leslie joins to talk defense in basketball and growing the WNBA, Sparks icing her out, JuJu Watkins' stellar season, LA basketball stars, and Steph Curry vs. Sabrina Ionescu showdown.
Support for veteran players in coaching roles is lacking in the WNBA, hindering growth and continuity.
The evolution of shooting range in women's basketball, influenced by players like Steph Curry, has expanded offensive capabilities.
Transitioning from college to the WNBA presents challenges for guards due to increased defensive intensity.
Deep dives
Juju Watkins' Impact on USC Women's Basketball Program
Juju Watkins, a standout player for USC Women's Basketball program, has been instrumental in revitalizing the team's success. Her skill set, especially her shooting ability and unselfish play, has elevated the team's performance. Watkins' commitment to pushing herself and her teammates to excel is evident in her work ethic. She embodies the LA mentality of hard work and determination, reminiscent of other LA basketball legends.
Challenges Faced by Veteran Players in the WNBA
Veteran players in the WNBA, including Lisa Leslie, have faced challenges in being brought back into coaching or mentoring roles within the league. There appears to be a lack of support for veteran players in returning to contribute to the growth and development of the sport. Establishing a stronger community and culture around supporting former players could enhance the league's overall success and continuity.
Evolution of Shooting Range in Women's Basketball
The evolution of shooting range in women's basketball, influenced by players like Steph Curry, has significantly impacted the game. Athletes like Juju Watkins exemplify the shift towards players mastering long-range shooting and expanding their offensive capabilities. The emphasis on skill development and studying the game has led to a new generation of players pushing beyond traditional boundaries.
Consideration of Age Requirement in Women's Basketball
The age requirement in women's basketball, necessitating players like Juju Watkins to stay in college for additional years, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the rule ensures players further develop their skills and maturity before entering the professional league, exceptional talents may face limitations in showcasing their abilities at the highest level sooner. Evaluating the impact of age restrictions on player progression and league competitiveness is crucial for the future of women's basketball.
Challenges for Guards in Transitioning to the WNBA
Transitioning from college to the WNBA poses challenges for guards due to the defensive intensity and individual matchups they face. In college, players experience more structured rotations, while in the WNBA, defenders focus on individual assignments, making scoring more difficult. The adjustment period for guards is noted, with emphasis on the defensive pressure and strategic decisions made by coaches to limit their offensive effectiveness.
Impact of Mentoring and Support in the WNBA
The importance of mentoring and support in the WNBA is highlighted through the experiences shared about guiding younger players. Mentors like Candace Parker are praised for their leadership and guidance in areas such as fitness, nutrition, and professionalism. The significance of veteran players supporting rookies and fostering a positive team culture is emphasized, showcasing the value of guidance and camaraderie in professional basketball.
Lisa Leslie joins 'The Draymond Green Show' to discuss how defense is like a relationship, growing up in Compton, how to grow the WNBA, talking shop with Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, the Los Angeles Sparks not wanting Lisa to talk to the team, JuJu Watkins’ incredible freshman season at USC, being a star in LA at the same time as Shaq and Kobe, the Steph Curry vs. Sabrina Ionescu shootout, and more.
0:00 Start 6:00 Growing up in Compton 21:00 Growing the WNBA 32:00 Bond with Kobe 38:00 Sparks icing out Lisa? 42:00 JuJu Watkins 55:00 Candace Parker 1:05:00 Shaq & Kobe
