Sue Bird: “You Have to Pay the Superstars.” (Replay)
Jun 29, 2024
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Sue Bird, one of the all-time greatest basketball players and a champion for women's sports equity, shares her journey with Steve Levitt. She discusses the untold truths about clutch performance and the stark pay gap between male and female athletes. Bird dives into the negotiations that led to better contracts for WNBA players and reflects on her experience as part of the first same-sex couple featured in ESPN's Body Issue. Their conversation also touches on the emotional strain of injuries and the importance of self-advocacy in sports.
Advocacy for gender equality in pay in professional sports.
Emphasis on efficient training strategies for career longevity.
Insights into shooting techniques and environmental cues for performance enhancement.
Support and advice for young women pursuing sports, emphasizing empowerment and perseverance.
Deep dives
Sue Bird's Incredible Career Achievements and Influence
Sue Bird, a basketball star with remarkable achievements, collects numerous championships, including four WNBA championships, five EuroLeague basketball championships, and four Olympic gold medals. She has also played a significant role in negotiating a collective bargaining agreement for WNBA players and recently got engaged to soccer star Megan Rapinoe. Bird emphasizes the importance of women's equal pay and opportunities in sports.
Sue Bird's Approach to Confidence and Practice in Basketball
Bird discusses her realistic approach to self-assessment and the balance between confidence and humility in her career. She highlights the importance of smart practice strategies, focusing on mastering essential skills, and being mindful of physical limitations to ensure a longer career. Bird's emphasis on efficiency and adaptation in training showcases her dedication to continuous improvement.
Insights into Basketball Shooting Techniques and Home Court Advantage
Bird provides insights into shooting techniques in basketball, emphasizing the importance of rhythm and familiarity with the court environment. She explains how familiarity with surroundings, including fan support, can enhance performance and comfort during games. Bird's perspective on shooting dynamics and environmental cues sheds light on the nuances of professional basketball gameplay.
Revenue Disparities in WNBA and NBA, Sue Bird's Advocacy Efforts
Bird addresses the substantial wage gap between WNBA and NBA players, highlighting historical disparities and the challenges faced by female athletes. She discusses the impact of collective bargaining agreements on player salaries, advocating for fair compensation for top performers. Bird's role in negotiating increased wages for top WNBA players reflects her commitment to promoting gender equality in professional sports.
Personal Growth, Expectations, and Work Ethic in Sports
Bird shares valuable advice for young women pursuing sports, emphasizing the transformative power of sporting experiences beyond professional success. She advocates for maintaining a strong work ethic and setting high expectations for oneself in pursuing goals. Bird's emphasis on personal reputation, financial empowerment, and perseverance resonates with her dedication to empowering women in sports.
Injuries and Personal Challenges in Professional Sports
Reflecting on her numerous injuries and surgeries throughout her career, Bird discusses the physical and emotional challenges of recovering from setbacks. She highlights the uncertainties and fears associated with career-threatening injuries and the importance of resilience in overcoming obstacles. Bird's openness about her injury experiences sheds light on the less glamorous aspects of professional sports.
Egg Freezing, Relationship, and Advocacy in Sports
Bird candidly discusses her decision to freeze her eggs, contributing to destigmatizing conversations around fertility and career choices for women. She shares insights into her evolving public persona, driven by personal growth and her relationship with Megan Rapinoe. Bird's advocacy for openness and authenticity reflects her commitment to breaking barriers in sports and personal life.
Impact of Sport on Personal Development and Team Dynamics
By highlighting the positive influences of sports on personal growth and teamwork, Bird underscores the holistic benefits of athletic pursuits. She emphasizes the value of respectful team dynamics, harmonious locker room environments, and lessons learned from sports transcending professional success. Bird's perspective on the transformative power of sports aligns with fostering inclusivity and mutual respect in competitive settings.
She is one of the best basketball players ever. She’s won multiple championships, including five Olympic gold medals and four W.N.B.A. titles. She also helped negotiate a landmark contract for the league’s players. Sue Bird tells Steve Levitt the untold truth about clutch players, her thoughts about the pay gap between male and female athletes, and what it means to be part of the first gay couple in ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue.
