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Hey Seattle sports fans and supporters of women in hockey! We’re thrilled to bring you the recap and highlights from our latest episode of 206 Sports Collective, part of Black Rosie Media, hosted by me, Erica L. Ayala. This week, we’re joined by the incomparable Alison Lukan for a conversation that is equal parts hockey analysis, data-driven storytelling, and inspiration for anyone thinking of taking chances in their career. Hockey Season, Kraken Overtime, and Standing Tall  It’s hockey season, and Seattle’s teams are heating up. The Kraken just came off back-to-back overtime games and are now sitting second in the Pacific Division—just one point behind Anaheim. Alison gave us her insider’s perspective: getting points early in the season is crucial and, despite some offensive frustrations, there’s plenty of promise on this squad. Spotlight on the Young Guns  We deep-dived into the development of Kraken’s young stars: Yanni Newman, Shane Wright, Matty Beniers, and Berkly Catton. Alison broke down what makes each unique, how injuries have paved the way for more ice time, and why patience and finding the right roster spot are key to their growth. Women Breaking Barriers  The Seattle Torrent just had their first-ever home game at Climate Pledge Arena, and Alison Lukan shared her excitement about joining the broadcast team. She, along with Piper and Jessica Campbell, is leading the way—showing girls and women everywhere that front-facing roles in hockey aren’t just possible, they’re thriving in Seattle. Taking Chances and Giving Flowers  A big theme of this episode is stepping out of comfort zones. Lukan talks candidly about saying “yes” to opportunities, the importance of balancing risk with self-care, and honoring those who paved the way. Her advice? Take those chances, acknowledge the support of the sisterhood, and always “give folks their flowers” while you can. How to Tune In  Want to see Alison Lukan and Piper in action as part of the Seattle Torrent broadcast? Catch them on Fox 13 or the PWHL YouTube Channel. And if you’re local, come out to Climate Pledge Arena and join the celebration—let’s show Vancouver how it’s done! Final Thoughts  This episode is full of insights for hockey fans and anyone needing a nudge to try something new. Whether you’re a seasoned fan, a stats nerd, or just curious about women’s hockey, there’s something here for you. Don’t forget to subscribe to Black Rosie Media on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform. Share the episode, support women in sports, and keep building our vibrant Seattle sports community. With gratitude, The Black Rosie Media Team

Women's Olympic Ice Hockey Schedule & HOW TO WATCH Happy Olympic Women's Hockey Day to all who celebrate! Yes, the Opening Ceremony may be tomorrow night, but we get a fantastic slate of eight women's games today. The Black Rosie Media team will be following the action all day long! Join us approximately 15 minutes after the United States vs Czechia preliminary game for a breakdown of the action by experts Rachel Donner, Ava Wood, and Preston Huntington. Jo Dabney will also join to share insights LIVE FROM MILANO! Here is who is playing on Thursday, February 5th : Date Local Time (CET) Time (ET) Teams How to Watch Feb 5 12:10 PM 6:10 AM Sweden vs Germany Peacock ,  NBCOlympics.com Feb 5 2:40 PM 8:40 AM Italy vs France Peacock ,  NBCOlympics.com Feb 5 4:40 PM 10:40 AM USA vs Czechia Peacock ,  NBCOlympics.com Feb 5 9:10 PM 3:10 PM Canada vs Finland Peacock ,  NBCOlympics.com We also have daily graphics you can refer to through February 10th. Check out the full set on our Gold Medal Dispatch landing page. Want to know when your favorite team is playing in the preliminary rounds? We got you! Check out the Women's Olympic Ice Hockey schedule by federation. These graphics, designed by Jo Dabney, are meant to be saved and shared!

Let's throw it back to this two-part interview with U.S. Soccer legend Briana Scurry. Black Rosie Media sat down with soccer legend Bri Scurry to reflect on her groundbreaking career, personal journey, and the impact she continues to make beyond the field. Bri Scurry Interview Part 1 | Black Rosie Media Bri Scurry Interview Part 2 | Black Rosie Media As one of the most influential Black women in sports, Scurry’s story is one of resilience, excellence, and transformation. ⚽ Bri Scurry: A Trailblazer in Women’s Soccer Bri Scurry is widely recognized as one of the greatest goalkeepers in women’s soccer history. As a key figure in the U.S. Women’s National Team, she helped lead the team to victory in the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup and secured two Olympic gold medals. Her iconic save during the 1999 World Cup remains one of the most defining moments in sports history, solidifying her legacy as a clutch performer on the world stage. Over her career, Scurry earned more than 170 international caps, becoming a cornerstone of U.S. soccer. However, listeners may be surprised to hear what Scurry herself considers her greatest save: it's herself. In her memoir My Greatest Save: The Brave, Barrier-Breaking Journey of a World Champion Goalkeeper, Scurry opens up about her struggles with concussions and mental health. The Olympian and World Cup champion shares how her greatest save led to life of advocacy work after her playing career. 🎙️ Part 1: Career, Confidence & Breaking Barriers In the first part of the interview, Scurry reflects on her early journey into soccer and what it took to succeed at the highest level. She speaks candidly about: Developing confidence as a young athlete Navigating spaces where Black women were underrepresented The mindset required to perform under pressure Scurry’s perspective highlights what it means to be a pioneer—not just excelling in sport, but opening doors for those who come after. 🧠 Part 2: Adversity, Mental Health & Advocacy The second part of the conversation dives deeper into life beyond the game, including the challenges that followed her career. After a concussion ended her playing days, Scurry faced a difficult period that reshaped her life. She has since become a powerful advocate for mental health and concussion awareness in sports. In this portion of the interview, she discusses: The reality of career-ending injury Mental health struggles and recovery The importance of protecting athletes Finding purpose after sport Her story underscores the importance of care, visibility, and long-term support for athletes—especially women. ✊🏽 Representation & Impact As a Black woman in soccer, Bri Scurry’s presence in the sport has been transformative. She has spoken openly about the challenges of race and identity in athletics, and the importance of being seen and recognized for her contributions. Her legacy goes beyond trophies—it lives in the pathways she helped create for future generations of Black women in sports. 🌟 Why This Interview Matters This two-part interview is more than a conversation—it’s a powerful reflection on: Excellence at the highest level The realities behind athletic success The importance of representation in sports media At Black Rosie Media, stories like Bri Scurry’s are central to our mission: amplifying the voices and experiences of Black women in sports. 🔗 Explore More Black Women in Sports Interviews Looking for more stories like this? Explore more Black women in sports interviews on Black Rosie Media and discover the athletes, leaders, and voices shaping the future of sports.

Black Women in Sports: Exclusive Interviews, Stories & Representation at Black Rosie Media Black women in sports continue to shape the industry through leadership, resilience, and excellence. March is designated as Women's History Month. However, here at Black Rosie Media, we celebrate women, especially Black women, in sports every day! We highlight original interviews and stories that amplify the voices of Black female athletes, professionals, and changemakers across sports. Former ice hockey player and current ESPN analyst Blake Bolden joins Black Rosie Media to discuss her fellow Cleveland native Laila Edwards becoming the first Black woman to represent USA Hockey at the Winter Olympics. When it comes to sports, the stories of Black women athletes, executives, and media professionals are too often overlooked. Black Rosie Media is changing that. We are a dedicated platform for Black women in sports , sharing powerful interviews and stories that highlight their journeys, challenges, and achievements across leagues, front offices, and media spaces. Black Women in Sports Interviews & Stories At Black Rosie Media, we speak with athletes, coaches, analysts, journalists, and executives to spotlight: Career journeys and breakthrough moments Lessons learned at the highest levels of competition Leadership in male-dominated spaces The realities of navigating sports as Black women Our goal is simple: elevate voices that deserve to be heard and recognized. When it comes to sports, the stories of Black women athletes often go unheard or overlooked. That’s why Black Rosie Media stands out as a vital platform where these athletes share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. As someone passionate about amplifying voices that deserve more attention, I founded Black Rosie Media to be an inspiring space that highlights the strength and resilience of Black women in sports. Why Black Women in Sports Deserve More Spotlight? Founded out of a passion for storytelling and equity, Black Rosie Media is built to be an inspiring and empowering space . We focus on the strength, resilience, and impact of Black women in sports , creating content that informs, uplifts, and builds community. B lack women athletes have made remarkable contributions across various sports, yet their stories rarely receive the recognition they merit. From breaking records to challenging stereotypes, these athletes demonstrate exceptional talent and determination. Platforms like Black Rosie Media help fill this gap by providing exclusive interviews that reveal the personal side of their athletic careers. Our interviews and original content go beyond stats and scores. They explore the athletes’ motivations, the obstacles they face, and how their identities shape their experiences in sports. This approach helps fans and aspiring athletes connect with role models who look like them and share similar backgrounds. What You Can Expect from Black Rosie Media Interviews Black Rosie Media offers a unique collection of interviews featuring Black women in sports from different disciplines. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, hockey or the Olympics, the platform covers a wide range of sports. Here are some highlights you can find: In-depth personal stories that reveal the athlete’s background and what drives them. Discussions on social issues such as racial inequality and gender bias in sports. Insights into training routines and mental preparation that help these athletes excel. Advice for young athletes looking to follow a similar path. For example, one interview features a professional basketball player who talks about balancing motherhood and a demanding sports career. Another highlights a track star who shares how community support played a crucial role in her success. Featured Interviews with Black Women in Sports We speak to athletes, coaches, analysts, and executives throughout sports to highlight their successes, their lessons learned, and how they overcome a world not always accepting of women in power. To date, Black Rosie Media has interviewed a growing list of influential voices shaping the sports world: Ari Chambers , Women's Sports reporter Blake Bolden , Ice Hockey pioneer Bri Scurry , U.S. Soccer legend Mikyla Grant-Mentis , Seattle Torrent forward Keia Clarke , New York Liberty Jordan Robinson , Sports writer and on-air talent Dr. Amira Rose Davis , Burn It All Down co-host Jessica McDonald , Soccer analyst and retired player Bria Felician , Reporter & Historian Michelle McKenzie , WBL star and Women's Basketball Hall of Famer How Black Rosie Media Supports the Next Generation By showcasing the voices of Black women athletes, Black Rosie Media also inspires the next generation. We want women and melanated people of a genders, ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds to see themselves represented in these stories, and the storytellers we hire and highlight. We want readers and listeners to gain confidence and motivation to pursue their own dreams. The platform encourages everyone to embrace their identity and overcome barriers. Moreover, these interviews serve as educational tools for coaches, sports organizations, and fans. They provide a clearer understanding of the unique challenges Black women face in sports and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Join the Conversation and Support Black Women in Sports If you want to learn more about the lives and achievements of Black women athletes, Black Rosie Media is a great place to start. Listening to these interviews not only celebrates their accomplishments but also raises awareness about the need for equity in sports. Supporting platforms like Black Rosie Media means supporting diversity and inclusion in athletics. It means valuing the stories that often go untold and recognizing the power of representation. Take a moment to explore the interviews, share them with your community, and encourage others to appreciate the incredible contributions of Black women in sports. Their stories are powerful, inspiring, and essential to the future of athletics. Check out our YouTube playlist with our EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS across sports. You can also follow our ORIGINAL PODCASTS for more interviews & analysis across women's sports. About Us Black Rosie Media is the home of Black women in sports media. We cover the WNBA, PWHL, NCAA women's basketball, and the business of women's sports through original reporting, interviews, podcasts, and newsletters — unapologetically.

Chris DeMarco Hire, Free Agents, and WNBA CBA Breakdown Chris DeMarco (left) and Clara Wu Tsai (right) pose in front of Barclays Center. Photo Credit: Brandon Todd/New York Liberty Now that we officially have a collective bargaining agreement, it's time to discuss what lies ahead for the 2024 WNBA Champions. The New York Liberty and the league will be celebrating their 30th season. In Brooklyn, that means a new head coach. There is a lot that needs to happen between now and the home opener on May 8. We're breaking down what we know, the biggest free gency questions, and the 2026 New York Liberty schedule breakdown. Plus, the next season of Gotta Get Up! A Podcast for New York Liberty Fans officially tips-off on March 31! Meet New York Liberty's Ninth Head Coach Chris DeMarco takes over after years as an assistant with the Golden State Warriors. While he’s been part of a championship-caliber system, the WNBA presents a different challenge. From style of play to player relationships, DeMarco will face a steep learning curve—and little time to adjust. The big question: Can he guide a veteran team back into title contention right away? Gotta Get Up hosts Brian Fleunrantin & Erica L. Ayala have a lot of questions about DedMarco and the franchise. With a condensed offseason, we'll soon see how Liberty general manager Jonathan Kolb will move from concept to reality. WNBA Free Agency Could Reshape the Roster Per HerHoopStats , the Liberty only have the German duo of Nyara Sabally and Leonie Fiebich under contract. Marine Johannes and Rebekah Gardener are Reserved Free Agents (RFAs). That means big names like Breanna Stewart, Natasha Cloud, Jonquel Jones, and 2020 #1 overall pick Sabrina Ionescu could be elsewhere by the time the season tips off on May 8. Jonathan Kolb’s Biggest Test Yet New York Liberty General Manager Jonathan Kolb speaks to New York media during a press conference. Photo Credit: Brandon Todd/New York Liberty General manager Jonathan Kolb has built a contender before—but this offseason may be his toughest challenge yet. With limited internal stability and a shifting league landscape, Kolb must move quickly from vision to execution. Ionescu and Stewart seem insistent they will be back. Other UFAs like Cloud, Jones, and midseason acquisition Emma Meesseman are larger question marks. With upward of 100 UFAs this offseason, we also have to see how the league will handle the expansion draft ahead of the inaugural seasons for the Toronto Tempo - who hired the lone Liberty championship head coach Sandy Brondello in the offseason - and the revived Portland Fire. This could spell trouble for the Liberty keeping both Sabally and Fiebich, both who were key pieces for the Liberty's 2024 Championship win over the Minnesota Lynx. We won't know how things will shake out until we get more details about the WNBA Expansion Draft for Portland and Toronto, and then again once both teams have selected their core players. Limited Draft Capital, Bigger Pressure Although the 2026 WNBA Draft will take place in New York on April 13. Big time names like Azzi Fudd, Oliva Miles, Lauren Betts, are set to go high in the 2026 WNBA Draft. While this bodes well for the league overall, barring trades, New York will not have a a blue chip prospect this season. Kolb & Co. will have to build through free agency in a year where nearly every veteran is an unrestricted free agent (UFA). Kolb has a history of managing cap space well, and has proven to build solid relationship that helps find untapped talent and attract well-known names in women's basketball. Can he and the front office staff work their magic and remain a top contender in 2026? What Contention Looks Like in 2026 So what does success look like for New York? I think it goes without saying that Kolb wants to bring his core players back: Stewart, Ionescu, Jones. However, we've seen that the recent Liberty success has been predicated on the role players around the those three players. Additionally, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton is set to return from an injury that sidelined her for all of last season. Without Laney-Hamilton, the defensive identity of the 2024 champions suffered. Who takes the fifth and final starting spot, assuming Kolb can retain the Core Four? 🗽 New York Liberty 2026 Schedule Snapshot ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🏀 SEASON START May 8 @ Barclays Center 📆 SEASON LENGTH 44 Games • Through September ⭐ ALL-STAR WEEKEND July 23–25 | Chicago 🌍 FIBA BREAK September pause for the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup hosted in Berlin, Germany. We expect to see several current New York Liberty players represent their nation in the World Cup: Team USA Breanna Stewart Sabrina Ionescu Team France Marine Johannes Team Germany Leonie Fiebich Nyara Sabally 🔥 KEY STRETCHES •7-game homestand (early season) Catch the Liberty during the longest homestreatch of the season from May 21 through June 6. • 3 back-to-backs Fatigue was a factor for the injury-laden Liberty last season. How will the team respond to three back-to-backs throughout the season? • DeMarco vs Brondello June 3  at 8:00 p.m. ET - Barclays Center July 12 at 3:00 p.m. ET - Bell Centre September 20  at 3:00 p.m. ET - Coca-Cola Coliseum New York will take on Sandy Brondello and the Toronto Tempo three times in 2026, including on June 3rd. This will mark Brondello's first return to Barclays Center. 👀 MUST-WATCH HOME GAMES June 6  vs. Indiana Fever - 8:30 p.m. ET at Barclays Center May 27 & 29  vs. Phoenix Mercury - 7:00/7:30 p.m. ET at Barclays Center August 9  vs. Las Vegas Aces - 12:30 p.m. ET at Barclays Center We all love a good WNBA rivalry! Here are some teams we're hoping the team and fans get hyped for, including the Aces, Fever, and Mercury. Ever since Las Vegas celebrated their second championship at Barclays Center we've had all Aces games circled. A'ja Wilson and company are coming in as the defending champions and will be a good test for a New York squad hoping to remain a top team in the league. On that note, the Indiana Fever sans Caitlin Clark nearly toppled the Aces in the semifinals. The Fever also played the Liberty well last season. This is a must-watch series in 2026. Finally, the Phoenix Mercury ousted the New York Liberty in the 2025 WNBA Playoffs & New York wants their lickback! Phoenix will flex their new logo in Brooklyn for two consecutive games in May. Join the Conversation: Gotta Get Up Livestream Want more insight on what’s ahead? Join Brian Fleurantin and me on March 31 for the first livestream of the new season of Gotta Get Up: A Podcast for New York Liberty Fans . Season 4 of Gotta Get Up! tips off Tuesday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. ET on YouTube We'll recap the Elite 8, discuss the latest WNBA collective bargaining agreement, and prepare fans for what has to happen between now and the historic 30th season of New York's most recent basketball championship franchise. Throughout the season, we'll go live every Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET on the Black Rosie Media YouTube channel. You can also listen to all episodes on Transistor.fm or wherever else you listen to podcasts.

Hey Black Rosie Media Fam! At Even Strength is back with all the latest from the world of women’s hockey—a week full of historic firsts, hot debates, and championship dreams. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or new to the PWHL and NCAA action, we’ve got you covered with all you need to know. Officiating & Player Safety: Still a Mystery to All This week’s episode tackled the ongoing chaos around officiating and discipline in the PWHL. With notable injuries (Taylor Girard’s among them) and fines as low as $250 , both Rachel & me called out the league’s lack of clarity. Even Sarah Nurse voiced her frustration post-game , saying players and refs alike “don’t really know what’s a penalty.” The message? Consistent rules are critical for safety and the on-ice product. The union is pushing for more separation between player discipline and game officiating—let’s hope we see major improvements soon. Seattle Makes Franchise History Theresa Schafzahl suits up for the Seattle Torrent for the first time in a 4-1 loss to Montreal. Photo Credit: PWHL For the first time ever, the Seattle Torrent are on the trade board! This week, Jessie Eldridge heads to the Boston Fleet, with Theresa Schafzahl making her way to Seattle. On this episode, we broke down what this one-for-one swap means: Boston gets precise scoring power for their playoff push, while Seattle brings in a talented, often-underestimated playmaker who was already feeding pucks to Alex Carpenter in her first appearance. Could this be a long-term building block for both teams? Keep an eye out for how Schafzahl’s role expands on the Torrent’s top line. ION Steps Up National PWHL Coverage PWHL Final is coming to ION! This is the first time the Walter Cup will be available on a national broadcast in the United States. Image courtesy PWHL After speculation, it’s official: ION will broadcast the PWHL Finals in the U.S. This is a huge leap forward, I praise ION’s proven track record of providing context, storytelling, and studio shows from their WNBA and NWSL coverage. There’s hope in the air for weekly studio shows and even more national visibility for women’s hockey—finally, a chance for fans to gather around appointment TV and for new followers to join the community. NCAA Frozen Four: The Final is Set! Frozen Four fever is on! Rachel Donner is all in on the Penn State-Wisconsin semifinal, with Penn State having the advantage of home ice. The other side features Ohio State vs. under-appreciated Northeastern—two teams stacked with standout goaltending and offense. Rachel was hoping PSU would have home ice advantage and make their way to the final, and they NEARLY DID! It took an OT thriller for Wisconsin to advance to their fourth straight National Championship game. The Ohio State University also advanced to their fourth consecutive championship game in a 5-0 win over Northeastern. Our hosts laid out the matchups and debate whether Ohio State-Wisconsin is will once again be the matchup: it is! Tune in to hear who Erica & Rchel have taking it all! PWHL Standings Heating Up Minnesota Frost have found their playoff switch again, sharing the top tier with Montreal and Boston, while Toronto and Ottawa are locked in a mad battle for fourth spot. Seattle, Vancouver, and New York are battling at the bottom, with the clock ticking on playoff hopes. Daryl Watts is heating up for Toronto, and Boston needs Jessie Eldridge’s special teams expertise if they want to make noise in the playoffs. Games to Watch This Week Our can't-miss matchups: Montreal at Ottawa: Huge playoff and rivalry stakes! Vancouver at Boston: Can Boston lock in a statement win, or will Vancouver pull a surprise upset? Let us know which games you’re watching, your thoughts on the new ION deal, and how you’d fix officiating in the league. Stay Tuned Don’t forget—visit Black Rosie Media for written recaps, and catch up on our streams and episodes for deeper breakdowns and fan conversation. See you next week when we’ll recap the NCAA champion, new developments in the PWHL, and (probably) more officiating chatter. Tell us what you want to hear next! Peace, love, and puck drops,The At Even Strength Team P.S. Got a hockey hot take or burning question? Hit reply or catch us on social—we love hearing from you!

The 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament runs from March 18 to April 5, 2026. The National Championship game tips off at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC from Phoenix, Arizona. March Madness is here — and this year's NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament is shaping up to be one for the books. With UConn entering as the undefeated, defending champion No. 1 overall seed, powerhouse programs like UCLA, South Carolina, and Texas right behind them, and 68 teams all chasing a title, there is no shortage of must-watch basketball over the next three weeks. We've already gotten through the First Four, Missouri State, Nebraska, Southern, and Virginia advanced. Now it's time for the Field of 64 to begin! Whether you have cable, a streaming subscription, or you're trying to catch every game on the go — we've got you covered. Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament, from the First Four all the way to the National Championship in Phoenix. 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament: Where to Watch All games in the 2026 NCAA Women's Tournament are broadcast across ESPN's family of networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPNews. The National Championship on April 5 will air on ABC. Every single game is also available to stream on ESPN Unlimited. Platform Type Cost All Tournament Games? ESPN / ESPN2 / ESPNU / ESPNews Cable/Satellite TV Included w/ cable Yes ABC Broadcast TV (free) Free with antenna Championship only ESPN Unlimited Streaming Starting at $29.99/mo Yes — all games Fubo Live TV Streaming Starting at $45.99/mo Yes Sling TV (Day Pass) Live TV Streaming $4.99/day or $14.99/wk Yes DirecTV Stream Live TV Streaming Varies by plan Yes Full Tournament Schedule & TV Breakdown Here is the complete round-by-round schedule with broadcast details so you never miss a tip-off. First Round — March 20-21, 2026 The field expands to 64 teams across the First Round, spread across ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNews, and ABC. Our MUST-WATCH matchup is Friday between NC State and Tennessee. Games begin Friday at 11:30 a.m. ET and run through Saturday night. Keep an eye out for South Carolina hosting on ABC at 1:00 p.m. ET on Saturday. Second Round — March 22-23, 2026 The Second Round continues the action on Sunday and Monday, narrowing the field to the Sweet 16. Game times and TV assignments will be announced as the bracket develops. Sweet 16 — March 27-28, 2026 | Fort Worth & Sacramento The Sweet 16 is split between two regional sites: Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, and Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. Games air on ESPN and ABC. Date Time (ET) Site Network Fri. March 27 2:30 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ESPN Fri. March 27 5:00 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ESPN Fri. March 27 7:30 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ESPN Fri. March 27 10:00 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ESPN Sat. March 28 12:30 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ABC Sat. March 28 3:00 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ABC Sat. March 28 5:00 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ESPN Sat. March 28 7:30 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ESPN Elite 8 — March 29-30, 2026 | Fort Worth & Sacramento The Elite Eight determines who heads to Phoenix. Sunday games air on ABC; Monday games air on ESPN. Date Time (ET) Site Network Sun. March 29 1:00 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ABC Sun. March 29 3:00 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ABC Mon. March 30 7:00 PM Dickies Arena — Fort Worth, TX ESPN Mon. March 30 9:00 PM Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA ESPN Final Four — April 3, 2026 | Phoenix, Arizona The Women's Final Four takes place at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. Both semifinal games air on ESPN, beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET with the second game starting approximately 30 minutes after the first concludes. National Championship — April 5, 2026 | Phoenix, Arizona The 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball National Championship tips off at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC from Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. This is the one — don't miss it. How to Watch Without Cable No cable? No problem. The 2026 NCAA Women's Tournament is more accessible than ever for cord-cutters. Here are your best options: ESPN Unlimited ESPN's streaming platform gives you access to every single game of the women's tournament. It's the most comprehensive option for fans who want complete coverage without cable. Plans start at $29.99 per month. Fubo Fubo carries ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNews, and ABC, making it a strong option for live streaming the entire tournament. New subscribers can try it free before committing. Pricing starts at $45.99 for the first month. Sling TV Day Pass For fans who don't want a monthly subscription, Sling TV's Day Pass is a flexible option. You can pay $4.99 for a single day, $9.99 for a weekend, or $14.99 for a full week. Add the Sports Extra package for ESPNU coverage. DirecTV Stream DirecTV Stream carries the full ESPN family of networks, making it another solid live TV streaming option for the tournament. Frequently Asked Questions What channel is the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament on? The tournament broadcasts across ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPNews throughout the early rounds. The Sweet 16 and Elite 8 feature games on ABC, and the National Championship on April 5 airs exclusively on ABC. Can I watch the Women's NCAA Tournament for free? The National Championship on April 5 airs on ABC, which is available for free with a digital antenna. For all other games, you'll need a cable subscription, live TV streaming service, or ESPN Unlimited. When is the 2026 Women's NCAA Championship game? The National Championship tips off on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. ET at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and airs on ABC. Where is the 2026 Women's Final Four? The Women's Final Four is at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday, April 3, 2026. Where are the 2026 Sweet 16 regional sites? The two Sweet 16 and Elite 8 regional sites are Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, and Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. --- Follow Black Rosie Media for NCAA Women's Tournament coverage: blackrosiemedia.com

Hey Seattle Torrent fans! We’re fresh off a live episode of the 206 Sports Collective where me and Ava Wood broke down one of the wildest weeks yet for the Seattle Torrent. If you missed it, fear not—here’s your recap of all the drama, analysis, and what to watch for in the coming games. 🚨 First-Ever Torrent Trade: Eldridge Out, Schafzahl In Seattle made history this week with their first franchise trade, sending Jesse Eldridge (tied for second in scoring!) to Boston and bringing in international power forward Theresa Schafzahl (from the University of Vermont) [00:01:09]. The move signals a shift: Seattle is focused on building identity and chemistry for next season, especially given their struggles in the standings. Ava Wood highlighted Schafzahl ’s strong defensive capabilities—something GM Meghan Turner stressed as part of the team’s evolving identity. 🩺 Injury Updates: Bilka Out, Barnes Returns, Grant-Mentis Day-to-Day The injury bug hit the Torrent hard: Hannah Bilka is officially done for the season, out on LTIR ([00:06:57]). Cayla Barnes had an injury scare vs. Toronto, but she’s back in the lineup ([00:24:11]). Mikyla Grant-Mentis , hero of last week’s “jailbreak goal,” took a brutal hit against Minnesota and is day-to-day with an upper body injury ([00:11:07], [00:20:11]). Despite losses, the team rallied for an epic win, with Ava Wood spotlighting big performances from Alex Carpenter, Mikyla Grant-Mentis, Natalie Snodgrass, and a wild crowd of 13,000 fans. 🏒 Lineup Changes—And Goalie Questions Torrent’s projected lineup mixes up the top lines: Carpenter centers Schafzahl and Danielle Serdachny , with Snodgrass, Julia Gosling, and Lexie Adzija forming a hot second line ([00:14:07]). But the goaltending rotation remains a head-scratcher: Murphy gets the start, Schroeder backs up ([00:15:03]). Both Ava and me debate whether this is about development, budget, or expansion draft tactics ([00:18:26]). 🎤 Spotlight: Sarah Nurse Calls Out Officiating Sarah Nurse publicly aired frustrations on inconsistent penalty calls and officiating ([00:25:38], [00:30:18]). The crew discussed how rulebooks, training, and league professionalism must improve—especially as the PWHL readies for (yet another?!) expansion draft. 🔥 What’s Next? Montreal & Boston Showdowns Seattle faces third-place Montreal and second-place Boston back-to-back. Ava Wood says the Torrent must  score first tonight to quiet Montreal’s rowdy home crowd ([00:36:20]), while I want to see them finish strong in the third period against Boston ([00:43:30]). 📊 PWHL Power Rankings (Ava’s Hot Takes!) Minnesota Frost (dominant, scary, and chasing a 3-peat) Toronto Sceptres (late bloomers, but surging) Boston Fleet Montreal Victoire Ottawa Charge Vancouver Goldeneyes New York Sirens Seattle Torrent (Yes… still at the bottom—but hope remains!) 💡 Ava’s Watch-Along & Podcast Links Ready to dive deeper? Ava Wood is hosting a live watch-along for the game on the 365 Hockey Girl YouTube channel. And you can always find full episode recaps at Black Rosie Media. Final Thoughts: Torrent fans, there’s still something to cheer for—whether it's spoiler wins, developing young talent, or prepping for that coveted #1 overall pick. As the PWHL expands (maybe too quickly?), the Seattle chapter is just getting started. Hold fast, stay true, and let’s keep riding the Torrent wave.See you next week for more 206 Sports Collective! Your Hosts: Erica L. Ayala | Black Rosie Media Ava Wood | 365 Hockey Girl

Rhyne Howard, Paige Bueckers lead USA Basketball to 2-0 start. Caitlin Clark drops Double-Double in senior team debut Rhyne Howard led the USA with The Road to the LA 2028 Summer Olympics begins this March! With the United States receiving an automatic bid as hosts of the next Summer Olympics, the winner of the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup will also punch their ticket to L.A. Five teams are already in, leaving 11 spots for the September tournament in Berlin up for grabs! All four tournaments resume play on Saturday, March 14. Here's a recap of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Standings in China, Puerto Rico, Türkiye and France. FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Standings Through the first two days of competition, six (6) teams remain undefeated. Here is a rundown to the top teams and top performers in each of the four tournament sites. Tournament A - Wuhan , People’s Republic of China - TOP PERFORMERS In China, Belgium sits atop the table through two games. Belgian Forward Antonia Delaere leads the tournament with 20.5 PPG. After an injury-laden WNBA season in Indiana, Fever forward Damiris Dantas  leads Team Brasil with 19 PPG in two games. 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Standings - China Belgiam leads the field, but already has a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup. It's a four-way tie for second between Brasil, Czechia, Mulawi, and hosts China. Team Brasil is the only other team, alongside Belgium, averaging over 80 points per game. Can Pokey Chatman lead her team to Belgium? Action in China resumes Saturday with Brasil & Czechia facing off in the first game of the day. Tournament B - San Juan , Puerto Rico - TOP PERFORMERS The 2026 FIBA Women’s Qualifiers Team poses for a photo ahead of their opening game against Senegal. L to R: Top Row: Kiki Iriafen, Dearica Hamby, Angel Reese, Rhyne Howard, Monique Billings, Chelsea Gray. Bottom row: Kahleah Copper, Kelsey Plum, Rae Burrell, Jackie Young, Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers. Photo Credit USA Basketball The United States, Italy, and Spain are a perfect 2-0 through the first two competition days in Puerto Rico. Golden State Valkyries forward Cecelia "Cici" Zandalasini leads the tournament with 14 PPG for Italia. Iyana Martin/Espańa (13.5 PPG), and Rhyne Howard/USA (13 PPG)   round out the Top-3 scorers in the Tournament B. 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Standings - Puerto Rico Atlanta Dream guard Howard led the United States with 21 points in a 110-46 Game 1 win over Senegal. Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers dropped 22 points in a 91-48 game 2 win over hosts Puerto Rico. Caitlin Clark dribbles past a Senegalese defender in the opening game of the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico. Photo Credit USA Basketball Bueckers, Caitlin Clark , Angel Reese and Kiki Iriafen are making their first international run with the women's senior 5-v-5 team. Indiana Fever start Clark dropped 17 points and 12 assists in her much-anticipated USA Basketball debut. The young guard missed the majority of her second WNBA season due to a series of lower body injuries. It was good to see her back on the court. Washington Mystics forward Iriafen is averaging eight points in just shy of 16 minutes for the United States. Chicago Sky center Reese Tournament C - Istanbul , Türkiye - TOP PERFORMERS Australia leads the way in Istanbul with a perfect 2-0 record. Seattle Storm forward Ezi Magbegor leads the Opals with 15 PPG through two games. 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Standings - Türkiye Both she and Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb have each been named Player of the Game early in the tournament. 2024 WNBA champion and New York Liberty forward Kennedy Burke  leads hosts Türkiye with 15 PPG. With Australia already qualified for the Women's World Cup, this gives Argentina, Türkiye, and struggling Canada team an opportunity to win the automatic bid from Istanbul. Tournament D - Lyon-Villeurbanne , France - TOP PERFORMERS Germany and hosts France are undefeated through two games in Lyon. 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournaments Standings - France Young German forward Frieda Bühner   leads all scorers with 20 PPG in two wins for the Deutschland squad. For France, Seattle Storm center Domonique Malonga  dropped 21 points and a dunk in the opening game for the hosts.  Unfortunately, it was announced Malonga has withdrawn from the remainder of the Qualifying Tournament due to a concussion. " Having suffered a head injury on Thursday evening during the match against Colombia, French national team player Dominique Malonga underwent further examinations on Friday in Lyon," a translated FFBB article read. "The results of these tests confirmed that Dominique Malonga suffered a concussion, preventing her from immediately resuming physical activity. The French national team player is therefore out for the remainder of the World Cup Qualifying Tournament, which runs until March 17 at the Astroballe arena in Villeurbanne." We wish the young start a full recovery. A team I enjoyed watching: Philippines. Although still looking for their first win, this is a SANDPAPER team that put up an 80-piece on Germany. Guard Sumaya Sugapong  is a Top-3 scorer in France. The 2024 Summer Olympic silver medalists are in good position to win the Qualifying Tournament and bunch their ticket to Berlin come September. Although neither of the Sabally sisters has suited up, Nyara is will the German National Team. Phoenix Mercury forward Satou has yet to make her return to the court after sustaining a concussion in the 2025 WNBA Finals against the Las Vegas Aces. FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: How to watch live As we discussed in the Women's Basketball Roundup, TNT has purchased the rights to the FIBA Women's Tournament, meaning fans in the United States can enjoy the qualifiers on truTV and HBO Max. For HBO Max subscribers, the games are available to watch live and rewatches on-demand, much like Unrivaled. Fans across the globe can watch the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 qualifying tournaments live and on demand on Courtside 1891 . This is FIBA’s official streaming platform. EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to include the injury update to French center Dominique Malonga.

24 federations compete in four FIBA Qualifiers from March 11th-17th It seems like just yesterday I was reporting from the EPIC gold medal game between the United States and hosts France at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Today, a new Olympic cycle starts with four FIBA Women's Qualifiers in China, France, Türkiye, and Puerto Rico (hoooo!). Twenty-four women's basketball teams seek to earn the remaining 11 spots for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 in Berlin, Germany, in the fall. How FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournaments works The four qualifying tournaments determine the final 11 teams that complete the 16-nation field for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in September.  A total of 24 national teams will compete from 11–17 March across four tournaments: in the People’s Republic of China, France, Puerto Rico, and Türkiye . Each event features six teams playing a round-robin format , playing each other once. Check out the full game schedule for each tournament here. Who has already qualified for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026? Our favorite Germans, New York Liberty stars Nyara Sabally & Leonie Fiebich have already qualified as the host nation. Nyara and Satou Sabally were excellent for D eutschland at the first-ever Olympics. We're eager to see how the perform on home soil in September. WNBA fans, especially those who follow Black Rosie Media, will get to watch some of your favorites compete with their national teams. We're talking Ezi Magbegor , who has come out the gate hot for Australia. The French Connection of Gabby Williams and Marine Johannes will dazzle for Team France, and fan favorites Han Xu and Li Yueru look to dominate the paint for the People's Republic of China. In addition to Germany, winners of the  2025 continental championships also earned direct entry to the tournament. Here is the full list of federations already qualified for the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup: Germany – host nation Belgium – EuroBasket Women 2025 champions United States – FIBA Women’s AmeriCup 2025 champions Australia – FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 champions Nigeria – FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2025 champions Despite qualifying, each of these nations will field a team. For team like the United States, this is a chance for players like Kiki Iriafen and Caitlin Clark to get their first international run with the women's senior 5-on-5 team. FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Groups Tournament A - Wuhan , People’s Republic of China China (4) Belgium (5) Brasil (9) Czechia (17) Mali (18) South Sudan (55) Tournament B - San Juan , Puerto Rico United States (1) Spain (6) Italy (14) Puerto Rico (13) New Zealand (21) Senegal (25) Tournament C - Istanbul , Türkiye Australia (2) Canada (7) Japan (11) Türkiye (16) Hungary (20) Argentina (27) Tournament D - Lyon-Villeurbanne , France France (3) Nigeria (8) Germany (12) Republic of Korea (15) Colombia (19) Philippines (39) FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 qualifiers: How to watch live According to Olympics.com , Fans across the globe can watch the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 qualifying tournaments live and on demand on Courtside 1891 . This is FIBA’s official streaming platform.