^{November 01, 2025 | Edition #158}

Hey, Hoophead! 🎃

Hope you had a great night and are soaking in a laid-back weekend! Because you must; it’s your last calm one before college hoops madness officially begins! But before that, the WNBA made headlines again with its own reasons to celebrate this week. From men’s leagues across the country showing their support, to the announcement of legendary names heading to the Hall, and one of their own stepping into a new, beautiful chapter of life; it’s been all good vibes.

The Caldwell Effect 2.0

The Lady Vols couldn’t have looked more dominant in their exhibition game. And yet, somehow, their coach said that’s not even close to what they’ve been practicing.

You get the picture… the bar’s sky-high heading into Year 2, right?

Yes, things are going to look different. Actually, very different. But don’t worry, it’s the good kind of different. Remember how Caldwell first arrived in Knoxville and threw everyone for a loop with her hockey-style rotations and full-speed offense? That chaos turned out to be exactly what the Lady Vols needed.

Then came the offseason. Sure, it looked rough on paper: five seniors gone to graduation and three players transferring out. That didn’t matter. Probably because of these three reasons:

• All three players who entered the portal had limited roles.

• Caldwell’s coaching staff assembled the No. 1 transfer class.

• The Vols welcomed the No. 2 freshman class.

We hope you understand the gravity now.

Leading the new wave of transfers has to be Janiah Barker. Then there’s returner Talaysia Cooper, who, according to Caldwell, is already “better than last season” and will lead the charge. But they (and a few others) might still be worried about their spots. Hear why, straight from the coach!

Talking technicalities, the biggest boost this year comes in size and flexibility. Tennessee’s frontcourt is stacked, giving them the muscle to match that signature “aggressive” identity Caldwell’s been building.

So, get ready. The Lady Vols are fast, fierce, and fun, and they’re eyeing their first Elite Eight since 2016. With Caldwell steering the ship, don’t be surprised if Knoxville starts feeling like the center of women’s hoops again real soon.

Sip, Cheer, and Celebrate the Season

As we get ready for the college basketball season, there’s no better time to keep your favorite drink by your side. Stanley’s new limited-edition Holiday collection brings sleek designs and signature durability together — perfect for long game nights, early practices, or a quick coffee run between tip-offs.

Why It Stands Out:

• Durable & Reliable: Made to handle every bump, spill, and celebration

• Temperature Control: Keeps drinks hot or cold all game long

• Timeless Design: A clean, modern look that fits any moment

• Gift-Worthy Picks: Perfect for fans, friends, and anyone on the go

However the game goes, your drink’s always a win.

The Hall of Fame Got Its Next Icons

Sometimes you see a Hall of Fame list, and it just hits differently. Not because of who’s in it, but because of what their stories meant to the game. When the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame dropped its Class of 2026, it felt the same.

Packed with greatness from every corner of the game, it honors players, coaches, and a broadcaster. But if we have to be honest, the name that instantly made us stop scrolling was Candace Parker. Three-time WNBA champ, and the only player to ever win Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. The fact that the ceremony will be held in Tennessee, this one was truly written in the stars.

Joining her in the spotlight is another all-timer, Elena Delle Donne, who powered the Mystics to their first-ever (and only) WNBA championship. While you might not have come across clips of her pulling off flashy moves, it’s her efficiency that always did the talking. And she’s got this record that tops every player in NBA and WNBA history!

And speaking of the best, Cheryl Reeve’s name was bound to pop up. The winningest coach in WNBA history. Sixteen seasons, four titles, and a coaching tree that just keeps growing. Plus, she’s not the only legendary coach.

Check out who’s joining her and the rest of this stacked class!

The Hall also shines a light on the broadcast world this year with Doris Burke. Though really, it’s not a surprise considering she’s already earned her place in the Naismith Hall of Fame.

So, come June 27, 2026, we’ll get to celebrate them officially as they take their rightful place. Congratulations, Class of 2026!

They Did What?! When the Aces Held a Literal Funeral for Candace’s Retirement

Iowa’s Next Big Thing

It’s been a while since Carver-Hawkeye Arena roared like that. The kind of roar that used to echo every time Caitlin Clark checked in. Who would’ve thought it’d happen again, this time for a freshman, and that too in an exhibition game?

Before we even tell you what kind of gem Iowa landed in Addison Deal, go ahead and watch her welcome moment. The cheers alone will tell you everything you need to know.

Deal had her pick of powerhouses. “But in my head, I think it was always Iowa,” she admitted. She followed her heart and committed to the Hawkeyes back in March, becoming their highest-rated recruit since Clark at no. 9 nationally.

However, after two months of committing, Lisa Bluder’s surprise retirement rattled her. But when Deal saw not a single Iowa player transfer out, her faith only strengthened. If everyone else was all-in with Jan Jensen, she thought, why shouldn’t she be?

Now, the 6-foot combo guard out of Mater Dei High School is ready to carry the torch. She leaves behind over 1,700 points, 600 rebounds, 400 assists, and 325 steals in her prep career.

If you want to know her game, Deal is the kind of player coaches dream about: fundamentally sound, confident from deep, fearless attacking the rim. That natural scoring flair? Yes, it might feel a little familiar, Iowa fans.

Well, take a look at her deep three, and nostalgia might just hit really hard!

And while Deal doesn’t mind being called Caitlin Clark 2.0 (“they’re compliments,” she says) and we can’t help but draw the comparison, let’s not forget, at the end of the day, she’s her own person. An incredible young hooper who is “willing to do anything to help the Hawkeyes win.”

So, let’s officially call it: the Addie Era has begun in Iowa City!

Iowa Welcomes Coach Bluder Again! Ex-HC Comes Out of Retirement With a Surprise New Gig

WNBA’s Halloween Highlights

The WNBA celebrated Halloween in full spirit.

As you can see, Breanna Stewart posed with her wife in a cute costume and Napheesa Collier dressed as Aladdin. But the one look everyone was waiting for? Yes, A’ja Wilson’s. No surprise here, she pulled off another absolute hit. Sticking to her theme, you’ve got to see how she ATE!

And while the rest of the W was busy serving Halloween looks, the Dallas Wings had an even bigger celebration on their hands. Huge congrats to Maddy Siegrist, who officially tied the knot with her longtime love! Of course, her Wings crew showed up in full force - or should we say, performed out - to make it a night to remember. Catch the moment here!

1. Ex-Liberty HC Sandy Brondello Finally Tells Her Side of Why It All Fell Apart - Full Story

2. Caitlin Clark Makes Candid Confession About 2 Golf Legends Ahead of LPGA Pro-Am - Full Story

3. Sophie Cunningham Makes Her Free Agency Intentions Known - Full Story

4. LSU Reality Check Awaits MiLaysia Fulwiley After Leaving Gamecocks - Full Story

That’s it for today, folks! We’ll look to knock on your inbox soon with more interesting stories!

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