The Rise of Women’s Basketball Through Powerful Voices

The evolution of technology has opened up numerous avenues for sports fans to engage with their favorite athletes in a more direct and personal way. This transformation has enabled fans to gain insights straight from the players themselves. A significant player in this shift is The Players’ Tribune, a media outlet founded by baseball legend Derek Jeter, dedicated to providing athletes with a platform to share their voices and experiences.

Spotlight on Women’s Basketball

In a notable move to elevate women’s basketball, The Players’ Tribune has recently launched a collaboration with Haley Jones, a star athlete on the Atlanta Dream. Together, they’ve produced a vibrant podcast titled “Sometimes I Hoop,” which now boasts 40 engaging episodes.

“I’m passionate about sharing the experiences of my peers and being a voice for young girls in sports,” Jones shared in an exclusive interview. “As someone who lives and breathes basketball, it’s crucial to shed light on athletes beyond the court and reveal the richness of who we are outside of our sport. This podcast creates a space for meaningful discussions while fostering connections between fans and their favorite players.”

Inside the Podcast

“Sometimes I Hoop” is an original video podcast series from The Players’ Tribune that features top talents in women’s college and professional basketball. Each week, Jones delves into the latest news and trends in the basketball world, presenting everything from hot takes to deep analysis of game strategies.

Jones is preparing for her third season in the WNBA after an illustrious college career at Stanford, where she led the team to a national championship in 2021. Her accolades, including being named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, position her perfectly to host a podcast of this caliber.

However, in a landscape teeming with new podcasts, standing out requires more than credentials.

Behind the Scenes of Success

Ashly Robinson, a former collegiate basketball player and the current Head of Original Development and Production at The Players’ Tribune, collaborates closely with Jones to ensure the success of the show. Robinson’s belief in Jones’ unique perspective and passion plays a significant role in the podcast’s appeal.

“It is a crowded space, but with passion and a fresh viewpoint, there’s always room to thrive,” Robinson explained. “Haley entered this project with a clear vision, making it resonate with listeners.”

Jones possesses a natural curiosity and a genuine connection with her guests, aiming to bridge the gap that often exists in interviews. She emphasizes covering substantive topics rather than superficial ones, bringing her expertise as a player to the forefront.

Elevating the Conversation

The podcast not only supports existing players but also guides young women navigating the recruiting and college processes, providing insights that go beyond standard post-game interviews or brief talk-show segments.

Jones’ commitment to excellence shines through in everything she undertakes. Once a casual podcast listener, she’s now deeply invested in honing her craft and learning from others. “My podcasting journey was sparked by the opportunity from The Players’ Tribune. I explore various topics now, from fashion to true crime, and I try to incorporate elements that resonate with my audience while ensuring my guests feel valued,” she expressed.

Looking Beyond the Court

As Jones continues to build her podcast, she envisions a future in media beyond her athletic career, inspired by her colleagues at The Players’ Tribune. “While I want to maximize my time as a player, I’ve always intended to pursue media, both during and after my playing days. The Players’ Tribune has provided an essential platform for me to develop my career in this field,” she shared.

Despite her interests beyond basketball, Jones insists that they don’t detract from her dedication to her sport. “Critics often use outside interests to question a player’s performance. However, having diverse passions can motivate us to excel in all areas, including sports,” she noted.

The experience of hosting a podcast has even enhanced her skills on the court, helping her foster better teamwork and connection with fellow athletes.

A Lasting Impact

Since the launch of “Sometimes I Hoop,” other former collegiate stars, like Angel Reese, have stepped into similar roles. This trend underscores a significant moment for women’s basketball, driven by authentic storytelling. According to Robinson, this movement is more than a fleeting phase; it is a recognition of women’s basketball’s growing prominence.

“The surge in coverage and interest is not a transient moment; it’s here to stay,” Robinson affirmed. “We are committed to amplifying these young women’s stories and showcasing their greatness both on and off the court.”

“Sometimes I Hoop” thus stands as a testament to the ongoing rise of women’s basketball, unearthing narratives that inspire and resonate with fans from all walks of life.