What's Next For These Struggling Contenders?

The WNBA playoffs have delivered some surprises, but what do the early exits of the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty mean for their futures? Annie is joined by Rachel DeMita, host of Courtside Club, to break down the biggest postseason storylines and what comes next for two teams with championship aspirations. Then, they turn to the Indiana Fever and the critical offseason decisions ahead: How should Indiana build around its core, what does Kelsey Mitchell's future look like, and what must the franchise prioritize to take the next step? Finally, they look ahead to the WNBA Finals matchup between the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries, breaking down the key players and strategies that could decide who wins it all. No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast Network: Sign up for the No Offseason Newsletter: 00:00 Intro 04:12 How the Valkyries defied expectations 04:42 Was the Lynx's early playoff exit a surprise? 11:23 Were the Liberty the season's biggest disappointment? 19:49 Is the Fever's Big 3 built to last? 26:31 What does Kelsey's exit interview comments mean for her future? 30:28 Could the Fever look much different next season? 36:21 How can the Fever build a contender? 40:28 WNBA Finals tip off Saturday, Oct. 17 43:33 Who will be the X-factor in the WNBA Finals? Follow and listen to the audio podcast: Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you're listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.com Show Links: -YouTube: @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason [ -TikTok: @no_offseason [ Credits: -Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings -Layshia on IG: @layshiac -Annie on X: @anniecostabile -Produced by Taneka Burrell -Executive Produced by Andrea B. Scott Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub: Full Episodes Playlist: Shorts Playlist: