Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball

Adia Barnes Interview + Final Thoughts on an Epic Pac-12 Season Mar 20, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy interview Arizona head coach Adia Barnes (5:28), who talks about how her and her family are holding up in response to the Coronavirus. Adia shares how her husband's family in Italy is doing under lock down orders (7:36). Coach discusses the difficulty of delivering the message to her team about the cancellation of the NCAA tournament (11:30) and what their legacy will be (14:05).
Coach Barnes talks about the changes in recruiting due to the travel regulations and the effect it has on the transfer portal (16:20). She also reveals that Aari McDonald has yet to make her decision on whether she is returning for a senior season (18:20) and talks about how the closure of gyms and facilities has impacted her players (20:06). Adia wraps her interview talking about her favorite moments of the season (25:44) and reflects on the change her coaching took this season (31:30). She also thanks the incredible support the Pac-12 fans have given her this season (35:00).
Mary and Ash wrap the pod with final thoughts on the best season that they have ever covered (37:40) and Mary gives her final Murphy's Law (38:45).

Kelly Graves Interview + Ducks' Unfinished Business Mar 19, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy react to Sabrina Ionescu and Ruthy Hebard being named first-team All-Americans (3:22) and discuss what their initial reactions were to hearing that March Madness was canceled (4:50).
Oregon head coach Kelly Graves joins the podcast and shares how he has been spending his free time (8:15). Coach describes the scene of when he found out that the postseason was canceled and how he broke the news to his team (10:20). Kelly also shares details of the call NCAA president Mark Emmert had with him about the cancellation of the tournament (14:00).
Coach Graves talks about how Sabrina is handling the situation and looks ahead to the bright future she has ahead of her (15:45). Coach relives the accomplishments his team had this year and how the team was able to capture the attention of the entire country (18:30). He talks about Ruthy Hebard's legacy in tandem with Sabrina's (22:20) and looks ahead to what his team will look like next season (25:12). Kelly ends his interview speaking of how Sabrina influenced all of basketball (29:35) and reflects on the moment he will never forget for years to come (37:45).
Mary and Ash wrap the pod discussing what Oregon's season meant (40:05) and what they will remember from one of the best teams in the history of women's basketball.

Oregon Wins Pac-12 Tournament + Minyon Moore & Charmin Smith Interviews Mar 10, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy recap a full weekend of basketball in Las Vegas, and describe the joy Oregon played with while winning the Pac-12 Championship (2:10). They recall the scene on the television set when they found out about Aari McDonald’s engagement (5:00), and Mary shares her favorite non-basketball moments of the tournament (9:00).
Oregon guard Minyon Moore joins the show, and talks about her incredible performance in the Pac-12 Championship game against Stanford (13:52). Minyon describes the incredible depth of this Oregon team (16:55), and reveals how the Ducks have developed such a strong defensive mentality (17:35). The senior guard talks about her decision to transfer to Oregon, and reveals how the two ACL tears she suffered in high school helped shape her into the player she is today (23:00).
California head coach Charmin Smith calls in next, and talks about the Golden Bears’ ability to bounce back this season (34:54). She praises her freshman class’ continuous improvement throughout the year (37:38), and surmises that the strong end to the season will help on the recruiting trail (39:18). Charmin explains how she is trying to emulate the job Adia Barnes has done at Arizona (41:00), and how much she appreciates competing in a tough conference (42:30).
Ash and Mary finish the podcast talking about USC and Colorado’s WNIT chances (45:48), and Mary shares why she is so excited to watch “The Women of Troy” on HBO about Cheryl Miller and the groundbreaking USC women’s basketball team (47:30).
(Television Call Courtesy: ESPN - Voice of Adam Amin)

Adia Barnes Interview + Ducks Lead Conference Award Winners Mar 03, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy break down the conference award winners and discuss whether Sabrina Ionescu is the best player in conference history (1:15). Mary opines if she sees any snubs in the all-conference teams (5:28) and what her biggest weekend storyline was after spending it in Eugene (6:30). Ash and Mary discuss Sabrina's speech on Friday after clinching their 3rd straight regular season title (11:05) and what made Kelly choke up (15:26). They also relive Cal's big win over Arizona (17:45) and the implications the NCAA Top 16 reveal had for the Beavers and Wildcats (20:35).
Arizona head coach Adia Barnes joins the show and discusses the Wildcats' big win over Stanford (23:21) and the letdown that followed vs Cal (26:06). She talks about her team's ability to stay hungry (29:32) and the school making a case to host in the NCAA Tournament (31:00). Adia praises the Tucson community (31:50) and talks about how easy it was for her to connect to the fans having gone to school at Arizona (33:40). The Arizona coach speaks of Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year Aari McDonald's dominance on both ends of the court (35:40) and makes the case for why the standout junior should return for her senior season (38:22). Adia wraps the interview previewing the Pac-12 women's tournament in Las Vegas, and reveals who could be an x-factor for the Wildcats (43:05).
Mary and Ash break down the notable tournament matchups (47:32) and Mary picks a team that could make some noise (50:02). They wrap the podcast discussing if anyone can defeat Oregon (50:51) and Stanford's health leading into the weekend (52:04).

Sabrina's Mamba Mentality + Amber Melgoza Interview Feb 25, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap the week that started with Satou Sabally's decision to forego her senior year and declare for the WNBA draft this April (1:30). Mary describes the scene at Haas Pavilion Friday night with Steph Curry in attendance as Sabrina Ionescu dropped her 25th triple-double (2:29). Mary and Ash also talk about the 3 ranked Pac-12 teams being upset over the weekend by unranked opponents (3:44).
Ash and Mary discuss Sabrina's powerful speech at Staples Center memorializing Kobe Bryant (6:00) and the triple-double performance she put on at No. 4 Stanford later that night (12:00). Mary discusses Stanford's work-in-progress mentality (14:50) and shares how special the Buffs top 25 win over Arizona was on senior day (18:11).
Washington senior Amber Melgoza joins the show and discusses what it's like to sweep the L.A. schools after so many overtime losses this season (21:35). The Pac-12 Player of the Week also talks about teammate GiGi Garcia's journey and what her getting to play on Senior Day meant (24:13). Melgoza opens up about her journey with ADHD and the struggles she had adjusting her freshman year (29:35). She also reminisces about her BMX racing growing up (38:00) and praises the performance Sabrina had Monday both on and off the court (42:09).
Mary and Ash discuss the emotional senior day for Bulgarian native Borislava Hristova and the reaction she had seeing a message from her mom (46:23). In Murphy's Law, Mary warns teams not to dismiss the bottom half of the league (49:34) and breaks down UCLA's potential run in the NCAA tournament (52:25).

Kiana Williams Interview + Top 4 Teams Take Shape Feb 18, 2020

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss Arizona's Sam Thomas performance this weekend (1:30). Mary shares the story of Washington's Khayla Rooks and why returning to Tucson was extra special for her (3:48). Ash and Mary recap the Bruins overtime win over the Beavers (6:35) and discuss how Oregon State can bounce back after dropping 3 straight games (9:27). Alaska natives Ruthy Hebard and Alissa Pili's player of the week honors are discussed (14:32) and Mary and Ash talk the reaction Oregon grad transfer Minyon Moore received at USC this weekend (15:49).
Stanford point guard Kiana Williams joins the show and breaks down the last seconds of her buzzer beater vs Colorado (23:40). Williams shares the reactions of her coaches and teammates following the wild win (28:16). Kiana also discusses the impact of having Maya Dodson back playing for the first time this season (31:45).
Kiana looks ahead to Stanford's upcoming game vs Oregon and shares what she learned after their 32-pt loss to the Ducks earlier this season (33:25). Kiana talks about growing up with 3 older brothers and her tight relationship with her dad (35:35). The junior also discusses playing with Michaela Onyenwere and Mikayla Pivec in the Pan Am games over the summer (45:42) and who she thinks is the most underrated player is in the league (46:43).
Mary and Ash discuss Cal's Cailyn Crocker's crazy weekend on and off the court (51:35) and Mary reveals who she thinks can make a deep NCAA Tournament run other than Oregon (56:47).
(Radio Call Courtesy: Tunein - Voice of Kevin Danna)

Cori Close Interview + Oregon State Headlines Feb 11, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss the Bruins statement win at Stanford and the significance of UCLA's first Bay Area road sweep since 1999 (4:57). They discuss the Wildcats' bounce-back mentality in defeating Oregon State to notch Arizona's first ever top 10 road win (6:04). The ladies discuss the significance of losing Kennedy Brown for the season due to an ACL injury (8:10) and how it will affect the Beavers moving forward. Mary breaks down Mikayla Pivec's game-winner vs Arizona St with 0.4 seconds on the clock (11:44) and the teachable moment it gave another team. They also talk Pivec's name being added to the list of Senior CLASS Award finalists after an uproar over her exclusion (17:05). Ash and Mary discuss Oregon remaining No. 3 in the country and Sabrina's reaction to her 24th career triple-double (20:38).
UCLA's head coach Cori Close joins the show (27:00) and shares what made getting conference win #100 in the Bay Area so special. She discusses what it took for her team to defeat Stanford (28:48) and what Chantel Horvat and Lindsey Corsaro bring to the squad (31:00). Coach praises the job Charmin Smith has done at Cal in her first season and how the Bears challenged them (33:17).
Coach Close discusses what teachings she has taken from John Wooden (36:36) and the deeper meaning of why she has a shovel and broom in her office (39:08). Cori shares how she tries to infuse joy in her players (47:50) and gives a self evaluation in her 26th year of coaching (51:10).
Mary shares the dancing skills of USC's head coach Mark Trakh she witnessed over the weekend (54:53) and the impressive road sweep the Utes had over the Washington schools (57:20). Ash and Mary discuss if teams want to avoid the No. 4 seed in the conference tournament so they don't have to play Oregon (58:22) and if anything but a national championship would be a disappointment for the Ducks (1:00:58).

Aari McDonald Interview + Oregon's Statement Win Feb 04, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy react to the first Top 16 reveal in which five Pac-12 teams were included (2:39). Ash and Mary discuss the significance of the Ducks dominating win over UConn (3:40) — their first ever road win over a Top 5 opponent — and Mary explains why Oregon has the potential to play even better (6:40).
Aari McDonald joins the show (9:40) and reacts to Arizona being included in the Top 16. Aari shares what her mindset was going into their win over UCLA (12:50) and how she has grown to become a more vocal leader this year (14:00). The reigning Pac-12 player of the week tells Ash and Mary about Adia Barnes’ influence (15:13) and what Tee Tee Starks support has meant to her (16:00). Aari praises her teammates and shares what they have allowed her to do differently in her game this year (17:50). She also shares what her favorite part of her game is (18:30) and what bucket she has prized the most this year (18:59). She reminisces about playing with guys while growing up and what it brought to her game (20:56) and confides what it will take for her Wildcats to upset Oregon in Eugene (21:53). The Pac-12's leading scorer wraps her interview praising the fan support at McKale Center (24:45) and what her experience has been like playing under Adia Barnes (27:00).
Ash and Mary discuss the grueling triple overtime win Arizona State had over USC (29:08). Even after being swept over the weekend, Mary explains why the Trojans still deserve credit (30:34). Ash and Mary discuss UCLA's size potentially being an achilles heel this season (32:57) and the significance of Cal getting their first PAC-12 win this season (33:47).
In this week's Murphy's Law, Mary highlights what makes Cal's CJ West's performance so special (36:28). Mary also highlights the significance of Oregon blowing out UConn and what made Oregon's reaction so significant (37:30). She also gives her current coach and freshman of the year picks (41:04). Ash and Mary wrap the episode breaking down the road to a top four seed in the Pac-12 Tournament (42:00).

Kelly Graves Interview + Colorado Faces Critical Schedule Stretch Jan 28, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy remember Kobe Bryant and discuss his impact on girl's and women's basketball (0:58). They talk about the pregame huddle between Oregon and Oregon State before their game and the emotional prayer the teams shared (7:38). Ash and Mary recap the Oregon sweep in the Civil War and highlight the difference made by Satou Sabally (9:55).
Kelly Graves joins the show and shares the team's reaction to the news of Kobe and Gigi and how special the pregame circle was between the rivals (12:08). Kelly talks about how close Sabrina was to Kobe and Gigi and how he was a mentor to her (15:00). Coach Graves says there will be a new focus for Ionescu given the circumstances (16:49).
Kelly talks about the importance of sweeping the Beavers (17:50) and the brutal schedule that awaits the Ducks (19:10). As the team prepares to face the Utes, Coach Graves reminisces about growing up in Utah and his relationship with his Dad (21:48). He talks about the impact Taylor Chavez and Jaz Shelley have had off the bench this year and their defensive efforts (26:09). Coach talks about facing Colorado head coach JR Payne this weekend and the amazing job she's done with her young squad (29:08). Coach Graves also shares how excited he and his staff were when all five of his incoming freshmen were selected as McDonald's All-Americans (31:33). Kelly closes the interview previewing their match vs UConn on Monday (34:38).
Ash and Mary talk the implications of Arizona's Territorial Cup sweep (37:37). Mary shares her current coach of the year favorite (41:26) and how the freshmen in the Pac-12 have been playing tremendously (41:58). Ash and Mary wrap the episode discussing the significance of the Women's Final Four possibly coming to Portland or Phoenix (45:58) and this week's “Murphy’s Law” (47:30).

Rebecca Lobo Interview + Civil War Preview Jan 21, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss expectations this weekend as No. 4 Oregon and No. 7 Oregon State clash in the Civil War (1:12). Mary breaks down Stanford's second half comeback against the Beavers (4:20), and the Cardinal's response after freshman Haley Jones went out with a knee injury (5:53). Ash and Mary also give credit to the Trojans who beat their crosstown rival in double overtime, handing the Bruins their first loss of the season (7:45). Mary shares the high praise Tara VanDerveer had for Sabrina Ionescu (11:00) and goes over yet another record that Ionescu is on the cusp of breaking.
ESPN analyst and Hall of Famer Rebecca Lobo joins the show, and shares what she saw in Oregon's dominant win over Stanford (16:00). Rebecca talks about how Sabrina Ionescu reminds her of Diane Taurasi (20:15), and explains why the Pac-12 is the toughest conference in the nation (23:27). The ladies talk about the crossover of the men's and women's game (24:16), and Rebecca shares how defending the integrity of the women's game brought her to her husband (26:41). Rebecca dives into her experiences coaching youth basketball and dealing with parents (29:30). The former WNBA player also gives her take on the new CBA, and what she felt was the most important part of the new deal (39:35).
Ash and Mary wrap the episode discussing the Territorial Cup (45:05). Mary tells us the difficulties of guarding the Ducks and Beavers offenses (46:40), and gives a shoutout to the hot shooting of the Utes (52:18).

Charli Turner Thorne Interview + Pac-12 Rankings Shakeup Jan 14, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap Arizona State's historic weekend defeating No. 2 Oregon and No. 3 Oregon State, and discuss how difficult the Arizona road trip is this season (3:38). Mary breaks down the Sun Devils' surprising offensive output (6:24) and how the close games they played last season prepared them for this moment (9:08). Ash and Mary also talk about how so many Top 15 teams losing this week affected Pac 12's bracketology (10:40).
Arizona State head coach Charli Turner Thorne joins the show, and shares the unique way she was able to respond to the hundreds of text messages she received this weekend (13:04). Coach Turner Thorne talks about what it meant for her to hear from former players (15:00) and tells her favorite on-court moments from the Sun Devils’ two wins (19:00). She also brings us into the locker room for her halftime speech during the Oregon game (23:20), and the team's "cheetah girl" mantra (24:02). Coach describes how seamlessly Ja'Tavia Tapley has fit in with the team (27:03), and the benefits of Arizona having a strong season as well (29:30). Finally, coach Turner Thorne talks about why the Oregon and Oregon State wins felt like March (34:04), and previews their upcoming weekend vs Washington and Washington State (38:50).
Ash and Mary wrap the episode discussing Sabrina Ionescu's triple-double (43:24) and this week's “Murphy Law” (45:43). Mary also tells us what Stanford's biggest challenge will be this Thursday at Oregon (49:29) and she and Ash applaud the WNBA's ground-breaking CBA deal (50:10).

Mikayla Pivec Interview + Pac-12 Gauntlet Begins Jan 07, 2020

Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy kick off the 2nd season of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast and tell us why the biggest story of the non-conference season was Oregon upsetting the US National Team (3:25). Ash and Mary dive into why Sabrina Ionescu is the most impressive college basketball player in both the women's and men's game (5:20). They recap UCLA's win over Arizona that continued the Bruins' historic start (7:38) and chat about what they have seen of Stanford's heralded freshmen (10:00). Mary also recounts a memorable dance sequence from the weekend that included Tara Vanderveer (12:00).
Oregon State senior Mikayla Pivec joins the show (18:00) and shares how at just 5'10" she has been able to lead the league in rebounding. Pivec recalls her summer of playing in the Pan American games and what that competition taught her (23:10). She talks about the Beavers' game vs the US National Team and the fan girl moment she had with her hero Sue Bird (25:05). Pivec talks about her academic success (27:10) and where her drive to volunteer comes from (29:46). She ends the interview sharing a story of a prank that went wrong in high school (35:26).
Ash and Mary wrap the episode highlighting Bobbi Buckets historic weekend (39:00) and a surprising speech at the Washington State-Cal game (41:00). Mary leaves us with "Murphy's Law" (42:42) in what to watch for this coming weekend.

Arizona Media Day with Adia Barnes, Aari McDonald & Tee Tee Starks Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Arizona guard Aari McDonald and forward Tee Tee Starks, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Arizona head coach Adia Barnes.

Arizona State Media Day with Charli Turner Thorne, Robbi Ryan & Taya Hanson Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Arizona State head coach Charli Turner Thorne, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Arizona State guards Robbi Ryan and Taya Hanson.

California Media Day with Charmin Smith, Sara Anastasieska & CJ West Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview California head coach Charmin Smith, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to California guard Sara Anastasieska and center CJ West.

Colorado Media Day with JR Payne, Quinessa Caylao-Do & Mya Hollingshed Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Colorado guard Quinessa Caylao-Do and forward Mya Hollingshed, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Colorado head coach JR Payne.

Oregon Media Day with Kelly Graves, Sabrina Ionescu & Satou Sabally Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Oregon guard Sabrina Ionescu and forward Satou Sabally, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Oregon head coach Kelly Graves.

Oregon State Media Day with Scott Rueck, Mikayla Pivec & Destiny Slocum Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Oregon State head coach Scott Rueck, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Oregon State guards Mikayla Pivec and Destiny Slocum.

UCLA Media Day with Cori Close, Japreece Dean and Michaela Onyenwere Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview UCLA head coach Cori Close, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to UCLA guard Japreece Dean and forward Michaela Onyenwere.

USC Media Day with Mark Trakh, Kayla Overbeck & Stephanie Watts Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview USC head coach Mark Trakh, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to USC forwards Kayla Overbeck and guard Stephanie Watts.

Stanford Media Day with Tara VanDerveer, DiJonai Carrington & Kiana Williams Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Stanford head coach Tara VanDerveer, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Stanford guards DiJonai Carrington and Kiana Williams.

Utah Media Day with Lynne Roberts, Kiana Moore & Dru Gylten Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Utah guards Kiana Moore and Dru Gylten, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Utah head coach Lynne Roberts.

Washington Media Day with Jody Wynn, Amber Melgoza & Missy Peterson Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Washington guards Amber Melgoza and Missy Peterson, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Washington head coach Jody Wynn.

Washington State Media Day with Kamie Ethridge, Chanelle Molina and Borislava Hristova Oct 08, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson & Mary Murphy interview Washington State head coach Kamie Ethridge, while Pac-12 Networks’ Kate Scott talks to Washington State guard Chanelle Molina and forward Borislava Hristova.

Sabrina Ionescu on Returning to Oregon + Lindsay Gottlieb Interview Apr 10, 2019

On the 12th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss Sabrina Ionescu’s return to Oregon and the implications it has for the team and for the conference next season (1:20).
Sabrina Ionescu joins the podcast (6:54) and shares what went into her decision to come back, and the surprisingly short amount of time she had to make it. Sabrina talks about breaking the news to her team and friends and the positive reactions she has received (10:40). She also discusses Kobe Bryant breaking down her game film and what that meant to her (13:47).
Sabrina talks about why her game has transcended gender lines and speaks to the celebrity attention her team has received this season (17:37). She elaborates on why she has the word ‘insurance’ written on her wristband and shares a common misconception about her (20:37). She talks about her plans this summer and reveals her favorite player to watch in the Pac-12 (24:26).
California head coach Lindsay Gottlieb calls in from the WNBA Draft (32:50) and explains why she loves the experience the Draft brings to her players. She speaks to Kristine Anigwe’s pro-readiness on offense and defense, and talks about how lucky any WNBA team will be to have her in their organization (37:09).
Lindsay and Mary also discuss some of the difficulties women’s coaches face, and explain why it’s important they get second chances at other schools (42:05). Gottlieb also responds to Notre Dame head coach Muffet McGraw’s statements at the Final Four in regards to more women being represented in the coaching ranks (43:50).
Finally, Ash and Mary talk about the Arizona Wildcats winning the WNIT in front of record crowds and why it bodes well for them going into next season (52:20).

Final Four Preview + Kelly Graves Interview Apr 02, 2019

On the 11th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap Oregon's incredible win over top-seeded Mississippi State and discuss what it took for the Ducks to get to their first Final Four (2:05).
Mary and Ash break down the frenetic final moments of the game and discuss how the team had been building to that moment all season long (4:19). Mary compares Sabrina Ionescu’s game to a couple of NBA legends and also discusses why it was more than just Ionescu’s play that got them a trip to Tampa (10:38).
Oregon head coach Kelly Graves (21:20) joins the podcast and describes the euphoria of watching his team celebrate their first Elite 8 win after being eliminated in the same round the previous two seasons. Kelly speaks about the high-level play versus the Bulldogs and how it reminded him of a particular game in the men’s NCAA Tournament (28:20). Graves shares the advice men's head coach Dana Altman offered him about going to the Final Four and all of the events that surround it (31:10). Coach also previews the matchup versus Baylor and what makes them challenging to defend (34:00).
Ash and Mary discuss Stanford's tough loss versus Notre Dame and look ahead to next year when they welcome a highly-ranked freshman class (38:42). Mary describes a 'different' Tara she saw this season and what is in store for her program (42:38).
Ash and Mary talk about the way Tucson has supported the Wildcats during their WNIT run, and compare it to the effect UCLA’s 2015 WNIT Championship had on their program (45:20). They end the podcast discussing why there have been five different Pac-12 programs in the Final Four since 2013 (56:20).

Sweet 16 Preview + Scott Rueck & Adia Barnes Interviews Mar 27, 2019

On the 10th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament, and discuss what propelled 5 teams from the conference to make it to the Sweet 16. Mary comments on Sabrina Ionescu's triple-double and highlights the support Ionescu has received from collegiate and professional players (4:20).
Oregon State head coach Scott Rueck joins the podcast (14:47), and tells us the grittiness it took for his team to win two tight games at Gill Coliseum. Rueck shares his favorite moment from the weekend (16:00) and also talks about Mikayla Pivec being an underrated national star. Rueck shares the story of recruiting Pivec and his reaction when she called to tell him she had committed to the university (21:20).
Coach Rueck talks about the family atmosphere Oregon State provides and what former football head coach Mike Riley once told him about working in Corvallis (26:36). Rueck wraps the interview previewing their Sweet 16 matchup versus one-seeded Louisville, a team that eliminated the Beavers last year in the Elite 8 (23:58).
Arizona head coach Adia Barnes calls in (40:00) and talks about recruiting while playing in the postseason. Barnes highlights the Wildcats' WNIT success thus far and the player that has stood out aside from Aari McDonald (42:58). Adia talks about how long it takes to implement the culture you envision for your team (44:00) and how her experience as a WNBA player has made her the coach she is today (47:42). She also shares her disappointment on not making the NCAA tournament. Coach wraps her interview talking about how proud she is of attracting fans to McKale and how special it was getting their first WNIT win last week (50:00).
Ashley and Mary comment on the end of Cal's season, and the tough process of saying goodbye to four seniors, including Kristine Anigwe (52:40). They wrap the pod getting Mary's take on which game she is most looking forward to in the Sweet 16, who has been the best Pac-12 player so far in the NCAA tournament, and who will be a game-changing player for Oregon (53:37).

Selection Monday Reax + Cori Close & Layshia Clarendon Interviews Mar 20, 2019

On the 9th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap Selection Monday and analyze the road to the Final Four for the 6 Pac-12 Teams dancing. Mary breaks down the challenges each team will face, and determines who is set up for success (8:49).
UCLA head coach Cori Close (19:20) joins the podcast and tells us the special treatment a team receives when traveling during the NCAA tournament. Cori talks about John Wooden's pyramid of success and why it is her job to make it relevant to the kids playing today (24:28). Cori talks about her emotions while watching Gymnastics coach Miss Val last meet at Pauley Pavilion and how they were both influenced by Wooden's message (25:25).
Coach Close talks about the volunteer work her and the team did while in the Virgin Islands and what the effects of being able to give back to the community (28:00). She ends her interview talking about her experience as a player in the NCAA tournament and the parity this year's tournament presents (31:10).
Connecticut Sun guard and Pac-12 Networks broadcaster Layshia Clarendon talks to Ashley and Mary about playing in the Final Four with the Cal Bears in 2013 (38:20). She talks about what she remembers the most about their run and why this year's Oregon team reminds her a little of them (40:00). Layshia talks about the transition to become a media member and reveals the grind and commitment it takes to sustain being in the WNBA (50:57).
Ashley and Mary wrap the pod talking about Arizona in the WNIT (54:06) and Mary gives her Final Four predictions (58:41).

Pac-12 Tourney Recap with DiJonai Carrington + Charlie Creme Interview Mar 12, 2019

On the 8th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap the Pac-12 Women’s Tournament in Las Vegas. Mary and Ash recount the euphoric scene after 11-seeded Washington upset Oregon State (7:40) and discuss Stanford’s redemption versus Oregon (14:38).
One of the stars of the tournament, Stanford’s DiJonai Carrington joins the podcast (15:42), and shares the mindset the Cardinal had going into the championship game after losing to the Ducks by 40 points earlier in the season. DiJonai praises the play of teammate Anna Wilson and discusses the trust Coach VanDerveer had in the team (21:17). DiJonai also talks about growing up in an athletic family and being allowed to play tackle football at a young age (23:46). She shares what her future plans are, and why she believes she must use her platform as a Stanford student-athlete to help others (30:22).
Less than a week away from Selection Monday, ESPN women’s bracketologist Charlie Creme calls in (38:33) and describes how he got into bracketology. He talks about his process for predicting what teams the NCAA Committee will select, and also talks about pushback on social media from certain fan bases (46:44). Charlie also explains why Stanford and Oregon are 2-seeds (49:44) and despite a late season surge, UCLA is still a 6-seed (52:00). He also tells us which Pac-12 teams he thinks can make a run to the Final Four (53:35).

Pac-12 Women's Basketball Award Show Mar 06, 2019

On the 7th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women’s Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy reveal the 2018-19 Pac-12 award selections and interview each of the winners.
They talk to Pac-12 Player of the Year Sabrina Ionescu (2:02) and ask her what it means to win the award for the second straight season. Ash and Mary interview Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year Kristine Anigwe (9:58), and talk about what led to her improving defensively each season at Cal.
John R. Wooden Coach of the Year Kelly Graves joins the show next (17:28), and they discuss how he dealt with raised expectations in Eugene this season. Then, Ash and Mary talk to Pac-12 Freshman of the Year Dre’Una Edwards (26:17), and ask her the hardest part of transitioning from high school to college.
Lastly, Ash and Mary interview Pac-12 Sixth Player of the Year Aleah Goodman (32:51), and discuss how she provides energy coming off the bench for the Beavers. They also hear from Pac-12 Scholar-Athlete of the Year Alanna Smith (38:21), who tells them why she is so grateful she attends Stanford.

Tara VanDerveer Interview & UCLA Breaks Through Feb 27, 2019

On the 6th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap Senior Day around the conference and share the unique way a radio announcer honored Oregon State's Joanna Grymek (6:54). Mary also talks UCLA's comeback versus Oregon, and how the Ducks rebounded versus USC (9:00).
One of the top coaches in the history of collegiate and international women’s basketball, Tara VanDerveer joins the podcast (12:26), and reveals what Steve Kerr has taught her about the art of coaching. Tara talks about her famous "Tara-isms" and how she used them on former player, Ros Gold-Onwude, who is now an on-air broadcaster (21:20). She talks about her Top 5 recruiting class, and how she will not let expectations rule their training (29:55).
The leading scorer for UCLA, Michaela Onyenwere, talks about the Bruins’ epic comeback versus the Ducks, and Cori Close's dance moves in the locker room that followed (30:04). Michaela relives her extraordinary track and field career in Colorado, but explains why there was never any doubt that basketball was the sport for her (50:38). She also shares what she learned playing with WNBA players Jordin Canada and Monique Billings (52:22).
Mary and Ash talk about Cal's huge weekend, including a 20-point comeback versus Arizona (54:22). The podcast wraps with the year-end conference award predictions (55:58).

Civil War Recap with Ann Schatz + Aari McDonald Interview Feb 20, 2019

On the 5th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy recap the Civil War series with colleague Ann Schatz (10:00). A native of Oregon, Ann talks about the history of each program and what brought both coaches to their respective teams. Mary and Ann discuss the timeless feeling of Gill Coliseum and the amazing fan support Oregon State receives (22:10).
Ann also shares stories from her broadcast career, including one of her favorite sporting moments she's ever covered, and talks of the time she was the only reporter Tonya Harding would speak to (29:13).
The leading scorer in the Pac-12, Arizona’s Aari McDonald, joins the podcast and discusses her love of playing defense and what brought her to Tucson (40:40). McDonald shares her pregame ritual to honor her grandfather and reveals which Pac-12 player is her favorite to watch.
Mary relives Arizona State’s amazing comeback win (35:30) and talks about the support from around the Pac-12 that Utah's Daneesha Provo has received going into her ACL surgery (53:30). Ash and Mary also talk about the return of Colorado’s Kennedy Leonard and Stanford’s Alanna Smith's late-game heroics (57:00)

Civil War Preview + Destiny Slocum & Ruthy Hebard Interviews Feb 12, 2019

On the 4th episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss Oregon's big win over Stanford (9:00) and preview the upcoming Civil War matchup, including interviews with Oregon State's Destiny Slocum and Oregon's Ruthy Hebard.
The Beavers' leading scorer Destiny Slocum joins the podcast (15:00), and talks about playing at the rec center last year while sitting out after transferring from Maryland. Slocum speaks of her relationship with Scott Rueck and what he has brought to her game, along with what she has taught him (23:56). She explains what it will take to beat Oregon and also shares the unusual story of how she ended up with the number 24 on her jersey (28:18).
Coming off an 18-point and 8-rebound effort versus Stanford, Ruthy Hebard joins the podcast (35:22) and talks about growing up in Alaska and how she thought she would never play basketball in college. Hebard praises the mentality of her pass-first team (44:18) and explains what it has been like to play in front of the growing crowds at Matthew Knight Arena (47:18). She also shares who her favorite player outside of Eugene is to watch in the Pac-12 (49:40).
Ashley and Mary discuss the implications of Arizona State's cancelled game versus Washington, what Tara had to say after suffering her worst loss as a head coach, and what makes Washington State's Borislava Hristova so fun to watch (51:00).

Pac-12 Player of the Year Race & Receé Caldwell Interview Feb 06, 2019

On the 3rd episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy discuss the top contenders for the Pac-12 Player of the Year race, including interviews with Cal's Receé Caldwell and Michelle Smith.
Longtime Pac-12 women's hoops beat writer Michelle Smith joins the podcast and tells us why this weekend is so important in the Pac-12 championship race and why Utah head coach Lynne Roberts is her Coach of the Year (10:45). Smith speaks about her favorite all-time player to cover and the amazing growth of the Pac-12 conference, but laments the one thing that still alludes it. She also shares which Pac-12 team is best equipped to make the deepest NCAA championship run (20:11).
Coming off a last-second win vs Stanford in game 1 of their Battle of the Bay, Cal's Receé Caldwell shares the story of Steph Curry breaking down Asha Thomas' game-winning bucket (35:00). Caldwell shares her dream of becoming an NBA general manager and the support she has received in accomplishing her goals (36:50). Caldwell ends the interview previewing Cal's tough test vs No. 3 Oregon and No. 7 Oregon State this weekend (52:10).
Ashley and Mary also dive into some bracketology and tell us who has work to with four weeks of the season left and Mary shares a coaching story that reminded her of the Colorado-Oregon game (55:35).

Utah Surging, Lynne Roberts and Shea Serrano Jan 30, 2019

On the 2nd episode of the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast, Pac-12 Networks' Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy break down the key story lines from the weekend that was, while also talking to Utah head coach Lynne Roberts and The Ringer's Shea Serrano.
Coming off a historic win versus Stanford and jumping to No. 14 in the AP Poll, coach Lynne Roberts talks about what it meant for her program to beat Stanford (9:32). Roberts shares that the team still has an underdog mentality and explains why one of her players is called "The Prophet."(12:26) Roberts also talks about Megan Huff finally getting some overdue recognition after garnering player of the week honors, and her thoughts as they travel to Oregon this week to take on the No. 4 Oregon Ducks and No. 9 Oregon State Beavers (22:46).
NY Times bestselling writer Shea Serrano explains how he first became an Oregon fan and the move he witnessed feet away that cemented Sabrina Ionescu's legendary status, along with what makes the Ducks unstoppable (31:12). Mary and Shea discuss the similarities between Ionescu and Reggie Miller, while Shea talks about the rise of women's basketball in pop culture (42:17). Shea also shares his thoughts of Sabrina meeting Kobe Bryant (45:30).
Ashley and Mary also discuss UCLA's Japreece Dean's effort this weekend and the big play of Oregon State's Mikayla Pivec (52:30).

Oregon Rolls, Utah Cracks Top 25 & Charli Turner Thorne Interview Jan 23, 2019

On the inaugural episode of Inside Pac-12 Women’s Basketball, Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson and Mary Murphy break down the key story lines in the Conference of Champions. They talk about Oregon guard Sabrina Ionescu’s triple-double not even being the most impressive feat she had this weekend (6:18), they highlight Stanford forward Alanna Smith’s shooting ability (7:12), and chat about Cal forward Kristine Anigwe’s improvement each season (7:44).
They discuss Utah being ranked in the AP Top 25 for the first time under Lynne Roberts (10:36), and Mary recalls the first time her team cracked the Top 25 when she was a coach (12:27).
Ashley and Mary interview Arizona State head coach Charli Turner Thorne and talk about her team’s enormous double overtime win at Oregon State on Sunday (20:29), as well as the Sun Devils’ success on and off the court (33:00).
Ashley and Mary also discuss Stanford head coach Tara Vanderveer’s 900th win as the Cardinal’s head coach (37:34) and Mary explains why she is looking forward to watching USC guard Aliyah Mazyck this weekend (44:08).

Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Introduction Jan 17, 2019

Pac-12 Networks’ Ashley Adamson introduces the Inside Pac-12 Women's Basketball Podcast and preview what to expect on the show this season.

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