Graduation milestones, expansion excitement, and growing pains on and off the court. In this episode, Kaari returns after a short break to celebrate her daughter’s college graduation — and the WNBA’s 29th season tip-off.

She shares her firsthand experience as a Golden State Valkyries season ticket holder at the team’s much-anticipated home opener, including standout moments, second-half struggles, and a halftime performance that sparked some strong opinions.

Plus:

• A quick history of WNBA expansion team expectations
• Thoughts on the early identity of the Valkyries
• Why fan traditions matter — and how they start
• Listener Q: Why do women play with a smaller basketball?
• This week’s Buzzer Beater (shoutout to the record-setting All-Star ticket sales!)
• And of course, an Air Ball Award you don’t want to miss

Whether you’re new to the league or already yelling “GSV! GSV!” at your screen — this episode is for you.

🎧 Her Game. Her Voice. — Big stories, little episodes. Amplifying the voices shaping the game on and off the court.

“Big stories, short episodes—amplifying the voices shaping the game on and off the court." - Her Game Her Voice Podcast by Kaari Peterson

In this episode of Her Game. Her Voice., Kaari Peterson takes you inside the 2025 WNBA Draft—from a surprising pick by the Golden State Valkyries to their bold international roster strategy. Plus, what’s with cutting down basketball nets? We’ve got answers. Kelsey Plum’s DAWG camp earns this week’s Buzzer Beater, and Kaari hands out an Airball Award to a missed merchandising opportunity. And yes, she’s got thoughts on the decline in girls’ basketball participation—and why it deserves a Flagrant Foul. Packed with insight, side-eyes, and love for the game.

“Big stories, short episodes—amplifying the voices shaping the game on and off the court." - Her Game Her Voice Podcast by Kaari Peterson

In this episode, I shine a spotlight on Belmont University legend Betty Wiseman—aka “Belmont Betty”—and the extraordinary legacy she built for women’s basketball in the Southeast. I’ll also take you back to the 2002 Final Four in San Antonio, where a surprise encounter with Pat Summitt left me speechless.

Plus: this year’s NCAA title game delivered huge viewership, proving that women’s hoops is here to stay. As always, we close with our weekly awards: a Flagrant Foul for a coach who crossed the line, and an Airball for a Hall of Fame that’s missing a key member.

“Big stories, short episodes—amplifying the voices shaping the game on and off the court." - Her Game Her Voice Podcast by Kaari Peterson