EDITOR’S NOTE
Turns out, you can have something in common with a Super Bowl champion. When Jason Kelce put on the Ravens marching band uniform ahead of Monday Night Football, I was transported to my color guard (state champion here) and clarinet-playing days. And he’s not the only (former or current) NFL player with talent outside the game: Bills QB Josh Allen recently revealed that he helps Hailee Steinfeld with this aspect of her acting — is a film cameo in his future? Meanwhile, the Patriots WAGs gave Cardi B the most-wholesome invite to tailgate, and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the potluck. If you’re still planning for your next game day, here are some actually easy recipes to whip up. Now, let’s dive into some sports headlines…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
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What to look out for in our latest episode.
A’ja Wilson Reaches Everest Status
What's going on: The WNBA championship is still up for grabs, but Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson just scored her fourth MVP award — a record and major feat no other player has accomplished. The honor means Wilson has been MVP for half of her career, a big flex in her eight seasons playing ball. The reveal stole the show: WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and Wilson’s NBA boyfriend, Bam Adebayo, crashed the Aces practice with trophy in hand. Her dad and team staff also staged a hilarious homage that left her emotional and stunned. But Wilson still kept the spotlight on her squad, saying the trophy “has my name on it, but it’s all of us.”
Our take: Whether Las Vegas wins or loses in the playoffs, Wilson’s performance is unmatched. She leads the league in points and blocks — casually also snagging Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors. And she’s making an impact off the court (see: her tunnel fits), further adding to a fan base that led her signature sneaker to sell out in minutes. Next up: free agency, where she has the leverage to chase the W’s first $1 million contract. As Coach Becky Hammon recalled telling Wilson: “There’s no Mount Rushmore, you’re the only one, you’re Everest.”
Related: Caitlin Clark Had an Iconic Response After Allegedly Being Fined by the WNBA (CBS Sports)
Pick Six
More sports talkers you don't want to miss.
👀 Did Serena Williams, Jordan Chiles, and Chloe Kim just inspire our next look at the gym? The answer is yes. (Well Played)
😮 Emma Watson said her latest sports obsession is the best therapy she “never paid for.” It might be time to join in on the hype. (Hollywood Authentic)
👏 Olivia Culpo and her daughter turned heads at the 49ers game — thanks to a baby-sized jersey and a whole lot of postpartum honesty. (Well Played)
💙 One NWSL player’s NFL-inspired fit carried a message worth pausing for. Survivors stick together. (Sports Illustrated)
🏃 Fans have theories about the fake name Harry Styles used to run the Berlin Marathon — but we still have questions about his shoes. (Well Played)
🥵 Finally, deodorant options that are built for serious workouts and sweat. Here’s hoping this means the end of the paper-towel dab. (Everyday Health)
Timeout...
Our Well Played co-hosts and friends of the show tackle listener Qs.
The Ryder Cup tees off this weekend. How's it different from other tournaments?
The Ryder Cup is one of very few team events in golf: It’s Team Europe versus Team United States … and players earn their roster spot over a two-year performance … It’s arguably the most anticipated, most intense rivalry that you’re going to see in all of golf. This year, Team Europe is trying to win for the first time on US soil since 2012. Rory McIlroy, the clear leader of his team, has been talking so much trash about beating Team United States in New York. It’s not your traditional golf event.
FEATURED EXPERT:
Amanda Balionis
Just Trust Us
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
We found the best retro-inspired baseball caps just in time for playoff season. Go ahead, pick your team.
For all our New York Liberty fans (or really any fans of women’s sports), this cropped button-up will be your new game uniform.
One editor tried the internet’s favorite boob-sweat lotion and shared her honest thoughts with us right here.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
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