Just Women’s Sports

In today's episode, Claire breaks down the USWNT's November roster, how manager Emma Hayes is able to give new opportunities from a position of strength, and which players Claire is most excited to see out on the pitch against England and the Netherlands. Then, she revels in the incredible NWSL semifinal round, breaking down all the magic that led the Orlando Pride and the Kansas City Current to the NWSL championship game.

On todays episode, Claire takes a deep dive into the NWSL end of season awards, comparing her ballot with the announced finalists and giving her final picks in a very deep year with many impressive performances. Then, she previews the blockbuster semifinal matchups between the NWSL’s top four, and gives her picks for who will be battling it out in Kansas City for a championship.

In today’s episode, Claire recaps the quarterfinal round of the NWSL playoffs, talking through blowouts, surprises, emptying the tank and why the top four teams continue to stand out in 2024. Then, she has a chat with Bay FC midfielder Kiki Pickett, on the team’s turnaround in the second half of the season, why they’re a great NWSL underdog, and what the club is most proud of after a record breaking inaugural season.

On todays episode, Claire wraps up the USWNT October window with look at the team’s 3-0 win over Argentina, how rotation became the US’s strength and how Naomi Girma can truly do it all. Then she redirects attention back to the NWSL, where we say goodbye to a few clubs after the weekend, and watch a playoff race that may or may not come down to the final matchday.

In today’s episode, Claire talks through the USWNT’s 3-1 comeback victory over Iceland on Sunday, how the team slightly struggled with roster rotation and how their second half stabilizing showcased the team’s underlying strengths. Then she has a chat with three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas about her whirlwind summer after starring in Paris, and her off-track interest in global health.

On today’s episode, Claire breaks down the USWNT’s 3-1 win over Iceland, talks through how Emma Hayes is continuing to put her stamp on her team even as they keep winning, shouts out top performers and looks at where the US could still improve. Then she takes a moment to give her take on the Chicago Red Stars rebrand, as the NWSL loses some of its history in a bid towards the future.

In today’s episode, Claire runs down the USWNT’s October roster, alongside quotes from Emma Hayes that appear to lay out the vision for the next few years in the team’s progress as they begin the long preparation for the 2027 World Cup. She also marvels at another incredible WNBA Finals showdown, as the Liberty take a crucial advantage in their search for their first championship title.

In today’s episode, Claire gives her own postmortem on this particular era of the Las Vegas Aces, claims the Liberty as championship frontrunners and preps for Game 5 between the Lynx and the Sun. Then, she chats Orlando’s incredible run to the 2024 NWSL shield, individual records being broken, and aimlessness further down the league table.

This week, Claire takes a snapshot look at the NWSL, where sometimes single games can tell you a whole lot more about a team than just the final score. She chats Orlando and KC’s special success, Portland’s ongoing troubles, and which players lit up the highlight reel. Then she talks through remarkable WNBA performances, why the expanding season is a good thing, and the surge of the Washington Mystics. Then she reads a few listener comments on volleyball, and tells how she was hoodwinked by the U20 USWNT on Tuesday.

This week, Claire takes a moment to talk about the final few days of Alex Morgan’s professional career, how the soccer world has changed since Morgan’s debut and how the star herself spoke about what’s next. Then, she discusses what Angel Reese’s season ending injury means for the WNBA playoff race, salutes the U.S. Open and the Paralympics and more.

This week, Claire breaks down the new NWSL CBA that will change just about everything about how the league runs, she thinks, for the better. Then she takes listener questions on struggling NWSL clubs, player contracts, looking ahead for the USWNT and more.

In this weeks episode, Claire talks through the final few days of the 2024 Olympics, a gold medal basketball game that went the distance in ways nobody expected, big winners and losers from the Olympic soccer tournament and more. Then, she has a lovely chat with Arsenal and Lionesses forward Alessia Russo about returning to the U.S. after spending her college days in Chapel Hill for her club’s upcoming friendly matchup against the Washington Spirit.

This week, Claire takes a deep breath and looks at what we've seen in women's sports so far in the Olympics, including generational talents and both established and brand new stars to follow. She hypes up the U.S. gymnastics squad, asks who really rules the pool, and shouts out newcomers to the international stage that became the surprise hits of the Games. Then she previews the USWNT's upcoming semifinal against Germany, as the soccer Olympics field braces for two rematches.

On today’s episode, Claire takes a look at the USWNT’s performances in their first two Olympic soccer matches, as the team cruises to a quarterfinal spot with a game still to play in the group stage. She talks through the team making their own luck, some touchy moments in defense, and what to make of the team’s ever-shifting midfield. Then she hits on a few of the biggest Olympic storylines of week one, including a battle in the pool, a historic moment in gymnastics, and the ongoing Canada soccer drone-gate saga.

This week, Claire discusses WNBA All-Star weekend, which felt both like a celebration of how the league has grown over the past year and set Team USA up for a particularly competitive Olympics. Then, she reviews the field for the Olympic soccer tournament, pointing out her personal Group of Death and seeing how the U.S. might still be in the medal conversation despite their current rebuild under Emma Hayes.

This week, Claire breaks down in depth the days prior to the USWNT’s first send-off series game, also discussing performances, what worked and what still needs developing, as the team moves towards a crucial Olympic competition that will dictate the future of the team. She then turns toward WNBA All-Star weekend, with a short chat with Gatorade women’s basketball player of the year Joyce Edwards alongside former WNBA All-Star and Dallas Wings star Satou Sabally.

This week, Claire hones in on the upcoming marquee NWSL matchup between Orlando and Kansas City by pondering the question: how did the Orlando Pride transform into a contender? She speaks with Pride general manager Haley Carter about the construction of Orlando’s turnaround, and then chats with Pride forward Ally Watt about the team’s transformation on the field. Off the soccer field, Claire then does a check in on where the WNBA is trending as they near a significant Olympic break.

Claire hops on to react to the 2024 USWNT Olympic roster, with one big omission marking a new era of the team. She chats through the benefits of experience vs potential, versatility and fitness, and how this team will continue to gel while meeting the internal expectations of new manager Emma Hayes, which might not always coincide with what the fans want out of a major tournament.

In today’s episode, Claire talks through the widening gap between top NWSL contenders and the rest of the pack after more statement performances from Kansas City and Orlando. Then, she chats with Rookie of the Year (and possibly MVP?) frontrunner Croix Bethune about playing with joy, what makes the Washington midfield tick and more. And then finally she breaks down the current state of the WNBA, where mid-standings rivalries are just as exciting as the title contenders.

In this week’s episode, Claire sits down with Kansas City midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta to understand what’s driving the Current’s unbeaten streak, celebration culture, goals under Vlatko Andonovski and more. Then Claire takes the mic alone to look at the state of the WNBA, which teams are surging and which could use a reset after another week of highs and lows.

This week, Claire talks through the USWNT’s first friendly under new manager Emma Hayes, with a dominant 4-0 win over South Korea. She talks through big performances from Mallory Swanson and Tierna Davidson, a midfield that looks refreshed, and her own personal picks for the Olympic roster. Then, she digs into the big stories out of the WNBA this weekend, as the Indiana Fever finally end their early gauntlet of games, the Sun go 8-0, and the conversation off the court about fouls heats up.

Claire takes a look at the weekend’s NWSL action through the lense of the USWNT’s next era, with permanent manager Emma Hayes’ first roster rapidly approaching. She breaks down the USWNT roster bubble for the Olympics and beyond, and shouts out the NWSL talent providing an Olympic preview for other international sides. Then, she discusses Candace Parker’s surprise retirement announcement. She breaks down what made Parker so special in a still-growing league, and why her legacy will be felt for many years to come as embodied by this year’s rookie class.

Claire breaks down the opening weekend of March Madness (00:37), discussing which teams have impressed her and which still have something to prove. Claire then talks the latest USWNT roster and why this SheBelieves Cup squad is already a reflection of Emma Hayes (20:42). Finally, Claire’s bucketing every NWSL squad into tiers after the second weekend of games (32:18).

Claire breaks down the LSU-South Carolina drama and why Kim Mulkey’s comments might be a smokescreen for the Tigers’ bigger issues. Then, she reacts to the USWNT’s Gold Cup win and what it means for both the team and individual players hoping to make the Olympics. Last, Claire wraps with a quick NWSL preview ahead of this weekend’s Challenge Cup battle.

Claire Watkins reacts to the USWNT’s 3-0 win over Colombia, highlighting the team’s mentality, as well as the veteran performances of Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher. Claire also praises Jaedyn Shaw while discussing how the win highlighted the USWNT’s ability to thread the needle with their roster. Claire then turns to college basketball to explain why Caitlin Clark made the right move in going pro (and why Cameron Brink should as well). Finally, Claire looks ahead to the tournament, before ending with a note on the importance of referees.

Welcome to a bonus episode of The Late Sub! Recorded on Monday, Feb. 26, Claire gets into some of the big college basketball picture after teams struggled to grind out wins late in the regular season. Then, she breaks down the big decisions facing college seniors. Finally, she takes a look at the larger happenings in global football, and wonders if Spain are the clear frontrunners for the Olympics.

In this special, USWNT-only edition of The Late Sub, Claire breaks down the team’s 2-0 loss to Mexico, and why it felt like a game from the Andonovski era. Then, Claire is joined by CBS Sports’ Sandra Herrera to discuss the Gold Cup more broadly and why the USWNT needs to fully embrace their inexperienced youth.

Claire reflects on Caitlin Clark’s position in college basketball history after she passes Kelsey Plum for the scoring record. She also touches on Geno Auriemma’s latest milestone, Paige Buecker’s returning, and Brittney Griner’s overdue jersey retirement. Then, Claire dives into the USWNT, previewing the Gold Cup and who she wants to see on the field while also discussing Mia Fishel’s torn ACL. She also reflects on Lindsey Horan’s comments about American fans and the USWNT’s captain’s apology. To wrap up, Claire celebrates Sabrina's stand-out showing in her 3-point shootout with Steph Curry at NBA All-Star.

Claire breaks down the latest USWNT roster and what it means for the veterans who didn’t make the cut. Then, she dives into WNBA Free Agency and reflects on what happened with Elena Delle Donne. Finally, Claire wraps with an update on Caitlin Clark’s record chase and South Carolina’s convincing win over UConn, before circling back to the USWNT's current state and Lindsey Horan's much-discussed quotes on the team's mentality.

The Late Sub with Claire Watkins brings you the latest news and freshest takes in women’s sports. This is the weekly rundown you’ve been missing, covering the USWNT, NWSL, WNBA, college hoops, and whatever else is popping off in women’s sports each week. Special guest appearances with the biggest names in women’s sports make The Late Sub a must-listen for every fan.

On this special bonus episode of Snacks, Lynn Williams and Sam Mewis share a major announcement about the future of the show. They then reminisce on the top 10 Snacks moments over the years, from iconic interviews with teammates and friends to the origins of "Are you having an OK time?" They finish the episode with a show of gratitude to the Snacks squad, JWS crew, and Snacks fans everywhere.

Shop 50% off all Snacks merch using code CHOMP at shop.justwomenssports.com Lynn and Sam recap the epic Gotham victory from beginning to end starting with Lynn accidentally passing the ball right to Emily Sonnett. They talk through the tragic injury to Megan Rapinoe, Lynn’s goal, Esther’s winner, and that red card that somehow no one understood. Later, they get into the after parties and how the cigars got there, after all. Finally, Sam speaks on her injury recovery and they decide their DJ duo name, once and for all.

The Quarterfinals are done and the Bats and the Reign have advanced - meaning both Megan Rapinoe and Ali Krieger will see at least one more match. Lynn and Sam dive into the two match ups and discuss how OL overcame a hot Angel City, and how Gotham secured a 2-0 win over the always difficult Courage. Then, Savannah DeMelo joins the show to discuss her role on the USWNT, what it was like to get her first cap at a World Cup, and what she's hoping for the team moving forward. Finally, Sam and Lynn hit the Snacks hotline and discuss how they even became friends in the first place.

Sam and Lynn recap NWSL Decision Day which was a frenzy of WILD LIVE TABLE DRAMA. The Wave took it home, Gotham made it through, and the Pride and Spirit were left empty-handed - and they react to all of it. Then, Jessica Berman, NWSL Commissioner, joins the show to talk about the future of the league, free agnecy, and how next year's expansion teams can best succeed. Finally, Sam and Lynn hit the hotline and give their advice to a Varsity Soccer Team trying to stay undefeated.

Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams discuss Sam's birthday weekend, the NWSL Decision Day, and all of the possible scenarios for this year's playoff picture. Later, Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett join the show for "the worst interview ever" filled with hilarious moments and valuable soccer insights from within the league. To wrap things up, Sam and Lynn take on fan voicemails, including the extremely important question: "What's your favorite girl dinner?"

Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams dive into the NWSL playoff race, that is so close, it could come down to a coin flip. Later, we're joined by Ify Onumonu from Gotham FC and the Nigerian National Team. She shares her journey to her first World Cup with the Nigerian National Team, reflects on how Gotham FC has evolved over the years, and her favorite vegan Nigerian snacks.

Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams chat fall vibes, the recent USWNT camp, and Julie Ertz/Megan Rapinoe's last games with the US. Then, Portland Thorns and Canadian National Team's Janine Beckie joins the show to talk about the rise of ACL injuries in women's soccer, what needs to be done to fix it, and this year's World Cup from her perspective.

Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams send Lynn off to the USWNT training camp, assign new food-inspired mascots to all of the NWSL teams, and chat with San Diego Wave's and USWNT's Naomi Girma about her World Cup experience, thoughts on the upcoming Olympics, and her role as a young leader.

Sam and Lynn recap the NWSL’s last Challenge Cup match, Coco Gauff's historic U.S. Open win, and Lynn being called into the USWNT’s September camp. Then, World Cup champion and San Diego Wave defender Abby Dahlkemper joins the show to talk her return from injury and life in San Diego. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam and Lynn break discuss the NWSL table before attempting to re-name some clubs after their city’s most famous food (0:00). Then, Washington Spirit star Ashley Hatch joins Snacks (13:52) to discuss the NWSL Golden Boot race, how she moved forward after the world cup team selection, what she learned from the experience, and the Spirits’ 2023 playoff push. The trio wraps with a game of Start, Bench, Cut before Lynn and Sam listen to the first-ever Snacks voicemail (39:34). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snacks is back! Lynn Williams and Sam Mewis start by recapping the USWNT’s World Cup run, including the loss to Sweden and what the journey meant to Lynn. They’re then joined by USWNT keeper Alyssa Naeher (18:00), who talks in depth about the penalty shootout against Sweden and why she’s not convinced the last goal went in. They wrap by looking ahead to the rest of the NWSL season, including the last Challenge Cup ever (46:35). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Super-Sized Snacks! This week, Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams talk about Lynn's big week after being named to the USWNT’s World Cup Roster. That’s followed by a World Cup preview, as Sam digs into the opening matches and teams to look for this tournament. Sam hosts a special interview with Lynn as her guest, then Angel City and New Zealand captain Ali Riley joins the show to discuss what it means for the Football Ferns to co-host the 2023 World Cup. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snacks is here and celebrating that Lynn made the team! Then they do a full preview of the 23-woman roster. Later, America’s captain Becky Sauerbrunn joins the show and discusses how the team moves forward now that she’s ruled out due to injury. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lynn and Sam break down a chippy game in Houston and the rest of a high-scoring NWSL weekend. Then, USWNT star Crystal Dunn joins the show to talk Portland’s Ed Hardy jerseys, her son’s first birthday, who his favorite aunt is, how she’s getting ready for the World Cup, the difference between playing for the national team and the Thorns, and so much more. The three wrap with a game of Senior Superlatives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First, Sam talks about her trip to Amsterdam and summit with FIFPro - and seeing the Women's Champions League Final! Then, Sam and Lynn break down another weekend of NWSL action. Later, USWNT defender Emily Fox joins to talk about the World Cup, how she’s dealing with pre-roster announcement stress, when she found out she was going No. 1 in the NWSL draft, her first impressions of Sam and Lynn, why she chose soccer over gymnastics, and more. The three wrap up with a new game: Lock, Bubble or Drop, which is just as fun as it sounds. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lindsey Horan joins Snacks to discuss being USWNT leadership, this summer’s World Cup, and why she returned to playing in France. First, Sam and Lynn break down the weekend’s NWSL action, including a controversial VAR call. Then, Lindsey Horan joins the show (18:53) to discuss her legacy as the first American woman to turn professional out of high school, what makes Vlatko Andonovski’s job so hard, why Wendie Renard is still underrated, and so much more. To wrap, all three play another round of Snack or Pass (48:21). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lynn got engaged! She breaks down the big day with Sam before discussing why it’s time Gotham FC got some respect. The two are then joined by Denise O’Sullivan to talk World Cup, teens in the NWSL, why you can never count out the North Carolina Courage, and how equal pay helped spark Ireland’s World Cup qualification. Finally, the trio play a game to see how good Sam and Lynn are at deciphering Irish slang. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Soccer AND fashion icon Ashlyn Harris joins Snacks to talk retirement, World Cup, NWSL kits and more. First, Sam and Lynn catch up on a low-goal, high-drama weekend of NWSL action. Then Ashlyn joins the show to discuss her role as Creative Director for Gotham FC, what she’s most looking forward to about this year’s World Cup, her least favorite kits in the NWSL, and whether she misses soccer. The three then play Fashion Paw-lice, where they break down the style choices of some four legged friends. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mother’s Day is (almost) here and Lynn Williams can’t stop scoring goals. She and Sam break down Lynn’s latest broken record(s) before discussing another wild weekend of NWSL action and what it would have been like to go pro as a teen. Then, USWNT legend Ali Krieger joins the show to discuss longevity, being a mom, and her post-retirement plans (10:14). To wrap up, Sam and Lynn’s moms join Snacks to see just how well they know their daughters (51:40). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lynn and Sam catch up on a crazy weekend of NWSL action, including Bella Bixby’s back-heel goal and the “abandoned” Houston/North Carolina match. The two are then joined by Stephanie McCaffrey to discuss her NWSL career, being the class clown of women’s soccer, what led to her early retirement, why she’s started playing soccer again, and her goal of eventually owning a women’s soccer team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.