Aya Abdeen
@ayabdeen.bsky.social
Ballislife NCAAW/WNBA Writer 👩💻 / Contributing writer for The Next. ASU Cronkite alum
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
The WNBA is exploring buying back the 16% stake sold for $75 mil in 2022, multiple sources told me.
The deal—valuing the league at roughly $1 billion—was celebrated as a transformative measure. The WNBA has roughly quadrupled in value since.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
The deal—valuing the league at roughly $1 billion—was celebrated as a transformative measure. The WNBA has roughly quadrupled in value since.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
WNBA Exploring Buying Back 16% Stake Sold in 2022
The league sold the stake for $75 million when it badly needed capital.
frontofficesports.com
January 16, 2026 at 10:21 PM
The WNBA is exploring buying back the 16% stake sold for $75 mil in 2022, multiple sources told me.
The deal—valuing the league at roughly $1 billion—was celebrated as a transformative measure. The WNBA has roughly quadrupled in value since.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
The deal—valuing the league at roughly $1 billion—was celebrated as a transformative measure. The WNBA has roughly quadrupled in value since.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
In 2022 it was widely reported the sale put the league's valuation at $1 billion, but a league source tells FOS the actual valuation was closer to $475 million after the influx of capital.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
WNBA Exploring Buying Back 16% Stake Sold in 2022
The league sold the stake for $75 million at a time when it badly needed capital. Team valuations have ballooned since.
frontofficesports.com
January 17, 2026 at 2:47 AM
In 2022 it was widely reported the sale put the league's valuation at $1 billion, but a league source tells FOS the actual valuation was closer to $475 million after the influx of capital.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
frontofficesports.com/wnba-2022-st...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Unrivaled ratings saw a steep drop year over year across its opening week slate. As the league's second season continues, viewership will be a big factor in its sustainability.
frontofficesports.com/unrivaled-ra...
frontofficesports.com/unrivaled-ra...
Unrivaled Faces Stiff Challenges as Ratings Plunge to Start Year 2
Ratings are down significantly as the league begins its second season.
frontofficesports.com
January 14, 2026 at 6:17 PM
Unrivaled ratings saw a steep drop year over year across its opening week slate. As the league's second season continues, viewership will be a big factor in its sustainability.
frontofficesports.com/unrivaled-ra...
frontofficesports.com/unrivaled-ra...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Can confirm that the WNBPA agreed to a moratorium on free agency.
In layman’s terms, that agreement officially put WNBA free agency on hold until a new CBA is finalized.
In layman’s terms, that agreement officially put WNBA free agency on hold until a new CBA is finalized.
January 12, 2026 at 10:05 PM
Can confirm that the WNBPA agreed to a moratorium on free agency.
In layman’s terms, that agreement officially put WNBA free agency on hold until a new CBA is finalized.
In layman’s terms, that agreement officially put WNBA free agency on hold until a new CBA is finalized.
I will continue to inspire journalists with Autism Spectrum Disorder to ensure that they are not alone 💙
From getting the flowers made by Diana Taurasi at Fry's Trading Places (in 2018) to reporting on #WNBA games. Through the ups and downs, I'm blessed to be where I am today.
From getting the flowers made by Diana Taurasi at Fry's Trading Places (in 2018) to reporting on #WNBA games. Through the ups and downs, I'm blessed to be where I am today.
I'm going to share with you my story:
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
January 11, 2026 at 6:38 PM
I will continue to inspire journalists with Autism Spectrum Disorder to ensure that they are not alone 💙
From getting the flowers made by Diana Taurasi at Fry's Trading Places (in 2018) to reporting on #WNBA games. Through the ups and downs, I'm blessed to be where I am today.
From getting the flowers made by Diana Taurasi at Fry's Trading Places (in 2018) to reporting on #WNBA games. Through the ups and downs, I'm blessed to be where I am today.
I'm going to share with you my story:
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
January 11, 2026 at 6:29 PM
I'm going to share with you my story:
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
When I was 13, I discovered the #WNBA for the first time when I went to a Phoenix Mercury game.
Now, I'm reporting all things women's basketball in the sports journalism industry.
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Over the last two days the WNBA called every general manager to communicate they are permitted to send out qualifying offers to free agents despite CBA uncertainties.
What the period of status quo means for GMs:
frontofficesports.com/wnba-telling...
What the period of status quo means for GMs:
frontofficesports.com/wnba-telling...
WNBA Telling Teams To Send Free Agent Offers Amid CBA Limbo
The league has called every team to tell them they can send out offers to free agents, sources tell FOS. But players are unlikely to sign.
frontofficesports.com
January 10, 2026 at 2:53 AM
Over the last two days the WNBA called every general manager to communicate they are permitted to send out qualifying offers to free agents despite CBA uncertainties.
What the period of status quo means for GMs:
frontofficesports.com/wnba-telling...
What the period of status quo means for GMs:
frontofficesports.com/wnba-telling...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Good morning. It's a HUGE day for @theixsports.bsky.social. Read all about The IX Soccer, our newest sport-specific vertical. It's the coverage women's soccer deserves, and now it's here! #NWSL #USWNT #woso #WSL #WorldCup2027
How The IX Soccer will revolutionize women's soccer coverage - The IX Sports
How The IX Soccer will revolutionize women's soccer coverage. Come inside: we've created this women's soccer media space for you.
www.theixsports.com
January 9, 2026 at 1:18 PM
Good morning. It's a HUGE day for @theixsports.bsky.social. Read all about The IX Soccer, our newest sport-specific vertical. It's the coverage women's soccer deserves, and now it's here! #NWSL #USWNT #woso #WSL #WorldCup2027
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Unrivaled Status Report for 1/9:
VINYL:
Brittney Griner (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
ROSE:
Kahleah Copper (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
BREEZE:
Aari McDonald: (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
VINYL:
Brittney Griner (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
ROSE:
Kahleah Copper (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
BREEZE:
Aari McDonald: (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
January 9, 2026 at 6:04 PM
Unrivaled Status Report for 1/9:
VINYL:
Brittney Griner (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
ROSE:
Kahleah Copper (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
BREEZE:
Aari McDonald: (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
VINYL:
Brittney Griner (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
ROSE:
Kahleah Copper (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
BREEZE:
Aari McDonald: (R Lower Extremity) - OUT
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Arizona State women's basketball has made a complete u-turn since last season, going from a record of 10-22 a season ago, to 16-1 so far this season. Our Dylan Kane spoke with the Sun Devils' players and coaches to find out more on their exciting season.
How Molly Miller has transformed ASU into a national competitor - The IX Basketball
Under a new head coach, Arizona women's basketball has transformed from an afterthought to a Big 12 threat, but plenty of challenges remain.
www.thenexthoops.com
January 9, 2026 at 3:44 AM
Arizona State women's basketball has made a complete u-turn since last season, going from a record of 10-22 a season ago, to 16-1 so far this season. Our Dylan Kane spoke with the Sun Devils' players and coaches to find out more on their exciting season.
Latest news from Unrivaled on Phantom guard Sabrina Ionescu, who wasn't able to participate on in-court activities due to injury sustained in the 2025 #WNBA season.
January 8, 2026 at 9:41 PM
Latest news from Unrivaled on Phantom guard Sabrina Ionescu, who wasn't able to participate on in-court activities due to injury sustained in the 2025 #WNBA season.
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Breanna Stewart on the eve of Friday’s CBA deadline: “We're not coming to an agreement by tomorrow. I can tell you that.”
Stewart said she was told that they will continue to negotiate in good faith and there won’t be an extension.
Stewart said she was told that they will continue to negotiate in good faith and there won’t be an extension.
January 8, 2026 at 8:33 PM
Breanna Stewart on the eve of Friday’s CBA deadline: “We're not coming to an agreement by tomorrow. I can tell you that.”
Stewart said she was told that they will continue to negotiate in good faith and there won’t be an extension.
Stewart said she was told that they will continue to negotiate in good faith and there won’t be an extension.
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Two days ahead of the Jan. 9 deadline the WNBPA is still waiting on a response from the league to a proposal sent roughly two weeks ago.
That proposal includes an ask for roughly 30% of gross revenue and salary cap of about $10.5 million.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-players...
That proposal includes an ask for roughly 30% of gross revenue and salary cap of about $10.5 million.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-players...
WNBA Hasn’t Countered Players’ Latest Offer as Deadline Closes In
Players are seeking a salary cap over $10 million and 30% of league revenue. The league believes it would cause onerous losses.
frontofficesports.com
January 7, 2026 at 9:45 PM
Two days ahead of the Jan. 9 deadline the WNBPA is still waiting on a response from the league to a proposal sent roughly two weeks ago.
That proposal includes an ask for roughly 30% of gross revenue and salary cap of about $10.5 million.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-players...
That proposal includes an ask for roughly 30% of gross revenue and salary cap of about $10.5 million.
frontofficesports.com/wnba-players...
My first story for @lastwordonsports.bsky.social is live!
I wrote about how Jordan Goodwin stood out in the team's upset win over the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Sunday!
Go check it out! 👇
lastwordonsports.com/basketball/2...
I wrote about how Jordan Goodwin stood out in the team's upset win over the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Sunday!
Go check it out! 👇
lastwordonsports.com/basketball/2...
How Suns' Jordan Goodwin Stood Out In Upset Win Over Thunder
Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin has been impressive off the bench in recent games, including his performance against the Thunder.
lastwordonsports.com
January 6, 2026 at 7:01 AM
My first story for @lastwordonsports.bsky.social is live!
I wrote about how Jordan Goodwin stood out in the team's upset win over the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Sunday!
Go check it out! 👇
lastwordonsports.com/basketball/2...
I wrote about how Jordan Goodwin stood out in the team's upset win over the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Sunday!
Go check it out! 👇
lastwordonsports.com/basketball/2...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
My first story of 2026 is here!!
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
What Napheesa Collier's Injury Means for Unrivaled and the WNBA
Devastating news for Phee!
tinyurl.com
January 2, 2026 at 7:08 PM
My first story of 2026 is here!!
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
My first story of 2026 is here!!
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
What Napheesa Collier's Injury Means for Unrivaled and the WNBA
Devastating news for Phee!
tinyurl.com
January 2, 2026 at 7:08 PM
My first story of 2026 is here!!
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
My latest on @ballislife.bsky.social takes you through what Napheesa Collier's injury means for Unrivaled and the #WNBA in general.
Go check it out! ⬇️
tinyurl.com/3wemx53r
One article I am proud to write for @ballislife.bsky.social is how Sue Bird is approaching her role as managing director for the USA women's national team!
Read it here! #WNBA 👇
tinyurl.com/29r32tba
Read it here! #WNBA 👇
tinyurl.com/29r32tba
Sue Bird: Finding Her Approach As Team USA Managing Director
Bird Wants Balance of Vets and New Faces!
tinyurl.com
December 15, 2025 at 4:57 AM
One article I am proud to write for @ballislife.bsky.social is how Sue Bird is approaching her role as managing director for the USA women's national team!
Read it here! #WNBA 👇
tinyurl.com/29r32tba
Read it here! #WNBA 👇
tinyurl.com/29r32tba
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Vanderbilt's Aubrey Galvan has quickly made a name for herself through the use of flashy, no-look passes.
@stephaniekaloi.bsky.social has more on what else the freshman guard is bringing to the Commodores.
www.thenexthoops.com/ncaaw/vander...
@stephaniekaloi.bsky.social has more on what else the freshman guard is bringing to the Commodores.
www.thenexthoops.com/ncaaw/vander...
How Vanderbilt's Aubrey Galvan brings excitement to the game - The IX Basketball
Vanderbilt's Aubrey Galvan is already thrilling home crowds with her no-look passing and on-court ferocity.
www.thenexthoops.com
December 13, 2025 at 12:58 AM
Vanderbilt's Aubrey Galvan has quickly made a name for herself through the use of flashy, no-look passes.
@stephaniekaloi.bsky.social has more on what else the freshman guard is bringing to the Commodores.
www.thenexthoops.com/ncaaw/vander...
@stephaniekaloi.bsky.social has more on what else the freshman guard is bringing to the Commodores.
www.thenexthoops.com/ncaaw/vander...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
BREAKING: The Baltimore Orioles and Pete Alonso have agreed to a five-year, $155M contract, a source confirms to @ken-rosenthal.bsky.social.
December 10, 2025 at 6:09 PM
BREAKING: The Baltimore Orioles and Pete Alonso have agreed to a five-year, $155M contract, a source confirms to @ken-rosenthal.bsky.social.
I had the opportunity to write about which of the UConn women's basketball alums could have their jersey numbers hanging in the rafters in the future.
Sue Bird just had her jersey number (No. 10) retired on Sunday.
Read it here for @ballislife.bsky.social 👇 #WNBA
tinyurl.com/53za6wh7
Sue Bird just had her jersey number (No. 10) retired on Sunday.
Read it here for @ballislife.bsky.social 👇 #WNBA
tinyurl.com/53za6wh7
December 9, 2025 at 1:59 AM
I had the opportunity to write about which of the UConn women's basketball alums could have their jersey numbers hanging in the rafters in the future.
Sue Bird just had her jersey number (No. 10) retired on Sunday.
Read it here for @ballislife.bsky.social 👇 #WNBA
tinyurl.com/53za6wh7
Sue Bird just had her jersey number (No. 10) retired on Sunday.
Read it here for @ballislife.bsky.social 👇 #WNBA
tinyurl.com/53za6wh7
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
SEISMIC women's sports podcast news! Presenting Women's Sports Daily, podcast by @theixsports.bsky.social. Get the most important news in women's sports every morning, Mon-Fri, via @chelsealeite.bsky.social and @stephaniekaloi.bsky.social! SUBSCRIBE HERE open.spotify.com/show/4GNIwuV...
Introduction and holiday weekend highlights | Women's Sports Daily
open.spotify.com
December 1, 2025 at 7:08 PM
SEISMIC women's sports podcast news! Presenting Women's Sports Daily, podcast by @theixsports.bsky.social. Get the most important news in women's sports every morning, Mon-Fri, via @chelsealeite.bsky.social and @stephaniekaloi.bsky.social! SUBSCRIBE HERE open.spotify.com/show/4GNIwuV...
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
In a statement to @theathletic.com, the WNBPA said that it has proposed a 6-week extension in the ongoing CBA negotiation.
"We expect substantive movement from the league within this window."
Unclear, at this time, how the league is/will respond to the offer. CBA expires tonight.
"We expect substantive movement from the league within this window."
Unclear, at this time, how the league is/will respond to the offer. CBA expires tonight.
December 1, 2025 at 3:35 AM
In a statement to @theathletic.com, the WNBPA said that it has proposed a 6-week extension in the ongoing CBA negotiation.
"We expect substantive movement from the league within this window."
Unclear, at this time, how the league is/will respond to the offer. CBA expires tonight.
"We expect substantive movement from the league within this window."
Unclear, at this time, how the league is/will respond to the offer. CBA expires tonight.
I'm wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm so grateful for those who have been following my sports journalism journey since day 1 and sharing my stories throughout the last few months! ❤️👩💻
I'm so grateful for those who have been following my sports journalism journey since day 1 and sharing my stories throughout the last few months! ❤️👩💻
November 27, 2025 at 8:50 PM
I'm wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm so grateful for those who have been following my sports journalism journey since day 1 and sharing my stories throughout the last few months! ❤️👩💻
I'm so grateful for those who have been following my sports journalism journey since day 1 and sharing my stories throughout the last few months! ❤️👩💻
Reposted by Aya Abdeen
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve just arrived alongside Sparks assistant coach Danielle Robinson to #3 UCLA vs #4 Texas
UCLA’s Lauren Betts certainly a real possibility for the Lynx at #2
UCLA’s Lauren Betts certainly a real possibility for the Lynx at #2
November 26, 2025 at 6:54 PM
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve just arrived alongside Sparks assistant coach Danielle Robinson to #3 UCLA vs #4 Texas
UCLA’s Lauren Betts certainly a real possibility for the Lynx at #2
UCLA’s Lauren Betts certainly a real possibility for the Lynx at #2