EDITOR’S NOTE
People say, “Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy it happened.” For me, that “it” is Wimbledon. This year’s tournament brought literal champagne cork-stopping moments (to Jannik Sinner’s chagrin), and, of course, an unforgettable rivalry. Luckily for me, there are plenty of other sports updates to fill the void. Sure, you heard about the National League’s MLB All-Star Game historic win, but did you see Jordan Chiles in the Celebrity Softball Game? Also, it’s not often that NFL fashion stops me in my tracks, but shoutout to this team’s Creamsicle uniforms. Now, as we wait for the best moments from Wednesday night’s ESPYs — aka the Oscars of sports — let’s get to the highlights…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Let's Discuss
What to look out for in our latest episode.
WNBA Stars Take Their Shot — Off the Court
What's going on: You’ve heard of the phrase “game recognizes game.” That’s exactly what Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston is putting into practice. This week, she became the newest investor in Boston Legacy FC, a NWSL club set to debut next year. But the WNBA All-Star isn’t alone in her backing of women’s sports leagues. Angel Reese, Sabrina Ionescu, and Sue Bird have all invested in professional leagues in recent years. Even Boston’s teammate Caitlin Clark wants in — she backed a bid (though it lost for now) to bring a women’s soccer team to Cincinnati.
Our take: This isn’t just a trend — it’s a power shift and smart business (hello, $240 million media-rights deal). For many like Boston, who was raised in Massachusetts, it’s also deeply personal. She’s investing in the kind of team she didn’t have growing up — and helping build what comes next: better facilities, stronger contracts, and role models. Boston Legacy FC put it this way: “Aliyah’s investment in our club demonstrates the strength of women’s sports as our two leagues — the WNBA and NWSL — continue to grow and expand.”
Related: This New York Liberty Fan’s Interaction With a Ref Is Going Viral (Sports Illustrated)
Pick Six
More sports talkers you don't want to miss.
🎤 Coco Gauff fangirled hard at Beyoncé’s concert — and got way more than just a wave. (EssentiallySports)
🕯️ Olivia Culpo and Christian McCaffrey welcomed their first baby. But all anyone can talk about is what was in her hospital bags. (Well Played)
🏆 Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show is up for a major award. This might be what Drake’s nightmares are made of. (ESPN)
😭 If you’ve ever needed proof that sports can heal your spirit, one WNBA star just handed it to you — literally. (Well Played)
🫶🏼 This MLB player just won boyfriend of the year for how he handled this wardrobe malfunction. Chivalry isn’t dead. (Sports Illustrated)
👑 Princess Charlotte’s reactions at Wimbledon prove royals really can be just like us. (Well Played)
Timeout...
Our Well Played co-hosts and friends of the show tackle listener Qs.
The WNBA All-Star Game tips off on Saturday. What can fans expect?
This year’s WNBA All-Star weekend in Indiana is arguably the biggest one yet. Fans, brands, and some of your favorite entertainers will be there. Things to watch: The matchup between Team Clark vs. Team Phee (here’s how to tune in). Plus, Sabrina Ionescu is expected to put on a show during the 3-point challenge. WNBA Portland will also be celebrating its official team name and logo.
FEATURED EXPERT:
Greydy Diaz
This answer was edited for length and clarity.
The Press Box
US women’s soccer legend Tobin Heath joined Well Played to talk about her decision to retire, her legacy, and the advice she has for women athletes.
Q: Soccer has been part of your entire life. How did you come to terms with retiring after a lengthy injury battle?
A: I knew I had an uphill climb with the injury… so coming to terms with the fact that I wasn’t going to be able [to defy the odds], it was really hard… Yet, [I’m] realizing that I’m 37 years old and I’ve had a kick-ass career.
Q: What do you want your legacy to be in soccer?
A: I hope that when I look out on the field, I can see bits of myself in the future generation of players that I enjoy watching.
Q: What advice do you have for other women athletes fighting for greater parity?
A: Understanding your worth and value before someone gives it to you is really important, and also knowing when it’s time to leave the room… I think that’s equally important.
Q: You’re originally from New Jersey. What’s one thing that you miss most about the East Coast?
A: Bagels and the people.
To watch the full interview, check out this week’s episode of Well Played.
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
Just Trust Us
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
We’ll take your tennis bracelet and raise you Jessie Pegula’s personal picks for her ring and bracelet stack, earscape, and necklace collection. Bling it on.
Here’s our hack for snagging our shopping editor’s favorite wireless headphones at a discounted price.
The dog days of summer are just around the corner — get prepared with a great set of wheels.
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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