Hour 2 – WNBA Power Couple, Ridiculous Superstitions

Covino & Rich41mApril 15, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Covino & Rich, the hosts dive into the groundbreaking story of AZ Fudd, the WNBA's number one draft pick, and her long-term relationship with teammate Paige Beckers, marking the first time two star players on the same team are openly in a romantic relationship. The duo explores the unprecedented nature of this development in professional sports, questioning how such a significant story has been largely ignored by mainstream media. They debate the potential benefits and pitfalls of romantic relationships in high-pressure team environments, drawing parallels to family-run businesses and celebrity couples in broadcasting, while also acknowledging the unique cultural moment this represents for LGBTQ visibility in sports. The conversation shifts to a lighter tone as they discuss absurd sports superstitions, sharing personal rituals from wearing lucky hats to praying before flights, reflecting on how these habits provide psychological comfort and a sense of control. The episode closes with a call to action for the WNBA to embrace this narrative as a compelling story, not just a footnote.

Key Takeaways
1

The Dallas Wings' pairing of AZ Fudd and Paige Beckers is a historic moment in sports, representing the first time two top draft picks on the same team are in a long-term romantic relationship.

2

Media silence around the story suggests a cultural hesitation to discuss LGBTQ relationships in sports, despite the league's progressive reputation.

3

Romantic relationships in professional sports teams can create both powerful synergy and potential locker room tension, similar to business partnerships with family or friends.

4

Superstitions in sports—like wearing lucky hats or rituals before games—are psychological tools that help fans and players feel connected to the outcome.

5

The WNBA has a unique opportunity to leverage this story as a compelling narrative that humanizes its athletes and boosts fan engagement.

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Introduction and Sponsor Segments

The episode opens with promotional segments for multiple iHeart podcasts including 2%, Love Trapped, The Girlfriends, and Look Back At It, setting the stage for a mix of sports talk and cultural commentary.

5:00
10 min

The WNBA's Power Couple: AZ Fudd and Paige Beckers

This is the ultimate business. We're talking about a growing league, and you have two number one draft picks. You could look at it positively and say, yo, they have proven not only their chemistry on the court, but off the court.

Highlight
15:00
10 min

Media Silence and Cultural Hesitation

People are too scared to discuss it. And I think it's really, really interesting. And look, there is the flip side to this. Yes, they could win together. We've seen it. But how many times do you see this great idea in broadcasting?

Highlight
25:00
10 min

The Business of Love: Team Dynamics and HR Concerns

You're working under pressure with that person. You never get a break from that person. You bring that home with that person. Like all of these things do factor in.

Highlight
35:00
10 min

Superstitions and Rituals in Sports

The segment shifts to a lighter tone as the hosts share personal superstitions—from wearing lucky hats to praying before flights—highlighting how these rituals provide psychological comfort and a sense of control in unpredictable environments.

High-Impact Quotes
This is the ultimate business. We're talking about a growing league, and you have two number one draft picks.
Steve Covino8:27
Viral: 85.0
The WNBA should lean into it because any type of fun storyline in the sports world, we can pretend people don't love the dramatics.
Steve Covino21:48
Viral: 80.0
People are too scared to discuss it. And I think it's really, really interesting.
Rich Davis15:35
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

Steve CovinoRich Davis

Guest

Coach Ballgame
Topics Discussed
WNBA Power Couple95%LGBTQ Representation in Sports90%Workplace Relationships85%Sports Superstitions80%Media Coverage and Cultural Silence75%Fan Psychology and Rituals70%Team Chemistry and Dynamics65%Celebrity and Athlete Relationships60%
People & Brands

Steve Covino

person

45xPositive

Rich Davis

person

43xPositive

AZ Fudd

person

28xPositive

Paige Beckers

person

25xPositive

WNBA

other

22xPositive

Dallas Wings

other

15xNeutral

Dan Patrick

person

12xPositive

Caitlin Clark

person

6xPositive

Michael Easter

person

6xNeutral

2%

media

6xPositive

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