Skylar Diggins-Smith Drama 👀: Allegations, Outcomes, and Where to Next! | A Breakdown

Sooo what's going on with the Phoenix Mercury and Skylar Diggins-Smith? I talk about that and more in this video.
Chapters
1:00 - It all started with a birthday wish...
1:33 - The tweets
7:25 - Let's talk about this
11:14 - This feels personal
12:35 - Taurasi runs the Mercury
14:30 - The Vibe I'm getting
16:10 - Skylar to Indiana Fever?
16:57 - Skylar to the Sky?
#skylardigginssmith #phoenixmercury #wnba

[@Think1stMedia]

TAKE NOTES: This is how reporting should be done. She reported on as much factual information as possible, without bias and examining both sides. More KZbinrs and Mainstream Media should report like this. Of course she is human and has her personal opinions, but she doesn't beat us over the head with her personal beliefs. Again TAKE NOTES!!!

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Wow, I really appreciate this comment because you captured exactly what I am trying to do with this channel. I always have lots of thoughts and I am not afraid to share it, however I want to provide folks with the facts first so they can decide for themselves. So many times when I’m watching commentary or reporting (about really any topic) it’s like the person is telling me what to think instead of telling me the facts and letting me decide for myself. Of course can always improve on my delivery but my goal really is to share the facts, share my opinions around the facts, and get others opinions on the facts in the comments section.

[@baliw33]

Malika Andrews take notes please

[@Think1stMedia]

@QuitaLovesSports This was my first video of yours, and I plan on checking out more. I hope your other videos are like this. If so, you are on your way to a big following.

[@Think1stMedia]

@@baliw33 let the Church ⛪️ say AMEN

[@QuitaLovesSports]

@@Think1stMedia I for sure try to use this same style for all of my videos, some are for sure better than others. I’m still very new to making these videos so I feel like I get better with each video. That’s at least the hope, but if you don’t see that in a video please call me out. As I said I’m still new and want to get better I highly encourage folks to do that so I can learn and improve

[@bregn4]

As a longtime SDS fan, it’s been super frustrating to watch the mercury exclude her this season. I agree that the DT situation last season + Skylar obviously not being a fan of the last coach, likely ruffled some feathers in the organization. BUT no one can deny Skylar was a HUGE reason the mercury stayed afloat last season w/ BG gone and DT barely playing. I thought BG re-signing for just 1yr was quite interesting too. It will be an interesting offseason!! Also, Great video! Good W coverage is hard to come by, we need more serious (unemotional) reporting like this

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for sharing your perspective and for watching!

[@teresahubbard2448]

I agree

[@PerryWalker-og5js]

Wow just coming across this video in June of 2024. This video more relevant now than ever for many different reasons

[@luerodgers1795]

GREAT REPORTING & INFORMATION AS USUAL 💪🏾

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Much appreciated! ❤

[@TrybeVybez]

Randomly found this particular video and ican say you gained yourself a new subscriber!! I love your take on this subject. Love your delivery love how your unbiased. You're on your way ma'am and although i just subscribed, i am proud of you ma'am!! Blessings to you and yours!!

[@ms.sunshine5279]

New subbie! I enjoy the way you report things in your vlogs. Factual, without bias!!!! I don't care for DT although I recognize she's a great player. I love SDS playing abilities and have missed her this season. Phoenix is NOT treating SDS as a member of their team, and although she may not return next season she still should be treated with respect and have full access to all their facilities.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@toxicginger9936]

Except, she's technically on a medical leave. Every place I have worked in the last decade, when on medical leave (Maternity leave counts as that), the company suspends contact until the employee returns from leave. They may be a basketball team, but fundamentally function like corporations.

[@tonth1383]

​@@toxicginger9936so you 're saying as a result of Skyler being on maternity leave she should not have access to the team's facilities so that she can work out and get everything right in order for her to get back and play. Other teams have done the exact opposite with players coming off of maternity leave like the young lady from the Chicago Sky. Check the 9-minute mark. The question is are they keeping Skylar away because they don't want her to come back and play this year. They have to pay her anyway because of the collective bargaining agreement that they have in place.

[@Snuggz32]

Finally!! Someone who tells the truth #respectfully✊🏽… DT used to be my fave player… now I see her and automatically get bad vibes

[@randymayo7463]

I'll blame the organisation the Mercury are making it hard for Skylar

[@MitchMitch77-77]

Pretty, married (to an athlete nonetheless), she's about family! Why are folks shocked? Love to see her in NYC!

[@jasonstewart1837]

I really appreciate your video - definitely do more of these topics. Skylar leaving was such a mystery for so long it was crazy being a fan not knowing what happened. When I watch washington I feel like they don’t have a true point guard. they play with two shooting guards that bring up the ball. It would be interesting if she would replace vandersloot for new york. we want her in Nyc - My side topic for another show please tell me why Zia Cooke doesn’t play more she is a beast and on another team she would be a starter. I just think her game struggles because she is not a starter and doesn’t have a full green light yet. thanks for reading

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for the suggestion, I’ll look into making a Zia video

[@tamikabibb5724]

I think her not getting along with DT, sealed the deal for her fate with the team. While DT, is winding down in her career, she still is the face of that organization.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Agreed

[@johnengland932]

Calling the coach a clown probably didn't help either.

[@BDE360]

She (Taurasi) is the WNBA equivalent of Mememegan Rapinoe. Sickening. Taurasi is kept around for some unknown reason. Many young women could have easily taken his place for years. She dam sure shouldn’t have been in the last Olympic Games if she really is on this team, I will be rooting for Australia 🇦🇺

[@josuemenjivar618]

I’m also happy to have found your channel. Great insights. Subscribed.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks so much!

[@toxicginger9936]

NGL, As a Mercury fan and X-factor, I was truly shocked to read her tweets. Back in the 2021 season, the players did Q&As with the x-factor members and during Skylar's Q&A she talked about a big reason she came to Phoenix was being assured that she would never have to go through what she did at Dallas, hiding a pregnancy. She had been assured, in part by DT herself, that the team and organization would support her in growing her family. It was a great evening and she seems truly happy to be here. Last summer, when she left for the rest of the season, I saw many different theories on it, but not one said what I thought. I instantly thought she had to be pregnant. All signs pointed to it from my perspective, and it turned out to be true. So then seeing this year that the organization isn't providing her with all the amenities the rest of the members on the team have, I'm shocked. use shocked. I've been surprised this whole season that she hasn't shown up to any of the games either. The whole thing just surprises me. It's sad. She's amazing. She had been a great addition to the team. She seemed to truly enjoy playing with her team mates... mostly. Edit to add: So I have to wonder, what exactly changed in 2022?

[@gmwilliams4314]

Great analysis and back story. Thanks 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿🇯🇲🇺🇸

[@cjjones2945]

Skylar has been on their shit list ever since she checked Diana Taurasi mid game! How dare she speak to Diana that way...........

[@isislaz]

Didn't nothing happen to her in Dallas. She lied on Dallas to get traded cause Fred wasn't there no more.

[@toxicginger9936]

@@isislaz You'll have to forgive me for preferring the perspective and words from Skylar herself over a random internet stranger.

[@isislaz]

@@toxicginger9936 I'm a stranger to you not her.

[@geraldglover7215]

100% agree on Fever analysis. Winning foundation, plus adding a top 3 pick next offseason.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Let’s hope the Fever front office makes it happen

[@roberttaylor9628]

It's the same reason Candace Wiggins isn't playing.

[@lavonnealexander6936]

I miss watching her play. She left so young.

[@CGMedia2023]

the alphabet mafia will destroy Caitlin Clark exactly the same way.

[@theesotaricitalian6338]

And the reason why Dearica Hamby got mistreated and traded. They hate any straight woman with traditional families and children. Diana Taurasi is no longer good and can't play Defense at all.

[@SpinSpin2020]

I'm glad I stumbled onto your video. It's for sure a mysterious subject. Last season the Mercury should have won the whole thing. But with BG imprisoned in a foreign country by well let's just say it how it is an evil dictator that was a giant strike. Then we proceeded to have some major injuries. If we had had DT, BG, Skye, diamond, Charles, Cunningham, nurse, peddy etc we would have been Unstoppable. DT runs everything here. Whatever the problem was which I don't think they would ever tell us, it is definitely Diana. She's been a phenomenal player I'll agree to that. She's done things that very few players have done or will do. Still in my opinion she should have retired already. She may still love the game but she's past her prime. She gives away most of the points she earns. She cries about everything. And no matter how this sounds I still love her. I just think she should retire. We all have our opinions. She will retire within the next couple years and we will have lost the opportunity to have Sky, one of the best players in the WNBA ever to be on our team. It makes me very very very sad not to have her. Sky's quite the fashionista in her spare time. Sporting her unique personal line of clothing. A good fit for her would be LA. Then she could have both careers.😂

[@tadah21]

Good stuff my new wnba news outlet. 💯 only watch during playoffs

[@gqpatf1540]

This is the first time viewing your page 👏🏽👍🏾 Well done, lots of good information presented in a calm and concise fashion. Liked and subscribed, I look forward to your next video. 🙏🏾

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thank you so much ❤️

[@toschastansberry5904]

Thanks for posting this video. Last week the Grio posted on Skylar's situation on IG and I got into it with a bunch of trolls who have probably never tuned into a WNBA game.

[@kiwitagrandpretre1991]

I came across your channel recently. You have been good and consistent for a long time. I m glad to be a subscriber.

[@chavisesokpunuwu7423]

amazing reporting didn't know much about the situation but this helped alot

[@lateka28]

Agreed with you on her going to The Fever and building off her, Aliyah Boston, Nylassah Smith, and Grace Berger. That's a really good core group to build around.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

It would be perfect. Though unfortunately I don’t think the Fever will do it. They need to stop playing roster politics and gut the team so they can actually have a chance of winning

[@lateka28]

They do need to gut that team. Keep Aliyah Boston because she is not the problem and has been very impactful for them this season. Also she is Not Selfish, care more about the team winning, not just her stats. Sign Skylar and start over with her and AB@@QuitaLovesSports

[@lateka28]

Also if they are not going to gut the team before next season coach Slides needs to get control of her players and make them listen to her.@@QuitaLovesSports

[@CGMedia2023]

@@lateka28 Boston is tanking the season to get rid of CC. You can see it in her body language and how frequently she quits on the floor. But she's an anthem kneeling lesbian activist so Dunn keeps her around.

[@ronandanne1]

I think you' re probably right. She's not gonna play for Phoenix again so they're done with her. She's a free agent next year anyway. If she goes to the Mystics, they could also pick up BG and then theyd have all "the three to see" 😊

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Now THAT would be fun to see…

[@koolhandduke4087]

@ronandanne1--I like your way of thinking, maybe see you in the Mystics front ofc.

[@byron166]

I hope so

[@billymassie3954]

😊

[@chaddalton1562]

Thank you for the content. In the research I’ve done, I still have a lot of questions about this situation: when Skylar left the team before the end of the season last year, the team made note that her contract had been suspended. From what I have seen, I’m led to believe that she still has a year remaining on her contract. I agree that it doesn’t seem right that she doesn’t have access to team facilities and/or amenities, but maybe that at least originated from the suspension of the contract and the CBA terms related to it? I haven’t been able to find a satisfactory answer to that part. But it would make sense with some of the other comments she’s made. Very difficult situation and I think there are hard feelings on both sides, meaning SDS and the Mercury organization. In the end, there are a lot of professional teams that run similar to a small business, so we might not ever get a complete picture. I know the Mercury are definitely feeling her loss this season- both point guards on the roster this season were new acquisitions, so that has been tough. Again, thanks for this video. I believe it will spark some important conversation related to maternity rights of professional athletes.

[@debkirby3913]

Skylar Deserves Better!!!

[@darrenp42019]

I want Skylar here in Washington come to the mystics

[@saladin719]

She's drop dead gorgeous and she can play. There should be another team that would appreciate her. But then again this is the WNBA who got rid of high ranking draft picks like Bre Beal Saxton & Alexis Morris. The WNBA needs to satisfy the fans not their stupid guidelines and rules.

[@angelaamare9290]

It seems like the minute a woman Athlete gets pregnant whatever team they are on the distance starts. That's shameful on any league that does that. Allyson Felix went through it Tori Bowie also, rip Tori. Skylar deserves better. Glad she put her health first.

[@angelaamare9290]

Phoenix is definitely wrong on this one. Very Shameful I'm with Skylar

[@Mdmeskywlkr007]

great content. Even if she and DT didn't get along...I mean they are professionals who have played on many, many teams. I'm sure as grown wmn, they know how to play with talented players they don't get along with. The media pushing that narrative is v annoying to me. Anyways, Skylar should come to my Mystics next year! Our system would be perfect for her. Have talented vets and young players she can run with. We are well run, and everyone (except Tina C), has complimented the org once they play here.

[@Sheribahadur67]

DT is ruining WNBA basketball. PERIOD.

[@larashaludd3658]

The mercury are dumb to treat Skylar like that. She’s one of the greatest and had the best season last season. She showed everyone just how good she is. I go where sky goes.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

We will see where your fandom takes you next year

[@GradyBrown-i3m]

Go team up with catylin Clark diggs smith

[@MitchMitch77-77]

Street level management! Never seen so-called pro management this inept

[@EJ3Stud577]

So I just ran across your video..Yes I liked it..Ok yes I am with Sky No Matter What.Phoenix No Comment.But I loved your outtake about the Fever..That would be so Bliss..Love it...Thanks

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for watching, and liking!

[@Woodsman1956]

So happy Skylar is on the Storm 😊

[@icitnow]

This is a crazy situation. It includes all the weirdness about pregnancy, maternity leave, that happened with Dearica with the Aces. I remember when that happened, I felt so bad for Dearica since Napheesa had had a uneventful pregnancy and maternity and was fine to come back to the Lynx, no problem. (now I am wondering what will happen with Katie Lou with the Sparks) It doesn't make any sense what the Mercury are doing. None at all. I had thought that with Nygard's firing, things would get better but I guess it comes from the very top? They the (Mercury org) seem to be trying to get Diggins-Smith to want a trade? I also think her and Diana don't synch well with Skyler? Diana has a big ego, and she's a star player for the Mercury. I agree with your analogy to LeBron for the Diana/Skyler equation. (Just wondering , but have you ever heard anything about how Brittney gets along with Diana?) Another video I watched about this situation made this out to be a gay thing: He said that the WNBA treats heterosexual women poorly as compared to gay women, since there are more gay women in the WNBA. I think that's incorrect, as 1. Gay women in the WNBA are having children, and 2. A big example of this being incorrect is Napheesa's situation. Skyler needs to go to a team that actually wants her and needs her. I like your idea about her going to the Sky. I guess we'll see what happens.

[@geronimocruz9123]

Mabry and skyler don't get along.

[@Mr..G]

Everything you said makes sense, but even if it's not the case with Skylar's situation, I don't know how far-fetched the heterosexual conspiracy theory really is. This is happening in every other phase of society, even the church. The WNBA is only a microcosm of society. Even if it's not something that is being perpetuated throughout the league, it could easily be supported by an individual team or a select group of players. I always thought Skylar was a likable person and got along with her teammates well, then she had the altercation with DT. I embrace all the players that express their femininity in a respectable manner. What better way to do that than through child birth, something I don't think Taurasi is interested in. Mad props to Skylar. After all, this is the *W*NBA, not the NBA. Blessings! †

[@icitnow]

I know they had that thing one year. Maybe initiated a bit by Marina? I know Marina is a physical player and doesn't back down. I haven't seen her seek out altercations as much as not backing down from them. I think Sophie C is another story. She seems to carry grudges (Kahleah) Not sure about Marina-she has had numerous situations with Di'Jonai, Skyler, etc but I haven't heard if they've carried over into subsequent games? @@geronimocruz9123

[@toxicginger9936]

"Just wondering , but have you ever heard anything about how Brittney gets along with Diana?" I'll comment on what I've seen. They've always appeared to have a genuinely great friendship on and off the court. Diana was on the plane that flew to TX to bring BG back to Phoenix when she finally came home from Russia. And just last week when Diana hit her 10,000 career points, BG had been out for the game (mental health) and wasn't even in the arena for the game, but after the game ended, BG was suddenly on the court to celebrate with the team, and was wearing a Taurasi jersey. I think those two acts of friendship speak quite loudly.

[@icitnow]

@@toxicginger9936 Thanks for that information. I have always wondered.

[@whathappensnext2212]

with the Notre Dame ties, yes Indiana could be a great fit for Skylar, and your theory on why the Mercury is not allowing Skylar access makes sense, but regardless of why it's not caring for the employee.

[@teehardaway935]

Agreed. My only issue with the Indiana take is that they shouldn't dismantle their team, they only need a true PG.

[@regrich8795]

Love your Bears banner Chi town for life!! As far as Skylar i think she's a great player and like her coming out of South Bend, Indy but the Mercury are ready to get rid of her. We'll take her on The Sky!!!!

[@QuitaLovesSports]

🐻 ⬇️

[@jen_nice2059]

Thanks for covering this in depth. Can you talk about what’s happening with Aerial Powers? She’s not playing and has expressed a desire to play for another team.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Yes! That video is on the way

[@johnengland932]

Aerial Powers feels she was being disrespected by the Lynx and became very vocal about it. she is still getting minutes but they are low. She is getting paid close to the max player pay which makes no sense with her sitting on bench. She is a strong personality and very vocal. She burned her bridges with Dallas. I'm wondering how Washington feels about her. She's running out of teams to play for. BTW, she's my favorite WNBA player. Good job Quita!!

[@w00deey12]

Andrew Wiggins wasn't all up the the team facility while he was out dealing with a personal matter.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for watching the video guys! I would love to know what you all think of what the Mercury is doing. And where Skylar should go next year. And don’t forget to like the video!

[@keylo5593]

I want Skylar with the Mystics!!

[@QuitaLovesSports]

@@keylo5593 how likely do you think that is? I have to say Skylar, EDD and Shakira would be fun to watch

[@leespiders2337]

Mercury let Kia Nurse use the facilities over the off-season even though they knew she might sign elsewhere. Kia has a good relationship with the organization and Skylar does not. DT has said a number of times that she does not run the Mercury. She just plays. Twitter tried to start a narrative of DT being a locker room problem. Meanwhile, over the past week, everyone from Cappie to Swin Cash has said she's a great teammate. DT has worked with teammates far more difficult than Skylar. Remember Plenette Pierson? Also, Mat Ishbia said he had three individual sit down meetings with BG, DT, and Skylar before the season. Maybe he wasn't happy with one of those meetings. I'd look there if I was a journalist

[@leespiders2337]

Skylar's private. But she's public enough to like shady tweets directed towards her Mercury teammates and DT. However, I don't think DT is the one locking Skylar out of the facility. I think Skylar is annoyed that DT doesn't use her influence to stop the organization from locking her out. BG is also choosing not to use her influence in that way. If either of them interceded on Skylar's behalf, then Skylar would have access to those chefs and massage therapists. But they don't intercede. They just play. Whatever's going on over there, it's a lot more complicated than we can even try to guess at.

[@keylo5593]

@QuitaLovesSports I think we have a good shot, EDD and Skylar have a decent relationship from what I can tell, we are a contender (maybe not right now lol), we need a consistent scorer outside of EDD. Like you said a lineup of EDD, Austin, and Diggins, gives me chills just thinking about it, plus we just extended Atkins 😳

[@Emily-cp2dv]

It’s wild to go back and watch theses old videos. N seen how they are acting now

[@gendergoop]

Thank you for your reporting! This is insane what Skylar’s going through. Imagine if you went on maternity leave and you left something in your office, you go back to find your key card or login doesn’t work? It seems like it should be illegal, it seems like retaliation in the workforce and of course another example of how sports in general are above labor laws, and have the power to exploit and control the players. The reaction of “we’re giving her the space she wanted” when she’s requesting contact is incredibly telling, they are trying to save face and inadvertently corroborate Skylar’s claims.

[@finisher3x]

This isn't about maternity leave. She's the one that left THEM. This hasn't been said, because it would be nefarious to accuse her of doing this. But what if she PURPOSELY got pregnant this season, in order for her to miss the entire year, knowing that she's about to hit free agency at the end of the year? The Mercury, if they really wanted to, could air all of the disagreements they have with Skylar, but probably isn't doing so out of respect for the league. And Skylar isn't going all in, because she knows she has at least one more big contract left. But if WNBA teams feels that it isn't worth the trouble of bringing her on, she may not be picked up in 2024 by anyone.

[@gendergoop]

@@finisher3x people get pregnant all the time, typically it’s not out of spite. I think it would be incredibly unlikely that SDG got pregnant when she did for the sole purpose of fucking her team rather than just living her life and becoming a mother. I think the pettiness is coming from the front office.

[@finisher3x]

@@gendergoop - People also time their pregnancies out. There have been a few athletes who have made it a point to time their pregnancies so that they can give birth, get back in shape, and come back to the team sometime within a 12 month month period. Sheryl Swoopes did it. Dearica Hamby even did it. Napheesa did it somewhat in 2022. It would be messed up if the Mercury thought she would be calculating enough to time her pregnancy so that she would miss the season. But when you have bad blood between two entities, they normally assume the worse about each other. Just tossing it out there.

[@toxicginger9936]

"...if you went on maternity leave and you left something in your office, you go back to find your key card or login doesn’t work?" *Yeah. This right here is actually exactly how paid maternity leave tends to work.* Speaking from experience as someone who has been on paid maternity leave for a major company in Arizona. I had my baby 5 weeks early and that day I contacted the company to start my maternity leave, ALL my logins and accesses to anything related to my job were 'suspended' until I officially returned from leave. I was requested to drop off my office keys and they'd be reissued to me when I returned from leave. I could not do anything even slightly work related while on leave, in office or remote... which was fine by me, I had a shiny new baby to bond with. When I did return, I asked my boss why everything was suspended while I was on leave and had to be reissued, they don't to that when you take a vacation. *paraphrasing* She said it was to protect me and the company. As I didn't have access, no one in the company could call/email me and request I do anything work related which protected my rights on leave (I think it falls under FMLA, not sure though). I also could not voluntarily do any work and later accuse the company of requiring it of me (which is CYOA from lawsuits on their part). No Work Related Contact. Period. None, except requesting my return date. I worked in the finance sector, but if we were to project these kind of rules to Skylar's situation, it falls right in line. She doesn't have access to facilities, trainers, therapists, etc... but those are all work related, and on Maternity Leave she is presumably protected from having to do ANYthing *work related*... because she's on leave. And her leave is about bonding with her child and family, not about reconditioning to return to her job. She is completely free from that expectation. Meaning, that she doesn't have to train and 'get back in shape' until she returns from leave. Yet that's exactly what she's talking about isn't it? Sounds like she's putting that expectation on herself of training for her job even though she's still on leave. she hasn't returned from leave, therefore she doesn't have access to anything work/company related yet. Let's flip the situation and see what you think. What if she *did* have access to the facilities and the trainers, and a trainer gave her specific instructions to follow for reconditioning... and she subsequently tweeted something along the lines of 'I'm still on Maternity Leave and the team trainer gave me a list of things I'm required to do to get ready to play again. This is supposed to be my leave, time to bond with my new daughter and family.' Would you have the same reaction? Would you think it was insane? I don't think Skylar is a villain, nor do I think the team is. I think we're seeing a situation of opposing expectations.

[@finisher3x]

@@toxicginger9936 - Excellent post. I'm not a woman, but what you described is what our policy is when you go on short or long term disability. No email. No access to the facility. Nothing.

[@toddb9311]

The elephant in the room is the way the league promotes stars for the casual fans. Taurasi has been the face of the team but hasn't been their bet player for years. That has to create some friction. I could make the same argument for some other squads; IMHO Jackie Young is the best player for the Aces and Ionescu for the Liberty and they don't get enough press.

[@ilykepink]

Sabrina is literally one of the faces of the WNBA. How does she “not get enough press”? I do think Jackie is underrated

[@joetinson1627]

Honestly this is not the first time this is nothing new first time she went on leave they were happy for her they were supporting her and everything was fine no I don't know the apparent issues between her and in the team because she's done everything right she's been supporting them from a distance and you are absolutely right she is still part of the team now why the Mercury is treating her this way is beyond me and I really think it's unfair that she's being treated like that

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I really want them to just waive her. Why keep her on the roster just for her to not be able to take advantage of any of the amenities given to all other players?

[@joetinson1627]

@@QuitaLovesSports I agree with you because she already accomplished everything that she set out to do since her rookie Szn in 2013 she knows that she a 10 vet plus she one of the top efficient PGs in the W so if she get wavie tha Free her up to help a rookie team

[@robertwoods2427]

I don’t think Skyler to Chicago will happen because Jewel Loyd will be a free agent after this season. After this year’s Seattle mass exodus Jewel to hometown Chicago looks great to me 😉

[@QuitaLovesSports]

For sure if Jewel goes to Chicago then Skylar will go somewhere else. We will see what happens because it seems like Jewel loves Seattle

[@CGMedia2023]

the alphabet mafia will run Diggins out harder than they did Candice Wiggins, it's who they are.

[@santinamarie4699]

I agree it sounds like one person or some people are having a heavy influence. I would think of a woman's having a baby she would need more contact more help from her friends.

[@willardth]

Good take on where skyler should go. I'm glad she came to Seattle

[@phDST1913]

I think it for sure is because of DT and DT's clique of players. DT has a large voice for the team. Although, I'm no longer a fan of DT because I find her overly arrogant. A lot of staff ...GMs etc. have a history with her and she has a fan base... you know how the rest of marketing goes. I've been watching WNBA since its inception in 1997 and followed players from college etc. Even know some of the old-school players. I think maternity leave is a "legal" excuse to separate her. Seems like she's being blackballed by DT and DT's allies because Skylar had been calling DT out on her play. And now DT is flexiin her reach. It's like they are pushing her out. I think she needs to move to another team. I like the idea of her with Indiana or Chicago...

[@Tigerkem]

I like the Skylar to Indiana suggestion and would think it would be perfect fit. But i think Skylar is looking to go to a contender and the Fever would need to do great during the off-season to make it a reality.

[@melvinyoung2264]

what team would even want me myself and Skylar diggins????

[@Tigerkem]

@@melvinyoung2264 Skylar is one of the top players in the league and holds her teammates accountable. Even while pregnant she almost singled handily put PHX in playoff position and actually had a real case for MVP talks. So yeah if I'm a GM I would want her on my team. She's a tough guard that's willing to do the dirty work to get the win.

[@kristinmarra7005]

Well, 10 months later, Seattle is happy to have her. She’s fantastic

[@testostyrone33]

Just waiting for the tell all book after Skylar's retirement. I'm here for it💪🏾

[@ibeballinbasketballshow]

Awesome channel! Just subscribed! I think Skylar will go to an eastern conference team like the fever, Sky or Mystics. Somewhere close to home. I don’t like that there are W teams treating pregnant women like this. I understand it’s a business but come on. Also another player could see this and think twice about going to the Mercury. Great video! Do you have any social media handles?

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Thanks for watching! Yes I’m on Instagram and Twitter, same handle: QuitaLoveSports

[@ibeballinbasketballshow]

@@QuitaLovesSports COOL! I’ll give ya a follow!

[@kimberlysingleton2205]

Thanks for the video. As a Wings fan we were really disappointed when she abruptly requested a trade after the maternity leave of her first child. She did not play that entire season but was on the sidelines some games. Admittedly I don’t know what happened behind the scenes but hated that she didn’t come back and the Wings essentially had to start a complete rebuild after losing Cambage and then Diggins-Smith.

[@tempcbuilds]

i like your ending skyler to fever!!!

[@ninasicab3959]

Good for Skylar to find a team that’s a good fit for her❤

[@carloscofresi9832]

Great job with just the facts.

[@SirAntBo]

I almost moved Skylar to Indiana in my 2k season 😆 i like her for NY but Skylar to Sky is fly. #barz 🫡 Good show

[@donaldsquires2674]

If I were Skylar I would only go to a contender team. Period!

[@danteallen]

I think Indiana is the best move. agree with scrap the roster, but I would also keep Lexie Hull.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I wouldn’t be mad if the Fever kept Hull but everyone else should go

[@onthefritzfarm]

That's what I came to say. Hull, Smith, Boston, Berger and Skylar. Scrape the rest.

[@koolhandduke4087]

Hi Quita, seems very likely the reporter's source about Skylar came from the Mercury's front ofc. Possible sabotage since they know she wont be resigning with them. Denying her use of the facilities, etc. is a part of the same offensive. Skylar is a phenomenal, no nonsense player. With the downward spiral that the Mystics are on. They should snap into action as soon as rules allow. Even pitch a bundle of players for her rights. (Tianna Hawkins, M. Hines Allen, Abbey Myers, SW Kimbrough, and a few others) They're not much help to Mystics and Skylar would be. Quita, maybe Chi wants some of this action for KFC returning to Mystics. Signed a frustrated fan.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Good point, I didn’t think off the front office as the possible leak for the Skylar stray. The trade deadline is now officially over so Skylar won’t be traded to the Mystics. I think they have a chance to nab her in the off-season

[@ronandanne1]

I really hope the Mystics hang on to Tianna Hawkins. I'm a fan of hers. Not a superstar by any means, but she makes a difference when she's playing. Also I'd like to see them develop Abby Meyers.

[@koolhandduke4087]

@@ronandanne1 --I can appreciate that. I don't know this for a fact, but it seems like you along with the Mystics are interested in retaining players with a Maryland connection. That doesn't appear to be a winning formula.

[@cami-loo108]

I know this is an old post-it it seems like Taurasi is the poison pill on that team with regards to culture.

[@williammials6080]

NO! Diana works to make others better! SDS tears teams apart with her selfish attitude!

[@KylieRowland]

Im glad shes with the storm now 💘💘💘

[@gregorysmith2075]

Loving the convo and the Chicago swag. I am from the City

[@audriwilliams7943]

The Fever need her desperately but I don’t trust the coaching staff to maximize her efforts if they acquire her, they’ve mismanaged so much talent already… I want her in Dallas so the Wings can start dominating teams like the Aces been doing all season 😂 😈

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I think if The Fever get SDS they will need to rehire at the head coach position

[@sthao1733]

My biggest guess is, they are pushing her out because she's a "straight" woman. Candace Wiggins, a college superstar who played at Stanford and dropped two 40+ pt games in the womens march madness, retired from the WNBA a few seasons ago because she said that the WNBA was extremely toxic, especially to "straight" women such as herself. She couldn't take it anymore so she chose to retire rather than continue to play. I can see the same thing happening here with Skylar Diggins.

[@CGMedia2023]

Same thing is happening to Clark right now.

[@brettthomas6327]

Facts

[@arvellmalone8958]

We loved Skylar leave Sky alone Mercury Let her Play and we loved are little Babies We will never Give up on her She's a Great Baller one of the Best in the WNBA League whatever you do Sky we Support you, take Care of youself and your little ones.

[@2dabornot]

Can she not go for a discrimination lawsuit?

[@arthurmiller9434]

Firstly, great reporting on this ‘situation.’ This matter between SDS and Phoenix Mercury is sooo petty!! It has Diana Taurasi’s fingerprints all over it. Phoenix management has repeatedly deferred to Diana’s whims-that’s why she is still on their roster at 41+. Why should Phoenix Mercury work with SDS even though she’s not going to re-sign with the team? She is a tier 1 player! It’s the decent, respectable and professional thing to do…it is called professional courtesy. If I am a player and Phoenix is offering me a contract, I would thinks, but no thanks.

[@williammials6080]

Glad she is gone! She is Divisive! Fought with the EX-Coach..... Ain't nobody got time for that!

[@arthurmiller9434]

@@williammials6080 I assume you are referencing Diggins. It seems she does have that reputation. However, in my opinion and based on what I have read, the issue with Diggins at Phoenix seems to be that two queen bees can not exist on one team. So Diggins was pushed out. I suspect that Taurasi, like Sue Bird in Seattle, will become a part owner of the Mercury…that’s why Diggins was pushed out. Thus far, Diggins has played well in the preseason.

[@williammials6080]

@@arthurmiller9434 One game? We'll see when the real season starts! 2 kids is a lot on the body.

[@arthurmiller9434]

@@williammials6080 Seattle has played 2 games, but your point is valid! I am not an SDS hater…I wish her nothing but the best.

[@keshamccoy9283]

Wouldn't mind seeing Sky in Connecticut...

[@user-om9nq3lw3s]

Diana Toxic is something else.

[@WilliamJackman-n7f]

You got this Skylar!!!

[@ddleee]

Smith plays awesome. I enjoyed watching when she played.

[@1Cheytown]

At this time, i dont think we will know the REAL "truth" until after Sky's contract is up, and even then i doubt we will

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Yea we might not ever find out. I’m just waiting for Skylar, Liz and Chennedy to release a book in the next few years

[@marcuspope5328]

Excellent job!!!!

[@toxicginger9936]

I am probably going to sound like Devil's advocate right now but.... I've had time to think more about this, and I have changed my original view on what Skylar said. I was originally shocked she has no access to the team facilities. But I'm not so anymore. At all. Because she's on leave. *On Leave.* Majority of American women don't have a clue what being on *Paid Maternity Leave* is like, because most don't get it in this country and probably don't have experience with FMLA leave either. So here is some perspective. While I was on maternity leave (16 weeks) from my company (in AZ) ALL my company accesses were 'suspended' until I officially returned from leave. Everything. Company email? Suspended. All my logins (remote and in office)? Suspended. My keys and keycard? Returned to the office and would be reissued upon return to active work from leave. I had no access to anything. Client contacts? Nope. Company training? Nope (we had to do monthly company training to be up to date on new gov't regulations) Everything work related was suspended/inaccessible, until I returned, and only upon return could I catch up on required training. Then I thought again about the Mercury and Skylar and realized this isn't any different than my maternity leave experience. *This is actually exactly how paid maternity leave is supposed to work.* The new mother is free of all work expectations. Let me elaborate: When I returned to work after my maternity leave, I asked my boss why everything was suspended while I was on leave and had to be reissued, they don't do that when you take a vacation. (I'm paraphrasing here because it's been a few years) She said it was to protect me and the company. As I didn't have access, no one in the company could call/email me and request I do anything work related which protected my rights on leave (I think it falls under FMLA, not sure though). I also could not voluntarily do any work... and subsequently couldn't later accuse the company of requiring it of me (which is protection from lawsuits on their part). No Work Related Contact. Period. None, except requesting my return date. I worked in the finance sector, but if we were to project these kind of rules to Skylar's situation, it falls right in line. She doesn't have access to facilities, trainers, therapists, etc... because those are all work related, and on Maternity Leave she is presumably protected from having to do ANYthing work related... because she's on leave. Her leave is about bonding with her child and family, not about reconditioning for her job. She is completely free from that expectation. Meaning, that she doesn't have to train and 'get back in shape' until she returns from leave. Yet that's exactly what she's talking about isn't it? Sounds like she's putting that expectation on herself of training (for her job) even though she's still on leave. She hasn't technically returned from leave, therefore she doesn't have access to anything work/company related yet, ei, the facilities and amenities. Let's flip the situation and see what you think. What if she did have access to the facilities and the trainers, and a trainer gave her specific instructions to follow for reconditioning... and she subsequently tweeted something along the lines of 'I'm still on Maternity Leave and the team trainer gave me a list of things I'm required to do to get ready to play again. This is supposed to be my leave, time to bond with my new daughter and family.' What would be your reaction to that? I don't think Skylar is a villain, nor do I think the team is. I think we're seeing a situation of opposing expectations.

[@toxicginger9936]

While I say I don't see her as a villain (her words), I do find myself questioning the motivation behind her tweets. Is it a passive aggressive way to paint the organization in a bad light?

[@GeorgeRoyal-yy2lp]

I agree with most of what you said, but I do not believe that when D.T. was out for injuries, that she would have been treated the same, and in no way would she have been denied access to the training facilities. get real...

[@ToshioGodzilla]

Nice job reporting🌿refreshing A new subscriber..

[@ranhill62]

Would love for Skyler to come home to Indiana

[@QuitaLovesSports]

That would be ideal for the Fever to have a chance to become a real threat again

[@jeromedanielson4422]

Great baller, and historic battles with her at Notre Dame vs UCONN!

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Skylar was amazing at ND

[@jeromedanielson4422]

@@QuitaLovesSports Yes she was

[@kurtjohnson4816]

Seems to me the PG situation in the W is complicated by the possible addition of Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers next year. The Fever clearly need a dynamic PG; but do you pick up Skylar at her $$, and some of her possible drama issues; or save $$ on a rookie, and for a long term investment? I know a lot of people are saying the team is ghosting Skylar because she's straight, and had a baby; which seems ridiculous to me.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

If SDS goes to Indiana, I don’t think the salary cap is an issue at all because the players they want to keep are still on rookie deals so paying SDS what she is worth isn’t a big deal. It gets a bit tricky with other teams with the salary cap

[@latoyajackson8223]

First time here. I couldn’t figure out what happened. If skyler goes to Indian and plays with Caitlin Clark it would great. I love Diana Tauarsi. But Phoenix is wrong for treating her so bad.

[@albertguicejr9071]

I believe that, in addition to the points made by the podcast creator, there has been a quiet undercurrent in the wnba discriminating against women who are involved with men. The league is predominantly lesbian, and if you are not, you will be subjected to various levels of harassment and discrimination.

[@janetwatkins4981]

Well Skylar can definetly come to the Chicago sky we need a player like her,but hear is what I think the problem is.skylar once said the wnba is probably 90 pct gay n she isn't n she once said that gay players constantly hit on her which she don't like,n that's a problem that's why they don't want her back

[@BrittneeWiliams]

Really good commentary girl really good you go🎉

[@DerekDynasty]

I like the idea of the Fever. Hometown team and could pair with Boston

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I think Skylar could really help Boston grow

[@1Cheytown]

Sky and Boston seems like a decent pairing

[@lavonnealexander6936]

Don’t forget nalyssa smith

[@varj7]

You can’t terminate an employee on disability or medical leave. That’s why they won’t waiver her during the season. They don’t want the lawsuit it would bring

[@D-TRIL]

😎 thanks for the video

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Any time! Thanks for watching

[@moniqueuu8777]

Wow! Who runs the Mercury? Only women would react like this. :)

[@Defender78]

2:52 can Skylar even use the vending machine in the arena hallway?

[@QuitaLovesSports]

lol probably not

[@briankeith9584]

There is absolutely no reason for Phoenix to continue to invest time or resources into Skylar. At the end of the day it's a business. She will be a FA that means they will no longer reaping any dividens from her presence.

[@patbooker8323]

Hello. Speaking of the Mercury maybe I missed it but I didn't see Geno comment on Diana T 10000 points. Did you? Thanks

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I’m actually not sure if Geno did. I do know that UCONN celebrated it

[@jamesmoore3430]

That article was a reporter just giving his own opinion. Since he doesn't normally cover the team it should be disregarded by anyone who follows the WNBA. Last season was pretty bad for all the talent they had on the team. Sometimes the pieces just don't fit in reality as they do on paper. It might be time to reevaluate this roster and figure out who you need that would be able to compete on a nightly basis.

[@presimirmikic9016]

Never liked Skylar Diggins, but what Phoenix Mercury is doing is immoral. WNBA as a league shall order one year maternity leave with payment cap of $160k. Any dispute on this topic is stupid and inhumane.

[@deadpoolwolverine9331]

I think it's really sad what the Phoenix Mercury's are doing. Totally not professional. Thanks for the video. Go Seattle Storm. And LSU for college.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

I agree not a good look for the organization

[@espinosalexis]

No wonder! It's Taurasi's idea!

[@finisher3x]

Quita, great video as usual. But let's go back to last season. There has definitely been tension between DT and SDS for a while now. And Skylar never liked Vanessa Nygaard the coach. And the team in general felt that Skylar QUIT on the team last season, as they were trying to push for a playoff spot. When DT went down, that's when they needed Skylar the most . . . and she was a no-show. Regardless of the reason, it is what it is. Then she announces that she's pregnant in October, which means that she's going to miss most, if not all of the 2023 season. With SDS being a free agent at the end of the season, they're basically washing their hands with her. Is it classless and petty on the Mercury's part? Maybe. But it would be like me letting my ex-wife come back and eat/sleep in the house that I bought, after she basically served me with divorce papers. But she wants to have all of the perks of the house until the divorce is final. LOL . . so yeah, I would feel some type of way about that. She left THEM, not the other way around. But when she can't have unlimited access to the team's facilities, she wants to cry about it? I like Skylar as a player. But I've never heard teammates gush about how great Skylar is, especially as a person.

[@QuitaLovesSports]

Appreciate you sharing your perspective. SDS in Phoenix is now over

[@kostasvasilopoulos4468]

so she is free agent end of season and life goes on,she will find a team and all this will be forgotten.............the future will show if the Mercury were wrong or not

[@GeorgeRoyal-yy2lp]

Hell, You Don't Have To Wait That Long, This Is Obvious To The Most Casual Observer, Now!!!

[@randybrown1225]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE SKYLAR, DIGGINS SMITH, Y DEY do her like dat,

[@di_ilmPostor]

I been seeing team chemistry fall off this season in the WNBA.

[@greeneyez18dn.e.washington90]

IT CAME FROM WHERE ALL INFO COMES FROM ANONYMOUS SOURCES. AKA TEAM MATES. I WOULDN'T BE SURPRISED IF IT WAS D.T. 🤷

[@gocarlisle]

Skylar Diggins needs to consider taking Anger Management Therapy. She has displayed on numerous occasions lack of anger control...see again, at the Fever game yesterday.

[@The_chosen_one15]

Any idea what happened to Tina Charles and why she’s out of the league this season?

[@1Cheytown]

No one picked her up after the Mercury mess. I feel Tina's a ring chaser (not to mention she's getting up there in years)

[@QuitaLovesSports]

No one wants her. I also think the way she left the Mercury might have not helped her reputation

[@keylo5593]

Didn't she go to Seattle after Phoenix??

[@shorty1103]

The Mercury operate like the Knicks... just a disaster all around and then the poor inaccurate reporting by part-time reporters who dont even cover the league as a whole.... go figures