Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Section 415

The Giants’ nightmare season is finally over, and every member of the organization is eager to look forward. But Buster Posey and Zack Minasian can’t make any transactions to improve the roster until the World Series ends, so it’s worth evaluating what went wrong, why this year’s team underperformed expectations, and whether the Giants can make meaningful changes. On the “Section 415” podcast, John Shea joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss whether the 2026 season is the worst in team history, how it compares to other awful seasons, and why the Giants should spend next year devoted to developing young talent. John and Kerry also discuss Willy Adames’ future at shortstop, Casey Schmitt’s 2027 role, and whether Posey can shed salary by trading one of the team’s highest-paid players. Chapters: 00:00 Intro: A 97-loss season ends 00:36 Where 2026 ranks among the worst Giants seasons 02:41 Why this season feels worse than 2017 05:33 Should the Giants punt on 2027? 10:49 Willy Adames' future at shortstop 17:25 Should Devers, Adames or Chapman get traded? 19:50 Outro and credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Golden State Valkyries won their first WNBA playoff game in dominant fashion. Spurred by a 37-point second quarter, the Valks set a franchise record for points in a 104-80 win Sunday over the Dallas Wings at Chase Center. Six players hit multiple 3-pointers, including reserves Tiffany Hayes and Kaitlyn Chen, who were among five Valkyries to finish with at least 10 points. Golden State’s 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series means coach Natalie Nakase’s team can advance to the WNBA semifinals with a road win Wednesday. What does the Valkyries’ Game 1 dominance mean for their playoff outlook? The Standard’s Jane Kenny joins host Kerry Crowley on the “Section 415” podcast to share her takeaways from Sunday’s postseason opener and to preview Game 2. Chapters: 0:00 Intro: Valkyries win their first-ever playoff game 0:30 The Chase Center environment 1:23 What sparked the historic 37-11 second quarter 3:20 Tiffany Hayes' bench spark 5:03 Ceci Zandalasini's breakout performance 9:13 Kaitlyn Chen's crucial contributions 11:59 Why was Natalie Nakase critical of the Valks in her postgame presser? 14:20 How will Paige Bueckers and the Wings adjust for Game 2? 16:55 Cheryl Reeve wins Coach of the Year over Nakase. Was it deserved? 21:02 Outro & credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shortly after the San Francisco Giants announced a partnership with prediction market platform Kalshi in August, the team posted to X a highlight of a play that boosted its win probability. It was met with immediate backlash. Nearly all of the more than 300 replies were negative. These comments and criticisms haven't discouraged Kalshi. On the “Section 415” podcast, Kalshi’s head of sports partnerships, Adam Barrick, joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss the criticism from Giants fans, why the platform is eager to continue its partnership with the team, and how Kalshi thinks about the ethical dilemmas players face when their teams agree to partner with prediction markets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After quarterback Brock Purdy exited a press conference following the 49ers’ 35-13 win Sunday over the Dolphins, Fred Warner stepped up to the podium and said, “MVP.” Running back Christian McCaffrey described Purdy as “special” and said he’s tired of answering questions about whether he’s surprised by his teammate’s excellence.On the “Section 415” podcast, David Lombardi joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss how Purdy has evolved, how the quarterback impressed teammates during training camp, and what a slew of injuries at wide receiver means for Purdy’s operations moving forward. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:48 From training camp, Purdy looks improved this season 2:10 The three weaknesses Purdy has fixed 5:02 PhD-level football: How has Purdy improved his play? 11:09 Can the 49ers overcome WR injuries? 14:34 Who steps up at wide receiver? 17:30 Kyle Juszczyk, the wild card to the 49ers offense 19:09 Wrap-up and credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 49ers might not look different this season, but changes that have taken place at the top of the organization mean the franchise’s power structure is shifting. Jed York’s move to Ohio earlier this year means the owner is no longer at team headquarters on a daily basis. His August arrest triggered an NFL investigation and will likely result in a suspension, which will prevent him from having contact with team personnel. Paraag Marathe, the former president of 49ers Enterprises and executive vice president of football operations, left the team in August to focus on the organization’s European soccer clubs, Leeds United and Rangers FC. On the “Section 415” podcast, Tim Kawakami joins Kerry Crowley to discuss how these changes affect CEO Al Guido, GM John Lynch, and coach Kyle Shanahan, and how they could shape the team’s approach to the Nov. 10 trade deadline. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:02 Jed York moves to Ohio, Al Guido steps up as CEO 02:48 Are the 49ers more likely to make a win-now trade? 05:43 What the 49ers lose with Paraag Marathe departing 11:11 Paraag Marathe & Jed York's partnership 17:36 Kawakami on the 49ers' relationship with national media 20:11 Contracts to watch: Bosa, Evans, McCaffrey, and beyond 23:24 Wrap-up and credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The WNBA playoffs haven’t started yet, but Natalie Nakase is already a champion. The Valkyries coach spent the last two weeks in Berlin as an assistant under Kara Lawson as the U.S. beat France to win the FIBA Women’s World Cup. Nakase returns to a Valkyries team that was split up during the FIBA break, as several players — including Gabby Williams, Janelle Salaun, and Cecilia Zandalasini — had starring roles with national teams, while others — including Veronica Burton, Kaila Charles, and Kiah Stokes — stayed in the Bay Area and practiced. On the “Section 415” podcast, reporter Jane Kenny joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss the Valkyries’ playoff outlook, how Nakase’s rotation will change during the postseason, and how recent practices differed without the coach. 00:00 Intro 01:20 Gabby Williams' impressive FIBA run and her Valkyries return 05:01 Playoff schedule, rotations, and possible opponents 09:11 Is this Valkyries season more impressive than last year? 11:36 Inside Valkyries practices while Nakase was away in Berlin 14:53 Chase Center playoff anticipation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the NFL announced its Global Markets Program in 2022, the Los Angeles Rams were awarded international marketing rights to Australia, where the franchise could build brand awareness and fandom. Four years later, the Rams served as the “home” team for their season opener, but the crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was overwhelmingly supportive of the 49ers. After arriving in Australia last week, the 49ers worked to connect with the local community, hosting events featuring franchise legends and team personnel. The Rams, on the other hand, flew in 28 hours before kickoff to avoid jet lag, limiting their time to drum up support among fans still deciding which team to cheer for. On the “Section 415” podcast, The Standard’s David Lombardi joins host Kerry Crowley after spending a week in Melbourne interacting with Australians, learning about their desire to embrace the NFL, and watching the stadium transform into a pro-49ers crowd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The San Francisco Giants were supposed to move to Florida. That was the expectation in 1992, when owner Bob Lurie agreed to sell the team to a group that planned to relocate it to St. Petersburg. National League owners voted 9-4 to reject the sale, and 18 San Francisco-area investors stepped in with a $100 million bid to buy the Giants. The Giants haven’t changed hands since then, but the ownership group looks dramatically different now than it did when the sale was completed in 1993.On the “Section 415” podcast, John Shea joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss how ownership has evolved, which individuals hold the most power, and how an influx of money in recent years has changed the franchise. 00:00 Intro 01:31 Meet David Jenkins, the Giants' colorful top shareholder 03:42 The near-move to Tampa & genesis of the Giants' ownership circle 07:42 Why did John Shea pursue a story about ownership? 13:59 The new private equity owners v. "old money" owners 19:46 Larry Baer, Peter Magowan, and building a winner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been 20 years since Cal last won 10 games, but expectations are soaring again in Berkeley after the Bears hired coach Tosh Lupoi and retained starting quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. With former NFL coach Ron Rivera entering his second season as GM and a highly regarded transfer class set to make an immediate impact, Cal fans are as optimistic as they’ve been since Aaron Rodgers was handing off to Marshawn Lynch during the Jeff Tedford era. On the “Section 415” podcast, Cal football digital reporter Greg Silver joins host Kerry Crowley to preview a Bears season that begins Saturday against UCLA. 0:00 Intro 0:27 Who is Tosh Lupoi, Cal's new head coach? 5:34 Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele's rising stardom 10:33 Cal's transfer portal strategy and playmakers to watch 16:07 Expectations for this season 20:44 The Calgorithm, College GameDay in Berkeley, and the hype surrounding Cal football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The San Francisco Giants were one of five MLB teams last week that announced partnerships with Kalshi, a prediction market platform that calls itself the “world’s next-generation financial exchange.” On the “Section 415” podcast, independent journalist Joon Lee joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss why teams have embraced partnerships with sportsbooks and prediction markets, the dangers these partnerships pose to fans, and how players feel about them. 0:00 Intro: The Giants-Kalshi partnership 2:24 The explosion of sports betting 5:05 What's the difference between prediction markets and sports betting? 11:35 Harassment from angry bettors & the toll on athletes 16:13 The long-term concerns of the sports gambling boom 19:29 Is there a path to responsible sports betting regulation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Stanford football GM, Andrew Luck oversees more than 100 players. The odds of any of them having a better college career than Luck are miniscule. In San Francisco, Buster Posey, president of baseball operations for the Giants, manages the 26-man roster and is responsible for a farm system that includes more than 150 prospects. There’s little chance anyone in the organization will enjoy a more successful career than he did. So why do they embark on this challenge? On "Section 415," Danny Emerman joins Kerry to discuss his profile of Andrew Luck, and the phenomenon of superstars who become executives in Bay Area sports. 00:00 Intro 00:28 Andrew Luck's uphill battle at Stanford 04:46 The duality of Andrew Luck 06:57 Buster Posey's difficulties running the Giants 11:41 Why role players often make better executives than superstars 19:24 Is the Bay Area uniquely full of athlete-executives? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jed York’s arrest Sunday in East Palestine, Ohio, is the latest, most significant development in a 49ers offseason shaped by turmoil. With fewer than three weeks until the start of the season, the owner on Monday pleaded no contest to charges of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools. The disorderly conduct charge was amended from an initial charge of engaging in prostitution. On the “Section 415” podcast, David Lombardi joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss the NFL’s potential discipline for York, prior instances of owners facing allegations of wrongdoing, and how the arrest will shape public perception of York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No one can replace Mike Krukow, but the Giants must hire a new color commentator anyway. Krukow, a former Giants pitcher who has worked as the team’s primary TV analyst for more than 30 years, will retire at the end of this season. His partner in the booth, play-by-play voice Duane Kuiper, will continue broadcasting and told The Standard’s John Shea he hopes to be included in discussions as the Giants consider how to replace Krukow. 00:00 Intro 00:30 Krukow's storied broadcasting career and legacy 10:05 Who would replace Mike Krukow? 18:47 Could Kruk and Kuip enter the Baseball Hall of Fame together? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyle Shanahan doesn’t like to depend on rookies, but the 49ers may have no other choice this year. After receiver Ricky Pearsall suffered a season-ending PCL injury, top draft pick De’Zhaun Stribling is set to play an important role in Shanahan’s offense. Beyond Stribling, which other rookies have impressed during training camp, and which players must make improvements before they earn the trust of the coaching staff? On the “Section 415” podcast, David Lombardi joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss the most significant preseason developments and the rookies most likely to provide immediate help. 0:00 Intro 0:26 Stribling's impressive preseason debut 2:44 Stribling's potential role in the 49ers offense 5:20 Jaden Dugger flashes on defense 7:43 Gracen Halton's flashes, Alfred Collins disappoints 13:05 CB depth chart after injuries 16:54 Kurtis Rourke's leg up on QB3 spot 21:54 Credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A quiet Warriors offseason has led to loud reactions from disappointed fans. Many Golden State supporters believe the team hasn’t done enough to surround superstar Steph Curry with talent. GM Mike Dunleavy and owner Joe Lacob have pushed back on that assertion and are pointing to the February trade deadline as an opportunity for the franchise to take its next big swing. “We have multiple ways to get better during the season, which is something we’ve done the last few years,” Dunleavy said Tuesday. On the “Section 415” podcast, Danny Emerman joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss recent comments from Dunleavy and Lacob and the 2026-27 Warriors schedule, as well as the death of basketball pioneer and franchise icon Don Nelson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Golden State Valkyries have won 12 of their last 14 games and are inching closer to securing their second consecutive playoff berth.Preparing for the postseason, however, is a tricky challenge for coach Natalie Nakase and her staff. The WNBA will pause its schedule for nearly three weeks in September so players and coaches can participate in the FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin. How will Nakase manage each player’s workload ahead of the tournament? What will Golden State’s rotation look like when the WNBA schedule resumes? On the “Section 415” podcast, reporter Jane Kenny joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss the difficult decisions the Valkyries’ leaders are navigating as they prepare for a playoff run. 0:00 Intro 0:27 Valkyries riding a hot streak into September 1:28 FIBA World Cup break looming near the end of the season 3:25 Golden State's second-unit advantage 6:11 Tiffany Hayes turns back the clock 8:01 Behind Janelle Salaün's journey to Golden State 11:59 Kiah Stokes' emergence as a defensive anchor 15:28 Projecting the playoff rotation 20:03 The case for Natalie Nakase as Coach of the Year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Five years ago, the Bay Area didn't have a women's pro sports team. Now, the Golden State Valkyries are the first $1 billion women's sports franchise and the region has been transformed into a capital of opportunity. In a special episode of "Section 415," host Kerry Crowley spoke with Valkyries president Jess Smith and San Francisco Signal president Stephanie Martin on the factors driving the local boom and how they're approaching the process of building franchises from the ground up and handling the inevitable challenges along the way. 0:00 Intro 1:20 Why Jess Smith bet on San Francisco and the Valkyries 3:06 Why Stephanie Martin is betting on pro volleyball in San Francisco 6:51 Behind building the Valkyries' brand identity 9:02 Building the Signal's brand and name 12:20 Facing challenges & preparing for growth and adversity 14:13 Jess's vision for women's sports in 5-10 years 16:06 Stephanie's vision for The Signal and pro volleyball's future 17:59 Credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Posey hasn’t come close to building a winning team. But the Giants’ president of baseball operations has successfully traded major league players off disappointing clubs for promising prospects who could play pivotal roles in the future. Posey’s dramatic deadline selloff Monday made a bad 2026 team even worse, but it also helped the Giants stockpile pitching prospects who should be able to contribute when the team is better positioned to contend. On the “Section 415” podcast, John Shea joins host Kerry Crowley to discuss Posey’s dizzying deadline and how the sacrifices the organization made in trading Luis Arráez, Robbie Ray, Heliot Ramos, and others could pay off in 2027 and beyond. 0:00 Intro 0:51 Inside the Giants clubhouse as trades went down 4:14 Marcelo Mayer: The most intriguing deadline pickup 9:06 Buster Posey refuses to call this a rebuild. But it's a rebuild. 13:11 Should the Giants trade Logan Webb? Kerry and John debate. 17:54 Kent and Bonds reunite in the farm system 20:06 Credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Lombardi joins Section 415 to break down 49ers training camp, starting with new details Kyle Shanahan shared directly with reporters about his car accident. Also, the state of the receiver and running back rooms as both positions incorporate new additions and manage injuries. 00:00 Intro 00:58 Inside the room: what Kyle Shanahan revealed about his accident 5:45 The coaches running the 49ers ship as Shanahan recovers 8:25 Klay Kubiak's rising reputation 10:23 Raheem Morris and the defensive scheme shift 13:08 The state of the WR room 16:42 The state of the RB room 19:05 Wrap-up and credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Buster Posey prepares for Monday’s trade deadline, it’s fascinating to think how different next summer could look for the Giants’ president of baseball operations. Instead of calling executives around the league to talk through trade possibilities, Posey might have to put the phone down for a few days so he can enjoy a weekend in Cooperstown. Assuming that Posey, who led the Giants to three World Series titles, is elected, there’s a possibility he’ll be joined by former San Francisco managers Bruce Bochy and Dusty Baker, who will be on the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee ballot for the first time. On “Section 415,” The Standard’s John Shea explains how the Giants handled Jeff Kent’s induction and how the organization is preparing for a much bigger celebration next summer in upstate New York. 00:00 Intro: Jeff Kent's Hall of Fame induction & the scene in Cooperstown 03:44 Jeff Kent's evolution since his playing days 06:41 Next year's Giants HOF class: Bochy, Buster, and Baker 09:40 Dusty Baker, most popular man in Cooperstown 13:02 Buster Posey's Hall of Fame case 16:59 Giants trade deadline outlook: who stays, who goes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When LeBron James announced he was leaving the Lakers after an eight-year stint in Los Angeles, the Warriors emerged as a suitor. Nearly a month after James became a free-agent, he chose to sign with the … Philadelphia 76ers. Which factors led to James' decision and where do the Warriors go from here? The Standard's Danny Emerman joins "Section 415" to break down what's next for GM Mike Dunleavy and Co. 0:00 Intro: LeBron Signs with the 76ers 1:19 Why LeBron Chose Philadelphia Over Golden State 4:29 Bob Myers' Role in Luring LeBron to Philly 6:18 Grading the Warriors' Quiet Offseason 9:08 Warriors' Remaining Offseason To-Do List Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite a fourth-quarter collapse that cost the Valkyries a shot at entering the All-Star break on a 10-game winning streak, Golden State has proven it’s one of the WNBA’s best teams. The Valkyries are 19-8 with 17 games remaining, and will spend the second half of the season attempting to secure home-court advantage for a playoff run. How far can Golden State go in its second season? Reporter Jane Kenny joins the “Section 415” podcast to analyze recent trends, potential playoff matchups, and more. 00:00 Intro 1:11 Biggest surprise of the first half: Kiah Stokes & Kaitlyn Chen 8:49 What's the Valks' ideal closing lineup? 11:39 What trends will carry, and what won't, to the second half? 17:44 Best potential playoff matchups for Golden State 20:04 What's the ceiling for this Valkyries team? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What level of prospect can the SF Giants get back for Luis Arraez or Robbie Ray? Will they make a surprise trade and deal someone like Heliot Ramos or Willy Adames? On this episode of "Section 415," Kerry answers your most pressing questions on the Giants ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. 0:00 Intro 1:06 Any surprise trades beyond Arraez, Ray, and Mahle? 4:25 Can the Giants land a top-100 prospect? 7:01 Is it a buyer's or seller's market at the deadline? 8:20 What's the market for Heliot Ramos? 11:46 Which young relievers should Buster Posey target? 14:49 Any bad-contract swaps on the radar? 17:18 Would the Giants do a Schmitt/Miller for George Kirby trade? 19:07 What's the plan for 2027 if only the rentals get traded? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A long Warriors offseason is almost over. The team brought back Steve Kerr on a two-year contract, re-signed Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and selected Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 pick in the NBA Draft. All that’s left is figuring out whether one of the greatest players in NBA history wants to sign with Golden State. Reporter Danny Emerman joined the “Section 415” podcast after a trip to Las Vegas where NBA executives, coaches, and players all discussed LeBron James’ next move. 00:00 Intro: Will LeBron Sign With the Warriors? 02:44 What Golden State Can Offer LeBron 06:55 Yaxel Lendeborg's Summer League Debut 09:35 Frank Vogel Joins Steve Kerr's Staff 10:58 Will Richard's Off-Season Development 13:36 Warriors' Size & Frontcourt Depth 15:52 LJ Cryer & Chance McMillan Summer League Buzz 18:44 2026-27 Season Storylines to Watch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Golden State Valkyries have won seven consecutive games and are in the midst of the best stretch in the franchise’s brief history. Natalie Nakase’s team plays dominant defense, has one of the league’s deepest rotations, and has a range of playmakers who have helped close out recent wins. Sounds like a championship-caliber team, right? On the “Section 415” podcast, reporter Jane Kenny joins host Kerry Crowley to analyze the Valkyries’ chances of shocking the league and winning a title in their second season. 0:00 Intro 0:41 Are the Valkyries a legit championship contenders? 1:49 Resetting expectations for the rest of the season 4:11 Valkyries and the deepest bench in the WNBA 7:24 Janelle Salaun: Instant offense off the bench 8:35 Kaitlyn Chen's player development story 11:26 Golden State's defense takes the next step 13:55 Shutting down elite scorers and bigger teams 18:10 Gabby Williams and the team's culture fit 20:05 What's left to prove for a title run Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since Buster Posey shocked the industry and took over as the Giants’ president of baseball operations in October 2024, nothing has gone according to plan. But this weekend’s MLB draft and the Aug. 3 trade deadline offer Posey and GM Zack Minasian chances to improve the franchise’s outlook and lay the foundation for a turnaround. How will Posey navigate these pivotal decisions? The Standard’s John Shea joins “Section 415” to analyze what’s ahead. 00:00 Intro 00:45 Is this Buster Posey's most important month as Giants president 02:15 MLB Draft: Jackson Flora or position player? 09:43 Trade deadline: Robbie Ray and Matt Chapman 12:02 The case for keeping Luis Arraez 19:29 Credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was a riveting start and a crushing finish for the U.S. men’s national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Does a knockout-stage win qualify as progress? How did the Bay Area handle its duties as one of 16 host regions at the first-ever 48-team tournament? The Standard’s Kevin Nguyen joins the “Section 415” podcast to analyze the U.S. performance and the atmosphere at the six local matches. 0:00 Intro 0:29 Was this a successful World Cup for the USMNT? 1:24 The good: Group stage dominance under Pochettino 4:28 Trump, FIFA, and the Balogun red card controversy 7:18 The bad: US falls to Belgium in the round of 16 10:06 USMNT's goalkeeper and defense questions going forward 12:22 How did the Bay Area fare as a World Cup host? 16:37 Levi's Stadium's best atmosphere yet 18:59 World Cup fans and soccer as a mirror to the world Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10th-year center Kiah Stokes has won three national championships with UConn and three WNBA titles with the Las Vegas Aces. Since joining the Valkyries last offseason on a one-year deal, Stokes has done a lot of winning with Golden State too. Stokes joined the “Section 415" podcast to discuss her first season with the Valkyries, reuniting with UConn teammates in the Bay, and how the WNBA has changed since she entered the league in 2015. 00:00 Intro 00:39 Free agency and Stokes' move to Golden State 01:16 Stokes' connection with Natalie Nakase 02:22 Impressions of the Valkyries as an outsider 03:55 Stokes' early basketball roots and family influence 04:53 College recruitment and choosing UConn 06:33 Winning three titles and playing for Geno Auriemma 07:26 UConn ties across the Valkyries roster 08:52 Draft night and getting picked by New York 10:51 Stokes on playing overseas early in her career 12:34 What the new CBA means to players 14:53 Difference between the Valkyries and other organizations 16:42 Gabby Williams' impact this season 17:48 Veronica Burton's growth at point guard 18:42 Life in the Bay Area and favorite off-day activities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As college athletic departments attempt to keep pace with rapidly evolving rules and regulations, Brent Blaylock arrived at the University of San Francisco this month believing the Dons’ programs are well positioned to ascend in the West Coast Conference. Blaylock said he was drawn to USF because of its commitment to the WCC and its determination to build competitive regional programs. He detailed his plans for the Dons' 14 programs and 200-plus student-athletes on "Section 415." 0:00 Intro 0:38 Meet new USF AD Brent Blaylock 2:11 Charting the future of USF Athletics 6:36 Building community investment & NIL partnerships 8:43 How Blaylock views the evolution of the job of college coach 14:44 Outlook for USF men's basketball 18:27 Exploring San Francisco on his days off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Warriors need a little bit of everything this offseason. That’s why Yaxel Lendeborg, the do-it-all wing out of Michigan, emerged as a logical choice when Golden State was on the clock with pick No. 11 in the draft. Lendeborg doesn’t have one standout trait, but he has a variety of skills that can help the Warriors right away. The Standard’s Danny Emerman joined the “Section 415” podcast to explain how he predicted the Lendeborg pick weeks ago and what he learned about the Michigan product throughout the predraft process. 0:00 Intro -- Warriors Select Yaxel Lendeborg at #11 1:50 Lendeborg Checks All the Boxes For the Warriors' Needs 5:26 The Viral Lacob-Dunleavy War Room Moment Explained 8:08 Lendeborg's Personality And His Journey From JuCo to NBA Lottery 13:05 Lendeborg's Fit and Role with the 2026 Warriors 16:48 Draymond Green's Player Option Decision 18:33 Post-Draft Roster Building and Second Round Outlook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A year after the Giants acquired Rafael Devers from the Red Sox in a blockbuster trade, there are concerns about the slugger’s long-term fit in San Francisco. Who's at fault for Devers' struggles and the Giants' failures? Paul McCaffrey, the host of "Paulie Mac's Particles," joins "Section 415" to analyze everything that's gone wrong for a franchise that seems to have lost its way. 0:00 Rafael Devers & Giants at rock bottom 2:41 Who's to blame: Buster Posey, Vitello, or ownership? 5:29 One winning season in a decade & the bigger picture 11:00 Should Vitello be replaced? 13:52 Paul McCaffrey on finding humor in a bad season 15:46 How Paulie Mac built his unique sports + culture voice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joelle Anderson isn’t just a pro soccer player. She’s also a soccer fan. Like most of her Bay FC teammates, the San Jose native was glued to the TV watching the USMNT earn a 4-1 win over Paraguay in its first World Cup match. As Anderson and Bay FC await a return to the field following a month-long pause for the World Cup, she joined the “Section 415” podcast to analyze the U.S. men’s impressive start and detail her journey from playing youth soccer in the South Bay to returning home to compete professionally for Bay FC. 0:00 Introduction 0:39 Joelle on watching the World Cup & the USMNT 3:34 Joelle's national team experience & watching Bay FC teammates on the USWNT 5:00 Growing up in San Jose & playing for De Anza Force 6:42 Getting drafted by Houston & scoring her first pro goal 12:40 The trade to Bay FC – coming home 14:40 Playing under Emma Coates & Bay FC's young core 18:55 Off the field: World Cup tickets, favorite spots & pregame playlist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A year after the Giants executed a blockbuster trade for Rafael Devers, Buster Posey is expected to have another busy summer ahead. This time, it's for all the wrong reasons. Barring a miracle, the struggling Giants will likely trade away top talent including Luis Arráez and Robbie Ray. It's possible the franchise commits to a rebuild, which could mean Posey would be willing to listen to offers on Willy Adames, Matt Chapman, and even Logan Webb. On "Section 415," The Standard's John Shea previews how Posey and Co. will approach a pivotal August 3 deadline. 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:50 Looking back at the Devers trade one year later 00:06:06 Could the Giants trade Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, or Logan Webb? 00:10:08 Why trading Logan Webb would be a mistake 00:13:21 Why the Giants must prioritize pitching in trade returns 00:17:49 Giants players opt out of Pride Night caps; fan and league reaction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Sarah Jones Simmer joined the National Women’s Soccer League as chief operating officer in 2024, the league was attempting to capitalize on surging national interest in women’s sports. Today, attendance and ratings are up, the league is expanding into new markets, and players are earning record salaries. In a live taping of "Section 415" at Charter's New Employer Brand Summit in New York, Simmer joined host Kerry Crowley on stage to discuss how the league office has courted new sponsors, earned the trust of players, and built a culture that can maximize the potential of women's soccer in the U.S. 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Sarah Jones Simmer, COO of the NWSL 01:53 How the NWSL is Collaborating, Not Competing With the World Cup 06:57 Bay FC and the Evolution of Women's Soccer Infrastructure in the Bay Area 09:31 Sarah's Non-Traditional Path to Sports Leadership 11:44 Building Trust at Scale in a Large Company 15:01 Three Leadership Principles: Beehive Soccer, Roster Rotation & the Penalty Kick Rule 17:32 How the NWSL Chooses New Markets and Ownership Groups 20:04 AI in the Workplace and Why Live Sports Stands to Benefit 22:05 What Success Looks Like for the NWSL Over the Next 5–10 Years 23:48 Outro and Credits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Golden State Valkyries made the playoffs in their inaugural season, have sold out every home game they’ve ever played, and are the first women’s sports franchise valued at $1 billion. Who’s responsible for this immediate success? How did the Valkyries shoot past their competitors to become the WNBA’s most valuable team? On "Section 415," reporter Jane Kenny discusses the evolution of the franchise since owner Joe Lacob paid $50 million back in 2023 to establish it. 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Jane's profile of Valkyries President Jess Smith 08:39 Owner Joe Lacob & The Valks' Billion-Dollar Valuation 13:22 The Valkyries Team Culture 16:50 The Fit of Gabby Williams 19:47 Juste Jocyte and the Valkyries Draft Strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Giants are lost. Their highest-paid players aren't producing, they haven't cleared a path to playing time for prospects, and they've been flirting with last-place for weeks. What's next for Buster Posey as he evaluates a team that hasn't come close to meeting expectations? The Standard's John Shea joins "Section 415" to discuss changes the Giants can implement and where the 2026 club ranks among the worst Bay Area baseball teams he has covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “Light Years” podcast’s Sam Esfandiari joined guest host Danny Emerman on “Section 415” to discuss how the Warriors might approach the upcoming draft. Esfandiari also laid out what would constitute a successful offseason for Golden State and reflected on his decade of podcasting about the Warriors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 49ers rookies took the field in Santa Clara for the first time earlier this month, they’ll join veteran teammates at organized team activities (OTAs) next week. The practices lack the same level of intensity as training camp, but they provide an important learning opportunity for younger players and a chance for veterans to get acquainted with new coaches. The Standard’s David Lombardi joins “Section 415” to discuss which developments he’ll be tracking and how new coaches including defensive coordinator Raheem Morris will implement changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Kerr has signed a two-year deal to return to the Golden State Warriors, but the coach acknowledged that things are different at this stage of his tenure. There’s no championship or bust mentality. It’s not realistic to compete for a title every season. So if winning a fifth ring with Golden State isn’t the most likely outcome, why did Kerr return? Kerr spoke with The Standard’s Tim Kawakami, who joins "Section 415" to discuss Kerr’s comments about his future, and how the Warriors will approach a pivotal offseason. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The greatest eras of 49ers football, Giants baseball, and Warriors basketball have one thing in common. Each franchise drafted the vast majority of its most important players. At a time when Bay Area sports fans are clamoring for the 49ers, Giants, and Warriors to continue adding to their roster through free agency and trades, it’s important to remember that there’s no viable path to the top without drafting the right players. Joe Montana? Buster Posey? Steph Curry? All franchise-altering draft picks. Which Bay Area franchise will win a title next? With 2024 No. 1 overall pick Macklin Celebrini leading the way, the San Jose Sharks are positioned to thrive for years to come. On this episode of “Section 415,” host Kerry Crowley traces the rise and fall of Bay Area dynasties through their best and worst draft picks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Kerr has agreed to return to the Warriors, but that doesn’t necessarily mean things are business as usual for Golden State. What does the coach’s two-year deal mean for Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Joe Lacob’s never-ending pursuit of the team’s next superstar? Today, Danny Emerman joins Section 415 to break it all down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Veronica Burton, Janelle Salaun, and Kayla Thornton are back and the Valkyries added free-agent star Gabby Williams to the mix after an impressive debut season. What does coach Natalie Nakase and Golden State have in mind for an encore? On this episode of “Section 415,” Jane Kenny analyzes the team’s last-minute roster moves including the decision to keep both Kaitlyn Chen and Laeticia Amihere and cut fan favorite Kate Martin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s still early May, but the San Francisco Giants have looked terrible. After a six-game losing streak, president of baseball operations Buster Posey turned to Triple-A Sacramento and called up Bryce Eldridge. Now, an offense that ranks last in the majors in runs, home runs, and walks needs a hero. Today on Section 415, The Standard’s John Shea joins us to discuss how Eldridge can spark a struggling lineup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The San Jose Earthquakes are the hottest team in MLS, Bay FC is trying to break through amid constant change, and the Bay Area is set to host six 2026 World Cup matches. What explains the sudden surge in soccer interest locally? The Standard’s Kevin Nguyen joins Section 415 to explain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Giants are surging, but is this hot stretch sustainable? Jung Hoo Lee, Casey Schmitt, and Landen Roupp are the unlikely catalysts behind a turnaround, yet Rafael Devers and Willy Adames remain ice cold. Today on Section 415, The Standard’s John Shea joins us to discuss what needs to happen for Tony Vitello’s squad to reach its full potential. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a collaboration with Pacific Standard Time, the SF Standard's flagship weekly news podcast. The WNBA's hottest team - the Golden State Valkyries - is on the cusp of a brand new season. After a blockbuster debut last year that saw sold-out crowds of 18,000 fans, the Valks are sure to bring the heat both on and off the court again this summer - and with that, new supporters, like our very own Emily Dreyfuss! To get us up to speed with this Bay Area franchise, we chat with the Standard's sports editor Kerry Crowley. We then meet Danielle Thoe, owner of SF's only women's sports bar. And we end with a game hosted by the Standard's comedy correspondent Sophia Garrow to test our newfound sports fandom. Support this podcast from The San Francisco Standard by becoming a subscriber: www.sfstandard.com/signup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Warriors’ season is over, and a seismic summer is about to tip off. All eyes are on head coach Steve Kerr, who isn’t a lock to return to the bench. How will Kerr, GM Mike Dunleavy, and owner Joe Lacob navigate the uncertainty? Today on Section 415, The Standard’s Danny Emerman joins us to break down the complex dynamics at play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NFL Draft is right around the corner, and the 49ers have holes on the O-line, the D-line, wide receiver, safety, and several other key spots. Can John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan realistically address every need? Today on Section 415, NFL Draft analyst and Hutch Report editor Jake Hutchinson joins us to break down the team’s next moves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The San Francisco Giants are off to a terrible start and Buster Posey is feeling the pressure. How long can the team’s president of baseball operations wait to shake up the roster? Today on Section 415, The Standard’s John Shea joins us to discuss what’s next for a club still searching for answers. Become an SFStandard subscriber! www.sfstandard.com/signup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Warriors are locked into the 10th seed, but Steph Curry’s return means anything is possible. The play-in tournament looks daunting, but Curry and veterans Draymond Green, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis are hoping to navigate next week’s gauntlet and reach the NBA playoffs. What needs to go right? The Standard’s Danny Emerman joins “Section 415” to analyze Golden State’s chances of knocking off a few higher seeds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices