Court-side moms

Justin Champagnie's mom, Christina Champagnie

Janie Williams, Mother of Patrick Williams

Wendy sits down with Janie Williams, mother of Patrick Williams to discuss his rise to a professional athlete! From North Carolina, to Florida State to the NBA with the Chicago Bulls. 

Changing the Culture of Sports

Physical and Psychological abuse is real amongst athletes and it is time to stand up and be fearless and change the culture. In this episode Wendy shares examples of how athletes are being bullied and abused and talks about how this must change

Sanciarhea Jones mother of Brionna and Stephanie Jones

As a mother who loves basketball as much as her children do, Sanciarhea shares her joy of navigating her kids to becoming professional basketball players!

Fans and Families of Professional Players

Security at games needs to tighten up more for families of professional players. Wendy shares her thoughts about a recent incident and about making a change. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

The Offseason

What does an offseason look like for these athletes once they’re done? For some it’s a way to get away from the travel and craziness of the life of pro basketball. Also we give you some insight into Wendy’s life! Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/

Reflecting on Game 6, The Season and Reading Twitter Responses

In today's recap, Wendy reflects on the series with the Sixers and what it was like watching the Raptors and Khem in the playoffs. She also gets on Twitter and responds to some of you lovely people. Shoutout to Scottie for winning Rookie of the Year !!!

Lance Stephenson's mom, Bernadette Stephenson

From playing in the NBA to overseas and then the g-league , Bernadette walks us through her family’s journey of navigating Lance’s career and talks about his recent return to the Indiana Pacers. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Game 3: We Almost Had Them

Wendy talks about her return to Toronto for game three in the Raptors-76ers series and addresses the part time fans.   Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/

Rhyne Howard's mom, Rhvonja "RJ" Avery

The Atlanta Dream got the night started by selecting Rhyne Howard out of Kentucky with the No. 1 overall pick - just a little over a week ago at the 2022 WNBA Draft. RJ is still trying to take it all in, the emotions are running high and she talks us through the journey and what is next for Rhyne. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Game 1: Was it really fair?

Wendy shares her reaction to Game 1 of the Raptors - 76ers playoff series. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

The WNBA! How can you not love it?

Wendy talks about the WNBA draft and her love for the league. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Twitter Q&A, Let's Discuss All Things Raps!

Join Wendy on our new segment where we ask the questions fans and discuss all things around Court-side Moms, Raptors and a lot more! Today we discuss the Toronto Raptors season as we head into the playoffs. Let's go Raptors! #wethenorth Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Tyrese Maxey’s mom, Denyse Maxey

A Mother of three amazing kids, a teacher, an NBA player, and a volleyball player. Denyse is passionate about the community work she’s involved with and still is very much a part of corporate America. From the time he left the hospital at birth, Tyrese has been surrounded by basketball. Dribbling a ball at 4 years old and watching his dad coach the first thing he ever wrote was X’s & O’s. The college selection process and why Kentucky? It started with Coach Calipari and his coaching styl...

Paris Bass’ mom, Kelly Slaughter

Welcome Kelly, mother of four, Police Sergeant with the Detroit Police, and former basketball player at Chicago State. Kelly's earliest memories of Paris playing basketball were when he was 4 years old watching her play. Paris, a standout at Seaholm High School garnered multiple scholarships but the Detroit Mercy recruited him early and ultimately he committed to the Mercy. After six years overseas Paris decided to come home and make a push for an NBA opportunity, signing with the South Bay ...

Saben Lee's mom, Natalie Williams

Saben Lee…his first word was not mom, it was not dad, it was ball! Saben always wanted to be around the game, from a young age he’s always gravitated towards basketball and has such a passion for the game. How special it was for Saben to play at Vanderbilt the same university his mom attended to declaring for the NBA Draft. Even with all the noise and doubters Natalie supported his decision to declare and go all in for the draft. How he transitioned from college to the NBA and the differen...

Nikki Alexander Reflecting On The Journey

A very special episode with Nikki Alexander as we sit down in the same high school gym where Nickeil Alexander-Walker started his high school career. Sitting center court reflecting on his journey, did Nikki ever think that when he left for prep school in the US it would lead to an NBA career? Nikki shares how she supports Nickeil from afar and the recent trade that sent Nickeil to Utah.  Special shoutout to the Toronto Raptors for being a part of this day through Open Gym and to Hodan Nal...

Trey Murphy III mom, Albeda Murphy

Rookie small forward Trey Murphy's mom Albeda walks us through the journey Trey and the family have been on. Playing professional basketball and hearing your name called on Draft Night is special, how self-belief and family support got Trey to the NBA when he went underlooked his entire life. Now a rookie with the Pelicans the sky's the limit. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Jaren Jackson Jr. mom, Terri Carmichael Jackson

A woman who wears many hats, Terri is the Executive Director for the Women’s National Basketball Players Association. Her family lives basketball 24/7 from her husband who played in the NBA, to her son Jaren Jackson Jr. a young star for the Memphis Grizzlies. The only family in basketball that was in all three bubbles during the 2020 season. We get an inside family perspective on the WNBA, NBA, and G-League. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Mario Chalmers mom, Almarie Chalmers

Almarie jokes that the earliest memories of Mario and basketball started in the womb, but in reality as early as him sitting on a potty chair. Almarie talks us through the incredible journey that basketball has taken Mario on. From two Championships in Miami to winning in Europe it is an incredible story of love and basketball. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Jaden Springer's mom, Barbarita Springer

From the age of 4, Jaden has been playing basketball, destined to compete at all levels. We learn about his upbringing, playing at IMG, and committing to Tennessee. The NBA Draft and the challenges Jaden has faced and overcome early in his rookie season. Only 19 years of age the future is bright for this highly talented young man. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Derrick White's mom, Colleen White

From division two basketball to re-signing with the San Antonio Spurs this is a story about growth, belief, and determination. We hear firsthand from Colleen, the challenges along the way and the journey from childhood to the NBA.  Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/  

Daynia La-Force Winning Culture

Welcome back Daynia, mother of Terance Mann. From the second round to resigning within the Los Angeles Clippers, Daynia attributes Terance’s success to his hard work and always being surrounded by the game. Daynia highlights the keys to success in the NBA, from the distractions to the work load, she has such an appreciation for these players.  From her days as a college coach to helping Terance adjust to life in the NBA, she was able to get back to coaching this past season in the WNBA w...

Tamiyko Prince Paying it Forward

Welcome back Tamiyko Prince. Her son Taurean is now in his 6th year in the league and playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. We hear about all that she's learned as an NBA mom, and hows she's paying it forward for those who come next. Court-side moms on Instagram

Jaden and Jalen McDaniels mom, Angela Jackson

Jaden and Jalen McDaniels are two years apart and have been surrounded by sports from the start. Their mom, Angela Jackson, is Wendy’s guest today. We hear how they both attended Federal Way High School, winning a State Championship together, as teammates; how Angela’s cousin, former NBA player Juwan Howard, was a resource for the family when it came to college recruitment and the entire journey to the NBA. Angela talks us through supporting both her sons through different stages in their jo...

Talen Horton-Tucker's mom, Shirley Horton

Wendy welcomes Laker Mom, Shirley Horton to the show to hear all about the talents and the treasures of being Talen Horton-Tucker. Starting from a strong family with fierce family values, Shirley saw his talent and love for basketball really bloom from the time he was a toddler. As an HBCU Alumni, Shirley made sure Talen always knew the importance of education, and how sacrificing one for the other was never going to be an option. “Give it to God, write it down, but you have to work on it to...

Sara Parker Returns

Fresh off of a WNBA Championship in her hometown of Chicago win for daughter Candace Parker, mom Sara Parker is back to update us on how it felt to have her baby come home and the joy the whole family felt in this celebration. Sara and Wendy look at this championship run and Sara gives us some insight into the player she has become and what the future has in store. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/courtsidemoms/

Toronto Raptors with Sue Danforth - mother of Fred VanVleet

Welcome back Sue! We are are so excited to have Sue back to talk everything Raptors. Reminiscing on the strange year away in Tampa to being back in Toronto and resuming regular scheduled programming. The return home, the fan reaction, and the amazing play by our boys. The connection between Khem and Fred on the court and the potential of this bright young team.

Brandon Boston Jr. mom, Alissa Boston

Alissa joins us today to talk about the journey in raising Brandon Boston Jr. From Norcross, Georgia to Sierra Canyon the family took a leap of faith and moved to California to help Brandon pursue his dream of playing basketball. We hear about Sierra Canyon and as Brandon describes it "a movie" - the high school team that has a busier schedule than some NBA teams, more publicity, and celebrity status. How it prepared him for the next level and dealing with the spotlight early on. Brandon...

Malachi Flynn's mom, Kristi Flynn

Kristi and Wendy met at this year’s NBA Summer League. Wendy was the first Raptor mom Kristi met; here we are today with a live episode at the Toronto Raptors OVO Athletic Centre. Our first live recording since January 2020. Since birth Malachi has always been front and centre in a basketball court, sitting on his mom’s lap as a child; whether his dad was coaching a game or his siblings were lacing them up. They discuss the college recruiting process that led Malachi to Washington State ...

Toronto Raptors Home Opener

The day is finally here and basketball is back in Toronto! We're celebrating the NBA's 75th birthday and Wendy's first trip to a Raptor's game not as a visitor but as a Raptor mom. Wendy is joined by Tidal League's CEO & Founder Kurt Benson to discuss it all. We also tease what we will be doing in Toronto as we record a very special Toronto Raptor's episode at the OVO Athletic Centre. Go Raptors!  

Dwyane Wade's mom, Jolinda Wade

Dwyane Wade 3x NBA Champion, 13-time NBA All-Star, 8-time member of the All-NBA Team, and Olympic Gold Medalist - the list of accolades is endless. Widely considered as one of the best guards to ever play the game, he is a future Hall of Famer. Jolinda give us a completely different perspective of who Dwyane is from "moms" eyes. The man he's become and how proud she is of him. Words from Dwyane that stuck with Jolinda "we don't live in a perfect world, but we can create perfect moments." t...

Paul Reed’s mom, Michelle Reed

Welcome Michelle Reed! We hear about Paul’s early beginnings from the onset, all Paul knew was basketball from the earliest memories of him at 3 years old watching his dad practice. His first organized basketball experiences he dominated as if he was a man amongst boys. The costs associated with sports and the investment a parent makes both time and financial. College recruitment and the ultimate deciding factor with DePaul in the Big East and the time spent working on his craft to prepare...

Diamond DeShields mom, Tisha DeShields

Diamond DeShields of the Chicago Sky was competitive from birth and had her older brother pushing her to excel. Coming from an athletic family she was naturally gifted with skill and passion. From her early love of baseball and tennis she moved to basketball at the age of 10 and excelled right from the jump. Diamond’s goal and vision is to make a real impact for the next generation of young girls. We hear what it was like raising two professional athletes and the challenges that came along t...

Payton Pritchard Fun facts with Melissa Pritchard

Fun facts with Melissa Pritchard we hear about Payton's favourite meal and more.

Payton Pritchard's mom, Melissa Pritchard

Melissa Pritchard talks about the amazing journey with her son, Boston Celtic Guard, Payton. From NBA Draft Night to learning from Kemba Walker and the entire Celtics organization; to his rituals, including his personal journal, we get an inside look into the life of the young rookie. We hear why his dad can't watch him shoot free throws and learn what the road ahead has in store.

Khem's free agency episode | Returning to the Toronto Raptors #wethenorth

With the script flipped we hear from our very own Court-side mom today in this special episode. Wendy talks us through the moment she knew Khem was signing with the Toronto Raptors to the events that followed. All the emotions, feeling, and support that she has felt. Officially dubbed the Raptor Mom from Raptor nation and having the torch passed from Kyle Lowry's mom Marie Hollaway. Wendy then answers the questions from the fans and gives us some insight of what to expect in the future.

Megan Walker's mom, Johnetta Walker

WNBA star Megan Walker, picked up a basketball at the age of 5 and her mom Johnetta knew in that moment, basketball was her game. She enrolled Megan in a peewee league where she quickly outplayed both the boys and the other girls. Starting in 7th grade, Megan was in demand by college recruiters. Johnetta speaks on how she and the family looked at how decisions should be made and handling the stress along the way. Johnetta talks about the players who mentored Megan throughout the years, and ...

Xavier Tillman's mom, Tanya Powell-May

In today’s episode of Court-Side Moms, we welcome Tanya Powell-May, mother of Memphis Grizzlies forward Xavier Tillman! She tells us about his early beginnings as an athlete, what eventually led him to play for Tom Izzo at Michigan State, and all of his experiences playing college ball in his home state. She walks us through their COVID-19 NBA Draft experience, how basketball helped shape Xavier as a father and husband, and how proud she is of his progress as a man in overcoming adversity ...

Keldon Johnson's mom, Rochelle Johnson

In today’s episode of Court-Side Moms, we welcome Rochelle Johnson, mother of Team USA Olympian & San Antonio Spurs wing Keldon Johnson! She tells us all about the early days of Keldon’s basketball career, from the first time he picked up a ball, to his time at Oak Hill Academy in Virginia, and the stressful recruiting period that brought him to the Kentucky Wildcats. She walks us through Keldon’s decision to leave Kentucky after one year, the emotions she had leading up to the NBA Draft, ...

Jaxson Hayes' mom, Kristi Hayes

Our guest today has been described as one of the best basketball players the state of Iowa has ever seen.  Even with an outstanding career as her legacy, Kristi Hayes believes being the mom of NBA star Jaxson Hayes is the true miracle of her life.  At age 22 she survived ovarian cancer and wondered if she would ever be able to have children.  Drafted 8th Overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, Kristi describes Jaxson’s journey as a Cinderella story and tells us about the unlike...

Frank Jackson's mom, Juleen Jackson

Our guest today has juggled many roles including the wife of former Utah Senator Al Jackson, mentor to moms everywhere on how to be leaders in their own home, and mother to Detroit Pistons point guard Frank Jackson. Juleen Jackson has many great stories to tell and Wendy digs in to learn more about her life, the journey her family has been on, the impact on their family as Frank made his way to the NBA, and who her son is both on and off the basketball court. From his decision to play coll...

Jewell Loyd's mom, Gwendolyn Lyod

In 2015, Jewell Loyd was drafted 1st Overall by the Seattle Storm of the WNBA and has never looked back. Her numerous awards include two WNBA championships (2018, 2020), Rookie of the Year (2015) and she’s a two-time WNBA All-Star. One of her biggest fans is her mom, Gwendolyn Loyd and Jewell has been known to say she sees the glitter before she sees her mom walk into the room. Today on Court-Side Moms, we are joined by Gwendolyn and her glitter shines throughout the show. Gwendolyn takes ...

Jasmine Thomas' mom, Sharon Thomas

From age 10, Jasmine Thomas of the Connecticut Sun excelled at the game of basketball. Today her mom, Sharon Thomas, joins us to share her daughter’s story.   We talk about the experience of college recruitment, playing for the Duke Blue Devils, and being drafted 12the overall in 2011 by the Seattle Storm. Prior to her rookie year, she was traded to Washington, playing for the Mystics, the Atlanta Dream, and Connecticut where she’s been since 2015.  We hear about the basketball journey t...

Trevor Ariza's mom, Lolita Ariza

Our guest today, Lolita Ariza, mother of NBA veteran, Trevor Ariza, joins the show to talk about her son’s journey through the NBA.  She tells us about the first time Trevor picked up a basketball, why he chose UCLA during his college recruitment and takes us through a number of his stops around the NBA. She tells us why he doesn’t get enough credit for his play during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2008-09 Championship run.  We talk about how she prioritized her and her son’s careers, and why ...

Q&A with Freddie Gillespie's mom, Alberder Gillespie on Locker Room App

We The North! Raptor fans tap in with Freddie Gillespie's mom, Alberder Gillespie on Locker Room App!

Freddie Gillespie's mom, Alberder Gillespie

It’s been said that Toronto Raptor Freddie Gillespie did the impossible going from Division III basketball to the NBA. His mom, Alberder Gillespie, says it’s all about faith, and today she joins Court-Side Moms to tell us about his incredible journey, her belief in her son, and his future in the NBA.   Freddie began as a football player, falling in love with basketball in junior high.  Starting out in Division III ball at Carleton, his determination and talent led him to Baylor College and...

Darius Bazley's mom, Lynnita Bazley

Our guest today, Lynnita Bazley, mother of Darius Bazley, forward with the Oklahoma City Thunder, joins the show to talk about her son’s unorthodox journey to the NBA, including a decision to pursue the NBA G League instead of college, and an internship with one of the most iconic shoe brands, New Balance.  She talks about the first time Darius picked up a basketball and how that turned into a realization that he could one day turn professional. She takes us through Darius’ abnormal career...

Mikal Bridges' mom, Tyneeha Rivers

Pregnant at 19, our guest today, Tyneeha Rivers, mother of Mikal Bridges, starting guard with the Phoenix Suns, talks about what it was like to face motherhood at such a young age, how her determination to be a success changed her life and what she’s done to ensure her son had what it took to also be successful, overcoming the negativity and the challenges to rise to the top in the world of elite athletes.   As a Chief Human Resources officer for over 20 years, her focus now is player recr...

Aerial Powers' mom, Cecilia Powers

Today we are joined by Cecelia Powers, mom of WNBA star Aerial Powers of the Minnesota Lynx. From age 3, Aerial had a passion for basketball and success has followed her throughout her career. She led her high school, Detroit Country Day, to four consecutive regional championships, had an outstanding college career playing for the Spartans at Michigan State University, and was chosen by the Dallas Wings as the fifth overall pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft.  Throughout it all, Cecelia talks a...