From the SEC to the W

In this episode, I’m joined by Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda, former Vanderbilt and Texas women’s basketball standout and current member of the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA.We talk about Ndjakalenga’s basketball journey from South Dakota to the SEC, what it was like playing for Coach Shea Ralph at Vanderbilt, helping lead the Commodores to a historic Sweet 16 season, and how SEC basketball prepared her for the WNBA. Ndjakalenga also shares insight into life at the professional level, staying ready for opportunities, and what she’s learned during her time with the Golden State Valkyries.If you love SEC women’s basketball, Vanderbilt women’s basketball, WNBA conversations, and player interviews, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Chapters0:00 Hook0:50 Accomplishments2:35 Her Roots & Who Got Her Into the Game3:24 Who She Looked Up To4:50 What Part of Her Upbringing Still Shows Up Today?6:10 Why Vanderbilt?9:20 How did Coach Shea Ralph Develop Her Game?12:20 What Did Being A Part of 2 Major Programs Teach Her?16:30 Biggest Difference Between College & the W18:50 Playing in Ballhalla (Golden State Valkyries)20:58 Coach Nakase Being Confident in Ndjakalenga22:18 Things That Don't Show Up On the Box Score23:35 Chalk Talk or Cap28:30 Advice to Younger Players