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StudBudz

Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman are WNBA veterans whose careers add up to 15 years in the league. But in 2025, they broke new ground simply by launching a Twitch channel called “StudBudz,” which in just two weeks has already drawn over 10,000 followers. The concept is simple: Williams and Hiedeman sit together, turn on […]

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StudBudz

Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman are WNBA veterans whose careers add up to 15 years in the league. But in 2025, they broke new ground simply by launching a Twitch channel called “StudBudz,” which in just two weeks has already drawn over 10,000 followers.

The concept is simple: Williams and Hiedeman sit together, turn on the camera and hang out like two friends, except this time with thousands of people watching through their screens. Whether they’re reacting to WNBA games, interviewing teammates and competitors, or dyeing their hair pink, fans tune in for streams that range from 90 minutes to four hours.

“It just started off with friendship, really. And, you know, we knew about Twitch, so we just thought it would be a good idea for us to get on there. We didn’t know it was gonna, like, blow up that fast,” Hiedeman told Forbes. “There’s so many people on there, but it’s been really fun for us. And me and Courtney have been spending a lot of time together.”

Now teammates on the Minnesota Lynx, Williams and Hiedeman have brought others from the squad on stream, including Alissa Pili, who showed off her singing chops, and Diamond Miller, now a recurring guest. But the vibe isn’t limited to teammates—rivals are joining the fun too.

DiJonai Carrington, a guard-forward with the Dallas Wings, appeared in person from the team hotel during a Lynx road trip. Another time, Marina Mabrey joined via FaceTime.

“Honestly, we’ve been, we’ve been getting a lot of support, and I think a lot of players want to come on, so definitely going to have more players and people on in the future and super excited for that,” Hiedeman said.

Players now use social media on their own terms

StudBudz is catching fire at a time when WNBA players are taking greater control of their image and using digital platforms to share real, unfiltered moments. Hiedeman and Williams chose Twitch, but others are leaning into TikTok.

NaLyssa Smith and Carrington often go live on TikTok to casually chat with fans. Kamilla Cardoso has become widely known for her hilarious livestreams, often using wigs and props and clapping back at trolls without hesitation. More recently, Mabrey—already a fan favorite—gained even more reach after spending her offseason with the 3×3 league Unrivaled.

Williams and Hiedeman also played in Unrivaled during the offseason, a league that has leaned heavily on media to amplify both its brand and its athletes’ individual stories. Many players are now carrying those lessons into the WNBA season.

“Content and player storytelling is at the core of Unrivaled, and players have increasingly recognized the power that social media holds when it comes to amplifying their unique personalities off the court,” Unrivaled Chief Content Officer John Learing told Forbes. “It was important for us to give players the platform and resources to lean into their social presence, and it’s been fun to watch them take advantage of the environment Unrivaled created in Miami to continue building their brands in this way.”

For Hiedeman, it’s about knowing how to use social media to your advantage:

“Obviously, the internet could be very good, it could be very bad. So just being seen in a positive light, I think that the internet has given a lot of people opportunities to show who they are off the court, and I think it’s important for you know fans to get to see just not who we are as athletes but as people as well.”

Authenticity at the top of the game

What sets this player-driven content apart is its authenticity. It helps fans connect with players as people, not just athletes. In the case of StudBudz, Williams and Hiedeman highlight a part of the WNBA community that has often been sidelined in mainstream marketing: lesbian “studs,” or women who present in a more masculine way.

But for Hiedeman, it’s not about messaging—it’s just real life.

“I think it’s just who we are, and I think that me and Courtney just embrace who we are as people, who we are as athletes. And I think that’s kind of where the name came from. For sure, we’re just two stud buds hanging out,” she said.

And the visibility is paying off. StudBudz has been picked up by major outlets and women’s sports-focused accounts, proving that the appetite for athlete-led content is strong.

“I feel like we got a lot of support. You know, we were shared on ESPN, Overtime, you know, a couple mentions from the commentators during games, on the Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe podcast,” Hiedeman said. “So definitely a lot of love. And I think people are really enjoying it. So, yeah, the traction is great, and we love it. We’ve been having fun. And again, we just being ourselves.”

With visibility comes opportunity. Twitch offers monetization through its Affiliate and Partner programs, along with features like Subscriptions and Bits. There’s also room for brand sponsorships and cross-promotion, all of which can grow out of the success of a single stream.

And the StudBudz are already thinking ahead.

“I think the future is super bright for us, and exciting. We got merch coming out, everything. So it’s gonna be, it’s gonna be a vibe,” Hiedeman said.

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LIGNANO MEETING, Lignano Sabbiadoro (ITA)

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Jason Day's Outfit At The Open Championship Is Going Viral

Jason Day’s Outfit At The Open Championship Is Going Viral originally appeared on The Spun. Jason Day had fans talking at this week’s Open Championship but it wasn’t about his play… On Tuesday the Australian-born golfer was rocking the fit of all fits on Dunlace Course where he layered his polo with a collared sweater, […]

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Jason Day's Outfit At The Open Championship Is Going Viral

Jason Day’s Outfit At The Open Championship Is Going Viral originally appeared on The Spun.

Jason Day had fans talking at this week’s Open Championship but it wasn’t about his play…

On Tuesday the Australian-born golfer was rocking the fit of all fits on Dunlace Course where he layered his polo with a collared sweater, patterned pants and his Motive-branded visor.

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People were definitely split on Jason’s fashion choice in the comments.

“Dude’s making his outfits speak way louder than his golf. He has a ton of talent not sure where he’s coming from. It’s a spectacle,” a user said.

“Serious question. How does one golf comfortably in this?” another asked.

“Walmart worthy,” a fan replied.

“solid fit, might need to get one for the fall,” another person shared.

“Kind of a rich homeless look,” another fan commented.

“10/10 no notes 🔥☘️” TW Legion posted.

“Big fire,” another user responded.

“The tour visor mixed with that pullover is honestly a nice look. Pants are leaving a lot to be desired. 6.5/10.”

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 09: Jason Day of Australia reacts on the 18th green during a practice round prior to the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 09, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 09: Jason Day of Australia reacts on the 18th green during a practice round prior to the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 09, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Day has been known to make some waves with his outfit choices over the years but usually he sticks the landing.

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The 37-year-old will attempt to capture his first major in 10 years when he tees off in Northern Ireland after tying for second at the Open back in 2023.

The storied tournament gets started on Thursday where golfers will battle it out for a $17 million purse throughout the weekend.

Related: Breaking: Joy Taylor Is Out At FOX Sports

Jason Day’s Outfit At The Open Championship Is Going Viral first appeared on The Spun on Jul 15, 2025

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.

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Miami high school suspends NFL QB Teddy Bridgewater as football coach after shock Facebook post

NFL quarterback and high school football coach Teddy Bridgewater has been suspended from the latter position over allegations of impermissible gifts to student athletes. Bridgewater, 32, won a Class 3A state title at Florida powerhouse Miami Northwestern last season before returning to the NFL as a Detroit Lions backup and making a brief appearance in […]

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Miami high school suspends NFL QB Teddy Bridgewater as football coach after shock Facebook post

NFL quarterback and high school football coach Teddy Bridgewater has been suspended from the latter position over allegations of impermissible gifts to student athletes.

Bridgewater, 32, won a Class 3A state title at Florida powerhouse Miami Northwestern last season before returning to the NFL as a Detroit Lions backup and making a brief appearance in the team’s playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.

He claims the infraction is being ‘self reported’ by Miami Northwest, which happens to be the 2014 first-round pick’s former high school.

‘The suspension came from MNW and it’s impossible to suspend someone who doesn’t work for you,’ he wrote. ‘So if im suspended from MNW im free to go to another school of my choice but IM NOT GOING ANYWHERE.

‘And if it comes down to it, I will volunteer from the bleachers like I used to in 2018 and 2019 when no one had a problem.’

Bridgewater recently posted about providing Uber rides to players and asked supporters of the program for donations to offset his out-of-pocket costs.

‘Today I’m coming to you on behalf of the football team and seeking donations to assist our boys this season and to help me carry the load so I no longer have to take from my personal funds to keep smiles on these young men face and remind them that they matter,’ he wrote online.

‘From daily uber rides, to feeding the boys MLK ($1500 a week) every morning following our morning training sessions to feeding the boys catered pasta during the season, to pride sets, to training camp – I cover ALL THE EXPENSES.’

The Florida High School Athletic Association told Rivals.com it is gathering more information.

It’s unclear how long Bridgewater will be suspended. School spokespeople did not immediately respond to Daily Mail’s request for comment.

Bridgewater has earned $64 million over 10 NFL seasons. 

He retired after serving as Jared Goff’s backup in Detroit after the 2023 season only to make a mid-season return in 2024 after winning a state title in Florida in his first season coaching at the high-school level. 

Bridgewater made a brief appearance in the Divisional Round loss to Washington when Goff was being checked for a concussion. He has a 33-32 record as a starter with 15,120 passing yards and 75 touchdowns. His best season came in 2015 when he was selected to the Pro Bowl as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. 

He is no longer listed on the Lions roster and is currently described as ‘inactive’ on the NFL Players Association website. 

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WNBA star Paige Bueckers' girlfriend goes viral for special request

Dallas Wings rookie guard Paige Bueckers has had quite the week so far. From teaming up with Wingstop to getting showcased on national TV against Caitlin Clark for the first time this past Sunday, the ex-UConn star has quietly begun to make a name for herself. With the assist of her girlfriend Azzi Fudd, Bueckers […]

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WNBA star Paige Bueckers' girlfriend goes viral for special request

Dallas Wings rookie guard Paige Bueckers has had quite the week so far. From teaming up with Wingstop to getting showcased on national TV against Caitlin Clark for the first time this past Sunday, the ex-UConn star has quietly begun to make a name for herself.

With the assist of her girlfriend Azzi Fudd, Bueckers may have taken the next step toward stardom. In an Instagram story from Fudd which has since gone viral, more branding help could be on the way.

READ MORE: Paige Bueckers defends teammate after rough game against Caitlin Clark, Fever

Budd and Fueckers are at it agai

Apr 6, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Paige Bueckers (5) reacts with teammates guard Ashlynn Shade (12) and guard Azzi Fudd (35) during the second half against the South Carolina Gamecocks of the national championship of the women’s 2025 NCAA tournament at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images / Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

“Need some custom Paige/Wings gear,” Fudd wrote. “Who can help??”

Alongside some prayer hand emojis, Fudd made sure her followers knew she meant business.

“Legit offers only,” Fudd added. “I’m being so fr [for real].”

Since making its way to ‘X,’ the post has gained immense attention with over 2,800 likes and 100-plus retweets.

Some fans were baffled by the ordeal, as the team has continued to struggle on the court.

“She saw everyone’s reaction to the wingstop commercials and had to step in,” one fan commented.

“The fact that this is posted after people spent all morning arguing,” another commented. “I’m telling you she has a sixth sense.”

Another says she needs to go about it the right way, with the help of a creative NFL wife.

“Someone tell her to DM Kristin Juszczyk she’s a 49er WAG that makes all the custom gear for NFL/nba wives,” they wrote.

It seems Fudd has yet to answer anyone despite her outcry for help. After all, what is clear is supporting Bueckers no matter how desperate it may come across is one of her top priorities.

It also confirms, or reassures for that matter, the seriousness of their relationship for those who may have doubted it. To others, it may signal a sense of entitlement, though that is up for roaming debate.

For now, it remains to be seen whether anyone comes to Fudd to fulfill her request.

READ MORE: Paige Bueckers shuts down reporter regarding Caitlin Clark question

Stick with WingsGameday for more FREE coverage of the Dallas Wings throughout the 2025 Season.

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Howard County Public Schools change eligibility requirements for athletics

A policy change offers increased opportunity to participate in extracurriculars for students who are struggling academically. Subscribe to continue reading this article. Already subscribed? To log in, click here. Originally Published: July 15, 2025 at 6:00 AM EDT 0

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Howard County Public Schools change eligibility requirements for athletics

A policy change offers increased opportunity to participate in extracurriculars for students who are struggling academically.

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Miami Stingrays train talented young athletes, prepare them for college and life

By Najahe Sherman Click here for updates on this story     MIAMI, Florida (WFOR) — The Miami Stingrays, a powerhouse in softball, have dedicated the last 20 years to training talented athletes for competition on both the state and national level. With pride, they share their remarkable achievement, about 300 young women who have passed through […]

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Miami Stingrays train talented young athletes, prepare them for college and life

By Najahe Sherman

Click here for updates on this story

    MIAMI, Florida (WFOR) — The Miami Stingrays, a powerhouse in softball, have dedicated the last 20 years to training talented athletes for competition on both the state and national level.

With pride, they share their remarkable achievement, about 300 young women who have passed through their ranks have earned scholarships to colleges across the nation.

Taking it to the next level “So, we knew once these kids started getting older, we realized college is now the next step. So now we wanted to make sure we could try and groom these girls to be prepared for college and put them in front of the best colleges in the country and let them showcase themselves,” Gator Rebhan, founder and owner of the Miami Stingrays, said.

“For me a huge part is seeing the girls grow, from just picking up a ball and glove, turning into national elite players,” Miami Stingrays’ Jessie Rebhan said.

For head coach Angie Ugarte, leading the Stingrays carries a profound legacy.

“It’s full circle. My mom started with the Stingrays. She passed away when I was 17 so she never saw me complete that goal of playing college, but there is no doubt that she’s up there watching over and having a hand in all this. Here I am with the same jersey on, just 30 years later, so it’s really something special,” Ugarte said.

More than just the game The Stingrays welcome girls as young as eight, fostering an environment of growth and support.

“My team is there for me, and it’s helped me with a lot of things that I’ve been struggling with,” one player said.

“It has been fun and it’s giving me confidence,” another player said.

With state and national titles under their belts, the Miami Stingrays have developed athletes who have made their mark in NCAA Division I softball across the country. These crucial life lessons will stay with these athletes, guiding them toward bright futures and making Miami proud.

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

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