“The takes will be hot, the jokes will be reckless, and the producers will be sweating.” The post shared by the Phoenix Mercury before the final four games was spot on. With the high-stakes matches on the floor, viewers had an added flavour of ‘pure’ joy following the game. The games were available on ESPN, but fans around the globe accessed them via ESPN’s special coverage, The Bird-Taurasi Show, on YouTube. Stick around, because this is about to get wild.

Two of the very best women’s basketball teams can offer – Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, covering the game was a brilliant idea. With a total of 12 NCAA and WNBA titles, 40+ years of on-court experience between them, who could be more eligible for the game analysis? Then there are Dian Taurasi’s unfiltered takes, blunt and honest opinions, and complementing her – Sue Bird, with her perfect foil, on-the-spot improvisations and her zinger. A perfect mixture. So, when they talk, fans listen closely.

And the listeners got what they wanted. Along with expert analysis and some unheard back stories, there were moments that made the interactions even enjoyable, like the one with Sue Bird teasing Diana on her retirement. Former Seattle star handed Diana a retirement tiara and sash to celebrate her recent retirement. Diana also playfully accepted the gifts, though she had an issue with the tiara. Her reluctance to wear the tiara and Sue’s persistence to put it back on DT’s head was a wholesome moment for Taurasi’s fans who quickly connected with it.

But Sue was not done. A few minutes later, she came up with another souvenir – a cup with “Retired. Not my problem anymore” written on it. A funny prank, which may be only she could get away with considering their relations on and off the court. Diana gladly accepted the cup.

A few fans, though, were unhappy about Diana and Sue talking about their past and experience instead of commenting on the game. Some even pointed out that the commentary team missed a few vital plays from the game.

Maybe this tip would be regarding the ‘traditional’ commenting. But guys, they are Sue and Diana Taurasi, probably the best-suited athletes, who have been at this stage many times and have a lot to talk about.  Yet, there was more support for the Sue-Diana show as a few fans even called out for more coverage from the two stars. Luckily, fans will have DT and Sue back for the final game of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Division I Tournament.

Fans look forward to the Sue Bird-Diana Taurasi Show every year

Fans certainly enjoyed the coverage, the drama unfolded, and names being called out unintentionally. But this isn’t the first time the WNBA icons have hosted the alternate ESPN2 broadcast. The pair became known last year for their viral moments and wide-ranging conversations with celebrity guests, current players, and coaches. It’s basketball talk without the filter—raw, relaxed, and funny. So, the pair was in the box earlier, and it quickly became a fan favorite. Their NCAA Final Four coverage for last season was also a hit. And fans, along with the March Madness games, look for the Sue-Diana commentary.

Taurasi and Sue Bird were commentating on the game with their expert analysis on most of the shots; some unheard stories shared in between, a few of the famous and infamous incidents revisited, keeping the run more intriguing for the fans. The natural flow of the show, coupled with a few lovely banters in between, was a treat for the fans. Some were even asking for the Bird and Taurasi show, even for other sports. One fan wrote, “the #BirdandTaurasiShow is the best, give me this every game. heck do it for other sports too. Bird and Taurasi for NFL? i’d watch.” 

Who would not want to listen to behind-the-scenes insights, unapologetic commentary and unscripted banter? Another DT banger came in the show when she stated ‘I can still ball’ looking at the college basketball game. Wow, this could spur a new story, Phoenix Mercury, are you listening? They sure did and replied with “Dee, you retired like seven business days ago. But training is in 23 days if you tryna run it back?” comment.

While both retired stars did their best, educating and entertaining the fans, many showed love to their ‘favs’. One fan loved Sue Bird’s casual attire; another wanted a beer with Diana Taurasi and to hear her views on the game, and may be get some more inside coverage. Well, when it’s DT, you are not short on content.

Moreover, Taurasi and Bird’s chemistry has been different. The duo won titles together for the national side and UConn while fiercely competing against each other on WNBA courts. Still, there is love, respect clearly visible. And a mixture of all this makes the show a unique and entertaining companion to the traditional game coverage. The NCAA matches are getting intense, and the players pour their hearts out on the court. But to spice up the final stages of the game, there are no better commentators than Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi.