Posts by David Mendez-Yapkowitz

David has been with The IX Basketball team since the High Post Hoops days when he joined the staff in 2018. He is based in Los Angeles and covers the LA Sparks, Pac-12 Conference, Big West Conference and some high school as well.

How Gabriela Jaquez has become UCLA’s most versatile player

December 4, 2025

The senior wing has played nearly every position this season

UCLA center Lauren Betts walks off the floor during a Final Four game. She looks down at the court. Fans and the Final Four's "Four It All" slogan are visible but out of focus in the background.

How Lauren Betts’ development helps her WNBA draft stock

November 30, 2025

There’s no doubt that the Bruins’ star center will be a lottery pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft

South Carolina guard Raven Johnson drives to the basket while defended by Texas guard Rori Harmon.

How Raven Johnson is South Carolina’s ‘consummate’ point guard

November 18, 2025

The fifth-year guard is the team’s leader amid several new faces

UCLA guard Gianna Kneepkens looks to make a pass while being defended by UCSB guard Skylar Burke.

How Gianna Kneepkens is fitting in at UCLA

November 9, 2025

The transfer guard has added to the Bruins’ talented roster

UCLA women's basketball players celebrating Big Ten tournament championship. Players wearing championship shirts and medals, holding "Big Ten Tournament Champions" sign and championship trophy.

2025-26 Big Ten preview

October 15, 2025

One year after the expansion to 18 teams, is the conference UCLA’s to lose?

UC San Diego head coach Heidi VanDerveer talks with her team during a timeout at the Big West Championship Game against UC Davis.

2025-26 Big West preview

October 8, 2025

An in-depth look at each team in the Big West

UCLA Bruins forward Janiah Barker (0) shoots against LSU Lady Tigers forward Sa'Myah Smith (5) during the first half of a Elite 8 NCAA Tournament basketball game at Spokane Arena.

Janiah Barker is the X-Factor for UCLA

April 2, 2025

The junior wing has added a different look to the Bruins

UCLA forward Timea Gardiner talks to her teammates in the huddle during a game.

Depth powers UCLA Final Four run

March 30, 2025

The Bruins showcased their ability to withstand a off-game from their star

USC Trojans guard Kennedy Smith shoots the basketball over a defender

Freshmen power USC to Elite Eight without JuJu Watkins

March 30, 2025

Trojans freshmen shined on the national stage

USC's Kennedy Smith runs with UCLA's Kiki Rice as Rice dribbles the ball with her left hand. Rice has her right elbow up as Smith stays on her right hip.

Why Kennedy Smith is such a versatile threat for USC

March 29, 2025

The Trojans wing has been among the most impactful freshmen in the country