**About The Guest(s):**

Ariel Atkins is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Washington Mystics in the WNBA. She is a two-time state champion from Duncanville, Texas, and played college basketball at the University of Texas. Atkins is also an Olympian, having represented the United States in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.​

**Summary:**

In this episode of the It's Just Different podcast, host Ashley Roberts interviews Ariel Atkins, a professional basketball player and Olympian. They discuss Ariel's basketball journey, from playing in high school to college and now in the WNBA. Ariel shares her experiences and insights on topics such as the importance of networking, the differences between playing in college and the pros, and the challenges and rewards of being an Olympian. They also delve into the topic of AAU basketball and the importance of balance and fun in youth sports.

​**Key Takeaways:**

- Ariel Atkins emphasizes the importance of networking and building relationships off the court, especially in college.

- She believes that the key to success in basketball is being in the best shape possible and focusing on conditioning during the offseason.

- Ariel reflects on her college basketball experience at the University of Texas and the lessons she learned about discipline and being a pro.

- She highlights the differences between playing in college and the WNBA, including the faster pace and physicality of the professional game.

- Ariel shares her thoughts on the biggest issue in girls youth basketball, emphasizing the importance of kids having fun and not specializing too early.​

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Ashley on IG: _thisisashleyr

Ariel on IG: iamarielatkins

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