Minnesota Lynx teammates Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman have created a new space for WNBA fans through their Twitch platform, StudBudz, which launched in June. Their initiative provides not only entertainment but also increased visibility for masculine-presenting queer athletes within the league by sharing authentic moments beyond basketball games.
Since starting the channel, Williams and Hiedeman have used it to reveal aspects of professional athletes‘ lives rarely seen by fans, combining candid interaction with themes of queer identity. Their willingness to embrace their masculine-presenting styles has quietly encouraged other players to express themselves freely and inspired more inclusivity within the WNBA community.
How StudBudz is Elevating Masculine-Presenting Queer Athletes in the WNBA
The StudBudz Twitch stream gained rapid popularity, especially after a 72-hour live broadcast during the WNBA All-Star weekend in July offered a revealing look at behind-the-scenes moments. Clips, like commissioner Cathy Engelbert dancing alongside players, highlighted a fun and relatable side of the league that is not typically visible during games. These streams have helped fans connect with the players on a more personal level while promoting queer visibility in sports.
Natisha Hiedeman expressed the significance of using their Twitch presence to represent diverse identities, stating,
“To use our platform and StudBudz and what we do, just be ourselves and show everybody we’re gettin it poppin right now. Everybody deserves opportunity, no matter what you look like, where you come from etc. This is really the step for that,”
—Natisha Hiedeman, Minnesota Lynx Player.
The attention and engagement from their Twitch shows have also led to lucrative sponsorships with companies like DoorDash and Togethxr, allowing both players to expand their professional opportunities beyond the basketball court. Despite commercial growth, Williams and Hiedeman remain dedicated to fostering visibility and support for the WNBA’s queer and masculine-presenting athletes.
Players Reflect on WNBA’s Evolving Support for Masculine Identities
The growing recognition of masculine-presenting athletes in the WNBA contrasts with previous limitations when the league emphasized a “fem forward” image. Williams and Hiedeman have openly discussed the importance of their platform in changing perceptions. Hiedeman explained,
“We need some love, too. I think it’s great, all the support we’ve been getting. Like, it’s really crazy. And they just get to see our energy and our vibe off the court, which I think is important for us. Show who we are,”
—Natisha Hiedeman, Minnesota Lynx Player.
Courtney Williams added context to the league’s shift by recalling earlier times in her career:
“I think Cheryl (Reeve) said it best. Years ago … that wouldn’t have been a thing. I was a part of this league when that (masculine-presenting athletes) really wasn’t a thing. So to really see how the league has shifted and leaned into more of their masculine players, we’re happy to be here twin,”
—Courtney Williams, Minnesota Lynx Player.
Alongside their efforts off the court, both players have played key roles in leading the Minnesota Lynx to the top position this season, proving their impact extends within the league’s competitive landscape.
Building a Future of Representation and Opportunity
The growing reach of the Courtney Williams WNBA Twitch platform highlights the importance of authentic representation in sports media. By breaking new ground for masculine-presenting queer athletes, Williams and Hiedeman are expanding how fans experience and understand the WNBA. Their streams offer a model for increasing inclusion and fostering community, which may encourage more leagues and players to embrace diverse identities in the years ahead.