In this syndicated article, Voepel argues that the new format and "pod" system isn't working. At least not yet.

So lower attendance, no flurry of upsets ... what's the grade for the eight-site system? For this year, it isn't good. A "C" if we're being charitable. But, to be fair, a more accurate grade is "incomplete."

...everyone involved with the sport takes a "wait-and-see" attitude. Is women's basketball taking steps forward or just steps sideways? Has it been change for change sake? Or will the changes made so far and the ones coming really lead to substantially greater interest in the sport as a whole, instead of the majority of the fan base being linked to specific teams?