RJ’S Callie Lawson-Freeman tells her story, talks WNBA CBA, Runnin’ Rebels & Lady Rebels

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — In the latest edition of the Salmond Sit Down, sports director Bryan Salmond welcomed Callie Lawson-Freeman of the Las Vegas Review-Journal for an in-depth conversation about her path into sports journalism and what it’s been like covering some of the biggest teams in Southern Nevada.

Lawson-Freeman’s journey into sports media began with her own experiences as an athlete. She attended San Francisco State University, where she competed in track and field, running hurdles and sprints. During the interview, she explained how competing at the collegiate level helped shape her perspective as a reporter. Understanding the grind of training, balancing school, and competing at a high level gave her insight into the lives of athletes she now covers.

That athletic background ultimately helped spark her interest in storytelling within sports. Lawson-Freeman discussed how she transitioned from athlete to journalist, working her way through opportunities in digital media and reporting before landing in Las Vegas. Now with the Review-Journal, she covers some of the most prominent programs and teams in the city.

One of the major topics in the discussion was the current state of the Women’s National Basketball Association. With the league and players currently working toward a new collective bargaining agreement in New York, Lawson-Freeman shared insight into the ongoing negotiations and what they could mean for the future of the league. From player salaries to revenue growth and working conditions, the outcome of the talks could have a significant impact as the WNBA continues to gain momentum nationwide.

Covering the Las Vegas Aces has put Lawson-Freeman at the center of that momentum. She spoke about the unique experience of reporting on a championship-caliber franchise and the energy surrounding the team and its fanbase in Las Vegas. The conversation also shifted to college athletics, where she regularly covers both the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels and UNLV Lady Rebels. Lawson-Freeman described the evolving identity of both programs and the passion surrounding UNLV basketball in the city.

Throughout the sit-down, the conversation highlighted how Lawson-Freeman’s background as a student-athlete continues to influence her reporting style. Whether covering professional champions or collegiate programs building toward success, she approaches each story with an understanding of the dedication and pressure athletes face.

The interview offered viewers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Las Vegas’ rising sports journalists, while also shedding light on the stories shaping the local and national sports landscape. From the track at San Francisco State to the press rows covering the Aces and UNLV, Lawson-Freeman’s journey reflects a career built on persistence, perspective and a passion for sports storytelling.