One of the most anticipated events of the year for women’s basketball occurred on April 14, at 7:30 P.M., the WNBA draft. Teams all over the nation took their shot at some of the most talented players in college basketball.
The Golden State Valkyries, a new team under the WNBA expansion, made history with their first ever picks in the draft, securing 5th overall pick Juste Jocyte, 17th pick Shyanne Sellers, and 30th overall Kaitlyn Chen. The Washington Mystics were the real winners of the draft, securing 3 first round picks and Zaay Green as the 7th pick of round 3.
In surprise picks from the audience, UConn alums Kaitlyn Chen and Aubrey Griffin were drafted to their respective teams as attendees. This also occurred last year as the Valkyrie’s Kate Martin was drafted to the Las Vegas Aces, in support of her Iowa teammate, Caitlin Clark.
The Dallas Wings suffered a rocky 2024 season, with a record of 9-31. The team secured number 1 pick, University of Connecticut alum Paige Bueckers, who was a 50-40-90 shooter her last season of college basketball. Also securing great players such as Aziha James, Madison Scott, JJ Quinerly, and Aaronette Vonleh, the wings have a successful base for what will hopefully turn into a rebuilding season for the franchise.
The Chicago Sky had the steal of the draft, securing guard Haley Van Lith as the 11th pick of the draft. After a disappointing senior season at Louisiana State University, HVL was able to rebuild her reputation, transferring to Big-12 TCU, and end her last season of eligibility with a 17.9-point average.
Viewership of the league is set to skyrocket with rising talent and brand deals. The 2025 season officially kicks off on May 16th.
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