UConn star Paige Bueckers is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. The subsequent selections are highly uncertain, making this draft particularly intriguing.
Each April, a pivotal event occurs that signifies the transition in women’s basketball.
As the transfer portal remains active and the coaching carousel continues, the annual WNBA Draft signifies the conclusion of the college season and the commencement of play in the premier professional women’s basketball league globally.
With Paige Bueckers expected to be the top pick for the Dallas Wings, the first round of the draft will likely feature other notable prospects such as 6-foot-6 Dominique Malonga from France, Aneesah Morrow from LSU, Sonia Citron from Notre Dame, Hailey Van Lith from TCU, and dynamic guards from N.C. State.
Interestingly, six teams will enter Monday night’s draft without first-round picks: the Atlanta Dream, Minnesota Lynx, Las Vegas Aces, Indiana Fever, New York Liberty, and the Phoenix Mercury, having traded their picks or lost them due to league violations.
During the draft, we will evaluate each pick in real-time, considering trades and unexpected developments as they unfold. Stay updated with instant analysis on each of the first 12 selections.
Here are the current picks:
1. Dallas Wings: Paige Bueckers, UConn
Grade: A+
This selection is a clear choice. Bueckers has been a top contender for this pick, drawing comparisons to stars like Chelsea Gray and Chris Paul. Her versatility as a guard at UConn demonstrates her skills as a top passer, shooter, rebounder, and defender. Bueckers has the capability to score at all levels, creating shots for herself and others while excelling in catch-and-shoot situations. Additionally, she is a capable defender, entering the WNBA as a national champion and a highly regarded prospect.
2. Seattle Storm: Dominique Malonga, France
Grade: A
American fans will quickly learn about Malonga, who has been likened to Victor Wembanyama. With a 6-foot-6 frame and a 7-foot-1 wingspan, she is known for her explosive athleticism. At just 19, she was named MVP in the EuroCup and is considered one of the best players in the French league. Evaluators have noted her potential to become a player of Lisa Leslie’s caliber with the ability to shoot from beyond the arc.
3. Washington Mystics: Sonia Citron, Notre Dame
Grade: A
Citron’s talents were often overshadowed at Notre Dame by her standout teammates, yet she is recognized as a defensive powerhouse and a clutch offensive player. With a 37 percent 3-point shooting rate, she embodies the ideal three-and-D wing player.
4. Washington Mystics: Kiki Iriafen, USC
Grade: B
The 6-foot-3 forward, who played at both Stanford and USC, is a strong rim-runner and versatile player, drawing comparisons to Chiney Ogwumike. However, she may face competition for minutes with fellow forward Aaliyah Edwards. Iriafen’s defensive abilities make her a valuable asset, even as her offensive consistency develops.
5. Golden State Valkyries: Juste Jocyte, Lithuania
Grade: C
Jocyte, who has been professionally active in France since 2019, marks the Valkyries’ inaugural draft pick, although her immediate contributions remain uncertain. Known for her offensive skills and pick-and-roll proficiency, questions linger about her defensive capabilities and durability.
6. Washington Mystics: Georgia Amoore, Kentucky
Grade: A-
The Mystics capitalized on the opportunity presented by the Valkyries at No. 5, selecting Amoore, who could be their future point guard. An Australian player with impressive court vision, she has ranked among the top nationally in assists for two consecutive seasons, showcasing her ability to shoot effectively off screens.
7. Connecticut Sun: Aneesah Morrow, LSU
Grade: B-
As the second-greatest rebounder in Division I NCAA women’s basketball history, Morrow’s relentless motor led her to average 18.7 points and 13.5 rebounds per game. While she needs to improve her scoring consistency, she will likely have the chance to grow in her rookie season with the Sun.
8. Connecticut Sun: Saniya Rivers, N.C. State
Grade: A-
The Chicago Sky’s GM dubbed Rivers “maybe the best athlete” in the draft. Standing at 6-foot-1 with a 6-foot-5 wingspan, she possesses great court vision and the ability to drive to the basket. Rivers’ potential is immense, although her offensive game requires refinement; her defensive prowess will keep her competitive in the WNBA.
