The 2025 WNBA draft took place on Monday in New York, and this year’s event saw some of the brightest talents from college basketball make their transition to the professional realm. Top of the list was the former UConn Huskies standout, Paige Bueckers, who was selected first overall by the Dallas Wings.
Bueckers, a 5-foot-11 guard from Hopkins, Minnesota, has made headlines throughout her college career. With an impressive average of 19.9 points per game and a 41.9% shooting success rate from beyond the arc, she earned accolades such as the 2021 AP Player of the Year and a three-time AP All-American. Teaming up with fellow talented guard Arike Ogunbowale, Bueckers promises to bring her dynamic playing style to the Wings.
First Round Highlights
The excitement didn’t stop with Bueckers. The first round introduced several remarkable players:
2. Seattle Storm: Dominique Malonga, France
The 6-foot-6 center had a stunning season in France, average 15.0 points and 10.3 rebounds. She impressed many observers with her athletic ability.
3. Washington Mystics: Sonia Citron, Notre Dame
Citron, a versatile 6-foot-1 guard, averaged 14.1 points and showcased her defensive prowess during her time at Notre Dame.
4. Washington Mystics: Kiki Iriafen, Southern California
Iriafen’s outstanding performance as a 6-foot-3 forward included an average of 18.0 points and 8.4 rebounds.
5. Golden State Valkyries: Juste Jocyte, Lithuania
A versatile guard, Jocyte showcased her scoring potential in EuroBasket qualifiers.
6. Washington Mystics: Georgia Amoore, Kentucky
Amoore, standing at 5-foot-6, has a wealth of experience with her career-high scoring of 19.6 points stage.
7. Connecticut Sun: Aneesah Morrow, LSU
Morrow led the nation in double-doubles with 18.7 points and 13.5 rebounds.
8. Connecticut Sun: Saniya Rivers, N.C. State
Rivers was acknowledged for her all-around skills on both offense and defense.
9. Los Angeles Sparks: Sarah Ashlee Barker, Alabama
Barker ended her college career on a high note with a record-setting performance.
10. Chicago Sky: Ajsa Sivka, Slovenia
Sivka’s size and scoring ability make her a valuable addition to the Sky’s roster.
11. Chicago Sky: Hailey Van Lith, TCU
Van Lith reunites with Angel Reese in Chicago after a standout season at TCU, averaging 17.9 points per game.
12. Dallas Wings: Aziaha James, N.C. State
James’s performances helped her roundup a career-high of 17.9 points per game, making her a solid choice for the Wings.
This year’s draft displayed a remarkable depth of talent, promising an exciting future for the WNBA.
