Last night’s 2025 WNBA Draft was everything I could have hoped for as a basketball fan: electric, unpredictable and filled with moments that will define the league’s next era. Watching the event unfold live felt less like a traditional draft and more like a celebration of how far women’s basketball has come and the exciting future it has ahead.
As expected, the Dallas Wings selected Paige Bueckers with the No. 1 overall pick. To be honest, I got chills watching her walk across that stage. After everything she has been through in her five years at UCONN, including her season-ending ACL injury, the difficult recovery, and the pressure of returning to a top program, Bueckers responded by leading the Huskies to their 12th national championship. Her court vision, leadership and calm presence in high-pressure moments make her the ideal franchise player for the Wings. After a rough 9-31 season, they have a new cornerstone, making it a thrill to watch Bueckers take charge in Dallas.
Then, the Seattle Storm made a twist by selecting French phenom Dominique Malonga. I have to admit, I did not expect that move. Malonga is only 19 years old, but her defensive presence and international experience bring a unique edge to Seattle’s frontcourt. It will be interesting to watch more European players dominate in the WNBA since they have been dominating in the NBA this past season. The Storm view her as a long-term piece, and the boldness of the pick shows their confidence in her potential.
The biggest winners of the draft were the Washington Mystics. They walked away with three of the top six picks: Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen and Georgia Amoore. That is a powerful trio of athleticism, skill and heart. Citron is a smooth, versatile two-way player. Iriafen plays with relentless energy and emotion. Amoore, standing just 5’6”, brings explosive playmaking and toughness. Washington’s rebuild just got a major boost.
Then there were the Golden State Valkyries, making their debut as the league’s newest expansion team. They made an international splash with the No. 5 pick by selecting Lithuanian guard Justė Jocytė. Her talent is undeniable, but the pick surprised many since some proven college stars were still up for grabs. It is clear that the Valkyries are thinking globally as they build their identity, and that fresh perspective will be fascinating to watch unfold.
One of my favorite moments of the night came when Hailey Van Lith was selected 11th overall by the Chicago Sky. After transferring to TCU and completely rewriting her narrative this past season by giving herself a chance for a championship after her rough season at LSU, it was deeply satisfying to see her hard work recognized. The emotion in the room was palpable. Her grit and scoring ability are bound to make her a fan favorite in Chicago. She will also be reuniting with former LSU teammate Angel Reese. I am excited to watch this duo back on the court together again, especially when they eventually clash with Caitlyn Clark on the Indiana Fever.
Of course, not every story had a happy ending. Once a rising star off the court and vocal advocate for gender inequities in the NCAA, TCU center Sedona Prince went undrafted. It stung. According to Just Women’s Sports, allegations from several women of sexual and physical assault played a huge role in Prince going undrafted.
I admire the WNBA for recognizing the severity of these claims, something most major sports leagues would have brushed over. Still, it was surprising to see someone with her talent and platform left off the board, but ultimately it is a reminder that accountability matters and I respect the WNBA for not looking the other way.
Another tough moment came with a broadcast error during Shyanne Sellers’ selection. Sellers was misidentified by host Hannah O’Flynn, and a picture of Paige Bueckers was shown, making for an awkward on-air moment. She ultimately fell to the 17th pick by the Valkyries, which many analysts viewed as a steal. Sellers has the tools to become a dark horse in this league.
Meanwhile, the former championship runner-ups, the Minnesota Lynx made some interesting choices, focusing on frontcourt depth with the selections of Anastasiia Olairi Kosu, Dalayah Daniels and Aubrey Griffin. Kosu, a 6’6” forward from Russia, is especially intriguing. Her size, defensive ability and long-term upside align with the Lynx’s apparent strategy of prioritizing versatility and strength in the paint.
Later in the night, history was made. Kaitlyn Chen, who played at both Princeton and UConn, became the first player of Taiwanese descent to be drafted into the WNBA. The Valkyries selected her in the third round, and the moment was both heartfelt and groundbreaking as we watched all of her teammates cheer her on.
Harmoni Turner, the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year, also had her moment. Selected in the third round by the Las Vegas Aces, she brings leadership and offensive firepower after guiding Harvard to its first Ivy League title. Her impact could be sneaky big for the franchise.
Looking back, the 2025 WNBA Draft was more than just a showcase of talent. It was clear that no script could have written this night of celebrating women’s basketball better, and as a fan, it reminded me exactly why I love this game. Now, all that is left is to see how these rookies make their mark and tell their stories on the professional court. Something tells me, they will.
Well written. I learned a lot about the rookies and how they fit into the WNBA. Very interesting why certain team selected certain type players to fit into their overall strategy which the author pointed out in a very relevant way. I’m looking forward to seeing how the second year people handle the pressure in this upcoming season. Hope to read more about what’s happening during preseason and the regular season of the WNBA.