The 2025 WNBA Draft held at The Shed in New York City, marked a pivotal for the league’s future. With 38 players selected over three rounds, teams made strategic moves to bolster their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.
The Dallas Wings secured UConn star Paige Bueckers as the No. 1 overall pick. Bueckers, a dynamic point guard known for her scoring and playmaking abilities, led the Huskies to a national championship title in 2025. Her selection is expected to boost up a Wings team aiming to rebound from a challenging 9-31 season. Pairing Bueckers with standout guard Arike Ogunbowale could create one of the league’s most formidable backcourts.
In a standout draft-day move, the Seattle Storm traded veteran Jewell Loyd to acquire the No. 2 pick, selecting 19-year-old Dominique Malonga. Standing at 6’6’’ with a 7’1’’ wingspan, Malonga brings a rare combination of size, skill, and international experience, including earning herself a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Her versatility and athleticism are expected to make an immediate impact alongside Seattle’s veteran core on the court.
The Washington Mystics capitalized on multiple first-round selections, adding Notre Dame’s Sonia Citron (No. 3), USC’s Kiki Iriafen (No. 4), and Kentucky’s Georgia Amoore (No. 6). Citron’s shooting prowess, Iriafen’s post presence, and Amoore’s playmaking skills provide the Mystics with a very versatile and talented rookie class poised to contribute to the team immediately.
The expansion team Golden State Valkyries made their inaugural draft pick by selecting Lithuanian guard Juste Jocyte at No. 5. Jocyte, known for her quick scoring ability and international experience, is expected to be a cornerstone for the new franchise as they build their identity in the league this upcoming season.
The Chicago Sky focused on building a dynamic roster by selecting Slovenian forward Ajsa Sivka (No. 10) and TCU guard Hailey Van Lith (No. 11). These additions complement last year’s standout rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, forming a very youthful, promising and talented nucleus under new head coach Tyler Marsh.
The 2025 WNBA Draft garnered an average of 1.25 million viewers, making it the second-most watched draft in league history. This surge in viewership underscores the increasing popularity and investment in women’s basketball, signaling a promising future for the WNBA.
As teams integrate their new talent, the upcoming season promises to showcase the league’s talented and evolving landscape and the emergence of its next generation of stars.