The 2025 WNBA Draft is set to be an exciting event, with UConn's Paige Bueckers leading the pack as the anticipated top pick. Bueckers has been a standout player and has opted to utilize her fifth year of eligibility, solidifying her status as a frontrunner. However, the draft class is rich with talent, featuring a diverse group of lead guards, scorers, and wings who are eager to make their mark in the league.
Bueckers and several other top prospects, including players from Notre Dame and NC State, are currently showcasing their skills in the NCAA Tournament. UConn is vying for its first national championship since 2016, which would also be Bueckers' first title. While the draft date of April 14 in New York City may seem distant, it is just eight days after the national championship game, creating an exciting and high-stakes atmosphere for these athletes.
Prior to the NCAA Tournament, six WNBA general managers shared their thoughts on the upcoming draft class with The Athletic. Given anonymity, they provided candid opinions on the prospects, noting their strengths and potential areas for improvement. In this article, we will delve into evaluations of some of the most promising players, including Georgia Amoore, Paige Bueckers, and Sonia Citron, among others.
Georgia Amoore | 5-6 guard | Kentucky
Average Stats: 19.6 ppg, 6.9 apg, 36.7 mpg
“Georgia Amoore is a great college basketball player with the potential to transition into a rotational WNBA player. Her ability to run a team and create easy scoring opportunities will be vital. Although her size poses challenges, her shooting and playmaking skills make her a valuable asset.”
Paige Bueckers* | 5-11 guard | UConn
Average Stats: 18.7 ppg, 4.8 apg, 63.4 TS%
“Bueckers is viewed as an All-Star level talent, capable of playing with or without the ball. Her scoring ability at all three levels and defensive capabilities make her a top prospect. Concerns linger about her physical health, but her leadership and preparedness mark her as a franchise player.”
Sonia Citron | 6-1 wing | Notre Dame
Average Stats: 14.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 38.1 3-PT%
“Citron is a total package player with a strong scoring presence and the ability to defend multiple positions. Her high basketball IQ and composed play style make her an intriguing prospect for teams looking for a 3-and-D player.”
Azzi Fudd* | 5-11 guard | UConn
Average Stats: 13.2 ppg, 1.2 spg, 44.8 3-PT%
“Fudd's shooting ability is impressive, but concerns about her overall impact and health may affect her draft stock. If she can showcase her shooting consistently, she could become a valuable 'three-and-D' player.”
Aziaha James | 5-9 guard | NC State
Average Stats: 17.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.7 apg
“James is a dynamic scorer with strong finishing skills and defensive capabilities. Her adaptability to defensive strategies will be a key factor in her success at the next level.”
Olivia Miles* | 5-10 guard | Notre Dame
Average Stats: 15.5 ppg, 5.9 apg, 40.1 3-PT%
“Miles is seen as one of the safest picks after Bueckers, with exceptional passing skills and court vision. If her shooting remains consistent, she could significantly impact any team.”
Te-Hina Paopao | 5-9 guard | South Carolina
Average Stats: 9.7 ppg, 2.9 apg, 37.1 3-PT%
“Paopao's long-range shooting and leadership qualities stand out, but her ability to create her own shots will be pivotal in her transition to the WNBA.”
Saniya Rivers | 6-1 guard/wing | NC State
Average Stats: 11.8 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 3.6 apg
“Rivers possesses incredible athleticism but must develop her shooting consistency. Her potential as a versatile player makes her an intriguing prospect.”
Shyanne Sellers | 6-2 wing | Maryland
Average Stats: 14.2 ppg, 4.2 apg, 41.8 3-PT%
“Sellers showcases great size and athleticism, but questions remain about her reliability and health. Her adaptability to various positions will be crucial in the WNBA.”
Hailey Van Lith | 5-7 guard | TCU
Average Stats: 17.7 ppg, 5.5 apg, 1.2 spg
“Van Lith is a tough competitor with a high basketball IQ, known for her scoring ability. Her performance in clutch moments will be vital, along with her defensive improvements.”
The 2025 WNBA Draft promises to showcase a plethora of talent, with Paige Bueckers leading a group of dynamic players. As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, these prospects will continue to make their case for a bright future in the WNBA. With the draft date approaching, teams will be keenly watching these players' performances to determine who will make the biggest impact at the next level.