Explore the Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025. Meet the 9 most promising prospects set to make a major impact in the WNBA next season.
Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025 talk is already buzzing, and the season hasn’t even wrapped yet. But if you’ve followed women’s college basketball or the WNBA draft trends, you know that 2025 is shaping up to be a transformational year.
With the explosion of NIL deals, transfer portal shakeups, and a star-studded NCAA season underway, the draft class of 2025 is loaded with elite talent ready to make an immediate impact.
Here’s a look at the top WNBA draft picks 2025, ranked by potential, pro-readiness, and hype.
📈 Why the 2025 WNBA Draft Class Is So Highly Anticipated
Before we dig into the names, let’s talk about why 2025 matters:
- Several top-tier players delayed draft entry in 2024
- NIL kept some big names in college longer, maturing their game
- The league is expanding (soon), and teams want to secure franchise players
- Rising fan interest is putting draft night under the national spotlight
The Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025 are more than prospects—they’re the future faces of the league.
🔥 Top 9 WNBA Draft Picks 2025 to Watch Closely
1. Paige Bueckers – UConn
Bueckers is back and better than ever after bouncing back from injury. With her leadership, court vision, and icy midrange game, she’s a projected top-three pick.
Why She’s a Lock:
- Elite shot creator and playmaker
- High basketball IQ
- National Player of the Year potential in 2025
She’s been ready since her freshman year—and now she’s even more refined.
2. JuJu Watkins – USC
A true scoring machine, JuJu Watkins could be a generational offensive talent if she declares.
Strengths:
- Already averaging 25+ PPG in college
- NBA range, elite footwork
- Draws double teams regularly
If eligible, she’s going top 3 without question.
3. Hannah Hidalgo – Notre Dame
Hidalgo is a lightning bolt on both ends. Her defense leads the NCAA in steals, and her offensive growth is soaring.
Why She’s Special:
- Leads NCAA in steals
- Quick, aggressive guard play
- Energizer and tone-setter
A coach’s dream and a fan favorite in the making.
4. Kamilla Cardoso – South Carolina
Towering at 6’7”, Cardoso is WNBA-ready from a physical standpoint. Her defensive presence alone could transform any team.
Key Draft Assets:
- Shot-blocking and rim protection
- Improved post offense
- Dominant rebounder
She’s a top-tier center in a league that craves size.
5. Angel Reese – LSU / Chicago Sky
If Angel Reese declares or re-enters, she’s a potential lottery pick again—even after her WNBA debut. Some mock drafts suggest she might reclassify or reenter due to eligibility rules.
Why She Stays Relevant:
- Double-double consistency
- Elite rebounder
- Huge media profile
A potential marketing goldmine and a frontcourt presence.
6. Aaliyah Edwards – UConn / Washington Mystics
Edwards has shown tremendous development and is already in the league—but her draft journey and performance are still relevant to 2025 draft narratives.
What Makes Her a Pro-Level Threat:
- High motor
- Versatile forward play
- Team-first mindset
Expect comparisons to her continued growth throughout 2025.
7. Janiah Barker – Texas A&M
Barker brings flair, physicality, and stretch-forward capabilities. If she stays healthy, she’s a lock for the lottery.
Draft Highlights:
- Agile and athletic
- Can guard multiple positions
- Developing perimeter game
Could be the “sleeper” top-5 pick of the class.
8. Isuneh “Ice” Brady – UConn
With UConn stacking talent, Brady is still carving out her role, but her upside is massive.
Why Teams Are Watching:
- Great size and footwork
- Soft hands in the post
- Improving rapidly
A project? Maybe. But the ceiling is sky-high.
9. Hailey Van Lith – LSU
With elite scoring ability and SEC experience, Van Lith is a dangerous combo guard with WNBA-ready confidence.
Pros:
- Clutch shooter
- Handles pressure
- Versatile offensive bag
If she refines her decision-making, she becomes a solid late-first-round pick.
📊 What Scouts Are Looking for in Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025
Teams evaluating Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025 are focused on:
- Consistency under pressure
- Positional versatility
- 3-level scoring ability
- Basketball IQ and leadership
- Fit within modern WNBA offenses
The 2025 class offers both instant contributors and long-term upside.
🌍 Will International Players Make a Splash in 2025?
Absolutely. Several international stars are climbing draft boards, including:
- Leïla Lacan (France): Lightning-quick point guard with elite decision-making
- Carla Leite (Spain): A smooth wing scorer who can also distribute
International influence is growing fast, and 2025 could see a global draft class.
🧠 How Draft Eligibility Works in the WNBA
To be eligible for the WNBA Draft in 2025, players must:
- Turn 22 years old during the calendar year
- Have completed college eligibility or declare early
- Be four years removed from high school graduation
These rules affect which players actually enter the 2025 pool.
📢 Where to Watch and Track the 2025 WNBA Draft
The 2025 WNBA Draft will be broadcast live on ESPN, typically in April. Expect full coverage on:
👉 Also Read: Latest Trending News
🌐 WNBA.com – For official draft order, player profiles, and more.
🏁 Conclusion
The Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025 are some of the most exciting prospects the league has seen in years. With players like Paige Bueckers, JuJu Watkins, and Kamilla Cardoso ready to make immediate waves, teams picking in the lottery have a golden opportunity to reshape their future.
The 2025 WNBA Draft won’t just change rosters—it’ll change the league.
❓FAQs – Top WNBA Draft Picks 2025
1. When is the WNBA Draft 2025?
It’s expected to take place in April 2025, after the NCAA women’s tournament ends.
2. Who is projected to be the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft 2025?
Currently, Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins are leading the projections depending on eligibility.
3. Will international players be drafted in 2025?
Yes, several international stars are expected to enter and could go in the first round.
4. Where can I watch the WNBA Draft live?
You can watch it on ESPN, and follow updates on WNBA.com.
5. Are NIL deals affecting the draft?
Yes. Many players are staying longer in college due to lucrative NIL deals, delaying entry into the draft.
