This year’s WNBA draft did not disappoint. After months of speculation, we know now where these talented college basketball stars are headed in the professional league. While most picks followed due course, there were quite a handful of surprises too.

Among the ones that would not have been terribly hard to call, NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer Caitlin Clark was picked by the Indian Fever as their top choice. The 22-year-old has had a historic career with the Hawkeyes, ending with her being the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer. Finishing her career with 3,951 points and ranking second in assists per game, the 6 ft guard will join a young core at Indianapolis alongside Aaliyah Boston, NaLyssa Smith, and Kelsey Mitchell. Having second-lowest attendance in the WNBA last year, the arrival of Clark will likely boost the overall popularity of the team.

Following this, Pac-12 Player Of The Year Cameron Brink was the second overall pick, now plying her trade for the Los Angeles Sparks. Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, Brink brings with her the ability to score from all over the court. More so, her ability to complement offensive play with defensive anchoring makes her a worthy addition to the three-time champions. The Sparks got to choose one more dynamic talent and they decided to go with Tennessee’s small forward Rickea Jackson. As it turns out, this is the first time in their history they got to choose 2 out of the first 4 picks. Jackson’s versatility adds strength to this formidable roster. Further, she has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of the former Tennessee alumni Candace Parker.

Meanwhile, Chicago Sky also got their hands full with some very feisty choices.

Chicago Sky turn up the heat

One of the headlining developments of the night was the inclusion of SEC rivals Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese in the same roster. Both these fiery characters will now play for the Chicago Sky. Cardoso was the first choice as she was picked ahead of Reese claiming the third position. The Brazilian athlete is a two-time national champion and can play a vital part if Chicago wishes to repeat the heroics of their 2021 season. As for the three-time All-American and 2023 NCAA champion Reese, her competitive attitude can do wonders for the franchise.

The other noteworthy first-round picks were Jacy Sheldon (5th) and Carla Leite (9th) in Dallas Wings, Washington Mystics getting Aaliyah Edwards (6th), Alissa Pili (8th) in Minnesota Lynx, and Leïla Lacan (10th) heading to the Connecticut Sun. Last Year’s runners up the New York Liberty will have former Ole Miss small forward Marquesha Davis on the roster while Aussie Nyadiew Puoch was the final first-round pick for the Atlanta Dream. Additionally, the second round had some striking draft picks as well.

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Other stars on the cards

Two-time WNBA winners the Las Vegas Aces were in the pick of things in the second-round draft picks. Caitlin Clark’s teammate Kate Martin and Syracuse’s guard were their foremost selections. In addition to this, Virginia Tech’s stalwart player Elizabeth Kitley was also considered a necessity for the roster. In the meantime, the other finalists from last year’s championship game New York Liberty could utilize Esmery Martinez and Jessika Carter in their upcoming season. However, there were also some disappointments garnering around the late Seattle Storm incorporation of the Croatian superstar Nikal Muhl in its ranks.

Hopefully, each can make the money’s worth. Did you enjoy this year’s WNBA draft? What are your thoughts on the picks?