Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink, among others, have made this year’s WNBA draft one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory. Not only are there numerous talented players available, but their popularity among basketball fans is also remarkable.
According to ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo, Caitlin may be a bit on her own wavelength, but the level of excitement surrounding her is unparalleled. Lobo notes that players like Angel Reese and Cameron Brink have garnered significant followings, both on social media and throughout their college careers.
“There are women who will be joining the draft this year, and many people are excited to see how their game will translate at this level,” said [speaker’s name].
Clark’s signature logo shots and dazzling passing ability have played a significant role in attracting millions of new fans to the game. The NCAA championship game, where South Carolina defeated the Hawkeyes, witnessed a record-breaking viewership of 18.9 million, largely due to Clark’s contributions.
The Indiana Fever will have the first pick in the draft on Monday night at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The NCAA Division I all-time scoring leader will be selected by the Fever in front of a crowd of 1,000 fans.
ESPN analyst Andraya Carter expressed her excitement about the upcoming draft, noting that it will be the first time fans are allowed to attend. She believes that this addition will make the event even more special, as viewers at home will be able to see and hear the crowd’s energy and enthusiasm.
Clark is the clear favorite to be the first overall pick, but the Los Angeles Sparks have several options for the second pick. Brink, Tennessee’s Rickea Jackson, and South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso have all been considered for the position. Additionally, the Sparks also have the No. 4 pick, with Chicago choosing third.
“They are absolutely fundamental. They present an amazing opportunity for our organization,” expressed Raegan Pebley, the General Manager of the Sparks. “We are certainly looking for two players who not only possess the necessary skills to make an immediate impact, but also have immense potential for growth. We want them to have ample opportunities to develop and not only excel individually, but also have a positive influence on the team as a whole, as we strive to build a stronger unit.”
The WNBA draft order has Dallas in fifth place and Washington in sixth. The first round will see the selection of players from Minnesota, Chicago, Dallas, Connecticut, New York, and Atlanta. A total of 36 picks will be made across three rounds.
Let’s dive into some additional details for the draft:
Injury setbacks
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Mackenzie Holmes from Indiana and Elizabeth Kitley from Virginia Tech, both All-Americans, unfortunately won’t be able to participate in the upcoming WNBA season due to knee injuries. In a recent social media post, Holmes shared that she will undergo surgery next month to address her condition.
“I’ve made the decision to undergo surgery in May to prioritize my physical health and prolong my successful playing career,” she announced. “In doing so, I hope to prevent any future complications and alleviate the pain that I’ve been experiencing. I have officially declared for the 2024 WNBA draft and I’m hopeful that a team will recognize my potential and select me, fully aware that I’ll be fully prepared for the start of the 2025 training camp.”
Kitley suffered an ACL tear in her left knee during Virginia Tech’s last regular season game, which caused her to sit out the entire postseason.
According to Pebley, witnessing a player get injured is always tough, especially during a significant season like Virginia Tech was having. However, Pebley believes that the player in question has a promising future ahead. Pebley describes her as having a lot of potential and expects her to excel due to her versatility, footwork abilities, and impact around the rim.
Invitees
The WNBA extended invitations to 15 players for the draft on Monday. This includes Clark, Reese, Brink, Jackson, Cardoso, and Kitley. Also on the list are Aaliyah Edwards and Nika Muhl from UConn, Charisma Osborne from UCLA, Celeste Taylor and Jacy Sheldon from Ohio State, Alissa Pili from Utah, Marquesha Davis from Mississippi, Dyaisha Fair from Syracuse, and Nyadiew Puoch from Australia.
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