The 2025 WNBA Draft, held on April 14 at The Shed in Manhattan, New York, was a landmark event for women’s basketball, highlighted by the Dallas Wings selecting Paige Bueckers as the No. 1 overall pick.
🏀Paige Bueckers’ Emotional Selection
Paige Bueckers, the standout guard from UConn, was visibly emotional upon hearing her name called as the first overall pick. Dressed in a sleek black suit adorned with sparkles, she attended the event with her family, close teammates, including Azzi Fudd, and coach Geno Auriemma. Bueckers expressed deep gratitude for her family’s support, stating, “I’m just trying to stay present and enjoy the moment.”
🏀Dallas Wings’ Strategic Picks
The Dallas Wings, aiming to rebuild after a challenging 9–31 season, made significant moves during the draft. In addition to Bueckers, they selected NC State guard Aziaha James, bolstering their backcourt. These selections are part of a broader strategy under new general manager Curt Miller, who has also acquired players like Dijonai Carrington, Tyasha Harris, and NaLyssa Smith to strengthen the roster.
đź“ŠNotable Draft Moments
- Washington Mystics’ Aggressive Moves: The Mystics secured three of the top six picks, selecting Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and Georgia Amoore, signaling a commitment to building a strong young core.
- Golden State Valkyries’ Bold Choice: The newly established expansion team, Golden State Valkyries, made a surprising pick by selecting Lithuanian guard Juste Jocyte at No. 5, a decision that sparked discussions among analysts.
- Hailey Van Lith’s Rise: Once considered a fringe prospect, Hailey Van Lith’s impressive season with TCU elevated her to the No. 11 pick by the Chicago Sky.
Fashion Highlights
Beyond the basketball selections, the draft night also showcased the players’ fashion statements. Paige Bueckers’ all-black ensemble with sparkles was a standout, reflecting her poised and confident demeanor as she steps into the professional arena.
With the addition of Paige Bueckers and other key players, the Dallas Wings are poised for a transformative season. The team’s strategic acquisitions and upcoming move to a new $54 million facility in Dallas by 2026 underscore their commitment to building a competitive and dynamic franchise.
