More than 2.5 million viewers tuned in for the 2024 WNBA Draft, marking the highest viewership in league history for good reason. Caitlin Clark’s exceptional college career, culminating in record-breaking achievements, set the stage. Her selection as the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever added to the anticipation. Now, fans eagerly await her debut in the professional arena.
However, Clark is not the only draft pick generating excitement for the upcoming WNBA season. Cameron Brink (Stanford) was selected second overall by the Los Angeles Sparks, Kamilla Cardoso (South Carolina) joined the Chicago Sky at No. 3, and Rickea Jackson (Tennessee) teamed up with Brink on the Sparks at No. 4. Angel Reese from LSU was also picked up by the Sky at No. 7.
While there is a plethora of talented rookies entering the league, not everyone will secure a spot on a roster. It’s important for newcomers and fans to manage expectations, especially considering the fierce competition and limited roster spots beyond the top picks. Players like Clark, Brink, Cardoso, Jackson, Jacy Sheldon (drafted by the Dallas Wings at No. 5), Aaliyah Edwards (drafted by the Washington Mystics at No. 6), Reese, and Alissa Pili (Utah) drafted by the Minnesota Lynx at No. 8) are likely locks, but late-round picks face a tougher road.
Rebecca Lobo, a longtime analyst and former WNBA player, highlighted the challenges late-round picks face due to salary cap considerations. The training camp began on April 28th, and the competition is intense across all teams. Here’s a breakdown of some late-round picks with a strong chance of making a roster based on team needs, salary cap space, and potential:
1. Brynna Maxwell, Chicago Sky, Pick No. 13: Maxwell’s sharpshooting abilities make her a valuable addition to the Sky, especially with open roster spots and a revamped team.
2. Nika Mühl, Seattle Storm, Pick No. 14: Mühl’s defensive prowess and playmaking skills could give her an edge in a competitive guard lineup for the Storm.
3. Celeste Taylor, Indiana Fever, Pick No. 15: Taylor’s experience and defensive strengths align well with the Fever’s roster needs under coach Christie Sides.
4. Dyaisha Fair, Las Vegas Aces, Pick No. 16: Fair’s game impressed coach Becky Hammon, and the Aces’ need for depth at point guard positions could give her significant playing opportunities.
5. Charisma Osborne, Phoenix Mercury, Pick No. 25: Osborne’s additional year of development in college positions her well to contribute to the Mercury’s future plans, given their roster flexibility and focus on grooming young talent.
Despite the challenges, these players have attributes and opportunities that could lead to successful WNBA careers, especially as the league expands in the future.
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