No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show
Episode: Paige Bueckers goes #1 + WNBA Draft Winners and Losers
Release Date: April 15, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of No Offseason, hosted by Zena Kada alongside Chantelle Jennings, Sabrina Merchant, and Ben Pickman, the hosts delve deep into the highlights and key takeaways from the 2025 WNBA Draft. Focusing primarily on Paige Bueckers being selected as the number one pick, the team-by-team breakdown, standout players, and the broader implications for the league's future, this episode offers comprehensive insights for fans and those keen on the evolving landscape of women's basketball.
Overview of the 2025 WNBA Draft
The episode kicks off with a recap of the draft proceedings, emphasizing the excitement and emotional significance of the night. Zena Kada shares her experience attending the inaugural draft event at The Shed at Hudson Yards in NYC, noting the expanded venue compared to previous years:
Ben Pickman [02:51]: "The space this year was very spacious. It had separate floors for the draft and there's usually kind of like a cocktail mixer happy hour... it just felt a lot more comfortable."
The hosts highlight the positive energy and the realization of lifelong dreams for many players, despite the inherent uncertainties post-draft.
Team-by-Team Draft Analysis
Dallas Wings: Securing Paige Bueckers
The Dallas Wings made headlines by selecting Paige Bueckers from UConn as the number one pick. Both Greg Bibb, the President and CEO, and GM Kurt Miller emphasized that trading the first pick was never an option; it was always intended for Bueckers.
Ben Pickman [16:27]: "Once the ping pong balls fell in their favor, the Dallas Wings were picking... it was always going to be Paige."
Bueckers' impact is expected to be transformative both on and off the court, with immediate business implications as the Wings have already sold out season tickets and secured new partnerships.
Seattle Storm: Dominique Malanga's Fit
Seattle Storm selected Dominique Malanga from France, marking a significant move for international talent in the WNBA. The selection is seen as a strategic fit to bolster Seattle's frontcourt, addressing areas like offensive rebounding and paint defense.
Ben Pickman [21:21]: "Seattle is a place where I think she can both play in the present, but also develop... this is a pick for their future."
The Storm's focus on international players highlights their commitment to diversifying and strengthening their roster with global talent.
Washington Mystics: Strengthening the Guard Position
The Mystics addressed their roster's lack of guards by selecting three guards in the first round:
- Sonia Citron from Notre Dame (#3)
- Kiki Iria Fenn from USC (#4)
- Georgia Amore from Kentucky (#6)
This strategic move aims to inject depth and versatility into their backcourt, setting the stage for a potential rebuild.
Ben Pickman [26:53]: "Washington is going to need to hit guard early and often. And that is exactly what they did."
Connecticut Sun: Building for the Future
Connecticut Sun focused on acquiring young talent to initiate a rebuild. Key selections include:
- Anissa Morrow from LSU (#7)
- Saniyah Rivers from NC State (#8)
These picks aim to inject athleticism and scoring prowess into a team looking to redefine its identity under new coaching.
Ben Pickman [36:22]: "If I'm those players, I'm pretty happy with the landing spot I ended up in."
Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky: Strategic Additions
- Indiana Fever selected KK Timpson from Florida State (#15), a rim runner and shot blocker, filling a crucial frontcourt role.
- Chicago Sky took Haley Van Lith from TCU (#11), reuniting her with former teammate Angel Reese, offering an opportunity for redemption and growth.
Ben Pickman [40:34]: "Haley Van Lith is in a great place to learn from Courtney Vandersloot... to be Haley Van Lith."
Player Highlights
Paige Bueckers
As the top pick, Bueckers' selection is celebrated as a culmination of her exceptional collegiate career. Her leadership and on-court prowess are expected to make an immediate impact.
Sabrina Merchant [16:07]: "Paige shot right after she was taken and said, 'I hope this is also a good night for my UConn teammates.'"
Dominique Malanga
Malanga's international experience and versatility are seen as valuable assets for the Seattle Storm, potentially addressing their rebounding and paint defense needs.
Haley Van Lith
Van Lith's selection by Chicago Sky is met with mixed feelings. While the reunion with Angel Reese is promising, questions remain about her fit within Chicago's playstyle.
Sabrina Merchant [34:03]: "I just really did not like this particular landing spot for her."
Fashion Moments at the Draft
The draft event was not just about basketball; it also showcased notable fashion moments. Highlights include:
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Georgia Amore collaborating with Russell Westbrook to sport flat boots, emphasizing authenticity.
Sabrina Merchant [09:12]: "The fact that she decided to wear flats as the shortest player in the draft... was so perfect."
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Paige Bueckers and Isaiah James both wore star-worthy outfits that blended athleticism with style, creating memorable visuals.
Winners and Losers of the Draft
While every draftee's journey begins with the draft, certain selections stand out as strong fits or questionable choices:
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Winners:
- Paige Bueckers for Dallas Wings
- Dominique Malanga for Seattle Storm
- Serena Sindel for Seattle Storm, seen as a steal
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Losers:
- Saniyah Rivers' fit with Connecticut Sun is questioned due to her role mismatch.
Sabrina Merchant [42:26]: "I kind of hate the Saniyah Rivers fit, actually, in Connecticut."
Impact of Unrivaled League on the WNBA
A significant discussion revolves around Paige Bueckers signing a three-year deal with the Unrivaled Basketball League, earning over $330,000, which surpasses her entire rookie WNBA salary. This move raises questions about the WNBA's compensation structures and its ability to compete with alternative leagues.
Ben Pickman [54:00]: "She seemed to pivot and talked about... how Unrivaled could impact the WNBA."
Kathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner, addressed the partnership, highlighting differences in league structures and the need for innovation within the WNBA.
Upcoming Topics and Conclusion
The episode concludes with teasers for future discussions, including the emergence of a new era in the WNBA as veteran stars retire and new talents rise. An upcoming conversation with Jamila Weidman, the new GM of the Washington Mystics, promises further insights into team strategies and league developments.
Zena Kada [57:07]: "Remember guys, the journey just starts for these folks. They're not immediately signed to rosters."
The hosts encourage listeners to stay engaged through ratings, comments, and following their content on YouTube and other platforms.
Notable Quotes:
- Ben Pickman [02:51]: "The space this year was very spacious... it just felt a lot more comfortable."
- Sabrina Merchant [09:12]: "The fact that she decided to wear flats as the shortest player in the draft... was so perfect."
- Ben Pickman [16:27]: "It was always going to be Paige."
- Sabrina Merchant [42:26]: "I kind of hate the Saniyah Rivers fit, actually, in Connecticut."
- Ben Pickman [54:00]: "She seemed to pivot and talked about... how Unrivaled could impact the WNBA."
Key Takeaways:
- Paige Bueckers solidifies her status as the top prospect with Dallas Wings, promising immediate and long-term impacts.
- Dominique Malanga represents a strategic move towards international talent integration in the WNBA.
- Fashion and Personal Branding play a significant role in draft events, highlighting players' personalities and styles.
- Unrivaled League poses new challenges and opportunities for the WNBA, particularly concerning player compensation.
- Team Strategies vary, with some focusing on immediate needs and others building for future growth, reflecting the diverse approaches within the league.
For more in-depth analysis and upcoming discussions, stay tuned to No Offseason on The Athletic and follow the show on YouTube and other platforms.