Episode Summary: WNBA Draft Prospect Watch

Podcast Information:

• Title: No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show
• Host/Authors: Zena Keita, Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, and Ben Pickman
• Episode: WNBA Draft Prospect Watch
• Release Date: February 25, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "WNBA Draft Prospect Watch," hosted by Zena Keita, Ben Pickman, and Sabreena Merchant, the panel delves into the intricacies of the upcoming 2025 WNBA Draft. The hosts aim to bridge the gap between the collegiate sphere and the professional WNBA landscape, providing listeners with an in-depth analysis of top prospects, their evolving performances, and how recent developments might influence their draft stock. Skipping over promotional segments, the conversation begins in earnest around the [04:57] mark, focusing on key players and draft strategies.

Key Draft Prospects Analysis

1. Kiki Iria Fenn – USC

   • Performance Overview:

     • Stats: Averaging 18.2 points, 8 rebounds, ~2 assists per game, with a 50% field goal percentage.
     • Strengths: Athleticism, offensive rebounding, energy, and defensive switching.

   • Discussion Highlights:

     • Sabrina Merchant [07:32]: Initially ranked Kiki at number two on her draft board but adjusted her position based on recent trades and team needs. "The Chicago Sky probably won't be taking another young big when they already have Angel Reese and Camilla Cardoso. But the Washington Mystics can afford a longer-term outlook and take a Kiki if they don't know how she'll fit immediately."
     • Ben Pickman [12:15]: Emphasizes Kiki's moldability and her ability to develop further within a WNBA team's system. "Kiki brings energy and athleticism that teams want to invest in, knowing she can produce even without being the focal point on offense."

   • Conclusion:

     • Kiki is considered one of the best domestic front court prospects, with a ceiling around the third pick. However, international prospects like Dominique Malanga might shift her position slightly lower.

2. Isaiah James – NC State

   • Performance Overview:

     • Stats: Averaging 17.8 points, ~5 rebounds, 3 assists per game.
     • Strengths: Consistent scoring, creative playmaking, improved three-point shooting (42% this season).

   • Discussion Highlights:

     • Sabrina Merchant [13:42]: Highlights Isaiah's consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure games. "She's been incredibly consistent, scoring in double digits in every game this season."
     • Ben Pickman [16:12]: Compares Isaiah to notable players like Kelsey Plum, emphasizing her readiness to contribute off the bench. "Isaiah can keep the offense going, maintain the pace, and handle significant defensive assignments."

   • Conclusion:

     • Isaiah James is firmly in the first-round bubble, projected around the top 12-15 picks. Her consistent performance and versatility make her a highly sought-after guard.

3. Saniyah Rivers – NC State

   • Performance Overview:

     • Stats: Averaging ~12 points, 6 rebounds, 3.4 assists per game.
     • Strengths: Elite passing, outstanding defense, and physical readiness.

   • Discussion Highlights:

     • Sabrina Merchant [19:22]: Praises Saniyah's playmaking and defensive prowess. "Her ability to find cutters and defend at a high level makes her one of the top eight guards in the draft."
     • Ben Pickman [22:19]: Stresses the importance of her pro-level skills and fit within a WNBA team's system. "Her passing and defense are already at a WNBA level, giving teams confidence to develop her offensive game further."

   • Conclusion:

     • Saniyah is deemed a top-tier guard with the potential to be a first-round pick, thanks to her standout defensive and playmaking abilities.

4. Olivia Miles & Sonya Citron – Notre Dame

   • Olivia Miles:

     • Performance Overview: Significant improvement in three-point shooting (jumped from 22% to 42% this season), averaging ~17.6 points, 6 assists per game.

     • Strengths: Dynamic playmaking, excellent shooting, and game intelligence.

     • Discussion Highlights:

       • Sabrina Merchant [23:52]: Commends Olivia's transformation post-ACL injury. "Her improvement in three-point shooting and overall game versatility make her the second-best prospect in the draft."
       • Ben Pickman [28:53]: Highlights her fit with potential pro teams and her answered concerns regarding shooting and injury recovery.

     • Conclusion:

       • Olivia is projected as a top-two pick, given her enhanced shooting skills and proven ability to perform under pressure.

   • Sonya Citron:

     • Performance Overview: Averaging ~14 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists per game.

     • Strengths: Consistency, defensive assignments, and leadership.

     • Discussion Highlights:

       • Ben Pickman [24:28]: Acknowledges Sonya's stellar performances, especially her recent games against top teams. "She projects to be a mid-first to high-first-round pick due to her desirable size and team-oriented play."
       • Sabrina Merchant [26:02]: Emphasizes Sonya's reliability and versatility on the court.

     • Conclusion:

       • Sonya is a highly touted prospect, likely falling within the top eight picks, valued for her all-around game and team contribution.

5. Saniah Rivers – NC State

   • (Note: There seems to be some confusion between Saniyah Rivers and Sanai Rivers in the transcript. Assuming Saniyah Rivers is correctly referenced.)

   • Performance Overview:

     • Stats: Averaging ~12 points, 6 rebounds, 3.4 assists per game.
     • Strengths: Elite passing, outstanding defense, and physical readiness.

   • Discussion Highlights (Refer to above Saniyah Rivers section):

     • Sabrina Merchant [19:22]: Highlights Saniyah's playmaking and defensive prowess.
     • Ben Pickman [22:19]: Emphasizes her fit and pro-level skills.

   • Conclusion:

     • Saniyah is a top-tier guard with the potential to be a first-round pick, thanks to her standout defensive and playmaking abilities.

6. Saniya Rivers & Tahina Powpow – Notre Dame & South Carolina

   • Saniya Rivers – Notre Dame:

     • Performance Overview: Averaging ~6 assists per game, solid defensive stats.

     • Strengths: Exceptional playmaking, defensive awareness.

     • Discussion Highlights:

       • Sabrina Merchant [41:06]: Discusses Saniya's elite passing and defensive capabilities, making her a valuable asset despite average scoring.
       • Ben Pickman [50:45]: Highlights her pro readiness and the viability of her skills in the WNBA.

     • Conclusion:

       • Saniya is seen as a versatile guard with strong defensive and playmaking skills, positioning her within the mid-first round picks.

   • Tahina Powpow – South Carolina:

     • Performance Overview: Averaging ~5.9 assists per game, strong three-point shooting (39%).

     • Strengths: Outstanding shooting, poise under pressure, and defensive capabilities.

     • Discussion Highlights:

       • Sabrina Merchant [35:13]: Notes Tahina's decline in three-point shooting from last season but acknowledges her improved floater and aggressive play in the paint.
       • Ben Pickman [44:26]: Discusses Tahina's poise and potential, comparing her to players like Ty Harris and emphasizing her fit within pro systems.

     • Conclusion:

       • Tahina Powpow is positioned as a late first-round to early second-round pick. Her three-point shooting remains a key asset, but her overall versatility will determine her draft position.

7. Aoka Lee – Kansas State

   • Performance Overview: 6'6" center with solid footwork and presence in the paint.

   • Strengths: Rebounding, passing from the post, and offensive command.

   • Discussion Highlights:

     • Ben Pickman [51:57]: Acknowledges Aoka's injuries but commends her on-court performance. "While her health is a concern, her ability to produce when on the floor makes her a valuable asset."
     • Sabrina Merchant [53:45]: Draws parallels between Aoka and Camila Cardoso, noting her fit within pro teams despite her lack of three-point shooting.

   • Conclusion:

     • Aoka is viewed as a reliable frontcourt presence, likely falling in the late second round due to health uncertainties.

8. AZ Fudd – South Carolina

   • Performance Overview: Averaging ~13 points, 2 rebounds per game, with a perfect jump shot.

   • Strengths: Scoring ability, excellent shooting mechanics, and defensive capabilities.

   • Discussion Highlights:

     • Sabrina Merchant [57:26]: Highlights AZ's exceptional shooting and offensive prowess. "Her jump shot is technically perfect, and she's proven she can dominate offensively when healthy."
     • Ben Pickman [59:47]: Emphasizes her potential to be a mid-first-round pick if she maintains her health and continues her offensive performances.

   • Conclusion:

     • AZ Fudd is projected as a strong first-round prospect, contingent upon her health and continued offensive excellence in the upcoming tournament.

Draft Strategies and Team Fit

The panel discusses how WNBA teams evaluate prospects beyond just statistics, considering factors like:

• Versatility: Players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game are highly valued.
• Health: Injuries can significantly impact a player's draft position, as seen with Aoka Lee and Tahina Powpow.
• Team Fit: How a player's skill set complements a team's existing roster is crucial. For example, Olivia Miles' improved shooting fits well with team strategies requiring floor spacing.
• Potential and Development: Teams are willing to invest in players with high upside and moldability, even if they have certain deficiencies, such as Kiki Iria Fenn's limited perimeter shooting.

Notable Quotes

• Sabrina Merchant [07:32]:

  "The Chicago Sky probably won't be taking another young big when they already have Angel Reese and Camilla Cardoso. But the Washington Mystics can afford a longer-term outlook and take a Kiki if they don't know how she'll fit immediately."

• Ben Pickman [12:15]:

  "Kiki brings energy and athleticism that teams want to invest in, knowing she can produce even without being the focal point on offense."

• Sabrina Merchant [13:42]:

  "She's been incredibly consistent, scoring in double digits in every game this season."

• Sabrina Merchant [23:52]:

  "Olivia's improvement in three-point shooting and overall game versatility make her the second-best prospect in the draft."

• Ben Pickman [28:53]:

  "Olivia is the kind of player where you almost wonder if we need to see more tape on her. She’s the second best, if not higher."

• Sabrina Merchant [35:13]:

  "Tahina's production has slightly declined, but her ability to float the ball and push into the paint remains impressive."

• Ben Pickman [51:57]:

  "Aoka's ability to produce when she's on the floor makes her a valuable asset, despite her injury history."

• Sabrina Merchant [57:26]:

  "AZ's jump shot is technically perfect, and she's proven she can dominate offensively when healthy."

Conclusion

As the WNBA Draft approaches, the panelists emphasize the importance of both current performance and potential for development. Players like Olivia Miles and AZ Fudd are highlighted as top contenders, while others like Aoka Lee and Tahina Powpow face challenges related to health and consistency. The discussion underscores the multifaceted criteria teams use to evaluate prospects, balancing immediate contributions with long-term growth.

The hosts conclude by anticipating an exciting March filled with impactful performances that could reshuffle the draft boards, urging listeners to stay tuned as the collegiate season progresses into the high-stakes tournament phase.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "No Offseason" provides a comprehensive examination of the looming WNBA Draft, equipping fans with nuanced insights into the strengths and areas of concern for top prospects. By integrating statistical analysis with expert opinions, the show serves as an essential guide for enthusiasts eager to understand the future landscape of women's professional basketball.