The 2025 WNBA Draft is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in league history, thanks to a star-studded pool of talent, including seasoned college standouts, international phenoms, and breakout tournament performers. With players like Paige Bueckers officially declaring and others like Flau’Jae Johnson and Dominique Malonga climbing draft boards, this class is being touted as one of the most dynamic and marketable in years. As excitement builds ahead of the April 14th draft, fans and franchises alike are eager to see how this new wave of talent will reshape the league.
Here’s a closer look at the top projected picks for the 2025 WNBA Draft, along with insights into rookie salary expectations, endorsement potential, and how these future stars may impact the game on and off the court.
Kiki Iriafen (Stanford)
Kiki Iriafen has emerged as one of the most dynamic frontcourt prospects in the 2025 WNBA Draft, rapidly climbing mock draft boards thanks to a breakout season at Stanford. Standing at 6’3″, Iriafen combines size with mobility, showcasing a skill set that allows her to dominate in the paint while also stepping out to defend in space.
She has become a double-double machine, using her rebounding instincts, footwork, and improved offensive arsenal to consistently produce on both ends of the court. Her ability to finish through contact, alter shots defensively, and run the floor in transition makes her a perfect fit for today’s fast-paced, versatile WNBA systems.
With a pro-ready build and a high motor, Iriafen has drawn comparisons to elite two-way forwards and is viewed by many as a potential top-three pick. Any team looking to strengthen its interior presence with a physical, polished, and high-upside player will have Iriafen near the top of its draft board.
Paige Bueckers (UConn)
Paige Bueckers is no stranger to pressure — and once again, she’s delivering under it. Widely regarded as the face of college women’s basketball, Bueckers has officially declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft, and is projected by many to go No. 1 overall. At 5’11”, the UConn guard continues to prove why she’s one of the most complete prospects in years, combining elite ball-handling, court vision, and scoring efficiency with a high basketball IQ and clutch mentality.
Her 40-point performance in the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight put an exclamation mark on her college legacy and further solidified her status as a franchise-altering talent. Drawing comparisons to some of the league’s greatest guards, Bueckers brings not only top-tier skills but also leadership and marketability — a rare combination that makes her a potential cornerstone for any WNBA team.
Aneesah Morrow (LSU)
Aneesah Morrow is another top prospect expected to go high in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The LSU forward is known for her physicality and scoring prowess. At 6’1″, Morrow has the size and strength to dominate in the paint, while her defensive ability and rebounding make her a well-rounded player. She consistently puts up big numbers on both ends of the floor, and teams looking to improve their frontcourt will undoubtedly have her at the top of their draft boards. Morrow’s skill set is perfectly suited for the professional game, and she is expected to make a smooth transition to the WNBA.
Sonia Citron (Notre Dame)
Sonia Citron’s versatility makes her one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Standing at 6’1″, Citron can play multiple positions, making her a valuable asset to any team. Her scoring ability from deep, combined with her free-throw shooting prowess, makes her a dangerous offensive player. Citron also brings strong defensive skills and the ability to rebound effectively. Teams looking for a versatile guard-forward combo will be keen on drafting Citron, and her potential to make an immediate impact in the league is high.
Olivia Miles (Notre Dame)
Olivia Miles is widely regarded as one of the best playmakers in college basketball. At Notre Dame, she has excelled at controlling the pace of the game and making plays for her teammates. Her passing ability is second to none, and she has the skill to finish at the rim. At 5’10”, Miles can guard multiple positions, making her a valuable two-way player. Teams in need of a dynamic point guard who can lead an offense will have Miles high on their draft boards for the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her ability to create opportunities for others will translate well to the professional game.
Shayeann Day-Wilson (Duke)
Shayeann Day-Wilson is a crafty guard with a knack for scoring from all over the court. Despite standing at just 5’6″, Day-Wilson uses her speed, quickness, and basketball IQ to break down defenses and create scoring opportunities. Her ball-handling skills and ability to penetrate the lane make her a valuable offensive weapon. Teams looking for a spark off the bench or a solid backup point guard will find Day-Wilson to be an intriguing option in the draft. Her ability to contribute offensively and defensively makes her a well-rounded prospect.
Emily Ryan (Iowa State)
Emily Ryan has garnered attention for her leadership and all-around play at Iowa State. At 5’11”, Ryan has good size for a guard, and her ability to read the floor and make high-IQ plays sets her apart. She is a solid shooter and playmaker, making her a reliable option on offense. Defensively, Ryan is known for her tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions. Teams looking for a well-rounded guard who can contribute in various ways will have their eyes on Ryan in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Caroline Ducharme (UConn)
Caroline Ducharme has been a standout at UConn, known for her ability to score at all three levels. Standing at 6’2″, Ducharme has the size and shooting ability to make an immediate impact in the WNBA. She is a dangerous offensive player who can score from beyond the arc, mid-range, and inside the paint. Her versatility as a guard-forward combo makes her a valuable asset to any team, and her ability to stretch the floor will be highly coveted in the draft. Ducharme’s combination of size and skill makes her a potential lottery pick.
Janiah Barker (Texas A&M)
Janiah Barker is a 6’4″ forward who brings a mix of size, athleticism, and defensive prowess to the game. Her ability to protect the rim and score inside makes her an ideal fit for teams looking to bolster their frontcourt. Barker’s defensive abilities, combined with her scoring touch, make her a versatile player who can contribute on both ends of the floor. As teams seek to add height and defensive strength, Barker will be a top target in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her potential as a rim protector and inside scorer makes her a standout prospect.
Azzi Fudd (UConn)
Azzi Fudd is widely regarded as one of the best shooters in college basketball. At UConn, Fudd has developed into a sharpshooter with the ability to hit shots from deep with incredible accuracy. Her shooting ability, combined with her scoring instincts, makes her one of the most dangerous offensive players in the draft. Teams looking to add perimeter shooting will have Fudd high on their draft boards, and her ability to stretch the floor will make her an invaluable asset. Fudd is expected to be one of the top picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft, and her shooting prowess will translate well to the professional game.
Rookie Salaries for WNBA Draft 2025 Picks
Rookie salaries in the WNBA are determined by a fixed scale based on draft position, outlined in the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). For the 2025 WNBA Draft, the salary structure remains modest compared to other professional leagues but continues to grow with the league’s rising profile.
No. 1 overall pick: $78,831 (Year 1), part of a 4-year contract worth $348,198 total
Top 4 picks: Around $76,000–$78,000 in year one
Picks 5–8: Approximately $74,000–$75,000 in year one
Late first-round picks: Around $72,000–$73,000 in year one
These base salaries are guaranteed, with standard escalations in years 2–4.
While these numbers might seem low compared to male counterparts in other sports, many players will significantly boost their earnings through endorsements, Team Marketing Agreements (TMAs), and overseas play in the offseason.
For high-profile draftees like Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Kiki Iriafen, off-court earnings could easily surpass their rookie salaries. Shoe deals, apparel partnerships, media opportunities, and NIL momentum from college all position these athletes to earn six figures — or more — in their first year alone.
Potential Endorsements for 2025 Draftees
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 WNBA Draft is the off-court potential for its top prospects. With the growing visibility of women’s basketball, endorsement deals are becoming increasingly lucrative — and players in this class are already building the kind of personal brands that attract major sponsorship.
Shoe & Apparel Deals:
Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Under Armour are expected to compete for top-tier names like Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, both of whom already have strong public profiles and significant social media followings. As the league continues to grow in popularity, a signature shoe deal or apparel partnership could be on the table for one or more of this year’s standout rookies.
Media Opportunities:
From commercials and documentaries to podcast appearances and live TV, top picks in the 2025 draft will have ample chances to enter the mainstream. Bueckers, in particular, is poised to become a crossover star, with the kind of charisma and poise that brands love.
Team Marketing Agreements (TMAs):
Under the WNBA’s current collective bargaining agreement, players can earn additional compensation through TMAs — incentive-based contracts to promote their teams and the league. Expect players like Kiki Iriafen and Hailey Van Lith, who have both athletic talent and off-court appeal, to take full advantage of these opportunities.
How Their College Success Translates to the WNBA
While this draft class is loaded with talent, stepping into the WNBA is a leap — both in physical intensity and in the mental demands of professional basketball. How quickly these top prospects adapt will shape their early success.
Paige Bueckers:
Her elite basketball IQ, leadership, and offensive versatility make her one of the most WNBA-ready players in recent memory. She excels in high-pressure situations and has shown the ability to command a game — traits that will make her an instant contributor at the pro level.
Kiki Iriafen:
A dominant force in the paint, Iriafen brings size, athleticism, and a defensive mindset that fits perfectly in the modern WNBA. Her ability to score inside and guard multiple positions gives her a strong foundation to thrive as a two-way player in the league.
Olivia Miles:
One of the best playmakers in college basketball, Miles has the vision, court awareness, and passing skill to elevate her teammates immediately. Her defensive versatility also stands out, making her a strong candidate to develop into a reliable two-way guard early in her career.
Upcoming Challenges for WNBA 2025 Draft Class
As exciting as the future is for the 2025 draft class, there are always challenges that come with entering the professional ranks. The transition from college to the WNBA can be difficult, as the players must adjust to longer seasons, more rigorous travel schedules, and heightened competition.
Moreover, these young athletes will also need to navigate off-court pressures, such as endorsements and managing their public personas, which are increasingly important in today’s social media-driven world.
The Future of the WNBA Post-2025 Draft
The 2025 WNBA Draft will not only infuse the league with fresh talent but also push the league further into the spotlight. As the league continues to grow in popularity, the new generation of stars will be key to sustaining and accelerating this growth. With players like Paige Bueckers, Kiki Iriafen, and Olivia Miles leading the way, the WNBA’s future looks incredibly bright.
By 2025, the WNBA may also see salary caps adjusted upward, allowing for higher rookie salaries and more lucrative contracts for top picks. With more media attention, brand sponsorships, and potentially bigger broadcast deals on the horizon, these top draft picks are entering the league at a very exciting time.
