The 2025 WNBA Draft was a momentous occasion, with live coverage provided by The Athletic. The draft took place two Sundays ago at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla., where both Paige Bueckers and Sue Bird were present for different reasons. Bueckers had just led UConn to a national championship victory, while Bird was being honored as a new inductee in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
The presence of both Bueckers and Bird at the draft highlighted the transition happening in women’s basketball, with a new generation of players like Bueckers entering the professional ranks as legends like Bird retire. Bueckers, expected to be the No. 1 pick by the Dallas Wings, represents a bright future for the WNBA.
As a three-time All-American and highly decorated college player, Bueckers faces high expectations as she transitions to the professional level. She is seen as a potential ambassador for the league, helping to continue its growth and popularity. With endorsements from major brands like Nike, Intuit, Google, and Bose, Bueckers is already a star off the court.
Joining a franchise like the Dallas Wings, Bueckers will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact. The Wings, who recently secured the No. 1 pick in the draft, are looking to capitalize on Bueckers’ star power to boost ticket sales and overall revenue. With her skillset and marketability, Bueckers is poised to thrive in the WNBA.
The draft itself was a significant event, with Bueckers hearing her name called and beginning her professional journey. The order of the draft was carefully laid out, showcasing the potential future stars of the league. As Bueckers embarks on this new chapter, she is well-prepared to make a lasting impact on the WNBA and continue the league’s historic growth.
