2024 WNBA Mock Draft: Predicting the Top Picks and Team Matches
With the conclusion of the women’s NCAA tournament, all eyes are now on the 2024 WNBA Draft, where college stars are poised to make the transition to the professional level. The upcoming draft, marking the 29th in WNBA history, is set to take place on Monday, April 15th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted top picks and potential team matches according to broadcaster Meghan McKeown’s 2024 WNBA mock draft:
1. Indiana Fever – Caitlin Clark, Iowa
Arguably one of the greatest college basketball players of all time, Caitlin Clark’s exceptional decision-making and versatile playstyle make her an ideal fit for the Fever. With her ability to rebound, push the pace in transition, and score at all levels, Clark is poised to make an immediate impact.
2. Los Angeles Sparks – Cameron Brink, Stanford
Following the departure of Nneka Ogwumike, the Sparks are in need of a dynamic post player, making Cameron Brink a prime candidate. Brink’s defensive prowess, coupled with her versatility on offense, positions her as a valuable asset for the Sparks.
3. Chicago Sky (from Phoenix) – Rickea Jackson, Tennessee
Rickea Jackson’s athleticism, scoring ability, and guard skills make her a versatile threat on the court. With the Sky in need of depth, Jackson’s presence would add a new dimension to their lineup.
4. Los Angeles Sparks (from Seattle) – Kamilla Cardoso, South Carolina
Standing at an impressive 6’7″, Kamilla Cardoso brings unmatched rebounding and scoring ability to the Sparks. As they look to strengthen their frontcourt, Cardoso emerges as a formidable choice.
5. Dallas Wings (from Chicago) – Jacy Sheldon, Ohio State
Jacy Sheldon’s defensive prowess and perimeter shooting make her a valuable addition to the Wings, who are seeking to bolster their three-point shooting and overall basketball IQ.
6. Washington Mystics – Aaliyah Edwards, UConn
Aaliyah Edwards’ impressive stats at UConn, coupled with her pro-ready physique, make her an attractive prospect for the Mystics, offering versatility and depth to their roster.
7. Chicago Sky – Angel Reese, LSU (from Minnesota via Los Angeles)
Angel Reese’s rebounding prowess, combined with her scoring ability and defensive presence, makes her an ideal fit for the Sky, addressing their need for depth across the board.
8. Minnesota Lynx – Nika Muhl, UConn
Nika Muhl’s high basketball IQ and defensive capabilities make her a valuable asset for the Lynx, providing depth and versatility in their backcourt.
9. Dallas Wings – Alissa Pili, Utah
Alissa Pili’s shooting ability and size offer the Wings a valuable asset, addressing their need for perimeter shooting and floor spacing.
10. Connecticut Sun – Nyadiew Puoch, Australia
Nyadiew Puoch’s raw talent and ability to finish at the rim make her an intriguing prospect for the Sun, offering long-term potential and depth to their roster.
11. New York Liberty – Charisma Osborne, UCLA
Charisma Osborne’s scoring ability and defensive instincts make her an attractive prospect for the Liberty, addressing their need for defensive presence and playmaking ability.
12. Atlanta Dream (from Las Vegas, via Los Angeles) – Dyaisha Fair, Syracuse
Dyaisha Fair’s scoring prowess and ability to contribute off the bench make her an ideal fit for the Dream, providing depth and firepower to their lineup.
Round 2
1. Chicago Sky – Jessika Carter, Mississippi State
2. Seattle Storm – Celeste Taylor, Ohio State
3. Indiana Fever – Isobel Borlase, Australia
4. Las Vegas Aces – Marquesha Davis, Ole Miss
5. New York Liberty – Jaz Shelley, Nebraska
6. Las Vegas Aces – Elizabeth Kitley, Virginia Tech
7. Connecticut Sun – Mackenzie Holmes, Indiana
8. Atlanta Dream – Javyn Nicholson, Georgia
9. Washington Mystics – Taiyanna Jackson, Kansas
10. Connecticut Sun – Leila Lacan, France
11. New York Liberty – Jakia Brown-Turner, Maryland
12. Las Vegas Aces – Desi Rae Young, UNLV
With the 2024 WNBA Draft just around the corner, anticipation is high as teams look to secure the future stars of women’s basketball. Stay tuned for the official draft to see how these predictions unfold!