WNBA training camps are about to commence this weekend, highlighting the emergence of Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 draft pick, who’s anticipated to make a significant impact in the professional arena. However, not every one of the 38 draftees from this year will enjoy such certainty in securing a spot on a team roster.
The WNBA comprises a potential 156 roster positions spread across 13 teams. Given this, opportunities for women basketball players—whether domestically or abroad—are limited. Each team’s ability to carry 12 players is contingent upon adherence to the league’s salary cap, yet most teams opt for just 11 players. This situation contrasts sharply with the options available to male players who fail to secure a place in the NBA.
The NBA boasts 30 teams, each allowed a 15-player regular-season roster, thus providing considerably more spots for aspiring male basketballers. Besides, NBA hopefuls have the alternative of joining the G League or finding myriad overseas opportunities.
A major reason not all draft picks secure a team slot is that most roster spots are claimed by returning players. Last year’s draft class, featuring notable names like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, saw only 13 players make it to opening day rosters. This number is lower than in previous years, indicating an increasing trend of teams drafting international players with plans to develop and integrate them over time.
Some players seek their WNBA breakthroughs by pursuing professional careers overseas. Yet, those opportunities are limited as well. The geopolitical climate—exemplified by Brittney Griner’s nine-month incarceration in Moscow and the continuing conflict in Ukraine—has substantially reduced available roles in Russia.
Despite these challenges, top college stars do have prospects in the WNBA. Paige Bueckers, an accomplished player from UConn, was selected first overall by the Dallas Wings, positioning her as a future cornerstone of the franchise. Sonia Citron from Notre Dame and Kiki Iriafen from Southern California were also highly regarded in the draft, joining teams projected to undergo significant changes this season.
Likewise, the Connecticut Sun’s rebuilding phase offers promising prospects for Aneesah Morrow from LSU and Saniya Rivers from N.C. State, as both will likely play fundamental roles in their team’s future endeavors.
The journey remains arduous for those taken in the second and third rounds, requiring yet another proving ground to maintain their positions post-training camp. This situation is disheartening for players and fans who revel in following favorite college athletes, only to see them miss out narrowly.
Nevertheless, impending league expansion is positive news on the horizon. By 2026, two new franchises in Portland and Toronto are set to materialize, promising an increase in available jobs by about two dozen, providing fresh opportunities for future aspirants in the league.