HomeSportsWNBA Draft confidential: GMs anonymously scout Paige Bueckers and more March Madness...

WNBA Draft confidential: GMs anonymously scout Paige Bueckers and more March Madness guards

The top pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft is expected to be UConn’s Paige Bueckers, who confirmed her fifth year of eligibility. However, there are many talented lead guards, scorers, and wings beyond Bueckers who are eager to make an impact at the next level.

Several draftees, including Bueckers, are still competing in the NCAA Tournament alongside players from Notre Dame and NC State. As they aim for a national championship, the draft on April 14 in New York City draws closer, just eight days after the tournament’s finale.

Six WNBA general managers shared their honest evaluations of the upcoming draft class with The Athletic before the NCAA Tournament began. They were granted anonymity to provide candid feedback. Stay tuned for another installment featuring evaluations of frontcourt players such as Aneesah Morrow, Kiki Iriafen, and Dominique Malonga.

(Players are listed in alphabetical order. Statistics are current through Monday. Asterisks indicate a player with an additional year of college eligibility.)

Georgia Amoore | 5-6 guard | Kentucky

19.6 ppg, 6.9 apg, 36.7 mpg

“Georgia Amoore is a great college basketball player. Can she transition into a rotational WNBA player with longevity in the league?”

“Amoore’s strengths lie in running a team and setting up her teammates for scoring opportunities with her passing skills. She excels in pick-and-roll situations and possesses a high basketball IQ.”

“Being a diminutive guard presents challenges, primarily related to size. If she can excel as a sharpshooter off the dribble with range, her chances improve.”

“Amoore displays characteristics reminiscent of Steve Nash’s style of play. She understands her physical limitations and compensates with smart gameplay.”

“She is undoubtedly a talented scorer, shooter, and playmaker, making point guards highly sought after in the league.”

Paige Bueckers* | 5-11 guard | UConn

18.7 ppg, 4.8 apg, 63.4 TS%

“My only concerns about Paige relate to her physicality. If she can avoid injuries, she has the talent to reach All-Star status. She is versatile enough to play with or without the ball, making her a valuable asset. Her scoring ability across different levels is impressive, and she possesses defensive capabilities. While her offense shines, her defense may need improvement, but overall, Paige is a remarkable player.”

“Despite potential flaws being discussed, Paige remains a top prospect in this draft class.”

“Her adaptability to the pace and physical nature of the game will determine her immediate impact upon entering the league.”

“Paige is an outstanding leader, poised, and prepares meticulously. She is pro-ready and a standout player both on and off the court, embodying the qualities of a franchise cornerstone.”

Sonia Citron | 6-1 wing | Notre Dame

14.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 38.1 3-PT%

“Sonia Citron is a complete player with scoring versatility, defensive capabilities, and exceptional basketball IQ.”

“Her 3-and-D qualities make her a highly desirable player in the current landscape of the game.”

“Citron demonstrates remarkable poise and exceptional shooting skills, showcasing a well-rounded skill set. Her game appears refined and mature, indicating a deep understanding of the sport.”

“While her potential star power remains uncertain, Citron’s ability to contribute effectively to a winning team and elevate their performance is commendable.”

Azzi Fudd* | 5-11 guard | UConn

13.2 ppg, 1.2 spg, 44.8 3-PT%

“Azzi Fudd is a proficient shooter, but her sample size is limited, which raises concerns about her impact beyond her perceived shooting threat. Her shooting numbers, albeit good, may not be exceptional, prompting a cautious approach.”

“Her health is a primary factor determining Azzi’s success. With the essential tools for greatness, her durability will be crucial. She excels as a shooter and defender, suggesting potential as a three-and-D player.”

“Fudd could emerge as a valuable rotational player capable of stretching the floor and contributing defensively.”

Aziaha James | 5-9 guard | NC State

17.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.7 apg

“Aziaha James is a dynamic player with exceptional finishing skills, particularly in attacking the rim. Her defensive prowess and scoring ability make her a promising guard in the league.”

“Her career trajectory could lead to a successful multi-year stint or face challenges that impede her progress. James possesses the potential to be a prolific scorer off the bench, a role crucial in team dynamics.”

“Her adaptation to defensive strategies at the professional level will determine her success. Strengthening her physicality and defensive capabilities will be essential for sustained performance in the WNBA.”

“A skilled combo guard, James may need to enhance her physical attributes to compete consistently at the WNBA level.”

Olivia Miles* | 5-10 guard | Notre Dame

15.5 ppg, 5.9 apg, 40.1 3-PT%

“Olivia Miles ranks as the second safest pick after Paige. She stands out for her exceptional passing skills and remarkable court vision, evident in tight spaces and transition play.”

“Her ability to shoot, pass, and dribble highlights her versatility and feel for the game. Blessed with a size advantage at the point guard position, Miles shows promise in various play styles.”

“Miles exhibits dynamic offensive capabilities, showcasing elite scoring prowess. While defensive improvements are needed, her offensive repertoire stands out as a game-changer.”

Achieve your fall style goals with our three easy hair tutorials! #HairGoals