“Where Are UConn’s Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd Placed in ESPN’s Early 2025 WNBA Draft Predictions?

ESPN’s first 2025 WNBA mock draft has made waves, with UConn basketball star Paige Bueckers projected as the top overall pick, slated to go to the Los Angeles Sparks. Bueckers, who had an outstanding season leading the Huskies to the Final Four, averaged 21.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game last year. Her consistent performances and leadership have placed her firmly at the top of the draft board.

Azzi Fudd, another standout from UConn, is expected to follow close behind her teammate, projected to be taken fourth overall by the Washington Mystics. This selection would be particularly meaningful for Fudd, as she would be returning to her hometown of Washington, D.C., and joining former UConn teammate Aaliyah Edwards. Despite a knee injury that limited Fudd to just two games last season, her career averages of 13.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists keep her in the conversation as a top-tier prospect.

The WNBA draft order will be determined after the lottery, likely to be held in December, with the Los Angeles Sparks, Washington Mystics, Chicago Sky, and Dallas Wings vying for the top picks. While the draft is set for April 2025, much can change between now and then. Just last year, Caitlin Clark from Iowa held the top spot throughout the draft predictions, ultimately becoming the first overall pick by the Indiana Fever in the 2024 WNBA draft.

With plenty of time left before the 2025 draft, the performances of Bueckers, Fudd, and other prospects will undoubtedly continue to shape the projections.