Notre Dame standout Olivia Miles has completely reshaped the 2025 WNBA Draft landscape.
While there was always a possibility that Miles would return to college, WNBA teams have access to extensive information, making her decision less surprising than it might seem. The timing announced during the high-stakes UConn vs. USC March Madness matchup only amplified its impact. However, what truly shocked many was her decision to enter the transfer portal. Regardless, Miles’ choice has sent shockwaves through women’s basketball.
With the draft approaching in less than two weeks, one key question arises: which prospects stand to gain the most from her absence in the 2025 class?
LSU forward Aneesah Morrow, who dominated this season, is a strong contender. Leading the nation in rebounds and consistently posting double-doubles, she cemented her legacy with record-breaking performances. Her standout showing in March Madness, particularly her 30-point, 19-rebound game against NC State, likely boosted her draft stock significantly. With Miles out of the picture and ESPN’s Kevin Pelton reporting that the Seattle Storm are high on French prospect Dominique Malonga, the Washington Mystics could select Morrow at No. 3 a major win for the LSU star.
Another big beneficiary is Miles’ Notre Dame teammate, Sonia Citron. Often underrated, Citron’s draft value could rise in Miles’ absence. While not a traditional point guard, she’s a skilled wing player who excels on both offense and defense, creating transition points with her ability to cut, disrupt passing lanes, and force turnovers.
USC’s Kiki Iriafen is another player whose draft stock has surged. Since the Big Ten tournament, she has established herself as a dominant force in the paint and one of the draft’s premier rim protectors. Her production soared throughout March Madness, especially after teammate JuJu Watkins suffered an ACL injury. Iriafen delivered standout performances, including a 36-point, 9-rebound effort against Mississippi State, solidifying her position as a likely Top-5 pick.
Beyond these players, several other prospects could see their draft stock rise. Guards like Maryland’s Shyanne Sellers, NC State’s Saniya Rivers and Aziaha James, South Carolina’s Te-Hina Paopao, Kansas State’s Serena Sundell, and TCU’s Hailey Van Lith are all potential beneficiaries. Van Lith, in particular, has had an impressive season and NCAA tournament run, making her an intriguing prospect for teams like the Los Angeles Sparks or Chicago Sky.
2025 WNBA Draft Order (First Round)
1. Dallas Wings
2. Seattle Storm (via Los Angeles Sparks)
3. Washington Mystics (via Chicago Sky)
4. Washington Mystics
5. Golden State Valkyries
6. Washington Mystics (via Atlanta Dream)
7. Connecticut Sun (via New York Liberty)
8. Connecticut Sun (via Indiana Fever)
9. Los Angeles Sparks (via Seattle Storm)
10. Chicago Sky (via Connecticut Sun)
11. Minnesota Lynx
12. Dallas Wings (via New York Liberty)
Miles’ unexpected decision has reshuffled the draft dynamics, creating new opportunities for several rising stars in women’s basketball.
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