Caitlin Clark Leads, Angel Reese Misses Out – Explore Top 5 WNBA Draft Projections

Leading the NCAA record books with 3,570 points, Iowa’s point guard Caitlin Clark took the charge in college basketball this season. As if all of her NCAA records weren’t enough, days after announcing her participation in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) draft, the 6-foot player proceeded to write more history in the Final by scoring the most points in any quarter in the National Championship Game history. Now, all eyes will be on the Draft on April 15 as the talent on the board is arguably the best it has ever been.

Other top women’s basketball prospects turning pro include Stanford’s Cameron Brink, LSU’s Angel Reese, South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso, and Tennessee’s Rickea Jackson, among others. With the March Madness culminating, the WNBA draft is set to take place at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in Brooklyn, New York. So where are all these stars expected to go?

Caitlin Clark tops the 2024 NBA draft charts

A new era of talent is expected to be ushered in by the WNBA Draft in 2024. Leading the charge is Caitlin Clark of Iowa, who has been dubbed by professionals as a once-in-a-generation talent. Clark’s incredible on-court performances have cemented her status as the probable first choice in the draft. Her offensive prowess and potential for success in the league are highly regarded by ESPN pundits and NBA Draft Room, who see her as an ideal fit for the Indiana Fever.

Kamilla Cardoso

The focus also shifts to two players who are sure to succeed at the WNBA Draft despite comparatively less popularity: Mississippi State’s Rickea Jackson and South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso. Cardoso, an imposing competitor in the paint, has an amazing background enhanced by her college and international results. Cardoso’s natural potential and athleticism make her an appealing option for teams in need of frontcourt depth, despite concerns about her footwork.

She hit a career-high with 14.1 points and 9.4 rebounds this season. Early projections see her potentially being picked by LA Sparks with the 2nd pick, not to forget she currently ranks second in the nation with a 67.2 defense rating.

Rickea Jackson

For teams in need of offensive firepower, skillful forward Rickea Jackson, who is renowned for her sharpshooting ability, offers an intriguing alternative. Jackson’s stock has increased due to her ability to make critical plays along with a keen eye from beyond the arc. A further degree of suspense to the draft processes was provided by the NBA Draft Room’s suggestion that Jackson might be picked by the Chicago Sky with the 3rd pick rather than by the LA Sparks, who hold the 4th pick.

Cameron Brink

The Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, Cameron Brink, completes the group of elite prospects. Brink, who is renowned for her double-doubles and defensive abilities, is anticipated to be a formidable player in the WNBA. ESPN projects that she could be picked up by the LA Sparks with the 4th pick, thus, teaming up with Kamilla Cardoso from Brazil, creating a strong frontcourt tandem for the Sparks. Brink is ready to have an instant impact at the professional level courtesy of her exceptional play and leadership abilities, giving any team a dependable paint anchor.

Angel Reese

LSU’s Angel Reese, who has often shared the spotlight with Caitlin Clark, is a versatile forward who can instantly upgrade any team’s defense. Reese, who stands six feet three inches tall, has dominated the collegiate game, garnering praise from players such as Magic Johnson for her skills in the paint. Although the NBA Draft Room currently projects her to be drafted by the Dallas Wings with the 5th pick, most analysts believe she might not be a lottery pick, with that spot going to Aaliyah Edwards.

With a plethora of talent on display at this year’s WNBA Draft, it will be interesting to see who ends up being the lottery picks. However, one thing is certain, the No.1 spot is reserved for Caitlin Clark and it would be a surprise of monumental level if she somehow fails to go No.1.

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