“It’s really cool to see someone go through their process.” South Carolina Gamecocks’ HC Dawn Staley told reporters, referring to Sania Feagin, after sealing the 2025 SEC title. The senior forward spent three seasons coming off the bench, learning from All-Americans Aliyah Boston and Kamilla Cardoso. In the 2024-25 season, she was a starter, an impact player, and a winner of SEC conference and tourney titles. The rise is impressive, pushing her into the top draft candidates in the upcoming WNBA draft.

Playing a key role in the Gamecocks’ run into the final, Sania averaged 8.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.5 blocks in 38 starts for the Gamecocks. She earned a place in the SEC All-Defensive team for her elite rim-protection abilities. “The first three years of [Feagin] didn’t quite look, feel or sound like what she was capable of,” Dawn Staley said. “I never let Feagin play less than her standard. That meant she sat a lot, but this year, it paid off.”

Even though the forward was a top prospect out of high school, Sania Feagin initially played a second-fiddle role in South Carolina. After the first two seasons, Feagin’s junior season saw steady improvement, averaging 6.7 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. She made her first career start against Arkansas and was in the first five for two other games later in the season.

The limelight on the Forest Park star got brighter in the NCAA tournament with her first career double-double in a win against Presbyterian in the 2024 NCAA tournament first-round game and a massive five blocks against Kentucky later, in the title-winning run. During her senior year, Feagin became even more of a consistent player in South Carolina’s rotation.

But was she underused? Did it affect her potential? Feagin didn’t think so. She believed in the ‘process’ and worked hard to get to the level she is now. “A lot of people don’t have two national championships and made it to the Final Four for four years, so I feel good to be here again,” Feagin said during her interview amid the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

Though her dream of winning the third NCAA title was crushed by eventual winners UConn, Sania made her presence felt with defensive gameplay and 8 points in just 18 minutes of game time. Her tenure at South Carolina ended with a record of 144-7 over four years, including a 71 home-game winning streak. Having been part of the mammoth run South Carolina had, she will see another massive shake-up to her career – entering the pro league – the WNBA. Check out the three teams Feagin is expected to land in the 2025 WNBA Draft.

What are the top teams Sania Feagin is expected to land in 2025 WNBA Draft?

Sania Feagin is a defensive-minded star with high-percentage scoring capabilities. Even though she makes fewer attempts, Feagin has the highest conversion ratio amongst the elites of the 2025 class – including Kiki Iriafen and Aneesah Morrow. With decent three-point and free-throw shooting abilities, Sania impacts the game both offensively and defensively.

Projected Landing Spots for Sania Feagin:

Based on the deep and talented class of 2025, Sania Feagin could land as early as the No. 11 draft pick. Minnesota Lynx. Playing with Napheesa Collier, Sania Feagin could improve into an All-Star level player. The side lacks depth in the forward position and can use the versatile South Carolina prodigy to a great extent.

Moving a draft just below, Dallas with a No. 12 pick could land Feagin. With the possible addition of Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings can add another defensive-minded forward to balance the roster.

Moving into the second round, the Las Vegas Aces have the 13th pick and could use Feagin’s versatility after a number of players left the franchise in the off-season. Playing alongside MVP A’Ja Wilson will be a great learning experience for Feagin. Interestingly, the Wings and Lynx also hold early second-round picks at No. 14 and No. 15, respectively, giving these two sides the best chance to draft Feagin.

Who is Sania Feagin’s player comparison in the WNBA?

Sania Feagin is famous for her versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess. WNBA has many such players who exert their defensive power on the court. Her skill set draws parallels to several WNBA stars. Here are three players whose styles and attributes resemble Feagin’s:

1. Alysha Clark

Alysha Clark, a three-time WNBA champion, is celebrated for her defensive tenacity, versatility, and ability to affect the game at both ends of the court. Though she is 5’11”, Clark has played multiple positions, including small forward and shooting guard. Her impact on the game is undeniable. Winning multiple All-Defensive Team honors, Alysha Clark has been instrumental in her team’s successes.

2. Arike Ogunbowale

Even though Arike Ogunbowale is a guard, her versatility and clutch gameplay resemble Sania’s gameplay. With high-percentage shooting and defensive prowess, Arike draws much praise and could be Sania’s teammate, as seen earlier.

3. Satou Sabally

Another true forward player who resembles Sania’s gameplay would be Satou Sabally. A great combination of size, athleticism, and skill, Sabally strikes a direct similarity with Feagin. At 6’4″, she has the ability to play both forward positions effectively. She has earned All-Star honors and was the WNBA Most Improved Player in 2023.

While there are just a few days remaining for the actual draft, Sania’s recent performances certainly booked her ticket to the WNBA. Will she join any of her former teammates or form a new dynasty with other superstars around her? Only time will tell.