After Epic NCAA Championship Clash in 2023, When Will Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Become Eligible for the WNBA Draft?

Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark might be two of the premier talents coming out of the women’s basketball program. While Reese’s contribution to LSU’s 2023 NCAA championship run cannot be overstated, Clark’s individual efforts throughout the tournament can not be left behind either.

The LSU Tigers vs. Iowa Hawkeyes intense clash in the 2023 NCAA championship was evidence of what they bring to the table. And also a glimpse of what they will bring to the WNBA league once they get drafted. But the question remains: When will they be eligible to declare for WNBA drafts?

Thrilling NCAA championship clash for the ages

In an epic showdown, the LSU Tigers triumphed over the Iowa Hawkeyes 102-85, securing their first-ever national basketball title. Despite Caitlin Clark’s stellar performance, Iowa’s late comeback couldn’t match LSU’s offensive prowess. Going into the clash, both teams entered to make history for their respective programs. However, there was only one team that could go back to celebrating at the end of the final whistle, and on April 2, 2023, it was the LSU Tigers.

The game marked numerous milestones in NCAA women’s basketball. In a historic moment, the Tigers broke the 100-point barrier in a national championship game, eclipsing the 1986 record. Furthermore, LSU’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, etched her name in history as the first women’s coach to win national titles at two different schools.

No. 22 for Iowa Hawkeyes, Caitlin Clark, on the other hand, set the NCAA record for the most points in a tournament, smashing Sheryl Swoopes’ 1993 record. During this year’s Elite Eight round, Clark accomplished the first 40-point triple-double in NCAA tournament history, a remarkable feat.

WNBA draft eligibility

To make the leap from college basketball to the WNBA, athletes must meet specific eligibility requirements. Athletes like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark can declare for the WNBA draft selections if they meet these criteria: One, they turn 22 years in their draft year, and two, they possess a four-year university degree or are about to graduate within three months of the date of the draft.

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The NBA allows players to enter the draft one year removed from high school, a rule known as “one-and-done.” In contrast, the WNBA mandates that players be 22 years old in the draft year or meet specific educational requirements.

Gearing up for a redemption season, when will Caitlin Clark be eligible for the WNBA?

Clark, born on January 22nd, 2002, fell short of the age requirement in 2023, as she was 21 years old. Her remarkable achievements, including a record-breaking 191 points in a single NCAA Tournament, make her a strong contender for the No. 1 pick when eligible. Clark will be eligible to declare for WNBA in the upcoming 2024 WNBA draft class. As the WNBA draft is not until April 2024, Clark is geared up for her senior year college season with the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Both players are poised to make significant impacts in the WNBA once they become eligible. Their remarkable talents have left an indelible mark on college basketball. And, fans are eagerly awaiting their professional debut.

When will Angel Reese be eligible for the WNBA?

Angel Reese, LSU’s standout player who set a single-season NCAA record in double-doubles and helped secure their national title, is in a similar situation. As she turns 22 on May 6th, 2024, she will be eligible for the 2024 WNBA Draft.

While the rules may delay their WNBA journeys, the basketball world knows that when Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese finally step onto the WNBA court, they will bring their exceptional skills and a legacy of collegiate excellence, adding even more excitement to the league. So, for now, fans must exercise patience and eagerly await the day these two stars make their professional debuts.

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