When is WNBA Draft 2025? Date, time, pick order and how to watch

The 2025 WNBA Draft promises to be a pivotal event, introducing a new generation of talent to the league. Set against the backdrop of New York City, this year’s draft features top prospects, strategic team selections, and the debut of the Golden State Valkyries. Fans can anticipate a blend of athletic prowess and compelling storylines as teams shape their rosters for the upcoming season.

📅 Date, Time & Location

Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET (5:00 a.m. IST on April 15)
Location: The Shed at Hudson Yards, New York City

The 29th annual WNBA Draft will be held at The Shed, a cultural hub in Manhattan. This marks the second consecutive year the draft will be a live, ticketed event with fans in attendance.

📺 How to Watch

Fans can tune in to the WNBA Draft through multiple platforms:

Television: Live coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Streaming: Available on the ESPN App.
Pre-Draft Show: “WNBA Countdown Presented by Google” starts at 7:00 p.m. ET.

For international viewers, including those in India, the draft will air at 5:00 a.m. IST on April 15.

🏀 First-Round Draft Order

The first-round selections are as follows:

Dallas Wings
Seattle Storm (from Los Angeles)
Washington Mystics (from Chicago)
Washington Mystics
Golden State Valkyries
Washington Mystics (from Atlanta, via Dallas)
New York Liberty (from Phoenix)
Connecticut Sun (from Indiana)
Los Angeles Sparks (from Seattle)
Chicago Sky (from Connecticut)
Minnesota Lynx
Dallas Wings (from New York, via Phoenix)

Top Prospects to Watch

Several standout players are expected to make a significant impact:

Paige Bueckers (UConn): A dynamic guard projected as the top overall pick.
Dominique Malonga (France): An international talent known for her versatility.
Sonia Citron (Notre Dame): A consistent performer with strong defensive skills.
Kiki Iriafen (USC): A forward with impressive scoring ability.
Hailey Van Lith (TCU): A guard recognized for her leadership and playmaking.

Notably, some eligible players, including Azzi Fudd (UConn), Lauren Betts (UCLA), and Flau’jae Johnson (LSU), have chosen to return to college for another season.

Golden State Valkyries’ Inaugural Pick

The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s first expansion team in 17 years, will make their debut with the fifth overall pick. Based in San Francisco, the Valkyries aim to build a competitive roster from the outset.

Draft Eligibility Criteria

The WNBA maintains specific eligibility requirements:SBNation.com

Domestic Players: Must be at least 22 years old during the draft year and have completed their college eligibility or renounced any remaining eligibility.
International Players: Eligible if they turn 20 during the draft year.

Unlike the NBA, once players declare for the WNBA Draft, they cannot return to NCAA play.

Draft Night Festivities

The draft night will feature several events:

Orange Carpet: Prospects will showcase their personal style during this pre-draft tradition.
Empire State Building Lighting: A special ceremony to celebrate the draft.
Fan Attendance: Fans can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster, with exclusive experiences available via WNBA Experiences.

Stay Connected

Fans can follow the draft through various platforms:

WNBA App: Exclusive content, behind-the-scenes coverage, and player stories.
Social Media: Updates and analysis on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube.
WNBA.com: “Draft Central” will provide comprehensive coverage, including team profiles and draft analysis.

As the WNBA continues to grow, the 2025 Draft represents a significant milestone, introducing new talent and expanding the league’s reach. Fans worldwide, including those in India, can look forward to an exciting event that sets the stage for the upcoming season.