New York – Excitement surrounding women’s basketball is reaching unprecedented levels as several stars from the NCAA women’s basketball tournament have made their way to the WNBA. Players like Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, Stanford’s Cameron Brink, LSU’s Angel Reese, and South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso are now taking their talents to the professional league, sparking anticipation among fans and analysts alike.
Clark, who played a pivotal role in attracting record-breaking TV audiences and selling out venues during her time in college, was selected as the number one overall pick by the Indiana Fever in the recent WNBA draft held in New York. The draft also saw Brink joining the Los Angeles Sparks as the second overall pick, Cardoso heading to the Chicago Sky as the third pick, and Reese landing with the Sky as well at number seven.
The draft night was filled with emotions as players reflected on their journeys to this point. Cardoso, who hails from Brazil, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pursue her basketball dreams and provide a better life for her family. On the other hand, Reese shared her excitement about starting fresh in the professional league and facing new challenges to continue growing as a player.
The WNBA’s popularity continues to soar, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert aiming to expand the league to 16 teams by 2028. The recent success of the league, highlighted by increased viewership and attendance, underscores the growing interest in women’s basketball at both the college and professional levels.
As players like Clark transition to the WNBA, the spotlight on women’s basketball is only expected to grow. Their impact, coupled with the trailblazing efforts of those who came before them, is shaping the future of the sport and drawing in more fans than ever before. With the league’s continued success and plans for expansion, the stage is set for a new era of women’s basketball to unfold.