WNBA Draft Confidential: GMs Anonymously Scout Paige Bueckers and More March Madness Guards
As the WNBA Draft approaches, one of the most exciting and anticipated events in women’s basketball is the chance to see top collegiate talent make the jump to the professional ranks. This year, the spotlight is particularly on a group of high-performing guards who have turned heads during the NCAA March Madness tournament. Among the most talked-about players is Paige Bueckers, a standout for UConn, but there are several other elite guards who are also making waves in the draft discussions. To get a clearer picture of what general managers are saying about these top prospects, we spoke to a few anonymous scouts to break down what they’re seeing from these future stars.
Paige Bueckers: The All-Star Potential
Paige Bueckers, despite battling injuries in recent seasons, has remained one of the most coveted prospects in the WNBA Draft. Known for her impeccable court vision, basketball IQ, and scoring ability, Bueckers is a once-in-a-generation talent. Her return to form this season, following a significant knee injury, has only elevated her stock.
One anonymous GM noted, “Paige has the potential to be a future face of the league. Her ability to run an offense, combined with her scoring, is what sets her apart. She’s got the talent to be an immediate contributor on any WNBA roster.”
However, it’s not just her offense that excites scouts. Bueckers’ defensive prowess and poise under pressure are standout qualities. One GM said, “She’s a high-floor player with low-risk because of her all-around game. She might not be the flashiest player, but her consistency and leadership are invaluable.”
Zia Cooke: Explosive Scorer with High Upside
Zia Cooke of South Carolina is another guard who has drawn attention during March Madness. Cooke’s ability to score from all areas of the court makes her an intriguing prospect. While her shooting consistency can be a concern, her athleticism, confidence, and knack for scoring in crucial moments have helped her gain a lot of traction.
One GM explained, “She’s one of the more explosive players in this class. She has that “it” factor—she can take over games. Her ability to score off the dribble and hit big shots in clutch situations is what makes her a potential star.”
Cooke’s energy and defensive tenacity are also worth noting, making her a two-way player that would thrive in the fast-paced nature of the WNBA. If she can refine her shot selection, scouts believe she has the potential to be an immediate starter in the league.
Destiny Littleton: Efficient Playmaking and Leadership
Destiny Littleton, a seasoned guard from USC, has flown under the radar at times but has impressed during March Madness with her efficient playmaking and leadership. Littleton is known for her ability to run an offense while maintaining a steady hand under pressure.
“Littleton is the type of player who doesn’t get rattled. She can control the tempo of the game and is an excellent distributor. She’s also capable of hitting timely shots when needed,” said one scout. “She doesn’t have the raw athleticism of some others, but her feel for the game and her ability to lead a team makes her a strong prospect for the WNBA.”
Her consistency as a floor general, combined with her high basketball IQ, makes her a potential sleeper in the draft. Teams looking for a steady point guard to manage their offense might view Littleton as a hidden gem.
Jacy Sheldon: Two-Way Guard with Defensive Prowess
Jacy Sheldon of Ohio State is another guard gaining attention, particularly for her defensive capabilities. Sheldon has shown she can lock down opponents while also being a capable scorer. Her quickness and ability to read the game make her a strong candidate for a team looking to add defensive depth.
“She’s a pest on defense, and that’s a skill that translates to the next level,” a GM said. “She has the potential to develop offensively, but it’s her defense that will earn her minutes immediately. She’s tough and has that competitive edge that you want in a rookie.”
Sheldon’s willingness to play hard at both ends of the floor is an asset that will make her a valuable pick in the later rounds of the draft.
The Verdict
As the WNBA Draft nears, Paige Bueckers is, unsurprisingly, one of the top prospects in this class, but the competition is fierce. Players like Zia Cooke, Destiny Littleton, and Jacy Sheldon are also making names for themselves with strong performances during March Madness. With their diverse skill sets—ranging from scoring and playmaking to defense—these guards represent the future of the WNBA. For general managers, the decision will come down to finding the right mix of skill, leadership, and potential, all while considering how each player’s unique talents will fit into the ever-evolving WNBA landscape. The future of the league looks bright, and these guards are sure to make an impact.
