WNBA Mock Draft: Where Does Iriafen Land After Bueckers?
As the 2024 WNBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on the top picks, with UConn’s Paige Bueckers being one of the most anticipated selections. Bueckers, who is coming off a stellar season, is expected to be the top overall pick, but behind her, a highly talented crop of players is vying for spots in the first round. One of the most intriguing prospects in the 2024 draft is Ineza Iriafen, a dynamic forward who has steadily climbed up mock draft boards and is expected to be a top selection.
Iriafen’s unique skill set and potential make her one of the draft’s most exciting players. While Bueckers garners most of the attention, Iriafen’s future in the WNBA is equally bright, with teams eyeing her as a potential game-changer. But where does she land after Bueckers? Let’s break down Iriafen’s draft prospects and where she might end up after the UConn star.
Iriafen’s Skill Set and Impact
Iriafen is a versatile forward known for her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Standing at 6’3″, she combines length and athleticism with a strong basketball IQ. Her scoring ability, particularly in transition, makes her a threat from multiple positions. Iriafen has developed a reliable jump shot, while also demonstrating a knack for attacking the rim and creating mismatches with defenders.
Her defensive prowess is equally impressive. Iriafen has the ability to guard multiple positions, and her size and agility make her a versatile defender who can disrupt passing lanes and block shots. These attributes make her an excellent prospect for teams looking for a two-way player who can contribute immediately on both ends.
Iriafen’s Rising Stock
While Bueckers is almost a lock to go number one, the race for the second overall pick is wide open, and that’s where Iriafen enters the picture. The WNBA has seen a trend toward positional versatility and players who can both score and defend, and Iriafen fits that mold perfectly. After an excellent college career, her stock has risen significantly, and she has become one of the most talked-about players in the draft.
In particular, Iriafen’s performance at the Combine and in recent games has shown she has the capability to make an immediate impact in the league. Her blend of scoring, playmaking, and defense makes her a tantalizing option for teams that need a versatile forward who can make an immediate difference. Her physical tools and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor have teams excited about her potential as a future star.
Where Does Iriafen Land in the Draft?
Based on current trends and team needs, Iriafen is likely to be selected within the top five picks of the 2024 WNBA Draft, with a few teams particularly well-suited to benefit from her skill set.
The Indiana Fever, who have a high pick, are in the midst of a rebuild and would be an ideal landing spot for Iriafen. They could use her as a foundational piece to complement the team’s young talent. Iriafen’s two-way versatility would allow her to fit seamlessly alongside their young stars, providing a long-term solution in the forward position.
Another potential fit could be the Dallas Wings, a team with a strong core that is looking to add depth and talent. Iriafen’s ability to contribute immediately in both the frontcourt and on defense would add another dimension to the Wings’ roster, and her versatility would allow her to fill several roles for head coach Latricia Trammell.
The Atlanta Dream could also be in the mix for Iriafen, with the team looking to continue their upward trajectory after making the playoffs in recent seasons. A player like Iriafen, who can provide scoring and defense, would bolster their forward rotation and help push the Dream into contender status.
Conclusion
After Paige Bueckers, Ineza Iriafen is one of the most exciting players in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Her blend of scoring, defense, and versatility makes her a top prospect with the potential to contribute immediately. While the race for the second pick remains fluid, it’s clear that Iriafen’s skill set and rising stock make her one of the most highly coveted players in this draft class. As the WNBA looks toward a future with more dynamic and versatile players, Iriafen represents the next wave of talented forwards capable of making a significant impact on the league.
