Here is our first of many articles on the upcoming WNBA Draft where we break down prospects, tell you the latest rumors on the Draft, and what’s being said behind the scenes regarding top prospects. Also, we are getting ready to do a lot more coverage on the WNBA in general!
WNBA Draft
Regarding the WNBA Draft, the first player we will discuss is Florida Gulf Coast junior Kierstan Bell. Multiple sources tell The Ball Out that her announcement caught her FGCU teammates and coaching staff off-guard. Not the fact that she was going to the WNBA, but the timing of it. Bell announced three hours before her game on her Facebook page without informing FGCU.
While Bell is very talented, is this a red flag? We have spoken to people connected to the WNBA, and it was offputting how she chose to make such an announcement, moreover, the timing.
Now let’s discuss the player mentioned as the No. 1 pick in this year’s Draft: Rhyne Howard. A source tells The Ball Out that they don’t believe the Washington Mystics will draft Howard. One concern about Howard is her motor; many feel she doesn’t have one.
Even though Ayoka Lee has told coaches at Kansas State that she will return next year; however, we have spoken with a source that believes she will reverse course and go to the WNBA. As this source tells The Ball Out, “what more can she prove?” We think she will be the first player picked if she does declare.
WNBA
Breanna Stewart was involved in the process and personally signed off on Seattle hiring new assistant Pokey Chatman, multiple sources tell The Ball Out. Also, don’t be surprised if Chicago Sky point guard Courtney Vandersloot leaves after this season and goes to Seattle next year.
Lady Vols’ resurgence
Tennessee had a big road win today over No. 15 Georgia. The Lady Vols are now 18-1 on the season with their best start to the season since 2007-08. Their massive success is also starting to pay off in the recruiting world. The job that Kellie Harper and her coaching staff, especially the new additions of Samantha Williams and Joy McCorvey
