Prior to when Sabrina Ionescu, in what was the worst kept secret within WNBA circles, was selected first overall by the New York Liberty in last year’s draft, there was speculation as to if Ionescu would declare for the draft in 2019 – when the Las Vegas Aces has the fist overall pick (which became Jackie Young).
It was her junior season at Oregon, but yet the Ducks did not win the national championship. Ionescu penned a Players’ Tribune piece declaring she would return to Oregon for her senior season. Unfortunately, we all know what happened to last season’s tournament.
For this year’s draft, it appears that the prospective No. 1 overall selection – Charli Collier of Texas – will forego her senior season with the Longhorns and declare for this season’s draft.
Thank you, Texas. 🤘🏽 pic.twitter.com/puH4wQp4xG
— Charli Collier™ (@CharliC_14) March 7, 2021
Because of a the five-team trade that was completed earlier this offseason where the No. 1 overall pick changed teams twice, the Dallas Wings now occupy the first two selections in this year’s draft.
The Wings have established a reputation throughout the WNBA for being one of the best drafting teams. This includes hauling in Arike Ogunbowale two drafts ago as well as Satou Sabally, Ty Harris and Bella Alarie in the 2020 draft.
Dallas has four of the top 12 selections in the 2021 draft.
Collier’s announcement comes as the Associated Press has reported any player that wishes to be eligible for the draft must forego their remaining college eligibility and must email the WNBA before or on April 1. According to Doug Feinberg, a player has up to 48 hours after their final game if she plans on entering the draft if said player is participating in the Final Four.
The eligibility rules are similar to those the NBA put in place for its draft.
