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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama women’s basketball had a fiery season with a 24-9 record, raising the question of where players like Sarah Ashlee Barker, Zaay Green, and Aaliyah Nye will land in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Barker had a standout season, earning accolades including First-Team All-SEC, a spot on the Naismith Trophy Player of the Year Midseason Team, and recognition on the Ann Meyers Drysdale National Player of the Year Watchlist. In Alabama’s recent NCAA Tournament game against Maryland, Barker set a program record with 45 points. She has consistently proven to be WNBA material, leading Alabama in scoring in 11 of 31 games.
Green, in her lone season with the Crimson Tide, dominated the floor. She averaged 15.7 points per game with a 49.4% field goal percentage. Green led the team in assists with 4.5 per game and was one of the few players to appear in all 32 games, averaging 31.8 minutes per contest. A former McDonald’s All-American and SEC veteran with previous experience at Tennessee and Texas A&M, Green’s experience and adaptability have made her an essential part of Alabama’s success.
Nye was just as impactful. She became Alabama’s career leader in made 3-pointers during the Crimson Tide’s win against Auburn and ranked fourth in the NCAA in made 3-pointers. Nye scored in double figures in 26 of 32 games and led Alabama in scoring in 10 contests. Her consistency beyond the arc makes her a valuable asset for teams looking for perimeter shooting.
While their tournament play was cut short with a loss to Maryland, each of these players have the qualities needed to excel at the professional level. Barker possesses versatile scoring ability, consistently finishing at the rim and knocking down shots from beyond the arc, which makes her an appealing option for teams seeking a reliable shooter. Green is a dynamic playmaker, balancing efficient scoring with strong passing and rebounding. Nye is an elite 3-point expert with quick decision-making and court awareness, attributes that are highly desired in the WNBA.
Although none of these players is currently projected in major 2025 WNBA mock drafts, they have the potential to earn a spot on one of the league’s 13 teams. With dynamic play, sharp shooting, and a competitive edge, they have the talent to compete at the next level.
Alabama Holds on to Defeat North Alabama 4-3 in Walk-Off Fashion
Alabama defeats North Alabama 4-3 thanks to a walk-off single by sophomore Short Stop Justin Lebron.
Gallery Credit: Micah Nichols