Unlike the NBA, the WNBA imposes restrictions on U.S. athletes, preventing them from entering the draft before they turn 22 or graduate early.
In response to the growing debate, USC’s sophomore star guard JuJu Watkins advocates for the option to leave college early for the WNBA, a sentiment echoed by other high-profile draft prospects.
Watkins and Paige Bueckers, two standout players in women’s college basketball, are set to face off in a highly anticipated game, reminiscent of past rivalries in the sport.
The matchup between USC and UConn is part of a home-and-home series that aims to engage national audiences and energize fan bases across the country.
The game in Hartford will provide a glimpse into the future of the WNBA, showcasing the talent and potential of the players involved.
Bueckers is projected to be the top pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, pending her decision on returning to college for an additional year.
The rules requiring players to have at least three years of college experience before entering the WNBA draft have contributed to the development of stars in women’s college basketball.
The excitement surrounding the USC/UConn game is evident in the record-breaking ticket prices, reflecting the growing interest in women’s college basketball.
