The WNBA Draft 2025 delivered everything fans hoped for—surprise picks, blockbuster trades, and a wave of rising stars entering the league. But while every team made moves, only a few truly maximized their opportunities. The Dallas Wings, Connecticut Sun, and Washington Mystics separated themselves from the pack, earning the highest grades for their performance on draft night.
These three franchises approached the draft with clarity, strategy, and courage. They didn’t just aim to fill roster gaps—they built foundations for long-term dominance. Let’s dive deep into how and why these teams walked away as the big winners.
Draft Night Recap: Who Earned the Highest Grades and Why?
Every draft class has its gems, but how teams uncover and utilize that talent defines success. For the Wings, Sun, and Mystics, it wasn’t about playing it safe—it was about thinking long-term and trusting the process. Their front offices showed rare foresight and decisiveness.
Dallas Wings: Drafting for Chemistry and Depth Earns Highest Grades
The Dallas Wings approached the 2025 WNBA Draft like seasoned chess players. Every move was deliberate. Their biggest win came from selecting Kamryn Fields, the electric guard from UCLA. Known for her defensive grit and ability to create offense, she brings immediate value to Dallas’s fast-paced system.
Fields isn’t just a scorer—she’s a connector. Her chemistry with Arike Ogunbowale could elevate the Wings’ backcourt to elite levels. Dallas didn’t stop there—they used their second-round pick wisely to bring in Jayla Thompson, a versatile big with elite rebounding instincts.
Why They Earned the Highest Grades:
- Balanced the roster with both guard and post depth.
- Drafted high-IQ players with proven leadership.
- Targeted players who match the team’s play style and future goals.
Key Draft Picks:
- Kamryn Fields, Guard, UCLA – Round 1, Pick 4
- Jayla Thompson, Center, LSU – Round 2, Pick 15
Connecticut Sun: Veteran Presence Meets Future Promise
The Connecticut Sun have made the playoffs in recent years, but with an aging core, the front office faced pressure to prepare for the next chapter. They nailed this draft with selections that balance today’s needs and tomorrow’s promise—securing one of the highest grades of the night.
Their standout pick was Malia Greene, a 3-and-D wing from Tennessee. Greene’s versatility allows her to guard multiple positions and knock down big shots—skills the Sun have lacked in clutch moments. A draft-day trade to bring in veteran Nia Holloway added immediate stability to the bench.
What Set Them Apart:
- Picked players with WNBA-ready skillsets.
- Addressed both perimeter defense and scoring depth.
- Made smart use of draft-day trades to enhance flexibility.
Key Draft Moves:
- Malia Greene, Wing, Tennessee – Round 1, Pick 7
- Trade Acquisition: Nia Holloway, Guard
This blend of experience and emerging talent made the Sun one of the biggest winners and earned them some of the highest grades from analysts.
Washington Mystics: Bold Draft Day Decisions Pay Off
The Washington Mystics were not afraid to shake things up. By trading up to secure Alisha Monroe, they made one of the boldest—and smartest—moves of the night. Monroe, a high-energy forward from South Carolina, brings scoring, rebounding, and a team-first mentality. She could quickly become the heartbeat of this team.
Washington’s later-round gamble on Jess King, a pass-first point guard from Syracuse, may also prove savvy. While not a flashy name, King’s leadership and basketball IQ impressed scouts. If she develops, she could become a key rotation player.
Why They Deserved the Highest Grades:
- Aggressively pursued top-tier talent.
- Found value in the later rounds.
- Drafted with purpose and direction.
Top Picks:
- Alisha Monroe, Forward, South Carolina – Round 1, Pick 5 (via trade)
- Jess King, Guard, Syracuse – Round 2, Pick 20
What the Highest Grades Say About Team Trajectories
It’s easy to get caught up in draft-day excitement, but the highest grades often reflect more than talent. They show that a team understands its identity, knows its weaknesses, and is willing to make calculated risks to improve.
Predictions:
- Wings: Their guard-heavy strategy sets up a fast-paced offense. Expect playoff contention.
- Sun: A deeper, more balanced roster improves their chances of advancing in the postseason.
- Mystics: A new energy and style is coming. If their picks gel, a return to title contention is possible.
Highest Grades Are Earned—Not Given
Earning the highest grades in a WNBA Draft doesn’t happen by chance. It takes months of scouting, internal analysis, and courageous decision-making. The Wings, Sun, and Mystics earned top marks by:
- Prioritizing fit over hype.
- Balancing the present with future potential.
- Staying active and adaptable on draft day.
These franchises showed what smart team-building looks like. They’re not just drafting players—they’re building culture.
Tips for Teams Wanting Highest Grades in Future Drafts
Want to see your team lead the next draft grade rankings? Here’s what to take away from the Wings, Sun, and Mystics playbook:
- Know Your Identity: Teams that draft to complement their system tend to outperform.
- Be Bold: Trade up for game-changers. Waiting can cost you.
- Do the Homework: Deep scouting and analytics often uncover hidden gems.
- Trust the Process: Draft success comes from preparation, not panic.
Conclusion
The WNBA Draft 2025 was a showcase of future stars, but the teams that earned the highest grades also gave us a glimpse of what’s to come. The Wings, Sun, and Mystics didn’t just pick talent—they crafted a vision.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on these three squads. Will their bold moves pay off? If draft night is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes.
FAQ’s
What makes a team earn the highest grades in the WNBA Draft?
Teams are graded on how well their picks fit needs, future potential, and value at each draft position.
Why did the Wings, Sun, and Mystics dominate the 2025 draft?
They made calculated picks that addressed gaps while maximizing upside—earning praise from scouts and analysts.
Are high draft grades a predictor of season success?
Not always, but high grades indicate strong roster planning, which often leads to improvement.
Who was the biggest surprise pick?
Jess King was considered a second-round sleeper with major upside—watch for her impact.
Which team made the riskiest move?
The Mystics trading up for Monroe was bold, but if she becomes a star, it will look genius.