Every team in the WNBA now includes a player from UConn on its roster, following recent trades between the Connecticut Sun and the Chicago Sky. This development highlights the significant influence of UConn’s basketball program in the league, as it continues to produce talented players who are making their mark professionally. The trades not only reflect team strategies but also underscore the strong connection between collegiate success at UConn and the opportunities available in the WNBA. As a result, fans can expect to see the impact of these former UConn athletes across the league, enriching the competition and showcasing the skill development fostered during their college careers. This trend emphasizes UConn’s status as a powerhouse in women’s basketball, contributing to the growth and competitiveness of the WNBA.
Fifteen former UConn women’s basketball players have secured spots on WNBA rosters as the regular season approaches. The Phoenix Mercury lead the league with three Huskies, while five other teams have two. Overall, eight of the 12 franchises feature at least one former UConn player.
Both of UConn’s 2024 WNBA Draft picks, Lou Lopez Sénéchal and Dorka Juhász, made their teams. Lopez Sénéchal will play for the Dallas Wings alongside Crystal Dangerfield, although she will be sidelined for 6-8 weeks due to knee surgery. The Wings selected her with the fifth overall pick.
Juhász, a second-round pick, earned a spot on the Minnesota Lynx, impressing during preseason with her versatility as a post player and achieving a double-double in her debut during an exhibition game. She will be alongside Napheesa Collier, who is returning for her first full season after giving birth, having played only four games last year.
In addition, Breanna Stewart and Stef Dolson will play for the New York Liberty, part of the league’s elite alongside the Las Vegas Aces, which include Kiah Stokes. Moriah Jefferson and Evina Westbrook will join Diana Taurasi on the Phoenix Mercury; Westbrook secured her place on the team despite joining late in the preseason after being waived by the Washington Mystics.
In Los Angeles, Azura Stevens and Katie Lou Samuelson are on the Sparks’ roster, although Samuelson will sit out this season due to her pregnancy. Meanwhile, Kia Nurse represents UConn on the Seattle Storm, especially after Sue Bird’s retirement last season. Back in Connecticut, Tiffany Hayes and Olivia Nelson-Ododa have returned to join the Sun’s opening day roster.
Among former Huskies not on any rosters, Bria Hartley and Christyn Williams are currently recovering from injuries, and Gabby Williams’ situation is uncertain due to the league’s new prioritization rule. Tina Charles and Megan Walker remain free agents.
The season kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, featuring the Sun against the Indiana Fever and the Liberty facing the Mystics. The Lynx will play the Chicago Sky at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the Mercury and Sparks at 11 p.m. ET. The Wings will take on the Atlanta Dream on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, while the Aces and Storm will begin their game at 3 p.m. ET.
