Which NCAA Basketball Powerhouses Will Shine in the 2025 WNBA Playoffs?

The WNBA has become a breeding ground for elite talent, primarily sourced from the NCAA, where college programmes nurture players into professional athletes. As the league's playoffs unfold, the dominance of certain colleges, particularly South Carolina, Notre Dame, and UConn, has become evident. These institutions consistently produce top-tier players who excel at the professional level, showcasing their prowess in the WNBA.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

The WNBA playoffs highlight the dominance of NCAA programmes in producing elite talent.
South Carolina leads with eight players, showcasing their basketball prowess under Dawn Staley.
Notre Dame and UConn follow closely, each contributing seven players to the playoffs.
Baylor and Maryland add five players each, demonstrating their strong basketball foundations.
UCLA, Stanford, Iowa, and Oregon also make significant contributions to the playoffs.

South Carolina: The Elite Programme

It comes as no surprise that South Carolina ranks at the top of the list. Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have cultivated an environment of excellence. The current WNBA playoffs feature a staggering eight players from South Carolina, showcasing their ability to develop talent capable of thriving on the biggest stage.

Key Players from South Carolina

Leading the charge is A’ja Wilson, a notable MVP contender who has made her mark in the league. Joining her are:

Allisha Gray (Atlanta Dream)
Te-Hina Paopao (Atlanta Dream)
Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever)
Bree Hall (Indiana Fever)
Zia Cooke (Seattle Storm)
Laeticia Amihere (GSV)

Notre Dame: A Legacy of Guards

Notre Dame has long been celebrated for producing elite guards, earning the moniker “Guard U.” This reputation is reinforced by the presence of seven players in the current WNBA playoffs, showcasing the programme’s ability to prepare players for professional success. Notable alumni include:

Notable Alumni from Notre Dame

Kayla McBride (Lynx)
Jessica Shepherd (Lynx)
Jewell Loyd (Aces)
Jackie Young (Aces)
Kathryn Westbeld (Mercury)
Skylar Diggins (Storm)
Brianna Turner (Fever)

UConn: The Dynasty Continues

The University of Connecticut, under the legendary coach Geno Auriemma, has established itself as a dynasty in women's college basketball. UConn has produced a remarkable number of WNBA players, with this year’s playoffs featuring seven alumni, including the exceptional Breanna Stewart, a two-time MVP.

Prominent UConn Players in the Playoffs

Kaitlyn Chen (Valkyries)
Napheesa Collier (Lynx)
Kiah Stokes (Aces)
Breanna Stewart (Liberty)
Katie Lou Samuelson (Storm)
Gabby Williams (Storm)
Tiffany Hayes (Valkyries)

Baylor: Toughness and Resilience

Baylor University is known for its tough, physical style of play, which is reflected in the five players representing the programme in the playoffs. Under the guidance of former head coach Kim Mulkey, Baylor has produced players who excel in defensive roles and physicality.

Baylor's Playoff Contributors

DiJonai Carrington (Lynx)
NaLyssa Smith (Aces)
Brittney Griner (Dream)
Kalani Brown (Mercury)
Odyssey Sims (Fever)

Maryland: Fundamentals and Defence

The University of Maryland, under coach Brenda Frese, emphasises fundamental basketball and defensive strategies. This approach has resulted in five Maryland players making significant impacts in the playoffs, demonstrating the effectiveness of their training.

Maryland Players in the WNBA Playoffs

Brionna Jones (Dream)
Shatori Walker-Kimbrough (Dream)
Alyssa Thomas (Mercury)
Kaila Charles (Valkyries)
Chloe Bibby (Fever)

UCLA: Grit and Versatility

UCLA has built a reputation for producing versatile players who excel under pressure. With four players in the playoffs this year, the Bruins continue to showcase their strong basketball programme and the effectiveness of their training methods.

UCLA Players in the WNBA Playoffs

Jordin Canada (Dream)
Kennedy Burke (Liberty)
Rebekah Gardner (Liberty)
Monique Billings (Valkyries)

Stanford: Intelligent Basketball

Stanford's programme focuses on developing intelligent and fundamentally sound players. This year, four Stanford alumni are making their mark in the WNBA playoffs, contributing to the league's competitive landscape.

Stanford Representatives in the Playoffs

Alanna Smith (Lynx)
Kiana Williams (Mercury)
Nneka Ogwumike (Storm)
Lexie Hull (Fever)

Iowa: Rising Talent

The University of Iowa, under coach Lisa Bluder, has gained recognition for its offensive prowess and skilled players. With three participants in the playoffs, Iowa is quickly establishing itself as a programme to watch.

Iowa Players in the WNBA Playoffs

Caitlin Clark (Fever)
Megan Gustafson (Aces)
Kate Martin (Valkyries)

Oregon: Emerging Strength

Oregon’s programme has made significant strides, sending three players to the WNBA playoffs. The Ducks are known for their dynamic style and ability to develop well-rounded athletes.

Oregon Players in the WNBA Playoffs

Player 1
Player 2
Player 3

The Importance of College Programmes

The success of these college programmes in producing elite WNBA talent highlights the importance of a strong college basketball system. The NCAA serves as a critical foundation, allowing players to refine their skills, gain exposure, and prepare for the rigours of professional basketball.

As we watch the playoffs unfold, it is clear that the future of the WNBA will continue to be shaped by these institutions. The focus on developing talent, both technically and mentally, ensures that the league remains competitive and entertaining.

Which college programme do you believe will dominate the WNBA in the coming years? #WNBA #CollegeBasketball #WomenInSports

FAQs

What is the significance of NCAA programmes in the WNBA?

NCAA programmes are crucial in developing players' skills and preparing them for the professional level, significantly influencing the level of competition in the WNBA.

How many players from South Carolina are in the WNBA playoffs?

South Carolina has eight players competing in the WNBA playoffs, highlighting the programme's strength and talent development.

Which college has produced the most WNBA players this season?

South Carolina leads the way with eight players in the WNBA playoffs, showcasing its status as a premier college basketball programme.

Who are some notable players from Notre Dame in the WNBA playoffs?

Notable Notre Dame alumni in the WNBA playoffs include Kayla McBride, Jewell Loyd, and Jackie Young, demonstrating the programme's legacy of producing elite talent.

What style of play is associated with Baylor University?

Baylor University is known for its tough, physical style of play, emphasising defence and post dominance, contributing to its success in producing professional players.