2024 WNBA Mock Draft Second Round: Predicting landing spots for Hailey Van Lith, Ayoka Lee and more

The 2024 WNBA Draft is anticipated to feature top prospects such as Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, who is projected to be the first overall pick by the Indiana Pacers. Stanford’s Cameron Brink and Tennessee’s Rickea Jackson are widely regarded as the second and third best players in their class.

Following the first three stars, the draft becomes more complex for all teams as they move through the remainder of the first round and into the second round. Notable players such as LSU’s Hailey Van Lith and Kansas State’s Ayoka Lee are anticipated to be among the top available names in Round 2, highlighting the depth of talent in the 2024 class.

The 2024 WNBA Draft, taking place on Apr. 15, will be held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in Brooklyn, New York. This marks the first time since 2016 that fans will be able to attend the event, as Clark is set to enter as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in the league’s history.

2024 WNBA Mock Draft – Second Round Predictions

#13 – Chicago Sky (Own McDonald – G)

Despite falling to the second round, Charisma Osborne’s talent is undeniable and her draft position does not diminish her skills on the court.

The Chicago Sky is in need of backcourt depth, and the UCLA product is a perfect fit. With her athleticism, she is an athletic guard who can effectively defend multiple positions.

#14 – Seattle Storm (Isobel Borlase – Goalkeeper)

The Seattle Storm has become even stronger following their successful recruitment in free agency.

Despite this, the Storm was unable to find a suitable replacement for Sue Bird. Isobel Borlase from Australia has the ideal height for a point guard and her competitive nature is a standout quality.

Seattle’s development of Lauren Jackson, one of the greatest Australian players ever, has also been beneficial.

#15 – Indiana Fever (Teaira McCowan – C)

The Indiana Fever have addressed their major need by selecting Caitlin Clark as the top pick in the draft.

Additionally, the addition of Florida’s Leilani Correa would bring even more shooting prowess to the team. In her final season with the Gators, she maintained an impressive 36.1% shooting percentage from beyond the arc.

#16 – Las Vegas Aces (Own McDonald – G)

The Las Vegas Aces have no apparent weaknesses and, as the two-time defending champions, do not need to excessively consider the draft. The team simply needs to strengthen their depth, and the possession of three second-round picks will aid in this effort.

Despite her ACL injury, Elizabeth Kittley still has the potential to be a first-round pick. With her expected recovery time of several months, it would be a wise decision for the Aces to keep her on their team and utilize her talent.

#17 – New York Liberty (Yvonne Ejim – Small Forward/Guard)

The New York Liberty’s potential for reaching the WNBA Finals remains strong, but they must work on bolstering their depth.

The Liberty is in need of a strong defender to come off the bench, and Yvonne Ejim from Gonzaga is the perfect fit. Not only can she defend multiple positions, but her impressive low post moves are an added bonus.

#18 – Las Vegas Aces (Taiyanna Jackson – Center)

As previously stated, the Las Vegas Aces possess three second-round picks. The team simply needs to ensure that their star players have sufficient support.

Despite a potentially impressive campaign, Taiyanna Jackson could possibly be available if she chooses not to make the jump. Her skill as an elite rim protector and her ability to score around the basket make her a valuable asset.

#19 – Connecticut Sun (Jasmine Thomas – G)

There is uncertainty surrounding Maddy Westbeld’s decision to declare for the WNBA Draft, as she playfully mentioned making an announcement on April Fools’ Day. However, if Westbeld does enter the draft, her size would be a valuable asset for the Connecticut Sun. Standing at six-foot-three, Westbeld’s abilities range from scoring and defending to playmaking, making her a versatile addition to the team.

#20 – Atlanta Dream (Kysre Gondrezick – SG)

The Atlanta Dream is in need of both size and playmaking as they enter the draft. They are expected to address the latter in the first round and focus on selecting a center in the second round. This is where Ayoka Lee from Kansas State comes into play, as she is a dominant presence in the paint and excels on both ends of the court.

Despite her impressive scouting report, Lee’s injury history remains a red flag. She has already undergone two ACL surgeries in her young career, the first during high school and the second as recently as August 2022.

#21 – Washington Mystics (Alyssa Thomas – F)

Despite being a first-round talent, Hailey Van Lith is projected to still be available in the second round. Her speed and quickness make her a strong defender against larger guards, and she has the ability to make plays on the court. Her determination and ability to perform under pressure make her an ideal replacement for Natasha Cloud in the starting lineup.

#22 – Connecticut Sun (Natisha Hiedeman – G)

The Connecticut Sun are expected to prioritize adding height with their initial two selections in the draft, followed by selecting a skilled shooter at this spot. Dyaisha Fair, who recorded a 37.7% three-point shooting percentage in her last eligible season at Syracuse, is a potential candidate for this role.

#23 – New York Liberty (Sara Jones – F)

The New York Liberty fulfilled a need for a defender with their first pick in the second round.

It was now necessary to focus on another important aspect, which is the depth of the backcourt. Nika Muhl possesses exceptional playmaking abilities, and her leadership qualities only serve as an additional advantage for last year’s second place team.

#24 – Las Vegas Aces (Alyssa Ustby – Point Guard)

The defending champions continue to strengthen their roster by selecting UNC’s Alyssa Ustby, a promising young player, in the second round.

With the ability to play both as a guard and forward, she is a versatile player who excels at scoring and rebounding. Additionally, she has shown her skill in making plays, becoming the first woman in UNC history to achieve a triple-double.