How does WNBA draft work? Closer look at rules and eligibility

The upcoming 2024 WNBA draft, scheduled for April 15, is expected to have a strong talent pool including notable players like Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and Rickea Jackson. As more star players enter the league, there will likely be an influx of new fans who may need to familiarize themselves with the draft process.

The WNBA Draft typically takes place in April, immediately following the conclusion of the NCAA Final Four tournament, as an annual event.

The players are deemed eligible upon completing their college eligibility or declaring early. Players who advance to the Elite Eight or beyond in the tournament are expected to declare within 48 hours after their campaign ends. Additionally, international players must also meet certain criteria in order to declare.

Similarly to the NBA, the WNBA draft uses a lottery system to determine the draft order, with teams’ odds based on their performance in the previous season. The draft consists of three rounds and follows a snake format, ensuring a fair distribution of early picks and subsequent round reversals.

Upon being selected, WNBA teams acquire the exclusive rights to their drafted players and are able to initiate contract negotiations. Players who are not selected become free agents without any restrictions, giving them the opportunity to sign with any team that expresses interest.

2024 WNBA Draft Order and Selection Process

The 2024 WNBA draft, sponsored by State Farm, will take place on April 15 at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York City. The official broadcast partner is ESPN, with the telecast scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. EDT.

The Indiana Fever has secured the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft after winning the draft lottery on December 10, 2023. This marks the second consecutive year that they will have the top pick, following their selection of Aliyah Boston in the 2023 draft.

The first-round draft order is shown below:

1. Indiana Fever
2. Los Angeles Sparks
3. Chicago Sky (From Phoenix)
4. Los Angeles Sparks (From Seattle)
5. Dallas Wings (From Chicago)
6. Washington Mystics
7. Minnesota Lynx
8. Chicago Sky (From Atlanta, via Los Angeles)
9. Dallas Wings
10. Connecticut Sun
11. New York Liberty
12. Atlanta Dream (From Las Vegas, via Los Angeles)

According to various WNBA mock drafts, Caitlin Clark from the Iowa Hawkeyes is predicted to be selected as the first overall pick.

Cameron Rink, Rickea Jackson, Kamilla Cardoso, Aaliyah Edwards, Georgia Amoore, Angel Reese, Jacy Sheldon, Charisma Osbourne, Alissa Pili, Nyadiew Puoch, and Elizabeth Kitley are among the other players expected to be drafted in the first round.