The UCLA Bruins’ stellar senior class left their mark in women’s college basketball. The class delivered UCLA the program’s first-ever NCAA title. Now the six seniors are headed to the WNBA and there’s a good chance that all six players will hear their name called in next week’s draft.
All six seniors flashed moments of greatness this season for UCLA. Gabriela Jaquez was the star in the NCAA championship game but without terrific performances from Angela Dugalic and Lauren Betts, the Bruins wouldn’t have been in position to knockout South Carolina in last Sunday’s championship.
Five of the six Bruin seniors were invited to attend next week’s WNBA draft in-person, with Charlisse Leger-Walker being the only UCLA senior not being among the 15 players selected.
Forward Angela Dugalic joined Leger-Walker the only Bruins not taken in ESPN writer Michael Voepel’s Top-15 pick WNBA mock draft that was released Wednesday morning following the conclusion of the NCAA tournament. Let’s run through the other four UCLA players that were selected.
No. 4 Washington Mystics: Lauren Betts
The 6’7” center will give whichever team that selects her instant rim protection. The question for Lauren Betts is how she’ll fare against larger, more talented players at the next level.
No. 8 Golden State Valkyries: Gianna Kneepkens
Gianna Kneepkens is a safe bet. Even after a quiet NCAA tournament, Kneepkens has proved over five collegiate seasons that she is an elite shooter. It’s a surefire tool that every WNBA team would like.
No. 11 Washington Mystics: Gabriela Jaquez
After what Gabriela Jaquez did against the Gamecocks, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see her name called even earlier. Jaquez is a versatile player who just keeps on getting better.
No. 12 Connecticut Sun: Kiki Rice
Kiki Rice has done it all with the UCLA Bruins, consistently contributing to winning since her freshman season. Rice looked completely healthy this season, which resulted in career-high shooting splits.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Which UCLA Bruins end up as teammates in ESPN’s WNBA mock draft?
Reporting by Dylan McNeill, UCLA Wire / UCLA Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
