UCLA Bruins Make WNBA Draft History
- Eric Lyons
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
By Eric Lyons
Last night the UCLA Bruins women's basketball made history as they set a WNBA draft record for most draft picks from a single institution. The Bruins bug touched the Washington Mystics, Chicago Sky, and new franchise Toronto Tempo who had picks four through six. With six total selections, five of them coming in the first round, this squad's championship DNA has been sprinkled all over the league.
Lauren Betts C, Washington Mystics - Pick 4
The 6'7" center averaged 17.1 PTS and 8.8 REB during her senior campaign at UCLA. Numbers that rose in the NCAA tournament where she averaged 21.0 PTS and 9.3 REB. Betts had four triple doubles in six games, including two in the championship clinching Final Four games. She is an efficient scorer in the paint but it's not just because of her size. Betts is physical, has great footwork, and a high basketball IQ that allows her to create scoring opportunites. A board getter with an intimidating presence on defense, the Washington Mystics will be getting a player who can make an immediate impact.
Gabriela Jaquez SG, Chicago Sky - Pick 5
Things are looking very different in Chicago after the departure of Angel Reese. The Sky added Rickea Jackson, Skylar Diggins, Azurá Stevens, DiJonai Carrington, and Ariel Atkins over the last week. The fifth overall pick is exactly what the Sky needed to add to their new recipe, now they're cooking with grease. Jaquez has a high motor, sticky hands, and a nose for the basket. At only 6'0 she makes her presence known when she drives the lane for two or more. Jaquez can score from the inside, mid range, and can be a sniper from three when needed. A guard who can score, rebound, and distribute the ball with little to no turnovers is what you look for in a top five pick.
Kiki Rice PG, Toronto Tempo - Pick 6
It was only fitting that the franchise from The Six had the sixth pick in their first draft. With that pick they selected 5'11" point guard Kiki Rice. Her numbers rose each year at UCLA as her senior campaign was her best statistical season. Averaging 14.9 PTS, 5.9 REB, and 4.3 AST, Rice has the ability to influence the game offensively even when she's not scoring. Rice is a facilitator who has a great understanding for spacing, passing, and being impactful even when the ball is not in her hand.
Angela Dugalić PF, Washington Mystics - Pick 9
The 6'4" forward joined championship winning teammate in Washington after the Mystics took her at nine. Just like Lauren Betts, Dugalić was a playoff riser. Her athleticism and almost magnetic hands saw her play an intricate role in their chase for the title. Dugalić can score from mid range, post, and is dangerous outside the arc.
Gianna Kneepkens SG, Connecticut Sun - Pick 15
The fifth and final first rounder from the Bruins came by way of the Connecticut Sun. Kneepkens numbers may not jump off the charts but she is a first round talent. With a career FG percntage of 49.5%, Kneepkens has been a consistent scorer in her collegiate career. Her long arcing three point shot should carry over into her professional career.
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