Analyzing Paige Bueckers, JuJu Watkins and More: Who Are the Next Stars of the WNBA?

By Jocelyn Alano June 13, 2024 14:35

Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea via Getty Images

The landscape of women's basketball is witnessing the emergence of exceptional talents who are poised to make a significant impact in the WNBA. Among these rising stars are Paige Bueckers, Hannah Hidalgo, JuJu Watkins, and MiLaysia Fulwiley, who have showcased outstanding skills and potential during their college careers, positioning themselves as the next crop of WNBA stars. Let's delve into the details of these remarkable athletes and their journey towards becoming the future faces of the WNBA.

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Paige Bueckers

Paige Bueckers, born in 2002, has been a standout point guard for UConn, making history as the only freshman to win AP Women's College Basketball Player of the Year in 2021. Bueckers' impact on the court has been undeniable, with exceptional averages of 20.0 points, 5.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game during her freshman year, guiding her team to a Final Four appearance. Bueckers' remarkable all-around skills and versatility have solidified her position as a top recruit for the WNBA, with her ability to dominate as a primary ball-handler and playmaker setting her apart as a future star.

Hannah Hidalgo

Hannah Hidalgo, a dynamic 5-foot-6 guard, has been making waves with her mature game and impressive offensive acumen, hailing from Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, N.J. Hidalgo's impact as a freshman has been remarkable, with her ability to impact every aspect of the game evident through her impressive averages of 29 points, five assists, six rebounds, and seven steals per game during her senior year of high school. Hidalgo's exceptional offensive and defensive capabilities, coupled with her ability to excel on the big stage, have positioned her as a top prospect for the WNBA, with the potential to rival the league's established stars.

JuJu Watkins

JuJu Watkins, an electrifying wing player from USC, has been captivating audiences with her unguardable transition game and polished scoring abilities. Watkins' impact on the court has been undeniable, with her ability to dominate as a primary ball-handler and her dynamic scoring prowess setting her apart as a top prospect for the WNBA Draft. Watkins' exceptional offensive capabilities and defensive contributions have solidified her position as a top recruit for the WNBA, showcasing her potential to thrive at the professional level.

MiLaysia Fulwiley

MiLaysia Fulwiley, a "generational talent" according to South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, has been turning heads with her thrilling moves and exceptional range on the court. Fulwiley's impact as a freshman has been impressive, with her ability to make significant contributions to a deep and championship-ready South Carolina roster. Fulwiley's impressive offensive capabilities, combined with her defensive skills, position her as a top prospect for the WNBA, with the potential to inspire the next generation of women hoopers at the professional level.

The Overview

In conclusion, the future of the WNBA looks promising, with players like Paige Bueckers, Hannah Hidalgo, JuJu Watkins, and MiLaysia Fulwiley poised to make a significant impact in the professional league. Their exceptional skills, remarkable performances during their college careers, and potential to rival the established stars of the WNBA paint a compelling picture of the league's future. As the anticipation for their transition to the professional stage grows, these rising stars are set to bring an era of thrilling basketball and fierce competition to the WNBA.