As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, the debate intensifies over who will secure the top pick: UConn’s Paige Bueckers or Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles. Both athletes have demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience, making them prime candidates for the No. 1 selection.

 

**Paige Bueckers: A Stellar Career**

 

Paige Bueckers has been a standout player since her high school days, consistently showcasing her prowess on the court. Despite facing injuries, she has maintained impressive statistics throughout her college career at UConn. In the current season, Bueckers is averaging 18.7 points per game and shooting 41.6% from beyond the arc. Her playmaking abilities, combined with a low turnover rate, highlight her efficiency and basketball IQ. Recently, she surpassed Diana Taurasi to become ninth on UConn’s all-time scoring list, amassing 2,158 points and becoming the fastest player in the program’s history to reach 2,000 points. citeturn0news10

 

Off the court, Bueckers has capitalized on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, earning over a million dollars through partnerships with brands like Nike and her involvement with the women’s basketball league Unrivaled. Her marketability adds a significant dimension to her professional prospects. citeturn0news10

 

**Olivia Miles: Rising Through Adversity**

 

Olivia Miles has faced her share of challenges, notably a knee injury in 2023 that sidelined her for a season. Demonstrating resilience, she returned to Notre Dame in November 2024, forming a formidable backcourt with teammate Hannah Hidalgo. Miles’ game is characterized by exceptional court vision and elite passing skills, drawing comparisons to WNBA legend Ticha Penicheiro. Her strategic gameplay has been likened to that of Luka Dončić, underscoring her ability to read and manipulate the game effectively. citeturn0news9

 

In the current season, Miles is averaging 16.5 points and 6.4 assists per game, with a career-high 42.3% shooting from three-point range. Her improved perimeter shooting complements her slashing and playmaking abilities, making her a versatile threat on the court. citeturn0search6

 

**Mock Draft Projections**

 

Recent mock drafts consistently position Bueckers as the anticipated No. 1 pick, with Miles closely following at No. 2. ESPN’s mock draft highlights both as the top two picks, noting that while Bueckers is a lock for the first selection, Miles’ performance keeps her in close contention. citeturn0search0 Similarly, CBS Sports’ latest mock draft reflects this order, emphasizing that both players are expected to make immediate impacts in the WNBA. citeturn0search1

 

**Factors Influencing the Top Pick**

 

Several elements could influence the final decision for the No. 1 pick:

 

1. **Team Needs**: The Dallas Wings hold the first pick and may prioritize a player who fits seamlessly into their existing roster and addresses specific positional needs.

 

2. **Player Health and Performance**: Bueckers’ injury history and Miles’ recent recovery from a knee injury will be scrutinized to assess their long-term durability.

 

3. **Marketability**: Bueckers’ substantial NIL earnings and brand partnerships enhance her appeal from a business perspective, potentially influencing the Wings’ decision.

 

4. **Player Preferences**: Speculation exists regarding Bueckers’ willingness to play for Dallas, with some reports suggesting she may consider holding out for another franchise or returning to UConn for an additional year. citeturn0search6

 

**Conclusion**

 

While Paige Bueckers remains the frontrunner for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Olivia Miles’ exceptional skills and resilience make her a compelling contender. The ultimate decision will hinge on team evaluations of fit, health, marketability, and player intentions as the draft approaches.

 

For a deeper analysis of why Bueckers and Miles are projected as the top two picks, you might find the following video insightful:

 

videoHere’s why Paige Bueckers and Olivia Miles will go 1 and 2 in the WNBA 2025 Draftturn0search3