As the dust settles on the 2025 WNBA Draft, ESPN analyst and former All-Star Chiney Ogwumike has made her stance clear:

Paige Bueckers is already a WINNER — on and off the court.

During ESPN’s post-draft coverage, Chiney didn’t hold back in her praise for the UConn legend, and she also gave high marks to Hailey Van Lith, who’s expected to make a huge splash with the Chicago Sky.

Let’s break down why Bueckers is already turning heads and how Van Lith could be the missing piece in Chicago’s rebuild.

Paige Bueckers: A WINNER from Day One

Selected #3 overall by the Los Angeles Sparks, Paige Bueckers enters the WNBA with sky-high expectations — and according to Chiney, she’s the kind of player you build a franchise around.

“She has poise, leadership, court vision — and she makes her teammates better.
Paige is a WINNER. Full stop,” Ogwumike said during ESPN’s draft reaction.

And she’s right. Bueckers’ college résumé speaks for itself:

2021 Naismith Player of the Year

Final Four appearances

Multiple 30+ point games in clutch tournament moments

Recovered from a torn ACL to lead UConn back into contention

Beyond stats, Paige’s impact is felt in her ability to control pace, uplift a locker room, and deliver in big moments — something LA desperately needs as they try to return to WNBA relevance.

Hailey Van Lith’s New Era in Chicago

Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky pulled a bold move in the first round, selecting Hailey Van Lith — the fiery, competitive guard who transferred from Louisville to LSU for her final college season.

Some questioned the pick, but Chiney was quick to praise it:

“Hailey brings edge. She brings intensity. And she knows how to WIN.”

Chicago, a team still rebuilding after its 2021 championship run, desperately needed personality, perimeter shooting, and someone who’s not afraid of the spotlight. Van Lith brings all three.

And don’t forget: she’s been playing under pressure her entire career — from high school mixtapes going viral to national championship games on ESPN.

“She’s battle-tested,” Chiney added.
“And pairing her with Marina Mabrey gives Chicago one of the most aggressive backcourts in the league.”

What It All Means for the League

Bueckers in LA = Instant marketability, playmaking, and high basketball IQ

Van Lith in Chicago = Grit, scoring, and energy for a team in transition

Both players are expected to start early, play big minutes, and shift their team cultures — and both have massive followings from their NCAA days that will boost WNBA viewership.

Final Take: Chiney Knows Hoops, and She Sees the Future Clearly

Paige Bueckers = poised to be a face of the league.
Hailey Van Lith = ready to shake up Chicago and silence doubters.

Whether you agree with the picks or not, one thing’s for sure:
The 2025 WNBA rookie class is bringing energy, swagger, and serious talent.

And according to Chiney Ogwumike?

These two aren’t just good…
They’re winners.