WNBA Draft Golden State Valkyries select Juste Jocyte with No. 5 pick

The Golden State Valkyries etched their name in history by selecting Juste Jocyte from Lithuania with their first-ever draft choice, showcasing their commitment to building a strong team. Jocyte's selection is particularly noteworthy as she becomes the first Lithuanian player chosen in the first round, following Jurgita Streimikyte's earlier draft in 2000. The Valkyries didn't stop there; they also picked Maryland's Shyanne Sellers, who had a standout season with a career-best 40. 8% shooting from 3-point range, averaging 14. 4 points per game.

UCONN guard Kaitlyn Chen was their final pick, fresh off her NCAA Championship win, having contributed significantly during the tournament. The draft was competitive, with Paige Bueckers being selected first overall by the Dallas Wings, continuing UCONN's legacy of producing top talent. French star Dominique Malonga was another highlight, going second overall to Seattle after her Olympic silver medal performance. The Washington Mystics made strategic picks as well, including Notre Dame's Sonia Citron and Kentucky's Georgia Amoore, who gained attention for her stylish appearance on the WNBA's orange carpet. This draft not only reflects the growing talent pool in women's basketball but also emphasizes the increasing global nature of the sport.