WNBA Teams Celebrate Rookie’s Graduations
“Teamwork makes the dream work” - every coach ever
The transition from March Madness to the WNBA Draft and the start of preseason games has been a whirlwind for those dedicated female basketball players who declared for the draft this year. In a testament to their unwavering commitment, many of these athletes had to forgo their college graduations to attend their respective training camps or preseason games. Recognizing the sacrifice, several WNBA teams took it upon themselves to honor these female athletes' achievements, showing that teamwork really does make the dream work.
LA Sparks/Instagram
On May 10th, USC held its graduation ceremonies. However, McKenzie Forbes, the 28th overall pick in the WNBA draft, was unable to attend as she had a preseason game with the LA Sparks. In a heartwarming gesture, her team organized a special ceremony for her. Complete with bathrobes as graduation gowns, a makeshift graduation cap, and a diploma, the ceremony was a testament to the Sparks' appreciation for Forbes' achievements. Forbes, who led the USC team to the Elite Eight in this year's March Madness tournament, was later waived by the Sparks on May 12th as they finalized their team roster.
Seattle Times
Nika Mühl, a former UConn basketball player, gained recognition among basketball fans for her outstanding defense against Caitlin Clark in the March Madness semi-final game. The Seattle Storm picked her as the 14th overall player in the WNBA draft. Due to a busy schedule with the draft and WNBA preseason, Nika could not attend her graduation ceremony. However, the Storm organization made an effort to give her a surprise graduation experience, which you can watch in this X video. Nika has the most wholesome reaction, as her fellow Storm players came together to support her. On May 7th, Nika helped lead the Storm to a preseason victory over the Phoenix Mercury with six points, three rebounds, and two assists. The Storm's WNBA season opener is tonight.
Yahoo Sports
The number one pick of the 2024 WNBA draft, Caitlin Clark, missed her college graduation ceremony over the weekend due to a training camp practice with the Indiana Fever. However, her teammates and coaches surprised her by presenting her with a "Certification of Graduation" as she ran through a line of them during practice. Fellow teammate Aliyah Boston, who is in her second season of the WNBA, handed Caitlin her certificate. The effort by the team to make Caitlin's day special did not go unnoticed as she and her teammates celebrated her achievement. Tonight, Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever will play their first game of the regular season against the Connecticut Sun in front of a sold-out crowd. This is the first time the Suns have had a sold-out game since their first game in 2003.
Regardless of which team one is rooting for in the upcoming 2024 WNBA season, these teams are setting a remarkable example in embracing the fresh talents and newcomers who are already leaving their mark in the world of sports. From the rookies making their debut on the court to those already making history, the WNBA teams are providing a warm welcome to all, fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for the entire league.