2012 WNBA draft
2012 WNBA draft
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2012 WNBA draft
General information
SportBasketball
DateApril 16, 2012
LocationBristol, Connecticut
NetworksESPN2, NBATV, ESPNU
Overview
LeagueWNBA
First selectionNneka Ogwumike
Los Angeles Sparks
← 2011
2013 →

The 2012 WNBA draft was the league's annual process for determining which teams receive the rights to negotiate with players entering the league. The draft was held on April 16, 2012, at the ESPN studios in Bristol, Connecticut. The first round was shown on ESPN2 (HD), with the second and third rounds shown on NBA TV and ESPNU.

Draft lottery

[edit]

The lottery selection to determine the order of the top four picks in the 2012 draft occurred on November 10, 2011. The Los Angeles Sparks won the first pick, while the Chicago Sky, Minnesota Lynx and Tulsa Shock were awarded the second, third and fourth picks respectively. The remaining first-round picks and all the second- and third-round picks were assigned to teams in reverse order of their win–loss records in the previous season.

Below were the chances for each team to get specific picks in the 2012 draft lottery, rounded to three decimal places:

Team 2011
record 		Lottery
chances 		Pick
1st 2nd 3rd 4th
Tulsa Shock 3–31 442 .442 .316 .181 .062
Minnesota Lynx (from Was.) 6–28 276 .276 .310 .270 .144
Seattle Storm (from Chi.) 14–20 178 .178 .230 .317 .275
Los Angeles Sparks 15–19 104 .104 .145 .232 .520
Shaded block denotes actual lottery result.

Transactions

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  • February 1, 2011: Los Angeles acquired a second-round pick from Tulsa as part of the Andrea Riley transaction.
  • April 11, 2011: Minnesota acquired a second-round pick from Atlanta as part of the Felicia Chester/Rachel Jarry transaction.
  • April 11, 2011: Atlanta acquired a second-round pick from Washington as part of the Lindsey Harding trade.
  • April 11, 2011: Washington acquired a first-round pick from Atlanta as part of the Lindsey Harding trade.
  • April 11, 2011: Phoenix acquired a third-round pick from Connecticut as part of the Tahnee Robinson transaction.
  • April 11, 2011: Minnesota acquired a second-round pick from New York as part of the Jessica Breland transaction.
  • April 11, 2011: Minnesota acquired a first-round pick from Washington as part of the Nicky Anosike trade.
  • April 29, 2011: Indiana acquired a third-round pick from Seattle as part of the Katie Smith/Erin Phillips three-team trade.
  • April 29, 2011: Washington acquired a first-round pick from Seattle and a third-round pick from Indiana as part of the Katie Smith/Erin Phillips three-team trade.
  • April 29, 2011: Seattle acquired a second-round pick from Indiana as part of the Katie Smith/Erin Phillips three-team trade.
  • May 2, 2011: Tulsa acquired second- and third-round picks from San Antonio as part of the Scholanda Robinson transaction.
  • May 27, 2011: Minnesota has the right to swap third-round picks with New York as part of the Quanitra Hollingsworth transaction.
  • June 1, 2011: Los Angeles acquired a second-round pick from Chicago as part of the Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton trade.
  • January 2, 2012: Seattle acquired the second overall pick from Chicago and Chicago acquired the 23rd overall pick from Seattle as part of the Swin Cash trade.
  • February 28, 2012: Phoenix traded the 18th pick to Minnesota in exchange for Charde Houston and the 24th pick.

Source[1]

Draft invitees

[edit]

The WNBA announced on April 11, 2012, that 15 players had been invited to attend the draft. Unless indicated otherwise, all players listed are Americans who played at U.S. colleges.[2]

Key

[edit]
! Denotes player who has been inducted to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
^ Denotes player who has been inducted to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame
* Denotes player who has been selected for at least one All-Star Game and All-WNBA Team
+ Denotes player who has been selected for at least one All-Star Game
# Denotes player who never played in the WNBA regular season or playoffs
Bold Denotes player who won Rookie of the Year

Draft

[edit]

Round 1

[edit]
Pick Player Nationality Team School / club team
1 Nneka Ogwumike *  United States Los Angeles Sparks Stanford
2 Shekinna Stricklen Seattle Storm (from Chicago) Tennessee
3 Devereaux Peters Minnesota Lynx (from Washington) Notre Dame
4 Glory Johnson + Tulsa Shock Tennessee
5 Shenise Johnson San Antonio Silver Stars Miami (FL)
6 Samantha Prahalis Phoenix Mercury Ohio State
7 Kelley Cain New York Liberty Tennessee
8 Natalie Novosel Washington Mystics (from Atlanta) Notre Dame
9 Astan Dabo #  Mali Connecticut Sun Reims Basket (France)
10 LaSondra Barrett #  United States Washington Mystics (from Seattle) LSU
11 Sasha Goodlett Indiana Fever Georgia Tech
12 Damiris Dantas  Brazil Minnesota Lynx CD Bosco-Celta de Vigo (Spain)

Round 2

[edit]
Pick Player Nationality Team School / club team
13 Farhiya Abdi  Sweden Los Angeles Sparks (from Tulsa) Frisco SIKA (Czech Republic)
14 Tiffany Hayes *  United States Atlanta Dream (from Washington) Connecticut
15 Khadijah Rushdan # Los Angeles Sparks (from Chicago) Rutgers
16 Tyra White # Los Angeles Sparks Texas A&M
17 Riquna Williams + Tulsa Shock (from San Antonio) Miami (FL)
18 Julie Wojta Minnesota Lynx (from Phoenix) Green Bay
19 Kayla Standish # Minnesota Lynx (from New York) Gonzaga
20 Nika Barič #  Slovenia Minnesota Lynx (from Atlanta) Spartak Moscow (Russia)
21 Chay Shegog  United States Connecticut Sun North Carolina
22 Keisha Hampton Seattle Storm DePaul
23 Shey Peddy Chicago Sky (from Indiana via Seattle) Temple
24 C'eira Ricketts # Phoenix Mercury (from Minnesota) Arkansas

Round 3

[edit]
Pick Player Nationality Team School / club team
25 Vicki Baugh  United States Tulsa Shock Tennessee
26 Anjale Barrett # Washington Mystics Maryland
27 Sydney Carter Chicago Sky Texas A&M
28 April Sykes Los Angeles Sparks Rutgers
29 Lynetta Kizer Tulsa Shock (from San Antonio) Maryland
30 Christine Flores # Phoenix Mercury Missouri
31 Jacki Gemelos Minnesota Lynx (from New York) USC
32 Isabelle Yacoubou (pick later voided)  France Atlanta Dream Valencia (Spain)
33 Amanda Johnson #  United States Phoenix Mercury (from Connecticut) Oregon
34 Courtney Hurt [fr] # Indiana Fever (from Seattle) VCU
35 Briana Gilbreath Washington Mystics (from Indiana) USC
36 Katelan Redmon New York Liberty (from Minnesota) Gonzaga

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

2012 WNBA draft

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from Grokipedia
The 2012 WNBA Draft was the Women's National Basketball Association's (WNBA) annual event for selecting eligible amateur players from colleges and international circuits, held on April 16, 2012, at ESPN's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut.[1][2] The draft consisted of three rounds with 36 total selections across the league's 12 teams, one pick per team per round, though trades altered some selections.[3] It marked a significant influx of talent, particularly from prominent college programs like Stanford, Tennessee, and Notre Dame, and included international prospects from countries such as Brazil, Slovenia, and Mali.[4] The Los Angeles Sparks secured the first overall pick through the draft lottery and selected forward Nneka Ogwumike from Stanford University, a versatile scorer and rebounder who immediately bolstered the team's frontcourt.[1] Subsequent top selections included guard Shekinna Stricklen from the University of Tennessee, taken second overall by the Seattle Storm (acquired from the Chicago Sky via trade), forward Devereaux Peters from the University of Notre Dame, chosen third by the Minnesota Lynx (from the Washington Mystics), forward Glory Johnson from Tennessee, picked fourth by the Tulsa Shock, and guard Shenise Johnson from the University of Miami, selected fifth by the San Antonio Silver Stars.[1][3] These early picks highlighted the draft's depth in athletic forwards and perimeter defenders, with several trades—such as those involving the Storm and Lynx—shaping the order and adding strategic intrigue.[4] The 2012 draft class proved influential in the league, producing multiple long-term stars and contributors who shaped team rosters for over a decade as of 2025.[3] Nneka Ogwumike, the top selection, earned the 2012 WNBA Rookie of the Year award after averaging 14.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in her debut season, helping the Sparks reach the playoffs.[5] Other notable draftees included guard Tiffany Hayes, selected 24th overall by the Atlanta Dream out of the University of Connecticut, who developed into a reliable scorer with 14 seasons in the league as of 2025, and guard Riquna Williams, picked 12th by the Tulsa Shock from Miami, known for her explosive athleticism across 14 seasons.[4][3] The class's impact extended to team success, with rookies like Ogwumike contributing to playoff appearances such as the Sparks' 2012 run, and underscoring the draft's role in elevating the WNBA's competitive landscape.[4]

Background

Draft Format and Eligibility

The 2012 WNBA Draft was held on April 16, 2012, at ESPN's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut, with the event broadcast live on ESPN2 for the first round and on ESPNU and NBA TV for the subsequent rounds.[6][7][8] The draft consisted of three rounds, with each of the league's 12 teams selecting one player per round, resulting in a total of 36 picks.[1] The order of selection for picks five through twelve in the first round, as well as all picks in the second and third rounds, was determined by the reverse order of the teams' win-loss records from the 2011 season. The top four picks in the first round were assigned via a draft lottery among the four teams with the worst records, weighted by their previous season's performance.[9][10] Player eligibility for the 2012 draft included graduating seniors from U.S. colleges, undrafted international players who would turn at least 20 years old by December 31, 2012, and underclassmen or international players who formally renounced any remaining college or amateur eligibility.[11] Underclassmen seeking early entry were required to declare their intentions to the league by April 1, 2012, after which they could not withdraw their declaration without forfeiting future eligibility.[11] On draft day, teams were permitted to trade draft picks among themselves, but player trades were not allowed during the event itself, with any such transactions typically occurring post-draft or in advance.[4] Unlike some prior or subsequent drafts, no protective mechanisms—such as restrictions on trading picks based on recent high selections—were in effect for 2012, allowing full flexibility in pick exchanges.[10] This draft marked a key influx of talent into the WNBA's 16th season, which began in May 2012, highlighting the league's ongoing emphasis on transitioning top college performers to professional rosters while integrating select international prospects.[4][1]

Pre-Draft Expectations

The 2012 WNBA draft was anticipated with high expectations centered on Stanford forward Nneka Ogwumike as the consensus top prospect, projected unanimously as the No. 1 overall pick due to her exceptional versatility as a 6-foot-2 forward capable of scoring, rebounding, and defending multiple positions.[12] Ogwumike, who earned Associated Press First Team All-American honors and the Pac-12 Player of the Year award in her senior season, averaged 18.3 points and 9.5 rebounds per game while leading Stanford to the Final Four, showcasing her athleticism and basketball IQ that scouts viewed as immediately translatable to the professional level.[13] Other highly touted college players included Tennessee's Shekinna Stricklen, a versatile 6-foot-2 guard/forward projected for top-three selection with her perimeter shooting and defensive skills, and Miami's Shenise Johnson, a quick-scoring guard from the ACC who was often mocked in the lottery range for her playmaking ability.[12][14] Glory Johnson, another Tennessee standout and a 6-foot-3 forward, drew attention as a potential top-10 pick for her rebounding prowess and interior presence, highlighted in multiple scouting reports as a double-double threat.[15] Mock drafts from outlets like WNBA.com and Swish Appeal consistently projected Ogwumike to the Los Angeles Sparks at No. 1, Stricklen to the Seattle Storm at No. 2 via trade, and Johnson or Johnson to teams like the Minnesota Lynx in the top five, reflecting a deep class of wings but uncertainty beyond the top prospect.[12][14] Team strategies emphasized addressing key roster gaps, with the Los Angeles Sparks seeking a star forward to elevate their lineup after a 15-19 season and bolster their push against elite competition.[16] The Seattle Storm, in the midst of a rebuild following the trade of veteran forward Swin Cash to the Chicago Sky for draft assets including the No. 2 pick, targeted versatile perimeter players to complement their core. As defending champions, the Minnesota Lynx focused on adding frontcourt depth to sustain their dominance, scouting rebounders like Johnson while leveraging multiple picks to enhance bench production.[12] International interest remained limited compared to domestic college talent, though Brazilian prospect Damiris Dantas, a 6-foot-3 forward playing professionally in Europe, generated notable buzz as a potential second-round steal for her scoring touch and athletic upside.[17]

Draft Lottery

Lottery Mechanics

The 2012 WNBA Draft lottery was conducted on November 10, 2011, with results announced the same day.[18] The event was overseen by WNBA officials and representatives from the accounting firm Ernst & Young to ensure integrity.[18] The lottery determined the order of the top four picks, which belonged to the four teams that missed the 2011 playoffs: the Tulsa Shock (own pick), Minnesota Lynx (acquired from the Washington Mystics), Seattle Storm (acquired from the Chicago Sky), and Los Angeles Sparks (own pick).[19] Odds for the No. 1 pick were assigned based on the reverse order of the original teams' 2011 regular-season records, with the Tulsa Shock receiving the highest probability at 44.2% (442 out of 1,000 combinations) due to their league-worst 3-31 mark, followed by the Minnesota Lynx at 27.6% (276 combinations) via their acquired pick from the Washington Mystics (6-28 record), the Seattle Storm at 17.8% (178 combinations) via their acquired pick from the Chicago Sky (14-20 record), and the Los Angeles Sparks at 10.4% (104 combinations) after finishing 15-19.[20][19][21][22] The drawing utilized a combination system allocating 1,000 total combinations among the teams.[18] This blind draw process was designed to maintain fairness and transparency, preventing any influence on the outcome.[18] This lottery operated under the format established in 2002, which limited participation to picks from non-playoff teams and weighted odds by record to discourage intentional underperformance while fostering competitive balance across the league.[23]

Lottery Results

The 2012 WNBA Draft Lottery was held on November 10, 2011, in New York City, with results announced immediately via the league's official website and media outlets.[18] Conducted by WNBA officials and representatives from Ernst & Young, the lottery determined the top four selections among picks from non-playoff teams from the 2011 season.[18] In a surprising outcome, the Los Angeles Sparks secured the No. 1 overall pick despite entering with the lowest odds of 104 out of 1,000 (10.4%), marking only the second time in league history a team with the fewest chances won the lottery.[18] This victory positioned the Sparks to select Stanford forward Nneka Ogwumike, their first No. 1 pick since drafting Candace Parker in 2008.[1][24] The full lottery order assigned the No. 2 pick to the Seattle Storm (via a prior trade acquiring the Chicago Sky's selection), the No. 3 pick to the Minnesota Lynx (acquired from the Washington Mystics), and the No. 4 pick to the Tulsa Shock.[18]
PickTeamOdds (out of 1,000)2011 Record
1Los Angeles Sparks10415-19
2Seattle Storm (from Chicago Sky)17814-20 (Chicago Sky)
3Minnesota Lynx (from Washington Mystics)2766-28 (Washington Mystics)
4Tulsa Shock4423-31
The results highlighted the lottery's inherent randomness, as the Sparks' win defied expectations favoring the Tulsa Shock, who held 44.2% odds based on their league-worst record.[18] For the Seattle Storm, the No. 2 assignment provided a high-value selection without exposing their own pick to lottery risk, courtesy of the earlier trade with Chicago.[18] The remaining first-round order followed reverse 2011 regular-season standings.[18]

Team Transactions

Major Trades

One of the most significant trades leading into the 2012 WNBA Draft occurred on January 2, 2012, when the Seattle Storm sent forwards Swin Cash and Le'Coe Willingham, along with their second-round pick (No. 23 overall), to the Chicago Sky in exchange for the Sky's No. 2 overall pick in the first round.[4] The Storm used this acquired pick to select Tennessee forward Shekinna Stricklen, aiming to inject youth into their roster following a championship era.[25] Another notable transaction took place on February 1, 2011, as the Los Angeles Sparks traded guard Andrea Riley to the Tulsa Shock for a second-round pick in the 2012 Draft. This move allowed the Sparks to clear space on their roster while acquiring additional draft flexibility for the upcoming year, ultimately enabling them to hold three second-round selections (Nos. 13, 15, and 16 overall).[26] On April 9, 2011, the Minnesota Lynx traded center Nicky Anosike to the Washington Mystics in exchange for the Mystics' first-round pick in the 2012 Draft, which the Lynx later used to select Notre Dame forward Devereaux Peters at No. 3 overall.[27][28] Although not directly tied to player rights from prior deals like Lindsay Whalen's 2010 acquisition, this trade bolstered Minnesota's draft assets amid their contending push. These player-for-pick exchanges highlighted divergent strategies: Seattle's move facilitated a rebuild by shedding high-salary veterans for promising rookies, while Chicago bolstered its lineup with experienced leadership from Cash, a three-time All-Star, to accelerate competitiveness.[29] All major trades were completed well before the April 16, 2012, draft deadline, directly influencing the selection order derived from the lottery.[1]

Pick Acquisitions and Forfeitures

Prior to the 2012 WNBA Draft, several teams engaged in trades that altered the distribution of draft picks, primarily through swaps and acquisitions involving current or future selections. These transactions allowed teams to reposition for desired talent while adhering to league rules permitting trades of draft picks up until draft day, though no major deals extended beyond the 2012 draft for future years in significant ways.[30] Acquisitions from prior-year deals also shaped the 2012 pick landscape. For instance, the Minnesota Lynx had obtained an additional second-round pick from the New York Liberty in a 2011 draft-day trade involving the rights to Jessica Breland and Angel Robinson, providing Minnesota with extra depth in later selections and resulting in three consecutive second-round picks (Nos. 18, 19, and 20 overall).[31] Similarly, the Los Angeles Sparks secured a second-round pick from the Tulsa Shock on February 1, 2011, by trading away point guard Andrea Riley, bolstering their mid-round options. Tulsa had likewise acquired second- and third-round picks from the San Antonio Silver Stars on May 2, 2011, in exchange for forward Scholanda Dorrell. On February 28, 2012, the Lynx further adjusted by trading forward Charde Houston and their 24th overall pick (second round) to the Phoenix Mercury for the 18th overall pick, streamlining their second-round strategy.[32][26][33][27] No significant forfeitures occurred specifically for the 2012 draft, though WNBA rules at the time allowed for potential loss of picks due to violations such as tampering, which did not materialize in major cases that year. These adjustments resulted in a total of 36 picks across three rounds, with teams like the Sparks and Lynx benefiting from extra selections to navigate the draft effectively.[3]

Eligible Players

College Prospects

The pool of college prospects for the 2012 WNBA draft primarily consisted of U.S. senior players who had exhausted their NCAA eligibility, forming the core of the eligible talent entering the league. A total of 15 top seniors were officially invited to attend the draft event, selected based on their standout senior-year performances, All-American honors, and evaluations from WNBA scouting combines that assessed skills like shooting, athleticism, and defensive capabilities.[34][34] These invitees represented a mix of positions but highlighted the depth in frontcourt players, with the overall class noted for its forward-heavy composition compared to previous years, where elite perimeter talent was scarcer.[35] Among the standouts, Stanford forward Nneka Ogwumike emerged as the consensus top prospect, having earned three-time All-America status and leading her conference in scoring during her senior season, where she averaged 22.5 points and 10.2 rebounds per game while posting double-doubles in 27 of 39 contests.[36] Tennessee forward Glory Johnson showcased versatility across offensive and defensive roles, averaging 14.2 points and 9.9 rebounds in her final year, including a league-leading rebound average in SEC play and recognition as the conference's Defensive Player of the Year.[37] UConn guard Tiffany Hayes stood out as a dynamic scorer, contributing 14.7 points per game in her senior campaign with efficient shooting and playmaking ability honed in multiple Final Four appearances.[38] Other notable invitees included Tennessee's Shekinna Stricklen, a multi-positional guard/forward and SEC Player of the Year; Miami's Shenise Johnson, a two-time All-American guard known for her perimeter defense and scoring; Notre Dame's Devereaux Peters, a versatile forward drafted third overall; Ohio State's Samantha Prahalis, a scoring guard taken sixth; and Notre Dame's Natalie Novosel, a sharpshooting guard selected eighth.[34][3] The prospect pool extended beyond the invitees to include additional eligible seniors evaluated through college stats and workouts, providing depth for mid-round selections. Other mid-round candidates from the invitee list, such as Maryland center Lynetta Kizer and Tennessee center Vicki Baugh, added interior depth with their rebounding and post presence.[34] This college class supplemented a smaller pool of international invitees, creating a balanced but frontcourt-leaning draft landscape.[34]

International and Other Invitees

The 2012 WNBA draft featured a limited pool of international players eligible under league rules, which required prospects to be at least 20 years old and typically have professional experience abroad without prior U.S. college play, or meet specific age and developmental criteria.[39] Four international players were successfully selected across the three rounds, representing approximately 11% of the total draft picks and underscoring the league's emphasis on domestic talent during that era.[9] These selections were concentrated in the first and second rounds, with teams prioritizing players who demonstrated potential through overseas performances but faced challenges in adaptation to the WNBA's style and physicality.[17] Among the standout international prospects was Damiris Dantas, a 19-year-old forward from Brazil who played professionally for Instituto Viver Basquete in her home country. Selected 12th overall in the first round by the Minnesota Lynx, Dantas showcased her scoring and rebounding ability in Brazilian leagues, averaging double-doubles in key tournaments, though she did not join the WNBA until 2014 due to international commitments.[40] Similarly, Astan Dabo, a 6-foot-8 center from Mali playing in France's Ligue Féminine de Basket with Reims, was chosen ninth overall in the first round by the Connecticut Sun for her shot-blocking presence and post skills developed in European competition.[41] In the second round, Farhiya Abdi, a Somali-Swedish forward with professional experience at Frisco Brno in the Czech Republic, went 13th overall to the Los Angeles Sparks, noted for her versatility and scoring efficiency abroad, where she averaged 29 points and 17 rebounds in standout games.[42] Another selection was Nika Barič, a Slovenian guard playing for Spartak Moscow in Russia, taken 20th overall by the Minnesota Lynx for her playmaking and shooting skills in European leagues. The third round included Isabelle Yacoubou, a French center selected 32nd overall by the Atlanta Dream, who brought extensive experience from European leagues including Tarbes Gespe Bigorre; however, she was later ruled ineligible due to exceeding the league's age threshold for draft eligibility at 25 years old, voiding the pick.[43] Scouting for these players relied heavily on video footage from international tournaments and limited combines, as in-person evaluations were logistically challenging compared to U.S. college circuits.[39] This approach highlighted the risks associated with international selections, including language barriers, playing style adjustments, and visa requirements, which contributed to their lower draft priority relative to college prospects. No major U.S. players renounced college eligibility early for the 2012 draft, and postgraduate or undrafted free agent paths for non-college Americans were minimal, further emphasizing the international category's niche role.[44]

Draft Proceedings

Event Overview

The 2012 WNBA Draft took place on April 16, 2012, at ESPN's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut, continuing a recent trend of hosting the event at the network's facilities. The proceedings began at 2:00 p.m. ET, with the first round airing live on ESPN2, followed immediately by coverage of the second and third rounds on ESPNU and NBA TV. This setup provided comprehensive national exposure for the league's annual player selection process. The broadcast featured anchor Pam Ward, alongside analysts Rebecca Lobo and Carolyn Peck, who offered expert commentary on the proceedings, while reporter Holly Rowe conducted on-site interviews with participants. Fifteen elite prospects from the pool of eligible players gathered in a dedicated green room, surrounded by family members, agents, and team executives, creating an intimate yet anticipatory environment for the draft. WNBA President Laurel J. Richie led the event by summoning representatives from each team to the podium for announcements. Once selected, players promptly entered contract discussions with their drafting teams, setting the stage for the post-draft period where franchises scrambled to sign undrafted free agents to fill out training camp rosters.

First Round Selections

The first round of the 2012 WNBA draft, held on April 16 in Bristol, Connecticut, produced a talent-rich group emphasizing versatile forwards and rebounders, with six of the 12 selections being post players from NCAA programs.[1] The Los Angeles Sparks, having won the draft lottery, opened the proceedings by selecting Nneka Ogwumike from Stanford with the first overall pick, a move widely regarded as securing a franchise cornerstone due to her dominant senior season performance of 22.5 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, alongside her leadership in guiding Stanford to the Final Four.[1][13] This selection validated the Sparks' lottery fortune, as Ogwumike's scoring efficiency (54.7% field goal percentage) and defensive prowess positioned her for immediate contributions to a team seeking playoff resurgence.
PickTeamPlayerCollege/Country
1Los Angeles SparksNneka OgwumikeStanford
2Seattle Storm (from Chicago Sky)Shekinna StricklenTennessee
3Minnesota Lynx (from Washington Mystics)Devereaux PetersNotre Dame
4Tulsa ShockGlory JohnsonTennessee
5San Antonio Silver StarsShenise JohnsonMiami (Fla.)
6Phoenix MercurySamantha PrahalisOhio State
7New York LibertyKelley CainTennessee
8Washington Mystics (from Atlanta Dream)Natalie NovoselNotre Dame
9Connecticut SunAstan DaboMali
10Washington Mystics (from Seattle Storm)LaSondra BarrettLouisiana State
11Indiana FeverSasha GoodlettGeorgia Tech
12Minnesota LynxDamiris DantasBrazil
The Seattle Storm, leveraging a trade-acquired pick from the Chicago Sky, followed with guard-forward Shekinna Stricklen from Tennessee at No. 2, addressing backcourt depth in a rebuilding phase after losing key veterans; Stricklen's 15.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in 2011-12, including strong perimeter defense (1.5 steals average), drew praise for her athleticism and versatility in transition play.[1][45] Minnesota Lynx, the defending champions, used their acquired third pick on Devereaux Peters from Notre Dame, bolstering frontcourt rotation with a rebounding specialist who averaged 11.8 points and 9.3 rebounds while anchoring a top-10 defensive unit in college.[1][46] Tulsa Shock's selection of Glory Johnson fourth overall targeted interior toughness, as the Tennessee forward's 14.2 points and 9.9 rebounds per game highlighted her double-double potential and shot-blocking ability (1.8 blocks average), fitting the Shock's need for physicality.[1][47] Media reactions underscored the draft's top-heavy strength, particularly in rebounding talent, with analysts noting how teams like the Sparks and Lynx prioritized proven college performers to accelerate contention; however, later picks like international prospects Astan Dabo and Damiris Dantas reflected strategic gambles on raw athleticism for depth.[48][35] The emphasis on forwards over guards signaled a league-wide focus on paint dominance, though some questioned the value of high selections like New York's seventh pick, Kelley Cain, given injury concerns from her Tennessee tenure.

Second Round Selections

The second round of the 2012 WNBA draft featured 12 selections, primarily focused on adding depth, bench production, and developmental talent to rosters, as teams sought role players to complement their first-round acquisitions. With several picks acquired through prior trades, teams like the Los Angeles Sparks and Minnesota Lynx used multiple selections to address specific needs, such as perimeter defense and forward versatility. International prospects and under-the-radar college performers were common, reflecting a strategy to build cost-effective contributors without the high expectations of lottery talent.[1] Notable value emerged in selections like the Atlanta Dream's pick of guard Tiffany Hayes from UConn at No. 14 (acquired from the Washington Mystics), who provided immediate scoring punch off the bench and developed into a reliable starter, earning All-Star honors and contributing to multiple playoff runs over her 13-season career. Similarly, the Tulsa Shock (via a trade with the San Antonio Silver Stars) selected explosive guard Riquna Williams from Miami at No. 17, whose athleticism and scoring ability—averaging 16.6 points per game in her senior college season—filled a need for dynamic offense, leading to her 2013 Sixth Woman of the Year award after a rookie campaign with 14.1 points per game. These picks exemplified second-round steals, offering high-impact potential at lower risk.[1][3][4][49] The Los Angeles Sparks dominated early with three consecutive picks (Nos. 13, 15, and 16, the latter two via trades from Tulsa and Chicago), selecting forward Farhiya Abdi from Sweden for international size, point guard Khadijah Rushdan from Rutgers for playmaking depth, and forward Tyra White from Texas A&M to bolster frontcourt rotation—moves aimed at rebuilding after a 15-19 season. Minnesota Lynx followed with three picks (Nos. 18-20, acquired from Phoenix, New York, and Atlanta), targeting forwards Julie Wojta from Wisconsin-Green Bay and Kayla Standish from Gonzaga for rebounding and energy off the bench, plus Slovenian guard Nika Baric for perimeter skills, enhancing their championship-contending depth. Other teams prioritized guards for bench scoring, such as the Connecticut Sun's selection of forward Chay Shegog from North Carolina at No. 21, the Seattle Storm's pick of forward Keisha Hampton from DePaul at No. 22, the Chicago Sky's (via Indiana) choice of guard Shey Peddy from Temple at No. 23, and the Phoenix Mercury's (via Minnesota) final selection of guard C'eira Ricketts from Arkansas at No. 24. While few second-rounders achieved stardom, several provided rotational minutes and addressed immediate team gaps in athleticism and versatility.[1][4][3][35]
PickTeam (Acquisition)PlayerPositionCollege/Country
13Los Angeles Sparks (from Tulsa Shock)Farhiya AbdiFSweden
14Atlanta Dream (from Washington Mystics)Tiffany HayesGUConn
15Los Angeles Sparks (from Chicago Sky)Khadijah RushdanGRutgers
16Los Angeles SparksTyra WhiteFTexas A&M
17Tulsa Shock (from San Antonio Silver Stars)Riquna WilliamsGMiami (FL)
18Minnesota Lynx (from Phoenix Mercury)Julie WojtaFWisconsin-Green Bay
19Minnesota Lynx (from New York Liberty)Kayla StandishFGonzaga
20Minnesota Lynx (from Atlanta Dream)Nika BaricGSlovenia
21Connecticut SunChay ShegogFNorth Carolina
22Seattle StormKeisha HamptonFDePaul
23Chicago Sky (from Indiana Fever)Shey PeddyGTemple
24Phoenix Mercury (from Minnesota Lynx)C'eira RickettsGArkansas

Third Round Selections

The third round of the 2012 WNBA draft, encompassing picks 25 through 36, focused on lesser-known college prospects and served primarily as a mechanism for teams to fill out training camp rosters with developmental talent. Unlike the higher-profile selections in earlier rounds, these picks targeted players with potential but limited immediate readiness for professional play, often international or under-the-radar domestic athletes. One selection, the 32nd overall pick, was voided due to the player's ineligibility.[1] The following table lists the third-round selections, including the selecting team (noting trades where applicable), player, and college or origin:
PickTeamPlayerCollege/Country
25Tulsa ShockVicki BaughTennessee
26Washington MysticsAnjale BarrettMaryland
27Chicago SkySydney CarterTexas A&M
28Los Angeles SparksApril SykesRutgers
29Tulsa Shock (from San Antonio Silver Stars)Lynetta KizerMaryland
30Phoenix MercuryChristine FloresMissouri
31Minnesota Lynx (from New York Liberty)Jacki GemelosSouthern California
32Atlanta DreamSelection voided (Isabelle Yacoubou ruled ineligible)Valencia (Spain)
33Phoenix Mercury (from Connecticut Sun)Amanda JohnsonOregon
34Indiana Fever (from Seattle Storm)Courtney HurtVirginia Commonwealth
35Washington Mystics (from Indiana Fever)Briana GilbreathSouthern California
36New York Liberty (from Minnesota Lynx)Katelan RedmonGonzaga
These selections exemplified teams' strategies to add depth for preseason competition and practice, with several picks acquired via trades to enhance flexibility in roster building. For instance, the Tulsa Shock used two third-round choices to address frontcourt needs, selecting Vicki Baugh for her defensive versatility and Lynetta Kizer for her scoring potential in the post. However, the low likelihood of third-round players securing long-term spots was evident, as many were waived prior to the regular season and pursued undrafted free agent opportunities elsewhere.[1][3] Outcomes for third-round draftees underscored their status as project players, with only a minority appearing in regular-season games. Lynetta Kizer emerged as a notable success, playing seven seasons and accumulating 180 games primarily with the Indiana Fever after being traded, while Sydney Carter contributed over four years across multiple teams. In contrast, players like Anjale Barrett, Christine Flores, Amanda Johnson, and Courtney Hurt never appeared in a WNBA game, highlighting the challenges of transitioning from college to the professional level and the frequent use of these picks as training camp fillers rather than guaranteed contributors. Briana Gilbreath-Butler and Jacki Gemelos managed brief careers totaling over 80 combined games, often in reserve roles. The voided pick for Isabelle Yacoubou, an international prospect, further illustrated the risks associated with scouting overseas talent in later rounds. Overall, the third round yielded a roster conversion rate of approximately 60% for at least some playing time, lower than earlier rounds, leading to several players entering free agency post-camp.[3]

Notable Outcomes

Top Draft Picks

The 2012 WNBA draft featured a top-heavy class particularly strong in forward talent but notably thin on elite point guard prospects, with the early selections emphasizing versatile bigs and wings capable of immediate contributions.[50][51] The Los Angeles Sparks secured the No. 1 overall pick, selecting Stanford forward Nnemkadi "Nneka" Ogwumike, widely regarded as the draft's crown jewel and a player poised for instant impact due to her college dominance, where she averaged 19.6 points and 9.3 rebounds as a senior.[4][13] Ogwumike, a 6-foot-2 forward with exceptional scoring versatility and rebounding prowess, drew comparisons to franchise cornerstone Candace Parker, marking the Sparks' first No. 1 selection since Parker's 2008 draft entry.[52] Her selection addressed Los Angeles' need for a reliable starter in the frontcourt, positioning her as a foundational piece for the team's resurgence.[16] The Seattle Storm, having traded for the No. 2 pick from the Chicago Sky in exchange for Swin Cash and Le'Coe Willingham, targeted Tennessee's Shekinna Stricklen as Cash's heir apparent in the post-Cash era.[4] At 6-foot-2, Stricklen emerged as a prized versatile wing, capable of playing multiple positions including point guard when needed, with her senior season stats of 15.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists highlighting her all-around game and shot-creation ability.[53] Her selection filled a critical void for Seattle's perimeter flexibility following Cash's departure, emphasizing her potential to contribute defensively and offensively right away.[54] Third overall, the Minnesota Lynx (from the Washington Mystics) selected forward Devereaux Peters from Notre Dame, adding versatile frontcourt depth with her defensive skills and rebounding.[3] Tulsa Shock selected Tennessee forward Glory Johnson fourth overall, valuing her athleticism and interior presence as a relentless rebounder who averaged 14.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game in college, showcasing near double-double production and elite energy on both ends.[12][37] Johnson's 6-foot-3 frame and motor made her a coveted forward in a draft rich with such talent, positioning her as a key addition to bolster Tulsa's frontcourt rebounding and scoring potential.[55] Rounding out the top five, the San Antonio Silver Stars picked Miami guard Shenise Johnson fifth overall for her high-energy style and perimeter quickness, traits that made her a dynamic combo guard prized for pushing the pace in transition during her college career where she averaged 15.5 points and 5.8 rebounds as a senior.[56][57] Johnson's speed and versatility as a 5-foot-11 guard addressed needs for backcourt athleticism, though her draft slide stemmed partly from a tumultuous end to her Miami tenure.[58]

Immediate Team Impacts

The addition of Nneka Ogwumike as the first overall pick significantly bolstered the Los Angeles Sparks' frontcourt depth and scoring, contributing to a remarkable turnaround from their 15-19 record in 2011 to a 24-10 finish in 2012 that secured second place in the Western Conference and a playoff berth.[5] Ogwumike's immediate contributions, including her selection as the 2012 WNBA Rookie of the Year, helped anchor a revitalized roster under coach Carol Ross, enabling the Sparks to push deeper into the postseason than in recent years.[5] In Seattle, the Storm used their second overall pick—acquired via trade from the Chicago Sky—to select Shekinna Stricklen, addressing the perimeter scoring void left by the offseason trade of veteran forward Swin Cash to the Sky.[59] Stricklen provided versatile guard play off the bench during a transitional season marred by injuries to star Lauren Jackson, helping the Storm maintain defensive integrity en route to a 16-18 record and a Western Conference semifinal appearance.[60] The Tulsa Shock, selecting fourth overall, added forward Glory Johnson to inject athleticism and defensive energy into their lineup, with the rookie quickly emerging as a standout in the paint during midseason play.[61] Despite Johnson's impactful presence—highlighted by her ranking fourth league-wide in steals per game among rookies—the Shock struggled overall, finishing with a 9-25 record and fifth place in the Western Conference.[62] League-wide, many of the 36 draftees earned spots on opening day rosters, injecting fresh talent that fostered greater competitive parity across the 12 teams by distributing skilled young players more evenly and challenging established lineups.[4] This influx supported strategic shifts toward youth integration, as teams balanced veteran leadership with rookie contributions to adapt to the league's evolving pace and athleticism. Following the draft, undrafted free agents also bolstered team depth; for instance, forward Ziomara Morrison signed with the San Antonio Silver Stars in February 2012, providing additional frontcourt options that enhanced their rotation during a 21-13 season.

References

  1. 2012 WNBA Draft
  2. ESPN Hosts The 2012 WNBA Draft For The Good Of The Game
  3. 2012 WNBA Draft | Basketball-Reference.com
  4. 2012 WNBA Draft Recap
  5. Los Angeles Sparks Forward Nneka Ogwumike Named 2012 WNBA ...
  6. WNBA Draft Presented by Boost Mobile Returns to ESPN ...
  7. Storified!: ESPN hosts and airs the 2012 WNBA Draft
  8. 2012 WNBA Draft Green Room Invitees: Full List & Analysis Of ...
  9. WNBA.com: 2012 WNBA Draft Board
  10. WNBA draft lottery will be based on 2-year record - ESPN
  11. WNBA vs. NBA draft eligibility | Women's Hoops World
  12. 2012 WNBA Mock Draft
  13. Nneka Ogwumike College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  14. 2012 WNBA Mock Draft 2.0 | Swish Appeal
  15. 2012 WNBA Mock Draft: Shenise Johnson and Most Valuable ...
  16. 2012 WNBA Draft: Nneka Ogwumike Will Make Sparks Contenders ...
  17. 2012 WNBA Draft Prospects: International Intrigue From Damiris ...
  18. Los Angeles Sparks Win Top Pick In 2012 WNBA Draft
  19. WNBA Draft Lottery Set for Nov. 10
  20. Tulsa Shock Get Set For Nov. 10 Draft Lottery - Newson6.com
  21. 2012 WNBA Draft Order is Set: The Los Angeles Sparks Win Draft ...
  22. WNBA Decade In Review: 2012
  23. WNBA Historical Draft Lottery Data - Across the Timeline
  24. WNBA Draft History: Los Angeles Sparks
  25. Storm trades Swin Cash, Le'coe Willingham to Chicago for No. 2 ...
  26. 2011 WNBA Transactions | Basketball-Reference.com
  27. Mystics acquire Anosike from Lynx - Denver - 9News
  28. 2012 WNBA Preview: Seattle Storm Need New Additions To Give ...
  29. WNBA CBA Explained: The Draft - The Her Hoop Stats Newsletter
  30. 2012 WNBA Transactions - Basketball-Reference.com
  31. 2012 WNBA Transactions
  32. WNBA.com: 2011 WNBA Draft Board
  33. WNBA: Sparks trade Andrea Riley to Tulsa for 2012 second-round pick
  34. Aces History: Feeling A Draft (2012)
  35. Top College Prospects Invited to Attend 2012 WNBA Draft presented ...
  36. 2012 WNBA Draft Recap: A Few General Observations | Swish Appeal
  37. Glory Johnson College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  38. Tiffany Hayes College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  39. Courtney Paris College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  40. Jasmine Hassell College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  41. WNBA - Dantas, Dabo among four internationals drafted
  42. Damiris Dantas Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft Status and More
  43. 2012 WNBA draft - Mali international Astan Dabo taken by Connecticut
  44. Farhiya Abdi first Somali to be drafted into the WNBA - Hiiraan Online
  45. WNBA's Dream draft ineligible player - Sports Illustrated
  46. 2012 WNBA Draft Recap
  47. Shekinna Stricklen College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
  48. 2011-12 Notre Dame Fighting Irish Women's Roster and Stats
  49. 2011-12 Tennessee Volunteers Women's Roster and Stats
  50. https://www.bleacherreport.com/articles/1146879-wnba-draft-2012-results-pick-by-pick-recap-and-analysis
  51. What's the actual value of a WNBA Draft pick? Assessing the past 10 ...
  52. WNBA draft class full of questions - ESPN
  53. 2012 WNBA Draft: Point Guard Prospects | Swish Appeal
  54. Stanford's Nneka Ogwumike eager to get to work after becoming ...
  55. STORM: 2012 Draft Spotlight: Shekinna Stricklen - WNBA
  56. Lynx: Draft Central 2012 | Shekinna Stricklen - WNBA
  57. Tulsa Shock Draft Glory Johnson With Fourth Overall Pick - News On 6
  58. Shenise Johnson taken No. 5 in WNBA Draft - Sun Sentinel
  59. STORM: 2012 Draft Spotlight: Shenise Johnson - WNBA
  60. WNBA Draft 2012 Results: Pick-by-Pick Recap and Analysis
  61. 2012 Seattle Storm Stats - Basketball-Reference.com
  62. WNBA.com: Midseason Report 2012: Tulsa Shock
  63. 2012 Tulsa Shock Stats - Basketball-Reference.com
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