They call New York City the ‘city of dreams’ and for the twelve WNBA draft prospects that were invited to the first in-person draft since 2019, that saying will hold true for them as they wait for their dream to turn into reality.
But before that moment comes to life at the WNBA Draft on Monday night, the prospects took some time to celebrate during a lighting ceremony at the Empire State Building.
The prospects along with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and New York Liberty All-Star Betnijah Laney attended the ceremony which was meant to cement the Empire State Building’s intention to shine their world-famous tower lights orange to celebrate the 2022 Draft.
Following the ceremony, the draft prospects went to their next stop on the 86th floor of the building for more photo opportunities. With impeccable views of New York City surrounding them, the ladies are definitely ready for the next step in their careers.
Tune in to the WNBA Draft live at 7 p.m. on ESPN. Double Take Sports is also bringing you exclusive coverage throughout the evening.
2022 WNBA Round 1 Draft Order
- Atlanta Dream
- Indiana Fever
- Washington Mystics
- Indiana Fever (from Los Angeles)
- New York Liberty
- Indiana Fever (from Dallas)
- Dallas Wings (from Chicago)
- Las Vegas Aces (from Seattle)
- Los Angeles Sparks
- Indiana Fever (from Minnesota)
- Las Vegas Aces
- Connecticut Sun
Invited Prospects
Shakira Austin (Ole Miss)
Rhyne Howard (Kentucky)
NaLyssa Smith (Baylor)
Kierstan Bell (Florida Gulf Coast)
Rae Burrell (Tennessee)
Veronica Burton (Northwestern)
Nia Clouden (Michigan State)
Elissa Cunane (NC State)
Emily Engstler (Louisville)
Destanni Henderson (South Carolina)
Naz Hillmon (Michigan)
Nyara Sabally (Oregon)