In a surprising turn during the 2025 WNBA Draft, Maryland guard Shyanne Sellers, once projected as a top-10 pick, fell to the second round. Sellers was selected 17th overall by the Golden State Valkyries, a drop that has sparked criticism from fans and analysts alike, who are questioning the decision-making of WNBA teams and the broader recognition of women’s basketball talent.
Shyanne Sellers’ Unexpected Slide Sparks Outrage
The 2025 WNBA Draft was expected to be a defining moment for Sellers, a Maryland standout who had cemented her legacy as one of the program’s greatest players.
As the first player in Maryland history to record 1,500 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists, Sellers was widely projected as a top-10 pick, with some mock drafts placing her as high as sixth overall.
However, on April 15, in a stunning development, Sellers fell out of the first round entirely. The unexpected slide left fans, analysts, and even casual observers stunned.
Shyanne Sellers not making the 1st round is very surprising … maybe she’ll go to the aces pic.twitter.com/WfYzgeRyj4
— lex. (@doseoflexii) April 15, 2025
Anticipation had been high for the 6’2″ combo guard, known for her versatility, elite defense, and ability to fill the stat sheet.
I’m really surprised Shyanne Sellers hasn’t been drafted yet.
— Natalie Esquire (@natfluential) April 15, 2025
Fans were quick to jump on the surprise as well.
For Golden State, however, the fall was worth the wait.
Another chapter is written.
Shyanne Sellers is making her way to the Bay.@carmax | Golden State Valkyries Draft pic.twitter.com/BW3rBP5b8N
— Golden State Valkyries (@valkyries) April 15, 2025
“Welcome to the Bay, Shyanne Sellers!”
The Valkyries, an expansion team making their draft debut, saw an opportunity to add a dynamic two-way player to their roster, pairing her with No. 5 pick Justė Jocytė. While the franchise expressed excitement over Sellers’ potential to contribute immediately, fans remained split.
Some were encouraged by her landing spot, while others continued to voice frustration over her draft position.
Why Did Sellers Fall?
A lingering knee injury appeared to play a role in her draft-day drop. Even though Sellers posted strong numbers while playing through it — 14.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists on 46% shooting — teams may have been wary about her long-term durability.
WNBA teams are often cautious with health concerns, especially given the league’s limited roster spots, which make each draft pick carry more risk than in the NBA.
This year’s draft class was also particularly deep. With stars like Paige Bueckers going No. 1 overall to Dallas and Hailey Van Lith landing in the first round, talented players like Sellers were bound to slip.
The college-to-pro transition is always a question mark. The WNBA game is faster, more physical, and front offices can sometimes overthink how a player’s skill set will translate.
Sellers’ fall to the second round, where she was ultimately picked by the Valkyries, left many wondering if teams had passed over a player who could become the steal of the draft.
KEEP READING: Shyanne Sellers Scouting Report
Sellers’ journey in the WNBA now begins with a chip on her shoulder, as she aims to prove that her draft position was a misjudgment of her true potential.
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