NC State’s Aziaha James has declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft as a top-tier scorer. The 5’9″ guard averaged 17.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while connecting on 33% of her 3-point attempts. She boasts a quick first step, excels in transition, and dominates the mid-range.
James declared for the draft alongside graduate student Madison Hayes after the Wolfpack’s Sweet 16 loss to LSU. Senior Saniya Rivers, who also exhausted her eligibility, has not declared. This trio led NC State to three straight 20-win seasons, a Final Four appearance in 2024, and multiple NCAA Tournament runs.

Aziaha James Draft Outlook: Top 5 WNBA Destinations for NC State Star
James, a 22-year-old guard from NC State, has positioned herself as one of the top off-ball scoring prospects ahead of the 2025 WNBA Draft on April 14 in New York. Over 130 college games, she averaged 12.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, peaking in her senior season with 17.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game on 44.5% shooting from the field and 33.3% from deep.
Los Angeles Sparks
Looking to revamp their offense, the Sparks could benefit from James’s shooting and scoring instincts. With a 33.3% clip from beyond the arc and a career field goal mark of 42.6%, she fits their need for offensive efficiency. Her ability to perform under postseason pressure, especially during NC State’s recent tournament runs, signals readiness for a high-expectation environment.
Chicago Sky
The Sky, focused on long-term development, may find a versatile contributor in James. Her ability to score at all three levels, combined with 4.9 rebounds per game in her senior year, complements a young core. Her consistent offensive production and perimeter defense would be valuable following offseason roster shifts.
Dallas Wings
James excels in point transition moves and three-point scoring while matching perfectly with the Wings’ quick offensive system. In a 97–74 victory against Florida State, James scored 22 points, which showcased her strength to score multiple points consecutively while providing offensive depth to the team behind leading scorer Arike Ogunbowale.
Seattle Storm
Seattle’s rebuilding efforts could be bolstered by James’s clutch scoring. Her 21-point second half against James Madison showed she can flip a game’s momentum, an asset in tight matchups. Her agility and ability to create shots align with the Storm’s backcourt needs.
New York Liberty
Liberty would find a perfect bench scoring option in James because of her cool-headedness during crucial matchups such as her 26-point performance against Michigan State in the NCAA Round of 32.
Also Read: 5 Underrated Players in the 2025 WNBA Draft Class You Need To Know
The team’s frontcourt players would gain additional offensive opportunities when James executes her shots effectively.
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