Deja Kelly, Oregon’s dynamic guard, has thrown her name into the 2025 WNBA Draft. She’s coming off a strong college career, four years at North Carolina, capped by a standout season with the Ducks. Her statistics and versatility have made her quite popular among scouts. Here’s where she might land when the draft hits.
Potential Landing Spots for Kelly in WNBA Draft
Kelly’s final season at Oregon put her skills on full display. She averaged 12.2 points and 3.3 assists per game, leading the Ducks in both categories. Add in 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 steals, and you’ve got a combo guard who impacts both ends of the floor.
However, at 5-foot-8, she’s a little undersized for the pros. Her 3-point shot, a shaky 19.6% in her last year, has also raised some eyebrows. Still, her ability to score, defend, and set up teammates is enough to make her eligible for some of the biggest names in the tournament. Here are five possible teams where she can land:
1) Los Angeles Sparks (Third Round, 28th Overall)
The Sparks need help in the backcourt. None of their current guards averages double-digit points. Kelly could step in and change that. Her 12.2 points per game would top their guard rotation. Her 1.5 steals would rank second among Sparks guards. She’s comfortable at both the one and the two. That flexibility suits a team rebuilding around young pieces like Cameron Brink.
2) Golden State Valkyries (Third Round, 30th Overall)
The Valkyries are starting from scratch as an expansion team, and guard depth is a priority for them. Kelly brings more to the table than their current options. Her 12.2 points outpace Tiffany Hayes, a bench player last season. Her 4.3 rebounds would lead all Golden State guards. She dishes out 3.3 assists, just behind Julie Vanloo. Defensively, she’s also a good pick.
3) Dallas Wings (Third Round, 31st Overall)
The Wings are expected to grab Paige Bueckers with the top pick. But they won’t stop there. Kelly could slide in later as a perfect complement. Although Arike Ogunbowale already brings scoring and steal potential, Kelly adds more to the team with 1.5 steals and 4.3 rebounds. She’s also versatile enough to play off the ball or run the offense.
4) Las Vegas Aces (Third Round, 35th Overall)
The Aces are stacked with guards. Four of their top five scorers play the position. Yet Kelly could still carve out a role. At pick 35, she’s a low-risk grab, and she is a combo guard who can be a good substitute for the starters.
Also Read: Five Underrated Players in the 2025 WNBA Draft Class You Need To Know
5) Chicago Sky (Second Round, 22nd Overall)
Chicago’s guard play faltered in 2024. They missed the playoffs. No one stepped up consistently next to Angel Reese and Chennedy Carter. Kelly could fix that. At 22nd overall, she’s a second-round value pick. She brings 12.2 points and 3.3 assists in stabilizing the backcourt. Her shot creation pairs well with Carter’s attack style. Kelly could team up with Carter to give them a reliable guard duo moving forward.
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