Kaitlyn Chen has been announced for the 2025 WNBA Draft, making her UConn teammates go wild during the announcement. The point guard’s selection by the Golden State Valkyries marked a pivotal moment in her career. From Ivy League star to national champion, Chen’s journey so far has been nothing less than phenomenal.
In a recently shared video, we got a glimpse of UConn’s excitement as Chen takes the big stage.
From Storrs to the Pros: Kaitlyn Chen’s WNBA Draft Announcement Drives Teammates Crazy
Chen stood among the crowd at the WNBA Draft, expecting to cheer for teammate Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick. Instead, her own name rang out at No. 30, chosen by the Golden State Valkyries. As soon as the name was announced, players jumped and showed their excitement.
Kaitlyn Chen’s UConn teammates were hype after she got drafted ❤️ pic.twitter.com/dgcc3AN4rt
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 15, 2025
She hadn’t anticipated the spotlight. “This is bigger than basketball,” Chen said, reflecting on her path. “It’s about paving the way for younger players who may not come from a ‘blue blood’ school but have the heart and hustle to go pro.”
The moment wasn’t just personal. It also carried significance for women’s basketball. Chen, a graduate transfer, had anchored UConn’s backcourt during their 12th NCAA Championship run. Her steady hand complemented stars like Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Sarah Strong.
Averaging 6.9 points and 3.4 assists, she shot a career-best 51.4% from the field. Her growth as a 3-point shooter, hitting 35.4% at UConn, showed the recruiters her untapped potential.
Before Storrs, Chen dominated at Princeton. She led the Tigers to three straight NCAA Tournaments, earning Ivy League Player of the Year in 2023. Her senior year stats—15.8 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.5 rebounds—showcased her versatility.
Chen’s success suggests a significant shift in the sport, making it clear that the Ivy League, which is often overlooked, is gaining traction.
She became the fourth player from the conference drafted in two years, following Harvard’s Harmoni Turner, picked five spots later by the Las Vegas Aces.
“It’s honestly still a little bit of shock. It’s all a little overwhelming,” Chen admitted. She’d come to support Bueckers, but left with her own milestone.
The Valkyries, an expansion franchise debuting in 2025, saw Chen as a cornerstone. Her tempo control, sharp passing, and rim attacks fit their fast-paced vision. The team also drafted Lithuanian forward Juste Jocyte and Maryland’s Shyanne Sellers, building a roster rich with promise.
Also Read: 5 Underrated Players in the 2025 WNBA Draft Class You Need To Know
For Chen, the move is a homecoming. Raised in San Marino, California, she’s back on the West Coast. Her parents, who endured cross-country flights to watch her, now face a short trip.
Chen’s draft wasn’t the only news. UConn’s Aubrey Griffin was also selected in the same round. Fans see a new era dawning, with players like Chen and Griffin carrying fresh energy to the WNBA.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
