Some college basketball programs don’t just win titles — they build legends. The path from a top-tier university team to WNBA stardom is clearer for athletes — especially those who come from schools known for developing elite players. Here’s a look at the schools that have churned out the most first-round WNBA Draft picks.
Top Teams With the Most First-Round WNBA Draft Picks
1) UConn Huskies, 27
UConn has remained the gold standard in women’s college basketball under head coach Geno Auriemma. The program leads all others with 27 first-round WNBA Draft picks.
Among those, five were chosen first overall: Sue Bird (2002), Diana Taurasi (2004), Tina Charles (2010), Maya Moore (2011), and Breanna Stewart (2016). Auriemma has consistently emphasized preparing his players for long-term success. He once said:
“The goal has always been to prepare our players for success beyond college, and seeing them thrive in the WNBA is incredibly rewarding.”
2) Tennessee Volunteers, 21
Tennessee follows closely behind with 21 first-rounders. Many of them were developed by legendary coach Pat Summitt. Chamique Holdsclaw (1999) and Candace Parker (2008) were both top overall picks and major influencers in the sport. Tennessee’s tradition of developing strong, skilled athletes helped set the standard before UConn’s rise.
3) Stanford Cardinal, 15
Stanford has produced 15 first-round picks as well. It was surely a testament to Coach Tara VanDerveer’s consistent leadership. The Ogwumike sisters—Nneka (2012) and Chiney (2014)—highlight the program’s elite talent and academic-athletic balance.
4) South Carolina Gamecocks, 13
of South Carolina has made a major impact in recent years, sending 13 players to the WNBA as first-round picks. It’s safe to say that, under coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have transformed into one of the nation’s most consistent teams.
Top picks like A’ja Wilson (2018) and Aliyah Boston (2023) are now foundational WNBA stars. Staley’s recent $25 million contract extension shows her commitment to keeping South Carolina a powerhouse.
“Our mission is to develop young women who are prepared to excel at the next level, and our draft history is a testament to that commitment,” she said.
T-5) Baylor Bears and Duke Blue Devils, 11
Baylor and Duke each have 11 first-round picks. Brittney Griner (2013) is the most well-known name from Baylor. Meanwhile, Alana Beard (2004) leads Duke’s pro alumni. These programs have remained relevant by nurturing talent that translates well to the pros.
T-7) Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Maryland Terrapins, 10
Notre Dame and Maryland each have 10 players selected in the first round. Notre Dame’s Jewell Loyd (2015) and Jackie Young (2019) both went No. 1 overall.
READ MORE: Most Successful NCAA Women’s Basketball Coaches by Championship Wins
9) North Carolina Tar Heels, 9
North Carolina has seen nine of its players selected in the first round, contributing consistent talent to the WNBA. Their athletes often combine raw talent with a team-first mentality, which pro coaches value.
10) Georgia Bulldogs, 8
Georgia rounds out this list with eight first-round picks, underlining its historical impact on women’s basketball and the steady development of elite talent.
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