April 14, 2021
2021 WNBA Draft Preview: Minnesota Lynx
Three paths for Cheryl Reeve at the ninth pick
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The Minnesota Lynx have just one pick in this year’s WNBA Draft, so it’s unlikely to be a busy night for head coach and general manager, Cheryl Reeve.
Last season, the Lynx had more success than many anticipated with the breakout stardom of last year’s Rookie of the Year Crystal Dangerfield and Napheesa Collier solidifying her leadership role on the team. With a solid roster of returning players, the Lynx’s big free agency moves and recent signing of Mikayla Pivec, it’s likely that Cheryl Reeve is looking for someone who can grow into a future role.
So what type of player do the Lynx hope to come away with from the 2021 WNBA Draft? “Versatile,” Reeve said on a call to reporters. With the overall ninth pick in the draft, here are some potential fits for the Lynx.
Jasmine Walker, Alabama
It’s no secret that Jasmine Walker has a goal to play in the WNBA and is willing to put in the work. A strong 3-point shooter at 39.8 percent, Walker averaged 19.2 points per game. Her leadership and play helped lead the Crimson Tide back to the NCAA Tournament after a 22-year drought. Walker’s work ethic, determination and reliable scoring make her a top pick for the Lynx.
Kiana Williams, Stanford
Williams has the grit and determination that would appeal to Reeve. In her Elite Eight game against Louisville, Kiana Williams had a rough first half, missing 11 of her first 12 shots. But in the second half, Williams found her groove, made her shots and helped seal Stanford’s win with a step-back three. She admitted in post game interviews that she was “forcing things, I wanted it too bad.” Her resilience and ability to adapt her mindset mid-game makes her a good fit for the Lynx.
Natasha Mack, Oklahoma State
While more widely known for her defensive capabilities — Mack led all of the NCAA Division I with 4.1 blocks per game — she also averaged 19.8 points and 12.4 rebounds in her senior year. In her first round matchup against Wake Forest, Mack put on a show. She was 13-for-22, scoring 27 points with 15 rebounds and four blocked shots. Natasha Mack can pretty much do it all and fits in nicely with the versatility the Lynx are after.
Other team-by-team WNBA Draft previews:
