When an NBA team wins the Draft Lottery, it’s undoubtedly good news — but historically, it’s not that likely the player they select will ultimately lead them to a championship. But, in the WNBA, the No.

The Dallas Wings on Sunday won the No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 WNBA Draft and with that the right to select Connecticut guard Paige Bueckers, an early contender again to win the Naismith and Wooden Player of the Year awards.

While the prospect of college stars jumping early to the WNBA is quite juicy, don’t expect it to happen any time soon. The incentives for the WNBA and WNBPA, as well as college players themselves, explain why.