Swish Appeal - Swish Appeal Community 2015 WNBA Mock DraftBasketball is basketball.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49391/swish-fave.png2015-04-03T16:40:00-04:00http://www.swishappeal.com/rss/stream/80707242015-04-03T16:40:00-04:002015-04-03T16:40:00-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #8 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="Isabelle Harrison may not play this year, but she could be a valuable trade chip for the Mystics down the road." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QXkc8T9e4eRsytPxldx6kGRNeB0=/0x577:2000x1910/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46041730/usa-today-8385502.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Isabelle Harrison may not play this year, but she could be a valuable trade chip for the Mystics down the road. | Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We're finishing the week in the nation's capital where a team that needs a lot of reinforcements won't have an abundance of options. </p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE: </b>With the seventh overall pick in the Swish Appeal Community 2015 WNBA Mock Draft, the Los Angeles Sparks select Brittany Boyd of California.</p>
<p>In L.A., Boyd will help bolster the team's guard rotation, even though there are a number of veteran players at the point guard spot especially. Still, she could be a steal when the history books look at this draft class. To replace her, Elen Ibiam of South Carolina is now in the poll.</p>
<p>We now head to the nation's capital where the Washington Mystics are on the clock for the eighth overall pick. L.W., take it away. - Big Brother</p>
<h4>Synopsis</h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">1. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1" data-ref-index="9">Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">2. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2" data-ref-index="10">Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">3. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3" data-ref-index="11">Storm: Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">4. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/30/8305363/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-connecticut-sun-number-4" data-ref-index="11">Sun: Crystal Bradford</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">5. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/31/8317109/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-chicago-sky-number-5" data-ref-index="11">Sky: Aleighsa Welch</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">6. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/1/8305303/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-san-antonio-stars-number-6" data-ref-index="11">Stars: Samantha Logic</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">7. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/2/8333891/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-los-angeles-sparks-number-7" data-ref-index="11">Sparks: Brittany Boyd</a></p>
</div>
<p>You are Washington Mystics General Manager and Head Coach Mike Thibault. You joined the Mystics in 2013 after being fired by the Connecticut Sun, promptly winning Coach of the Year honors for turning a five-win team in 2012 into a 17 win team without the addition of any superstar players. In 2014, you drafted Stefanie Dolson and traded All-Star forward Crystal Langhorne for rookie combo guard Bria Hartley.</p>
<p>The Mystics have had a relatively uneventful offseason. Nearly everybody from 2014 is returning, and the only major new addition so far is Armintie Herrington. They let Monique Currie (the last pre-Thibault player on the roster) walk in free agency, and third year forward Tianna Hawkins will miss all or part of the season due to pregnancy.</p>
<p>As perhaps the most overachieving team of 2014, the Mystics are in the unfortunate position of having a low pick (#8) but not a very star-studded roster. Still, you've historically been good at finding gems late in the draft. For example, you found second round pick Emma Meeseman and signed an undrafted Tierra Ruffin-Pratt as a rookie free agent, so this is another opportunity to add to the team's young core.</p>
<h4><b>Projected Depth Chart</b></h4>
<p>If the Mystics make no additional moves or cuts, here's what their rotation will probably look like:</p>
<table border="0" width="387" style="border-collapse: collapse;" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="37" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1578; width: 37pt;"> <col width="106" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4522; width: 106pt;"> <col width="109" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4650; width: 109pt;"> <col width="135" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 5760; width: 135pt;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" width="37" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt; width: 37pt;"><br></td>
<td class="xl63" width="106" style="text-align: center; width: 106pt;"><b> Starter</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="109" style="text-align: center; width: 109pt;"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="135" style="text-align: center; width: 135pt;"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Ivory Latta</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kara Lawson</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Bria Hartley</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Tayler Hill</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Armintie Herrington</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Tierra Ruffin-Pratt</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kalana Greene</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">F</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Emma Meeseman</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Jelena Milovanovic</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kayla Thornton</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">C</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kia Vaughn</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Stefanie Dolson</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Tianna Hawkins was not included on the depth chart because she will miss most of, if not the entire 2015 season.</i></p>
<p>There are two things that stand out after looking at this projected rotation.</p>
<h4>Primary Weaknesses: Small forward and outside shooting efficiency</h4>
<p>Besides their lack of a superstar, the Mystics' roster has two major weaknesses. First is their lack of a quality small forward.</p>
<p>With Currie now in Phoenix, the Mystics will probably have a conventional starting lineup. I assume that they will play small ball and go with a starting three-guard lineup of Latta, Hartley, and Herrington. This team could then push the tempo and play at a pace Thibault prefers. However, this also will mean that they will sacrifice on the defensive end as small forwards from other teams could take advantage of their size. Besides Ruffin-Pratt, who also is a bit short at the position at 5'11, there aren't many other serviceable wings.</p>
<p>Another possible direction they could go in is by sliding Emma Meesseman to the small forward position, which would allow Stefanie Dolson to start alongside Kia Vaughn in the low post.</p>
<p>Consequently, this could be the depth chart though I wouldn't do it:</p>
<table border="0" width="387" style="border-collapse: collapse;" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="37" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1578; width: 37pt;"> <col width="106" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4522; width: 106pt;"> <col width="109" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4650; width: 109pt;"> <col width="135" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 5760; width: 135pt;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" width="37" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt; width: 37pt;"><br></td>
<td class="xl63" width="106" style="text-align: center; width: 106pt;"><b> Starter</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="109" style="text-align: center; width: 109pt;"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="135" style="text-align: center; width: 135pt;"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Ivory Latta</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kara Lawson</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Bria Hartley</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Armintie Herrington</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Tayler Hill</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">F</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Emma Meeseman</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Tierra Ruffin-Pratt</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kalana Greene</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">F</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kia Vaughn</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Jelena Milovanovic</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">C</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Stefanie Dolson</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;">Kayla Thornton</td>
<td class="xl64" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The good news here is that Meesseman has been working on her outside shooting this offseason, and she is a versatile defender with a lot of room to grow. However, she is a natural power forward in the WNBA game, and quicker small forwards can still take advantage of her that way. In addition, perhaps Milovanovic could play at this spot to stretch the floor more with her shooting ability. However, they may have a post log jam on the court not unlike the Los Angeles Sparks last season.</p>
<p>Their second major weakness is a lack of accurate three-point shooting. Last season, the Mystics were well below average three-point shooting team in terms of percentage though they didn't hesitate to attempt long shots. The only player who defenses will always respect from outside is Ivory Latta (who not only shoots well overall but has a penchant for timely threes). Kara Lawson has been a good three point shooter in the past but struggled to find her rhythm for most of last season, leading many to wonder if her age was catching up with her.</p>
<p>Of their younger backcourt options, Hartley can hit from deep but is notoriously streaky. Hill is the Mystics' only young draft lottery pick and remains as the Mystics' most important player for their future. But she has yet to demonstrate that she can consistently contribute as a pro though she showed promise as a three-point marksman toward the end of her rookie season. After Hill, the Mystics' remaining wing players like Ruffin-Pratt or Herrington are high-energy defense-first players but can't shoot well.</p>
<p>It's possible that some combination of Hartley, Lawson and Hill could start hitting consistently enough from deep to unpack the paint, but it wouldn't hurt the Mystics to give themselves another shooter.</p>
<h4>Which player could be the best fit for the Washington Mystics at #8?</h4>
<p>Amber Orrange is a career 37% three-point shooter, but has taken less than two per game every year except her junior year (where she took 2.4) suggesting that she may be very selective in her shot choice. It's hard to say how much or how well she'll shoot against WNBA defenses in that regard. Brittany Hrynko is a career 34% three-point shooter though fairly or not she also has a reputation for being streaky. Ariel Massengale is also a solid option as a career 36% three-point shooter.</p>
<p>However, a player that the Mystics must take a good long look at is Isabelle Harrison, who almost certainly would have been a lottery pick if she had not torn her ACL. Despite the fact that she does not fill any immediate needs and that the Mystics already have several talented young post players, Harrison is an absolute steal at #8. In addition, Dearica Hamby is still available, but Harrison may be too good to pass up.</p>
<h4>Now it's time to vote!</h4>
<p><strike><b>Voting ends at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 4! </b>We will not have a Mock Draft post on Monday or Tuesday because of the Women's Final Four. But on Wednesday, we will head back to San Antonio and take a look at what the Stars may do with the ninth overall pick.</strike></p>
<p><b>UPDATE: </b>In light of Amanda Zahui B. and Jewell Loyd declaring early for the 2015 WNBA Draft this past week, we have canceled the community draft. The order of the draft would be completely altered because of their departures and we're now a bit too late to just "do it over." I apologize for the inconvenience. - Albert</p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/3/8337695/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-washington-mystics-number-8Swish Appeal Admin2015-04-02T16:40:00-04:002015-04-02T16:40:00-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #7 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="Brittany Boyd is still available, but is she a good fit in L.A.?" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cRTxFA5GdjboLYlevmuLoppZuos=/0x20:2694x1816/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46033756/usa-today-8433373.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brittany Boyd is still available, but is she a good fit in L.A.? | James Snook-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Six down and six to go. The L.A. Sparks are now on the clock.</p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE - </b>With the sixth pick in the Swish Appeal Community 2015 WNBA Mock Draft, the San Antonio Stars select Samantha Logic of Iowa.</p>
<p>In San Antonio, Logic will be a backup to Danielle Robinson, but her ability to score, pass, and rebound will help shore up the Stars' needs on the bench. In addition, Dan Hughes is a coach known for developing young players, and this team is about as good as any for Logic to start her pro career. To replace Logic, we have added Kiah Stokes of UConn on the draft board.</p>
<p>We're at pick number 7. L.W. will give you the scoop on what's going down in L.A. - Big Brother</p>
<h4>Synopsis</h4>
<p>You are Los Angeles Sparks General Manager Penny Toler. After an ownership scare in 2013 and an underachieving 2014 season, you have hired veteran coach Brian Agler and shook up the bench with a number of high-profile free agent signings.</p>
<p>You have waived Lindsey Harding and signed backup point guards Erin Phillips and Temeka Johnson. You have also added some international talent like Serbian star Ana Dabovic and Latvian star Elina Babkina. And you also signed 6'7 shot blocking machine Jennifer Hamson (playing her rookie season after opting to use her 5th year of NCAA eligibility to play volleyball). Marianna Tolo and Emmiline Ndongue to round out the training camp roster.</p>
<p>It's not completely clear how all of the pieces fit together, but with an All-Star post duo of Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike, the Sparks look to assert themselves as a championship tier team this season.</p>
<h4><b>Projected Depth Chart</b></h4>
<p>If the season opened today, and no moves were made, the Sparks' rotation would probably look something like this:</p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="477" style="text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;" dir="ltr" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="65" style="width: 65pt;"> <col width="103" span="4" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4394; width: 103pt;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" class="xl63" width="65" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt; width: 65pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Position"]'><b>Position</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="103" style="text-align: center; width: 103pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Starter"]'><b>Starter</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="103" style="text-align: center; width: 103pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Backup"]'><b>Backup</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="103" style="text-align: center; width: 103pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Backup #2"]'><b>Backup #2</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="103" style="text-align: center; width: 103pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Backup #3"]'><b>Backup #3</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;">
<td height="16" class="xl64" style="text-align: center; height: 16pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"G"]'>G</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Kristi Tolliver"]' style="text-align: center;">Kristi Tolliver</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Erin Phillips"]' style="text-align: center;">Erin Phillips</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Temeka Johnson"]' style="text-align: center;">Temeka Johnson</td>
<td class="xl65" style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;">
<td height="16" class="xl64" style="text-align: center; height: 16pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"G"]'>G</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Alana Beard"]' style="text-align: center;">Alana Beard</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Ana Dabovic"]' style="text-align: center;">Ana Dabovic</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Elina Babkina"]' style="text-align: center;">Elina Babkina</td>
<td class="xl65" style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;">
<td height="16" class="xl64" style="text-align: center; height: 16pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"F"]'>F</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Candace Parker"]' style="text-align: center;">Candace Parker</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Farhiya Abdi"]' style="text-align: center;">Farhiya Abdi</td>
<td class="xl65" style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td class="xl65" style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;">
<td height="16" class="xl64" style="text-align: center; height: 16pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"F"]'>F</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Nneka Ogwumike"]' style="text-align: center;">Nneka Ogwumike</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Sandrine Gruda"]' style="text-align: center;">Sandrine Gruda</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Nikki Greene"]' style="text-align: center;">Nikki Greene</td>
<td class="xl65" style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" class="xl64" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"C"]'>C</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jantel Lavender"]' style="text-align: center;">Jantel Lavender</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Jennifer Hamson"]' style="text-align: center;">Jennifer Hamson</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Marianna Tolo"]' style="text-align: center;">Marianna Tolo</td>
<td class="xl64" data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Emmiline Ndongue"]' style="text-align: center;">Emmiline Ndongue</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>From looking at this depth chart, you can see that there is one major weakness on the roster that still hasn't been addressed from last season.</p>
<h4>Primary Weakness: Small forward</h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">1. <a data-ref-index="9" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1">Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">2. <a data-ref-index="10" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2">Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">3. <a data-ref-index="11" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3">Storm: Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">4. <a data-ref-index="11" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/30/8305363/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-connecticut-sun-number-4">Sun: Crystal Bradford</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">5. <a data-ref-index="11" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/31/8317109/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-chicago-sky-number-5">Sky: Aleighsa Welch</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">6. <a data-ref-index="11" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/1/8305303/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-san-antonio-stars-number-6">Stars: Samantha Logic</a></p>
</div>
<p>Even if restricted free agent Sandrine Gruda elects not to play in the WNBA this year, the Sparks are loaded in the post. Lavender, Ogwumike, and Parker can handle most of the C/PF minutes. But even if Parker starts at SF, many match-ups may favor her sliding over to the post for extended stretches. When she does, perhaps one or two of Hamson, Tolo, Greene and Ndongue filling in additional minutes in the post.</p>
<p>The Sparks have also solidified their point guard rotation and solved last year's three-point shooting problem with the additions of Phillips and Johnson. Phillips lead the league in three-point percentage last season, and Johnson is a career 36% three-point shooter. Between them and Toliver, the Sparks should be able to create plenty of space for the bigs inside.</p>
<p>At the two guard spot, Alana Beard brings hustle (and occasional bursts of scoring) and Ana Dabovic makes her WNBA debut to add more shooting. Both Beard and Dabovic are tall enough to play some small forward if necessary, and that's a good thing because the wing is looking a little sparse behind Candace Parker. Farhiya Abdi averaged just 8.4 minutes last season (down to 4 in the playoffs), and it seems unlikely that Coach Agler will feel comfortable giving the third year player a bigger role.</p>
<p>Given that Dabovic is still unproven in the WNBA, the Sparks should be concerned that they'll end up using Beard as the primary backup SF. In addition, they will also heavily rely on a backcourt tandem under 5'8, which could give them serious problems defensively, particularly against intra-conference rivals like the Minnesota Lynx.</p>
<h4>Which player could be the best fit for the Los Angeles Sparks at #7?</h4>
<p>Choices are a little slim down here at the 7th pick. Since this is a veteran team, it will be an uphill battle to make LA's veteran-centric roster, even if a mid-first round draft pick fills a need.</p>
<p>If Dearica Hamby can make the transition to SF from PF, could provide the Sparks with energy and defense off the bench. But if she can't successfully play on the wing, she'll find herself stuck at the end of an already-crowded post rotation. The rest of the top prospects remaining are point guards (Brittany Boyd, Brittany Hrynko). L.A. already has that position well covered.</p>
<p>They could also draft injured post player Isabelle Harrison, who will not be available to play this year.</p>
<p>Unless they think Hamby can fill in at SF, the Sparks should consider taking Harrison. At #7, she could be a major steal. Though she won't help them this year she could give them a boost next year, the wealth of good post players will give the Sparks many trade options next year. Perhaps they could either for a veteran at a position that better suits their needs, or to trade up in the 2016 Draft. It's unlikely that any of the remaining players will put the Sparks over the edge this year, so they should look to take a player who will be valuable in the long term.</p>
<h4><b>Now, it's time to vote and make your pick!</b></h4>
<p><b>Voting ends at 12 p.m. ET on Friday, April 3, 2015! </b>Soon after, we'll take a cross-country flight from LAX to Dulles where the Washington Mystics will have the eighth overall pick.</p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/2/8333891/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-los-angeles-sparks-number-7Swish Appeal Admin2015-04-01T15:00:01-04:002015-04-01T15:00:01-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #6 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/m-4KZKIP4U0DCQqgg-EO4E_4fhA=/0x0:4245x2830/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46023952/usa-today-8480418.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Let's go to the River Walk and see what the Stars will do with pick number 6 in our mock draft.</p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE: </b>With the fifth pick in the 2015 Swish Appeal Community WNBA Mock Draft, the Chicago Sky selected Aleighsa Welch of South Carolina.</p>
<p>The Sky have as strong of a lineup as anyone in the Eastern Conference, and she will help add more depth to their already strong lineup. We have added Vicky McIntyre of Oral Roberts on the board. Now, it's time to see what the San Antonio Stars will do with pick #6. They're on the clock! - Albert</p>
<h4><b>Synopsis</b></h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">1. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1" data-ref-index="9">Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">2. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2" data-ref-index="10">Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">3. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3" data-ref-index="11">Storm: Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">4. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/30/8305363/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-connecticut-sun-number-4" data-ref-index="11">Sun: Crystal Bradford</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">5. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/31/8317109/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-chicago-sky-number-5" data-ref-index="11">Sky: Aleighsa Welch</a></p>
</div>
<p>You are Dan Hughes, the General Manager and Head Coach of the San Antonio Stars. Based on how the offseason is going so far, it will be an uphill battle to be in legitimate contention for a title this season. However, the team has made some moves this offseason that do show where its commitment is at that position long-term.</p>
<p>There was a serious overlap at the shooting guard position last season with the likes of Becky Hammon, Kayla McBride, Jia Perkins and Shenise Johnson all warranting minutes. Hammon has retired, but there are still three high-quality players battling for court time at that position.</p>
<p>The masquerade of McBride at the three last season worked for as long as it could but eventually, they paid for it. How did they address this, you ask? Shenise Johnson is now a member of the Indiana Fever. And I think they made the right choice. What will be interesting to see is exactly how the rest of this roster fills out, starting with the upcoming draft. - P.F.</p>
<h4><b>Projected Depth Chart</b></h4>
<p>Assuming the Stars make no further moves and make no cuts, this is what their roster would probably look like:</p>
<table align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse;" width="417" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1664; width: 39pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 5376; width: 126pt;" span="3" width="126"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt; width: 39pt;" width="39" class="xl63" height="15"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center; width: 126pt;" width="126" class="xl64"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; width: 126pt;" width="126" class="xl64"><b>Backup </b></td>
<td style="text-align: center; width: 126pt;" width="126" class="xl64"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" class="xl63" height="15">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Danielle Robinson</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Davellyn Whyte</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" class="xl63" height="15">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Kayla McBride</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Brittany Chambers</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" class="xl63" height="15">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Jia Perkins</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Ashley Paris</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Toni Young</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" class="xl63" height="15">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Sophia Young-Malcolm</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Danielle Adams</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Chelsea Poppens</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="15">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;" class="xl63" height="15">C</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Jayne Appel</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Astou Ndour</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl63">Kayla Alexander</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>As mentioned above, not much has changed for the Stars. There’s a gaping hole at small forward in addition to questions of the production from the frontcourt. With that being said, who is going to play behind the starters and how much can they contribute? Ashley Paris is an interesting addition. I’ve felt for a long time that she was a WNBA-caliber player. Toni Young was a player I thought Hughes would draft initially. If you're completely objective, the Stars have more questions than answers at this point. And it’s not even close. - P.F.</p>
<h4><b>Primary Weakness: Bench Depth</b></h4>
<p>The primary weaknesses for the Stars is the bench. The Stars already have a solid starting five with Danielle Adams as a solid sixth woman. But, the Stars will need to add more depth to the bench if they want to compete in a tough and competitive Western Conference. The Stars need to add a backup point guard behind Danielle Robinson as well as a backup shooting guard/small forward behind Kayla McBride and Jia Perkins. - A.S.</p>
<h4><b>Which player could be the best fit for the San Antonio Stars at #6?</b></h4>
<p>With such a high draft pick selection and the first of 2 draft picks for the Stars, they should look for a point guard, small forward or a shooting guard. The best players for those positions include Brittany Boyd, Samantha Logic, Brittany Hrynko, Amber Orrange. The Stars could also pick the best player still available in the frontcourt: Dearica Hamby comes into mind right away. Any of these players would help boost the bench tremendously and help the Stars immediately. - A.S.</p>
<h4><b>Now it's time to vote!</b></h4>
<p><b>You have until 12 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, April 2 to get your votes in the poll.</b> After that, we head to the glamorous city of L.A. as the Sparks will be on the clock for pick number 7.</p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/4/1/8305303/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-san-antonio-stars-number-6Aneela SyedSmoove Friday2015-03-31T15:07:00-04:002015-03-31T15:07:00-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #5 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="Isabelle Harrison's still available at #5 y'all." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/2ggm4uhJBYXdoZ5xbjzOUm8IR-I=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46012512/usa-today-8280534.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Isabelle Harrison's still available at #5 y'all. | Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The mock draft continues as the Chicago Sky's on the clock for pick numero cinco.</p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE: </b>With the fourth pick in the 2015 Swish Appeal Community Mock WNBA Draft, the Connecticut Sun selects Crystal Bradford of Central Michigan.</p>
<p>I feel that this pick up was a little early, but in this Draft, team fit is key. The Connecticut Sun needs a guard who can help fill the void for Katie Douglas as she heads toward retirement in the not too distant future. In addition, Bradford is a dominant player for her team and can be a player who can contribute to many areas besides just scoring. Therefore, this may not be a bad pick if she works out with them. For more reading, I'll <a target="_blank" href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/2/19/8068455/2015-wnba-draft-preview">defer to Colin Davenport's FanPost</a>, which previewed the WNBA Draft.</p>
<p>The latest player to be added to the poll is Ariel Massengale of Tennessee. Now let's head over to Chicago and see how things are going over there. - Albert</p>
<h4><b>Synopsis</b></h4>
<p>You are Pokey Chatman, the General Manager and Head Coach of the Chicago Sky. Last season left a bitter taste in your mouth. Finally armed with a roster that you've built, the injury bug hit your team last season and decided it preferred this perch against others. The timing of these injuries probably stung more than the sum of the injuries themselves, yet you still found your way to the WNBA Finals despite being the #4 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.</p>
<p>The lack of depth on an otherwise talented team really caused problems for Sylvia Fowles and crew when they faced a series with the best team in the league in 2014. With the number of veteran contracts on this team, you're looking at potentially running into the same issue this season. WNBA hopefuls Jacki Gemelos and Clarissa Dos Santos are players with professional experience that would be eligible for rookie-level contracts, but your best bet may be in what's considered to be a "weak draft."</p>
<h4><b>Projected Depth Chart</b></h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph"><span>If the roster looks almost exactly the same as last season, that's because it is.</span></p>
<table width="379" border="0" align="center" class="sbn-data-table">
<colgroup> <col width="34"> <col width="115" span="3"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-even">
<td style="text-align: center;" width="34" height="15" class="xl63"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-odd">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Courtney Vandersloot</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Jameirra Faulker</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Jacki Gemelos</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-even">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Cappie Pondexter</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Allie Quigley</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Courtney Clements</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-odd">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Elena Delle Donne</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Tamera Young</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-even">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Jessica Breland</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Sasha Goodlett</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Gennifer Brandon</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" class="ui-state-odd">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">C</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Sylvia Fowles</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Markeisha Gatling</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Clarissa Dos Santos</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The only change is at the shooting guard position, where the jury is out on the Cappie Pondexter acquisition. Based on last season, the Sky lose this trade using the eye test due to Prince being the younger player with more potential to grow. HOWEVER, if Cappie can rediscover her form -- and I think she just needed out of the toxicity she created in NYC -- this could be just what the Sky needed.</p>
<h4>Primary Weaknesses: Defense and depth of talent</h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">1. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1" data-ref-index="9">Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">2. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2" data-ref-index="10">Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">3. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3" data-ref-index="11">Storm: Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">4. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/30/8305363/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-connecticut-sun-number-4" data-ref-index="11">Sun: Crystal Bradford</a></p>
</div>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">For a long time, the Sky have relied on Fowles to hold down the fort defensively. With the combination of injuries and the talent level of the league steadily increasing, that cannot be the case if the Sky want to improve upon last season's final results.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">Your starting backcourt gave up as many, if not more points than it produced on a nightly basis. The only reason Delle Donne isn't included in that same statement is because she can make up for any scoring deficit better than any other player in the league. Defensive ability doesn't happen overnight, but you don't have to be a juggernaut to win games. On that same token, you cannot be a sieve. Just ask the Phoenix Mercury.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The Sky just need to continue to improve upon the product they already have. Pokey has been a breath of fresh air for the WNBA in terms of giving players a chance. Most teams look directly to the waiver wire for improvements. However, Chatman brings in players that fit her style, and the growth continues throughout the course of the season. But at the end of the day, talent is the name of the game. If those players' skills, abilities, and mental capacities aren't improving, you'll find yourself on the ever-popular "Treadmill of Mediocrity." It will be interesting to see just how much the players bring to the table this season.</p>
<h4>Which players could be a good fit for the Sky at the #5 spot?</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">The biggest hole the Sky have right now is at the power forward spot. I haven't been shy about my obsession with big guards/skilled posts, and Chicago has two of the best examples of these. The issues arise when they try to combine the two. Delle Donne should not be playing the post at any time. There's no way I'm asking the most unique player the game has ever seen to wear her body down defending post players who usually have a game plan to be physical with her. There was no other realistic option last season as Gennifer Brandon proved the equivalent of an intern on the first day of the assignment which means this is an area the team should address first.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">Some players that crossed my mind as potential fits here in Chicago, regardless of whether they would be the best players available or not at this spot. They include Ally Mallott, Aleighsa Welch, Sara Hammond, and Izzy Harrison.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">But two names stuck out perfectly. Instant gratification tells me to choose Dearica Hamby. She fits perfectly and is one of the most skilled players in the draft. She's got good size for the power forward spot at 6'3 and has skills to stretch out to the perimeter. She's likely one of the most pro-ready players in the draft because she HAD to perform on a nightly basis for her team to stand a chance (and they were in a lot of games this season) in a packed ACC that put five teams into the Sweet Sixteen. Hamby is also high on my list based on her work ethic and desire to be great. She's spoken candidly via Twitter about being lightly recruited and playing a minor role her first two seasons at Wake Forest before taking it to a new level her final two seasons.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">However, it's probably become apparent that I'm not too excited about this draft and I've approached it that way all season. Chicago is a team that is capable of filling the holes they via trade or free agency because there aren't many for the defending Eastern Conference champions. A player I had on the radar all year for the Sky but isn't available this season due to injury is Nneka Enekmpali. She played with top level centers this season and even without any refined stretch ability, they flourished. She's an offensive rebounding threat with a high motor and she's skilled enough to score one-on-one in the low post. She would then play against the likes of Delle Donne and Breland in practice and come face-to-face with how difficult it is to guard a post with stretch skills and have ample opportunity to improve.</p>
<h4><b>Now, it's time to vote!</b></h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph"><b>POLLING CLOSES AT 12 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1! </b>On Wednesday, we head southwest to the Lonestar State and assess the San Antonio Star's options with the number 6 pick. Also, feel free to add which player(s) we should add to the Draft Board Poll for Wednesday.</p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/31/8317109/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-chicago-sky-number-5Smoove Friday2015-03-30T15:00:02-04:002015-03-30T15:00:02-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #4 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Jf1AeLxnei97EaLEiCX1jl5ryXo=/0x0:3919x2613/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46003060/usa-today-8359868.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Let's take a look at what the Sun may be trying to accomplish with the 2015 WNBA Draft.</p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE: </b>With the third pick in the Swish Appeal Community Mock Draft, the Seattle Storm selects Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis of UConn.</p>
<p>Despite the fact that Seattle needs an additional guard who could be part of the post-Sue Bird era of the franchise, the overall potential that Mosqueda-Lewis has for any WNBA team is too good to pass up. If nothing else, Alisha Valavanis can trade her for another asset. We added Martha Alwal of Mississippi State on the poll, but you're also free to vote for someone else, provided that you write which player you specifically are voting for in the comments.</p>
<p>We now continue with our regularly scheduled mock draft posts. The Connecticut Sun's on the clock, so let's go!</p>
<h4><b>Synopsis</b></h4>
<p>You are Chris Sienko, the General Manager of the Connecticut Sun. With a disappointing 2014 season in which the Sun finished last in the Eastern Conference, it's time to reload for the 2015 season.</p>
<p>Fortunately, you had the #3 and #4 picks in this draft, the latter coming from the 2014 Tina Charles trade with New York. You used the #3 pick, a second round pick, and Renee Montgomery to <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/1/28/7932651/seattle-storm-acquires-3-15-picks-and-montgomery-from-the-connecticut">acquire Shekinna Stricklen and Camille Little</a>. Now, with just the #4 pick in your hands, it's even more imperative that that pick works out for you. After all, you hope to get back into the playoffs this season, and you have the talent to do perhaps more than just that. - A.S.</p>
<h4><b>Projected Depth Chart</b></h4>
<p>With the new additions of Shekinna Stricklen and Camille Little, here is the what the lineup may look for 2015. This is assuming that there are no 2015 Draft Picks, no new trades, and, of course, no cuts! - A.S.</p>
<table width="379" border="0" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="34"> <col width="115" span="3"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" width="34" height="15" class="xl63"><br></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;" width="115"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Alex Bentley</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Allison Hightower</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Chelsea Gray</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Katie Douglas</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Shekinna Stricklen</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Kelly Faris</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Kelsey Griffin</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Danielle McCray</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Camille Little</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Alyssa Thomas</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Kayla Pedersen</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td style="text-align: center;" height="15" class="xl64">C</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Kelsey Bone</td>
<td style="text-align: center;" class="xl64">Ebony Hoffman</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><i>In light of Chiney Ogwumike's <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/1/22/7875743/chiney-ogwumike-has-microfracture-surgery-out-for-6-9-months">knee injury and recovery timeline</a>, we have decided not to put her on the depth chart.</i></p>
<h4>Primary Weaknesses: Post rotation uncertainty and off-ball guard play</h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p>The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p>1. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1">Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p>2. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2">Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
<p>3. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3">Storm: Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis</a></p>
</div>
<p>Having made the most out of last year's Tina Charles trade, you have a fairly deep young squad in Connecticut. It's not yet clear who will join Ogwumike as part of the new core of the team. But Connecticut still has multiple options: They have talented young players at every position, plus veterans like Katie Douglas and Camille Little to lead the way.</p>
<p>The two areas the Sun should look to shore up a little are in the post and at the shooting guard/wing. Ogwumike has already shown that she can be an All-Star, but who will join her in the post for years to come is a little bit more of a question mark. Though talented, Kelsey Bone been inconsistent. Camille Little will likely be a big contributor this year and next, but is slipping past her prime. Alyssa Thomas has shown great potential, but she is also a classic tweener. In fact, head coach Anne Donovan has indicated that she considers her a WNBA small forward, not an undersized power forward. That leads me to wonder how Kelsey Griffin will fit in long-term.</p>
<p>At the off guard/wing spot, Katie Douglas held down the fort last year, but she is 35 and has a history of back injuries. Shekinna Stricklen has an opportunity to play a big role on this team going forward but has been a fairly streaky shooter in her career thus far. Kelly Faris and Danielle McCray have both failed to prove that they can provide reliable offense for the Sun. - L.W.</p>
<h4>Which players could be a good fit for the Sun at the #4 spot?</h4>
<p>Isabelle Harrison won't be available to play this season, but could be a good long-term fit with Ogwumike in the low post. Amber Orrange could provide more outside shooting, but #4 is a bit of a reach for her. Crystal Bradford and Dearica Hamby are also intriguing prospects as tall players with some perimeter abilities, but their skill sets (and questionable three-point shots) might make them too redundant with Thomas.</p>
<p>However, given their overall depth and stockpile of young assets, the Sun could just take the best player available and let the rotation shake out during the season. Both Brittany Boyd and Samantha Logic are still available though the Sun has several capable point guards already. If you draft either Boyd or Logic, Allie Hightower can play off the ball more to make a little more room at the point. Furthermore, you have some insurance in case Chelsea Gray can't completely come back from her knee injury. -L.W.</p>
<h4><b>Now, it's time to vote!</b></h4>
<p><b>POLLING CLOSES AT 12 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON TUESDAY, MARCH 31! </b>On Tuesday, we take a trip to the Windy City and assess the Chicago Sky's options with the number 5 pick. Also, feel free to add which player(s) we should add to the Draft Board Poll for Tuesday.</p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/30/8305363/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-connecticut-sun-number-4Aneela SyedL.W.2015-03-27T15:00:03-04:002015-03-27T15:00:03-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #3 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis is one of several options the Seattle Storm could take in our Community Mock Draft." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zTOb8k7GRXQDMqZGCAaqLMbWfrs=/0x0:2992x1995/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45992942/usa-today-8434380.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis is one of several options the Seattle Storm could take in our Community Mock Draft. | David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We get back in Alisha Valavanis' shoes and decide who the Seattle Storm should pick at #3 in our Community Mock Draft.</p> <p><b>MOCK DRAFT UPDATE:</b> With the second pick in the Swish Appeal Community Mock Draft, the Tulsa Shock selected Elizabeth Williams of Duke. In fact, it was a really close race!</p>
<p>Sara Hammond of Louisville has been added to our Draft Poll to replace Williams, and we've also added a "someone else" option. If you vote this option, please specify which player you are voting for in the comments.</p>
<p>We now head back to pick #3 where the Seattle Storm is on the clock again. As this Draft goes on, some of our community members will be chipping in with their analysis. Today, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/cdavenport">Cdavenport</a> will give you his.</p>
<h4>Synopsis</h4>
<p>You are Alisha Valavanis, the President and General Manager of the Seattle Storm. With the first pick in the draft, you selected Reshanda Gray of Cal. She is a strong low post threat who brings much-needed size and depth to the front court. But now, what do you do with the third pick? Do you select another big, look to add depth and versatility at small forward or do you select a lead guard who could eventually replace Sue Bird?</p>
<h4>Depth chart after adding Reshanda Gray</h4>
<p>With Gray now donning green and gold, here's what the lineup may look like assuming you make no other moves:</p>
<table border="0" width="379" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="34"> <col width="115" span="3"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" width="34" style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
<td width="115" style="text-align: center;"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td width="115" style="text-align: center;"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td width="115" style="text-align: center;"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Renee Montgomey</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Meighan Simmons</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Sue Bird</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Jenna O'Hea</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center;">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Alysha Clark</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Abby Bishop</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center;">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Reshanda Gray</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Quanitra Hollingsworth</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center;">C</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Crystal Langhorne</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Angel Robinson</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Waltiea Rolle</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h4>Primary Weaknesses: Lack of wing players and backcourt depth</h4>
<div class="sidebar">
<h2>Who has been drafted so far?</h2>
<p>The following players have already been selected in our community mock draft:</p>
<p>1. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1">Seattle Storm: Reshanda Gray</a></p>
<p>2. <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2">Tulsa Shock: Elizabeth Williams</a></p>
</div>
<p>While Seattle needs to add depth at nearly every position, the Storm has two glaring weaknesses left after the addition of Gray.</p>
<p>First, they don’t have a legitimate starter on the wing. Alysha Clark is one of the hardest working players in the WNBA. Her defensive tenacity and overall intensity are invaluable to the Storm. However, she lacks the offensive skills necessary to be a full-time starter on a team that is so lacking in perimeter scoring.</p>
<p>Jenna O’Hea is one of the best long-range shooters in the world. But her inability to create her shot off the dribble leaves her limited offensively, and her below average foot speed make her a liability defensively,</p>
<p>Second, the Storm lacks depth and versatility in the backcourt. While Bird is now rested and rumored to be in her best shape since 2010, she is currently the only true point guard on the roster. The addition of Renee Montgomery gives Seattle a legitimate scoring threat besides Bird in the backcourt for the first time since Betty Lennox. However, Montgomery's lack of size could be a huge disadvantage on defense. It will be the case if Bird and Montgomery are paired together and matched against a larger backcourt such as that of Phoenix or Minnesota.</p>
<h4><b>Which players could be a good fit for the Storm at the #3 spot?</b></h4>
<p>The players who best fit Seattle’s needs that are still on the board are (in no particular order) Brittany Boyd, Samantha Logic, Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis, Aleighsa Welch, Dearica Hamby and Crystal Bradford.</p>
<p>Also still available is Isabel Harrison, who, despite likely being out injured for all of 2015, could prove to be a very skilled post player in the long run. Yes, I get that the Storm now has a front court that has a two-time All-Star, a reigning Australian MVP and the current PAC-12 player of the year. However, it could be difficult to pass on adding the versatility that Harrison could potentially bring.</p>
<p>Ultimately, it all comes down to which player has the most potential to impact the team long-term. Boyd or Logic could become the franchise point guard for the next 12 seasons. Mosqueda-Lewis and Welch have the potential to be elite wing players. Mosqueda-Lewis has the potential to be one of the best perimeter shooters of all time while Welch could be a defensive stopper with the ability to attack the rim.</p>
<p>Hamby and Bradford are the two most versatile players in the draft. Hamby can stay in front of guards on defense, score against double teams in the paint and hit open shots out to the three-point line. Bradford has strong perimeter skills, the size and length of a small forward and shot blocking ability of a post player.</p>
<p>The choice is yours Swish Appeal readers. If you were Alisha Valavanis, who would you pick?</p>
<p><b>POLLING CLOSES AT 3 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON SATURDAY, MARCH 28! </b><b>On Monday, we will see what the Connecticut Sun will do at pick number 4 in the Community Mock Draft. </b><span>Also, feel free to say which player we should add to our poll in our next Draft post in the comments.</span></p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/27/8298393/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-3Swish Appeal Admin2015-03-26T15:00:02-04:002015-03-26T15:00:02-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #2 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PHxfg8a5DOeDdzvitO9FFKBZ_OY=/159x443:2385x1927/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45984492/GettyImages-452408568.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Christian Petersen/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We now head over to pick 2 of our 2015 WNBA Draft, where the Tulsa Shock gets a chance to add another major piece to their bumper crop of young talent. </p> <p><b>UPDATE ON THE MOCK DRAFT: </b>After looking at your votes and comments, the Seattle Storm selected Reshanda Gray of Cal. We're adding Amber Orrange of Stanford onto the poll.</p>
<p>Now, let's head from Seattle to Tulsa, where you'll decide who the Shock picks at number two.</p>
<h4>Synopsis</h4>
<p>You are Tulsa Shock President and CRO Steve Swetoha. The Shock left Detroit for Oklahoma in 2010, and essentially had to rebuild everything from the ground up after their best players declined to move with the team. Though they have failed to make the playoffs since moving to Tulsa, there has been a growing sense optimism over the last couple years.</p>
<p>Tulsa is one of the most exciting young teams in the league, with a talented young core of Skylar Diggins, Odyssey Sims, and Glory Johnson, who haven't yet hit their primes. They have also found and developed gems that other teams have passed over.</p>
<p>One of them is Courtney Paris, who has played for three teams in six years. Last season, she averaged a career-high 27 minutes a game last year as Tulsa's starting center (previously, she had never averaged more than 13.4). Another is Riquna Williams, selected 17th overall by the franchise in 2012, <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2013/9/9/4709856/infographic-dedicated-to-riquna-williams-historic-night">broke the record for most points scored</a> in a single WNBA game in 2013 on her way to winning 6th Woman of the Year.</p>
<p>Diggins, the true franchise player for Tulsa, was selected as an All-Star in 2014 and awarded Most Improved Player. Sims, drafted second overall in 2014 to play alongside Diggins, was runner-up for Rookie of the Year and a member of the 2014 USA National Team.</p>
<p>Even with Liz Cambage unlikely to return this year after <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2014/9/20/6601007/team-australia-opals-liz-cambage-achilles-tendon-tear-2014">rupturing her Achilles</a>, Tulsa's future is looking good. However, Tulsa has yet to translate their overflowing talent into enough wins for a playoff appearance, ending the 2014 season with an 11-22 record, just one win better than 2013.</p>
<p>The problem wasn't their offense - they were third in the league in Offensive Rating (an estimate of points scored per 100 possessions) at 106.3, behind only the league heavyweights Phoenix and Minnesota. The problem for Tulsa came on the other end of the floor: They had a league-worst defensive rating at 108.9. Though Diggins and Sims were both lauded for their defensive abilities in college, they are an undersized backcourt for the WNBA. Paris lacks the footspeed to help when perimeter defenders get beat, and Johnson's defensive performance has been up and down.</p>
<p>In addition to the core of Diggins, Sims, Johnson, Paris and Williams, the Shock also have some young rookie rotation players like Theresa Plaisance, the stretch four from LSU, and sharpshooter Jordan Hooper from Nebraska, who played more in the post in college but is developing the skills to be a wing in the WNBA. So far this offseason, Tulsa has also signed veterans Karima Christmas and Plenette Pierson, and Tiffany Jackson-Jones is still on the roster. Christmas, in particular, should help the team's perimeter defense, but she isn't going to transform a league-worst defensive rating into something respectable by herself.</p>
<p>The Western Conference is ultra-competitive, with Phoenix, Minnesota, and Los Angeles rounding out the three top spots in 2014. But with Diana Taurasi taking the 2015 season off, several of Minnesota's stars beginning to age, and L.A.'s history of dysfunction, this could be the Shock's year. They could have enough to be a serious contender this year, or at least to get a little playoff experience. With all of their young talent, they are arguably poised to be one of the next Western Conference dynasties. Lucky for Tulsa, they have yet another lottery pick to give them a boost. - L.W.</p>
<h4><b>Depth Chart before draft picks</b></h4>
<p>As of right now, here's what the Shock's depth chart could look like, excluding unrestricted free agents and, of course, those 2015 draft picks. Remember that those picks aren't in town just yet!</p>
<table align="center" width="379" border="0">
<colgroup> <col width="34"> <col span="3" width="115"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15">
<td width="34" height="15"><br></td>
<td width="115"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td width="115"><b>Backup</b></td>
<td width="115"><b>Backup #2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15">G</td>
<td>Odyssey Sims</td>
<td>Angel Goodrich</td>
<td><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15">G</td>
<td>Skylar Diggins</td>
<td>Riquna Williams</td>
<td><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15">F</td>
<td>Karima Christmas</td>
<td>Jordan Hooper</td>
<td><br></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15">F</td>
<td>Glory Johnson</td>
<td>Theresa Plaisance</td>
<td>Tiffany Jackson-Jones</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15">
<td height="15">C</td>
<td>Courtney Paris</td>
<td>Plenette Pierson</td>
<td>Vicki Baugh</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>While you'd be thrilled if Liz Cambage is playing, you're not counting on her to come Stateside. But, to be honest, you don't need her in order to contend or make the playoffs this year. - A.L.</p>
<h4><b>Primary Weakness: A short guard rotation, literally</b></h4>
<p>At the end of the 2014 season, it was clear that the Shock lacked and needed veteran players who could realistically be leaders on the court. That has been rectified with the addition of Karima Christmas and Plenette Pierson. In addition, the key younger players that the Shock drafted are one year older and wiser. Let's face it. Players like Johnson, Paris, and Diggins aren't simply young players anymore -- they have some stripes too.</p>
<p>But the one thing that stands out on this projected depth chart is the lack of taller guards on the roster. Diggins is 5'9, and Sims is 5'8. Williams is 5'7, and Angel Goodrich is 5'4. Given that other top Western teams like the Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury have taller backcourt options, that could pose problems for Tulsa on defense especially. - A.L.</p>
<h4>Which players fit Tulsa's needs at #2?</h4>
<p>The problem for Tulsa is that the top prospects remaining are mostly post players (Elizabeth Williams, Isabelle Harrison) or guards who aren't taller than average (Brittany Boyd and Samantha Logic are both 5'9). Crystal Bradford is a 6'0 forward/guard, but probably wouldn't project to be anywhere close to a lottery pick if you consider players on talent alone.</p>
<p>Fortunately with Valavanis, or you guys picking Reshanda Gray at #1, the 6'0 Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis from UConn is still available, and she will be able to stretch the floor big time. However, will her conditioning be an issue at the next level? That could very well make her a liability on defense against other swingmen.</p>
<p>Another potential high-risk high-reward prospect would be Aleighsa Welch from South Carolina. Welch is 6'0 and is a high-energy defender and tenacious rebounder. However, Welch has played as an undersized PF/SF more than an as a swingman. She doesn't have a three-point shot (she's only taken one all season). And it's a big question mark as to whether or not she can transition to a more guard-oriented role in the WNBA.</p>
<p>You could just go for the most talented player left, and choose someone like Williams (talented post players are hard to come by, after all, and Plaisance hasn't really proven she's the answer as a backup PF). You could pick a 5'9 guard like Brittany Boyd (who is at least quite a bit taller than backup point guard Angel Goodrich). Or you could draft a 6'0 swingman forward like KML, Welch or Bradford and hope they can over-perform expectations as WNBA guards. - L.W.</p>
<p>Make your pick, Swish Appeal community, and let's hear some pros and cons of each choice in the comments.</p>
<p><b>POLLING CLOSES AT 12 P.M. ON FRIDAY, MARCH 27! After, the Seattle Storm's back to pick third in the Community Mock Draft.</b></p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/26/8294103/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-tulsa-shock-number-2Albert LeeL.W.2015-03-25T15:30:00-04:002015-03-25T15:30:00-04:00SA Community WNBA Mock Draft: Who's your #1 pick?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U58iwHSyN5MbwOSjh-CJkG7r4t8=/0x0:2039x1359/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45976902/jenny_boucek.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Stewart W. Small</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We are less than one month away from the WNBA Draft on April 16, so let's decide as a community which player each team will pick.</p> <p>Last year, we had a <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2014/3/19/5525068/wnba-community-mock-draft-2014-intro-connecticut-sun/in/5291219">Community Draft </a>where we all decided together to pick who we would take if we were the General Managers of each WNBA team picking in the first round. Here are the rules:</p>
<ul>
<li><span>We will post each weekday (except around the NCAA championship game on Monday April 6 and Tuesday April 7) to give a team synopsis. Today, we'll be in the Seattle Storm's shoes since they have the first selection.</span></li>
<li><span>Vote in our poll! <b>All poll results will expire at 12 p.m. Eastern Time the following day, even for Friday posts! </b>The initial poll will have ten players, and we'll refresh the list based on your comments, or among the staff.</span></li>
<li> <b><i>We strongly encourage you to comment as well</i></b>. This year's draft isn't particularly star-studded, so unpredictability is to be expected. :)</li>
</ul>
<p>Enough stuff about rules, let's talk about the Seattle Storm.</p>
<h4><b>Synopsis</b></h4>
<p>You are Alisha Valavanis, the President and General Manager of the Seattle Storm. After a 2010 championship run, the Storm gradually declined through several years of mediocrity as your predecessor Brian Agler made multiple trades to acquire veterans at the expense of youth development. In 2014, just a few months before you were hired, <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2014/4/14/5615320/wnba-trade-2014-bria-hartley-tianna-hawkins-washington-mystics">he acquired All-Star forward Crystal Langhorne</a> in exchange for his 2013 and 2014 first round picks to the Washington Mystics.</p>
<p>I hate to recap the aftermath on a monthly basis, but one of those Storm draft picks became an All-Rookie player and had the <a href="http://www.swishappeal.com/2014/6/8/5790880/mystics-vs-fever-video-bria-hartley-crossover-layup-maggie-lucas">best play ever </a>of anyone in an Inova Mystics uniform:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="hartley crossover" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/uclNaTDPoPNr4Rco6SASzgE5JL8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2554064/giphy.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p>Because that player had a good season, while your team didn't, an infamous meme was also created at your team's expense:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="thibault meme" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sFOkicayo9OS7eX7GZXr6CT_iFU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/assets/4823772/thibault_meme.jpg">
</figure>
</p>
<p>So after your 12-22 season in 2014, you decided to head the Storm off into a younger direction after you were blessed with the #1 pick in this very draft. But there were also many other changes. Agler took the head coach position with the Los Angeles Sparks, and you promoted assistant coach Jenny Boucek to replace him. You made moves to keep key younger players like Alysha Clark. You acquired more impactful young players like the #3 overall pick which we'll talk about on Friday. And you let go of multiple veterans like Temeka Johnson and Camille Little.</p>
<p>That isn't to say that all the vets are gone. You still have franchise player Sue Bird and Langhorne, the latter of whom could yield you more young assets, but you're not trading her right now until you know who your first pick is. Bird, of course, is the definition of the Storm franchise and will be as strong of a mentor to the kids as anyone until she retires.</p>
<p>TL;dr version: Your team is younger and won't be able to compete with the best Western Conference teams this year. But your rookie draft picks -- and your potential young franchise star in 2016 -- could make this team a force for years to come once again. That, and this future meme of redemption you're dreaming about:</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="valavanis meme" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H9VrLPDzp-tlzLGrmh4XUS8KWJ0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3540166/214e3e6bdabed761be5cb23c77cf33883e1ad7f12977f81498e1e9c80aa72cf2.0.jpg">
</figure>
</p>
<p>is your long term goal -- but okay, that was an exaggeration. :)</p>
<p>You're not trying to get back at the Mystics over one player or two. There are bigger goals in mind than that. You're trying to get this team back to its winning ways over the long haul.</p>
<p>But either way, you and the Storm will never, EVER be "Bria Hartley-ed" again while YOU are the captain of the ship!</p>
<p>Don't be celebrating too much though right now. Remember, that graphic is from the future. You still have more planning and execution to do in order to make sure that happens though. :)</p>
<h4><b>Depth Chart before draft picks</b></h4>
<p>If the season started today, and you had no draft picks, this is what your rotation would probably look like:</p>
<table border="0" width="262" style="border-collapse: collapse;" align="center">
<colgroup> <col width="26" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1109; width: 26pt;"> <col width="118" span="2" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 5034; width: 118pt;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" width="26" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt; width: 26pt;"><br></td>
<td class="xl63" width="118" style="text-align: center; width: 118pt;"><b>Starter</b></td>
<td class="xl63" width="118" style="text-align: center; width: 118pt;"><b>Backup</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Renee Montgomery</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Meighan Simmons</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Sue Bird</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Jenna O'Hea</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Alysha Clark</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Abby Bishop</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">F</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Crystal Langhorne</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Quanitra Hollingsworth</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="15" style="text-align: center; height: 15pt;">C</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Angel Robinson</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Waltiea Rolle</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Your starting backcourt plus Langhorne doesn't look terrible, but it's clear that your team has some major depth issues. Let's get to the most pressing need right now.</p>
<h4><b>Primary need: Post players</b></h4>
<p>From this depth chart, it's clear that your team lacks talent at forward and the post positions. Besides Crystal Langhorne, you're not exactly sure if anyone is a starter or even a rotation-level option.</p>
<p>The guard position isn't that deep either, but the lack of post depth is pretty scary. And no, you're not seriously thinking that Lauren Jackson is going to save your team.</p>
<h4><b>Which players could be a good fit for the Storm at the #1 spot?</b></h4>
<p>This class isn't the 2013 or 2014 Draft where there are multiple star-level talents. But you still have serviceable options at the #1 and #3 picks. Reshanda Gray of Cal, Elizabeth Williams of Duke, or Isabelle Harrison of Tennessee could be a nice long term fit. But then you have to wonder how she can fit with Langhorne unless you plan on trading her soon in a separate deal.</p>
<h4><b>Who do you pick at #1?</b></h4>
<p>So that's it. Now it's your time to vote in the poll below. We're going to assume that you aren't trading the number one pick away. So select who you'd pick if you're Valavanis, who has a tough, but potentially exciting future ahead leading the Storm to its next era.</p>
<p>Also, add comments to support your opinions! And feel free to say which player should be added on the Draft Board tomorrow.</p>
<p><b>POLLING CLOSES AT 12 P.M. ON THURSDAY, MARCH 26! Soon after that, the Tulsa Shock get a chance to select in the Community Mock Draft.</b></p>
https://www.swishappeal.com/2015/3/25/8288539/swish-appeal-community-2015-wnba-mock-draft-seattle-storm-number-1Albert Lee