The 2013 WNBA Draft airs Monday, April 15, with coverage and analysis of the first round beginning at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2 – marking the event’s move to a prime-time window, a first in league history. The world’s top female basketball prospects will convene at ESPN’s Bristol, Conn., studios for the third straight year. ESPNU will air the second and third rounds beginning at 9 p.m.
“ESPN is continually looking for new ways to expand on our commitment to the WNBA and the sport of women’s basketball,” said Carol Stiff, ESPN vice president, programming and acquisitions. “With the caliber of players that is expected to enter the 2013 WNBA Draft, it was a logical decision to move the event to a prime-time window.”
“To schedule the WNBA Draft in prime time is a significant commitment by ESPN and is indicative of the growing interest in the league and the women’s game overall,” said WNBA President, Laurel J. Richie. “We are very much looking forward to the 2013 season and that tips off with what we anticipate will be one of the most exciting – and followed – drafts in league history.”
After garnering the top selection in this year’s WNBA Draft Lottery, which aired on ESPN’s SportsCenter in September, the Phoenix Mercury hold the top pick in the WNBA Draft for the third time in franchise history. Rounding out this year’s top five picks are the Chicago Sky (second), Tulsa Shock (third), Washington Mystics (fourth), and the New York Liberty (fifth).
Among the top seniors currently playing on the collegiate level are Baylor center Brittney Griner, Delaware guard/forward Elena Delle Donne, Notre Dame guard Skylar Diggins, Georgetown guard Sugar Rodgers, and Maryland forward Tianna Hawkins.
The WNBA Draft will also be available online at WatchESPN.com and on smartphones and tablets via the WatchESPN app to fans who receive their video subscription from an affiliated provider.
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