As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, ESPN's fantasy basketball experts gathered for a mock draft to prepare fans for the upcoming action. The event featured six participants who selected players based on ESPN’s default settings, which included a scoring system rewarding points for various in-game performances. Each expert crafted their roster by strategically selecting top talents from across the league, showcasing diverse team-building philosophies.

In this simulation, each of the six experts—Charlie Creme, Eric Moody, Jason Shebilske, Jennifer LaCroix, Andre Snellings, and James Best—crafted their rosters over nine rounds. They balanced star power with depth, aiming to maximize their chances in a competitive six-team league. By examining their selections, fans can glean insights into player value and positional strengths heading into the new season.

The first round set the tone with standout picks like A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, and Breanna Stewart leading the charge. As the draft progressed, strategic decisions emerged, highlighting not only individual talent but also team synergy. This analysis delves deeper into these choices, uncovering the thought processes behind building championship-caliber squads.

Leading off the draft was Charlie Creme, whose initial selection of A’ja Wilson underscored the importance of securing a dominant forward early. Wilson's versatility and consistent production make her an invaluable asset. Following suit, Eric Moody opted for Caitlin Clark, emphasizing offensive firepower at the guard position. Meanwhile, Jason Shebilske chose Breanna Stewart, balancing scoring ability with defensive prowess. These early picks established the foundation for teams that would rely heavily on these cornerstone players throughout the season.

Subsequent rounds revealed varying strategies among participants. For instance, Andre Snellings prioritized guards such as Arike Ogunbowale and Skylar Diggins-Smith, assembling a backcourt capable of delivering high-scoring outputs. In contrast, Jennifer LaCroix focused on creating balance, drafting both Napheesa Collier and Satou Sabally to bolster her frontcourt presence while adding Kelsey Plum for perimeter support. Such contrasting approaches highlight the flexibility within the league structure, allowing drafters to tailor their teams according to personal preferences or specific tactical needs.

James Best rounded out the group with selections like Alyssa Thomas and Sabrina Ionescu, blending experienced veterans with rising stars. His approach demonstrated how integrating youth and veteran leadership could yield long-term success. Additionally, picks like Rhyne Howard added another layer of complexity to his lineup, ensuring depth at multiple positions.

Ultimately, the mock draft provided a comprehensive preview of what lies ahead in the 2025 WNBA season. Fans now have access to expert insights regarding optimal player combinations and positioning strategies. Whether focusing on elite scorers or versatile role players, each participant illustrated unique ways to build a winning roster. Looking forward, enthusiasts can apply these lessons when forming their own leagues, enhancing their chances of claiming victory in fantasy women's basketball.