14 WNBA Rookies Share What the Cameras Never See

The orange carpet at the 2025 WNBA Draft stretched longer than ever before, cameras capturing every sequined dress and proud smile. But when 14 rookie players were asked what really got them to that moment, their answers had nothing to do with glamour.

Lauren Betts, picked fourth by the Washington Mystics, didn't hesitate with her answer. "Shout out to my therapist, Joy, for helping me so that I can show up on the court," she said, highlighting years of mental health work that transformed her game.

Minnesota Lynx's second pick, Olivia Miles, shared how a simple mindset shift changed everything after her ACL injury. Instead of asking "why did this happen to me," she reframed it as "this happened for me to be better." That perspective carried her through recovery and into the draft room.

For Dallas Wings' first overall pick Azzi Fudd, it was learning to love what nobody sees. "The discipline, the work ethic, my love for the process, learning how to love the grind," she explained as the foundation of her success.

Angela Dugalić, selected ninth by Washington, found her path at the rec center playing against guys. "I found a lot of joy, but also a lot of struggle there," she said, noting that both elements make basketball beautiful.

Indiana Fever's Raven Johnson put in countless unseen hours fixing her shot. "When I couldn't shoot the ball, I got in the gym and I got my shot better, and I think it showed this year," she revealed.

Cotie McMahon, picked 11th, shared perhaps the most powerful advice from her journey. "No matter what, don't lose your happiness," she said, crediting her final college year with helping her find herself after a difficult transfer.

Why This Inspires

These rookies are changing the conversation around athletic success. By openly discussing therapy, mental coaching, and emotional struggles, they're showing young athletes that strength includes asking for help. Their honesty creates permission for others to prioritize mental health alongside physical training, proving that the most important work often happens inside our heads and hearts.

Atlanta Dream's Madina Okot summed up the common thread running through all their stories: "Challenges are gonna be there, but giving up is not the best decision."

The 2025 WNBA rookie class is stepping onto professional courts with more than talent—they're bringing wisdom earned in private moments that shaped everything the public gets to celebrate.