As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, roster cuts are underway, leaving many top NCAA talents facing an uncertain future. With only 156 roster spots available across 13 teams, the competition is fierce, and not every rookie can make the cut.

Notable 2025 WNBA Roster Cuts

The preseason has already seen several notable names from the NCAA waived, despite their promising college careers. Shyanne Sellers, a standout guard from Maryland and 17th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, was waived by the Golden State Valkyries on May 3. However, Sellers was quickly picked up by the Atlanta Dream, although her spot on the final roster remains uncertain, as the Dream currently have more than 12 players.

Another high-profile player to be waived was Bree Hall, a former South Carolina guard and two-time NCAA champion. Hall, who was selected 20th overall by the Indiana Fever in the second round, was waived on May 5. She now faces the challenge of finding a place on another roster, with many teams already filling their slots with established stars.

Harmoni Turner, the reigning Ivy League Player of the Year and standout guard from Harvard, was waived by the Las Vegas Aces on May 7. Turner, a third-round pick (35th overall), joins the growing list of 2025 draftees who have been let go before the regular season begins.

Why Are So Many WNBA Draftees Getting Waived?

The primary reason so many players are being waived is the WNBA’s limited roster space. With just 156 spots available across all teams and many already occupied by veterans and established players, rookies are finding it increasingly difficult to secure a place. Even though first-round picks are generally safe, most players selected in the WNBA Draft, especially in the later rounds, will not make the cut.

Salary Cap and Roster Limitations

While the WNBA’s salary cap isn’t the main factor influencing roster cuts, financial constraints do play a role. The minimum salary for a rookie is $66,079, which can increase if players sign second contracts or secure bigger contracts through performance or experience. Rookie contracts are non-guaranteed, which gives teams flexibility, but roster spots remain the biggest challenge.

What’s Next for Waived Players?

With the WNBA lacking a developmental league like the NBA’s G League, players waived from rosters typically seek opportunities overseas. Many head to leagues in China, Russia, Turkey, and other countries, where they often earn more than they would in the WNBA. However, for players not in high demand, salaries are typically in the low six-figure range.

Other Notable Rookies Waived:

• Alyssa Ustby: Former UNC guard/forward, waived by the Los Angeles Sparks on May 2.

• Madison Conner: Former TCU guard, waived by the Seattle Storm on May 6 (29th overall pick).

• Jordan Hobbs: Former Michigan guard, waived by the Seattle Storm on May 6 (34th overall pick).

• Aaronette Vonleh: Former Baylor center, waived by the Dallas Wings on May 6 (31st overall pick).

• Dalayah Daniels: Former Washington forward, waived by the Minnesota Lynx on May 7 (24th overall pick).

• Diamond Johnson: Former Norfolk State guard, waived by the Minnesota Lynx on May 7.

• Yvonne Ejim: Former Gonzaga forward, waived by the Indiana Fever on May 7 (33rd overall pick).

Is the College-to-WNBA Pipeline Ready for Prime Time?

As the WNBA continues to grow, the battle for roster spots highlights the challenges rookies face transitioning from the NCAA to the professional level. While there’s more attention on the college-to-pro pipeline, the reality is that many of these talented players must fight for limited positions on already stacked teams. With roster spots at a premium and the absence of a true minor league system, the road from college to pro remains a steep climb for many young athletes.

Stay tuned for more updates on roster cuts, player moves, and how the WNBA evolves as a league ahead of the 2025 season.