2. New York Liberty selected Asia Durr, 5’10 guard, Louisville
In Durr, the Liberty have that worthy perimeter playmaker to pair with Tina Charles, allowing Kia Nurse to play a three-and-D role and Brittany Boyd to distribute on one end and create turnovers at the other end. The presence of Nurse and Durr also guards against any injuries to Boyd, an unfortunately common occurence early in her career.
The level of player Durr is, how relentless she is at both ends, will fit nicely with what Katie Smith is looking to do. In particular, Durr excels in transition, another trait she shares with Nurse, making a pairing capable of both getting to the rim in those instances or pulling up and hitting threes.
A playmaker surrounded by shooters like Rebecca Allen and Amanda Zahui B. will also create more open threes for both of them. The Katie Smith vision for the Liberty just got a little clearer.
Incidentally, Han Xu is simply huge, and a real steal at 14 if she can play right away. Even Megan Huff in the third round has a chance to compete for a roster spot. The Liberty did well for themselves.