It's not an exaggeration to say that size and skill are two crucial components that make up every NBA team — and it's looking like both are becoming just as important in the WNBA.
WNBA teams are increasingly looking for taller players who can shoot 3s, as well as taller guards who have the playset of a small athlete in terms of quickness, ball handling, and playmaking. As a result, shorter athletes (such as Georgia Amoore) haven't been as consistently ranked in mock drafts ahead of this year's WNBA Draft, and many are curious to see how much height is prioritized when teams reveal this year's picks.
Harder, better, faster, stronger
When it comes to elite-level basketball, it makes sense that size is a crucial component to success. A great coach can work with almost anything, but she can't make you magically grow 5 inches. Unfortunately, she might be able to draft a player who has those 5 inches and the same skills you do.
This doesn't mean that smaller players can't thrive in the WNBA, but it does mean they might have more to prove as the league continues to trend taller and stronger. Of the 140+ players in the WNBA, only 23 are 5'9" or shorter — meaning the vast majority of athletes are significantly taller.
As the women's game becomes increasingly positionless, with multiple players capable of playing multiple spots, teams will turn to taller players who have defensive prowess. This will make it easier for shorter guards to get sniped and barreled over, which is not a good look for any team (or anyone).
Shooting the 3 is a major asset for a WNBA player
There's a second asset that WNBA teams are increasingly prioritizing: the ability to make 3-point shots consistently. The Golden State Valkyries have been open about their emphasis on shooters, especially those who can hit a 3, but they aren't the only team heading into the draft with this top of mind,
With the exception of the Connecticut Sun, the teams who didn't make the playoffs last year are also toward the bottom of the list in terms of 3-point shooting — the Dream, Sky, Wings, Sparks, and Storm all failed to average more than 7.2 3-pointers made (the Sky clocked a dismal average of 4.8). That means two things: a lot of teams have a lot of work to do, and rookies who are drafted this year need to bring their 3-point game with them... especially if they aren't 5'11".