The 2018 WNBA draft class is one of the deepest classes in history. With the sixth overall pick this year and a loaded draft class, the Wings are looking to select a player that can contribute right away. President and CEO Greg Bibb and Head Coach Fred Williams believe they can get a high-quality player in this year’s draft that can take them to another level.
With 30 years of coaching experience for Williams and nearly 15 years of WNBA experience for Bibb, the duo has seen the rise in talent. But with the increased talent comes added responsibilities.
“The divide used to be greater among the best players, with a clear number one pick in each draft class,” said President and CEO Greg Bibb. “Now there are multiple players that could be the top pick. You must decipher the differences between those prospects. Players are getting more and more talented, which requires player personnel to go more in-depth than ever before.”
The Wings are searching for specific qualities when evaluating these prospects. The first thing is their work ethic, the second is their ability to be a leader and the third is whether they are pro ready. In addition to these on-court qualities, they must be good people off the court and people who understand the value of being engaged in the community and being positive female role models to the youth basketball players and others that come to the games.
“We want these players to set the tone early with pre-practice things,” said Head Coach Fred Williams. “The things you would do in the gym when coach isn’t around. You look for players that have been in championship atmospheres or have played for some type of championship. They know the feeling and the work ethic it takes.”
With three picks in this year’s draft, including sixth overall, the Wings are looking to add even more talent to a roster loaded with young talent such as 2017 Rookie of the Year, Allisha Gray, as well as established veteran Skylar Diggins-Smith and new addition Liz Cambage.
Following this Thursday’s draft, the Wings set their sights towards the 2018 season, when they open for training camp April 29, and begin their run to a 2018 WNBA title.