ESPN has released two mock drafts for the WNBA, both featuring Rickea Jackson, the standout from the Lady Vols, at either the third or fourth position. ESPN’s Michael Voepel, who made these predictions, highlighted Jackson’s potential as an elite scorer and defensive asset for whichever team selects her.
As expected, Caitlin Clark is predicted to be the top overall pick, likely joining the Indiana Fever, while Stanford’s Cameron Brink is anticipated to be chosen second, potentially heading to the Los Angeles Sparks in both mock drafts. Voepel’s decision to switch the third and fourth picks between Jackson and South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso was motivated by Cardoso’s imposing size, elevating her to a lottery pick status due to her scoring efficiency and rebounding prowess.
However, Voepel recognizes Jackson’s potential to significantly impact any team, potentially leading them to a championship or turning around their fortunes. He believes she possesses the skills to excel in the WNBA, particularly her consistent and efficient three-point shooting combined with a strong defensive presence in the paint.
Voepel’s analysis suggests that while Jackson is initially projected at No. 3, there’s a possibility she could rise to the second spot. If she were to land at third, she could play a vital role in the Chicago Sky’s rebuilding phase under new coach Teresa Weatherspoon, helping reestablish the team’s competitiveness.
Jackson’s potential to thrive in the WNBA is underscored by her versatility as a scorer and defender. As a player who spent her last two collegiate seasons as Tennessee’s top performer, she is expected to further develop her scoring abilities at the professional level. Her attributes as a long, quick, and strong wing player capable of guarding multiple positions make her highly valuable in the league.
In Voepel’s second mock draft, Jackson remains highly regarded despite being placed below Cardoso. Voepel emphasizes Jackson’s scoring prowess, noting her career-high 22 three-pointers made in a season, signaling ongoing progress as she transitions to the WNBA. Additionally, he anticipates her to excel as a top-notch defensive asset under the coaching of Curt Miller for the Los Angeles Sparks.
Despite the positional differences between Jackson, a forward, and Cardoso, a center, Jackson’s ability to contribute across the court is evident. Her impressive senior season averages, including solid shooting percentages and a willingness to shoot from beyond the arc, demonstrate her scoring prowess. Conversely, Cardoso’s defensive focus and shot chart resembling Purdue’s Zach Edey indicate her strengths as a defensive-oriented center.
