Rising Stars in the WNBA Spotlight
The WNBA's latest crop of rookies is making waves, and two names stand out among fantasy basketball enthusiasts this week: Saniya Rivers of the Connecticut Sun and Aziaha James of the Dallas Wings. Both players, fresh from their historic draft selections out of NC State, have quickly adapted to the professional level, earning attention as top pickups for fantasy rosters. Their performances signal a bright future in the league and offer a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of their respective teams.
Saniya Rivers, who made history as NC State's highest-ever selection in the 2025 WNBA Draft, has shown remarkable poise with the Sun. Her emergence as a key player is highlighted by her growing confidence on both ends of the court, particularly in defensive matchups. Meanwhile, Aziaha James has secured a prominent starting role with the Wings, capitalizing on opportunities created by injuries and absences among the team's usual starters.
Impact on Fantasy Basketball Rosters
For fantasy basketball managers, Rivers and James represent valuable additions. Rivers' ability to lock in defensively while steadily improving her offensive game makes her a versatile asset for the Sun. Posts on X have noted her potential to become a 'real problem' for opponents once she fully settles into her role, reflecting a growing buzz around her contributions.
James, on the other hand, has stepped up significantly for the Wings, especially in recent games. With key players like Arike Ogunbowale and Dijonai Carrington sidelined, she has averaged 19 points per game over her last three outings, including a standout performance against the Phoenix Mercury on July 3. Social media sentiment on X underscores her potential to exceed 13.5 points per game consistently, making her a hot commodity in fantasy circles.
The Wings' struggles this season have opened doors for rookies like James to shine. Her ability to exploit defensive mismatches—often drawing the third-best perimeter defender as noted by Wings coach Chris Koclanes—has allowed her to rack up points and gain confidence. This trend positions her as a must-watch player for fantasy owners looking to bolster their lineups.
Future Outlook for Rivers and James
Looking ahead, both Rivers and James are poised to play pivotal roles for their teams as the WNBA season progresses. Rivers' trajectory with the Sun suggests she could become a cornerstone of their defensive schemes while continuing to develop offensively. Her journey from NC State to the professional stage has been marked by resilience and adaptability, traits that will serve her well in the competitive landscape of the league.
For James, the opportunity to start alongside talents like Paige Bueckers offers a unique platform to showcase her skills. Her recent scoring outbursts and ability to perform under pressure against teams like the Mercury indicate she is ready to take on bigger challenges. As the Wings navigate a tough season, her contributions could be a silver lining for fans and fantasy managers alike.