What Are the WNBA Education Requirements?
To play in the WNBA, generally speaking, a woman must have graduated from an accredited 4-year college or university. However, if she has played at least two seasons professionally in a different league, this education requirement may be waived. These requirements are enforced regardless of a player’s nationality.
Fundamentally, these requirements are in place so that students do not leave high school early to pursue a professional basketball career. A player must also be 22 years of age to play in the WNBA, and must have also completed her 4-year collegiate basketball eligibility.
Athletic requirements for the WNBA differ from athlete to athlete, and there is no formal skill set. Typically, scouts are looking for players who have poise under pressure, as well as work ethic and execution during sets and plays. If a player plays for a little-known high school team and is worried about lack of exposure to scouts, she can send the WNBA a video of herself playing in a competitive game, and a resume that outlines her skills. The WNBA scouts look most at Division I, II, III and NAIA schools. A player can also provide game footage and a resume if she would like a special invite to the WNBA draft camp, where she will also be evaluated for professional play.
