On March 22, 2025, the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast turned its attention toward the WNBA Draft prospects as hosts Emily Adler, Hunter Cruse, and Lincoln Shafer analyzed three standout guards expected to make waves in the draft: Georgia Amoore from Kentucky, Aziaha James from NC State, and JJ Quinerly from West Virginia University. Their insights follow exciting performances that underscore the players' potential to become valuable assets in the professional league.
Georgia Amoore, a fifth-year player who previously starred at Virginia Tech, has made headlines this season. After transferring to Kentucky, she has averaged an impressive 19.6 points and 6.9 assists per game, showcasing significant growth in her skill set. "We know what she can do. We know what she isn’t going to do. We know what she can’t do,” Adler remarked. “But I think what’s at least been encouraging is the ways that we expected her to develop — especially that in-between game, the ability to slowly get to the rim more and especially have those midrange shots start falling.” This analysis speaks volumes about Amoore's evolution as a player and her readiness to take on professional challenges.
Next up is Aziaha James, who played a pivotal role in leading the Wolfpack to the Final Four last year. Her ability to score has earned her the title of a "bucket-getter" within college basketball circles, but the hosts expressed concern about how her style will translate to the WNBA. Cruse noted, "She just does enough other stuff to get above the Mendoza line of bucket-getting. She’s elite off the bounce. She can get to her spots from three, from two.” However, questions remain about her off-the-ball capabilities, suggesting that adjustments may be necessary as she moves to a higher level.
Then there’s JJ Quinerly, a player known for her explosive gameplay. Averaging an impressive 20.6 points, three rebounds, three assists, and three steals per game, her scoring prowess is undeniable. Although she has struggled with a 32% shooting percentage from beyond the arc this season, Shafer pointed out that Quinerly has changed her shot mechanics, which should make her even more of a threat at the next level. "JJ Quinerly has had this consistent production, and her handle is incredible. She’s one of the best athletes in this class. She’s so quick; her first step is incredible,” he stated. The potential for growth in her game certainly makes her an intriguing prospect.
On the same day, in related news, the West Virginia University women’s basketball team showcased their talent by defeating Columbia with a commanding score of 78-59 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, held at Carmichael Arena in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Head coach Mark Kellogg, along with JJ Quinerly and fellow guard Jordan Harrison, held a media conference post-game to celebrate their strong performance and discuss the importance of teamwork and strategy in their victory.
Following the game, Kellogg highlighted Quinerly’s contribution, which bolsters her profile as a future WNBA player. “She was phenomenal tonight, leading the charge on offense and making plays when it mattered most,” Kellogg remarked. Such affirmations from coaches reflect the confidence that builds around players demonstrating skill and composure in crucial moments.
The insights gained from the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast, combined with the excitement from the NCAA Tournament games, highlight the rising profiles of these young athletes as they approach the next steps in their basketball careers. Both the podcast and the ongoing tournament provide platforms for showcasing talent, sparking discussions on how these prospects will fare in the WNBA.
It is particularly interesting to see how their college careers will translate to the professional court. As analysts weigh in on their performances, teams interested in acquiring these players must consider not just their statistical achievements, but also their potential for adaptation and growth.
Listeners of the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast are encouraged to continue following the development of these athletes as the WNBA Draft approaches. The show aims to keep fans informed about the latest news, analysis, and player assessments, reinforcing how critical these discussions are for the future of women’s basketball.
As the tournament progresses and the draft approaches, anticipation will build around how these talented guards will adapt to the rigors of the WNBA. The journey for Amoore, James, and Quinerly is only just beginning, and their ability to leverage early college success into a prominent professional career remains to be seen.
