Geno Auriemma against WNBA draft age change: 'Women's basketball would suffer'
UConn coach Geno Auriemma says a WNBA rule change allowing players to join sooner would be 'really bad' for the league.
PHOENIX – UConn women's basketball coach Geno Auriemma would not be a fan of any potential WNBA rule change that would allow players to join the league sooner. NBA players must be at least 19 years old during the calendar year of the draft. However, the WNBA requires any player drafted to be at least 22 years old in the year the WNBA draft takes place.
The player must also have no remaining college eligibility or renounce any remaining eligibility. International players must be at least 20 years old on the year the draft takes place. Auriemma says changing the WNBA's rule would not be good for the league or college basketball.
"I think it would be a really bad rule. I'm not saying they need to stay four years. I've coached players, (who) after their freshman year, they would be able to handle it," Auriemma told the media Thursday ahead of the Final Four.
More: Geno Auriemma blasts NCAA over 'frustrating' Sweet 16, Elite Eight setup "I do think women's basketball would suffer in that you wouldn't get the recognition around the country that Azzi Fudd has if you're in college one year, okay? If Sarah (Strong) would have left after last year, you wouldn't have that continued (chance to watch) her grow, and she would go to the WNBA. Great for her.