The 2025 WNBA Draft didn’t just deliver the stars—it delivered the stories. While Paige Bueckers stole headlines as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings and French standout Dominique Malonga went second to the Seattle Storm, the Chicago Sky quietly made a move that’s now turning heads—with ripple effects already forming around Angel Reese.
At No. 16 overall, the Sky selected Notre Dame forward Maddy Westbeld, a 6-foot-3 baller out of Kettering, Ohio, who just wrapped up her fifth season with the Fighting Irish. After sitting out the first 13 games due to foot surgery, she made a comeback to average 7.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game—modest numbers on the surface, but her presence, experience, and basketball IQ are well respected around the league.
Then came the moment that lit up the timeline.
Shortly after getting drafted, Westbeld made a bold statement about her new teammate, Angel Reese, and the competition she’s walking into in the WNBA.
“I’m excited to be able to compete with the best.”
“I’m excited to be able to compete with the best.”
Fairmont alum Maddy Westbeld (@maddy_westbeld) says she’s excited to compete against Angel Reese and prove herself in the #WNBA.
The highly decorated Notre Dame forward was drafted No. 16 by the Chicago Sky. pic.twitter.com/KDUq6PTgNA
— Kayler Smith – WDTN (@KaylerSmithTV) April 15, 2025
Westbeld specifically said she’s ready to compete against Angel Reese. That’s not your typical “blessed to be here” rookie soundbite. That’s a challenge.
(Stay tuned…story is developing)
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