Norfolk State guard Diamond Johnson, one of the most decorated players in HBCU women’s basketball, was not selected during the 2025 WNBA Draft.
The omission comes despite widespread projections and strong performances that had many expecting to hear her name called.
Johnson, a Philadelphia native, capped her collegiate career with a stellar run at Norfolk State after transferring from NC State in 2023. This past season, she averaged 19.2 points and 4.3 assists and led the MEAC with 3.6 steals per game, earning her the MEAC Player of the Year award and a spot on the All-Defensive Team.
Johnson also led the Spartans to an undefeated conference season and notable non-conference victories, cementing her status as one of the most accomplished players in Division I basketball.
Her draft stock appeared to be on the rise after she was named MVP of the Libby’s Women’s College Basketball All-Star Game, where she scored 21 points—including a game-winning shot—and showcased her leadership and scoring prowess in front of WNBA scouts.
Analysts, including ESPN writer Michael Voepel, had predicted Johnson would be selected in the third round.
Yet, as the draft unfolded, Johnson’s name was never called.
The first round was dominated by high-profile prospects such as UConn’s Paige Bueckers, who went No. 1 overall to the Dallas Wings, and a trio of European standouts. Even as the second and third rounds progressed, Johnson remained on the board, with teams opting for other guards and international players.
Johnson, Indiana guard Sydney Parrish and Oregon guard Deja Kelly were the only players ranked in the Top 10 of the famed 2020 espnW HoopGurlz recruiting rankings not to be drafted on Monday.
Johnson’s draft night snub was noticed on social media, with many X users expressing disappointment in the outcome.
Respectfully there’s no way that Diamond Johnson isn’t on any @wnba draft boards. If it’s only because she chose to play for an HBCU after killing it on court at BIG10 & ACC schools, it’s really sad. Stats don’t lie & the work will show. Keep watching!
— Trinese Fox (@_CoachFox) April 15, 2025
Hope Diamond Johnson gets a camp invite.. cause she will go there and do what she’s done every where else.. It’s laughable how they looked past her.
— Liv (@livforhoops) April 15, 2025
I’m sorry but there’s no way this Draft went 3 rounds and Diamond Johnson’s name wasn’t called. Insanity
— Nick Andre (@NickAndreATR) April 15, 2025
Despite the disappointment, Johnson’s collegiate legacy remains intact. She was the only active Division I player with at least 2,000 points, 600 rebounds, 390 assists, and 300 steals.
But that was not enough to get her drafted. And that is a problem.
