Trojans Star and UConn Champion Dazzle on WNBA Draft Red Carpet

NEW YORK CITY — College basketball stars Aaliyah Iriafen and Paige Bueckers made striking appearances on the red carpet ahead of the 2025 WNBA Draft at The Shed on April 14.

Iriafen of the USC Trojans is a favorite to be the No. 3 overall pick. She showcased her style in a sheer bronze gown, complemented by a sparkly bodice and off-the-shoulder sleeves. The dress featured a high slit and a flowing sheer material adorned with jeweled designs, allowing her metallic gold strappy sandals to stand out.

“The sheer design captures the essence of glamour and sophistication,” Iriafen said of her gown. “I wanted to express my love for fashion, even on a night as important as this.”

Her accessories included orange earrings, a bracelet, and a mini Coach Tabby bag in metallic gold. Iriafen wore her hair in soft waves and opted for a radiant makeup look featuring orange, gold, and brown hues.

Earlier that day, Iriafen appeared more casually while attending the Empire State Building with fellow athletes, including Serena Sundell and Paige Bueckers. She wore jean shorts, Timberland boots, and a gray WNBA Essential crewneck sweatshirt.

Bueckers, who recently led the University of Connecticut to the 2025 NCAA national championship, is projected to be the first overall pick. She arrived in an eye-catching all-black outfit, featuring a relaxed shimmering three-piece suit that included flared trousers, a form-fitting vest, and a relaxed blazer.

“I wanted something that felt sophisticated yet comfortable,” Bueckers said. “I think my style has really evolved, and I hope that shows tonight.”

Her look was accessorized with a large coin purse-style handbag, possibly from a sponsor of the event. Bueckers opted for chunky platform loafers instead of high heels, balancing a business-inspired aesthetic with loose beach waves and a dark, smokey eye makeup.

Videos shared on the WNBA’s social media showed fans engaging with Bueckers’ transformed style. One fan commented, “Paige looks like an adult here; finally leaning into a more mature look.”

Inside the venue, Bueckers changed into a more polished suit embellished along the lapels and trousers for the evening’s festivities. The 2025 WNBA Draft, where both athletes will learn their professional futures, kicks off Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET, with a live broadcast on ESPN.