With the 2025 WNBA Draft in the books, anticipation is already building for what’s shaping up to be an electrifying season. Among the fresh faces entering the league, one rookie is making headlines before even stepping onto a WNBA court — and she’s not shying away from the spotlight.
Saniya Rivers, recently chosen as the 8th overall pick by the Connecticut Sun, is already setting the tone with a bold declaration: she’s ready to take on one of the league’s brightest stars — Indiana Fever phenom Caitlin Clark.
In a statement shared by Brendan Glasheen, the voice of Unrivaled Basketball, Rivers sent a clear message:
She’s coming to lock down Caitlin Clark.
The rookie’s confidence isn’t without backing. Last season at NC State, Rivers averaged an impressive 11.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game — numbers that highlight her all-around dominance on both ends of the floor.
This isn’t the first time these two rising stars have clashed. On December 1, 2022, in a high-stakes matchup between NC State and Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes, Clark exploded for 45 points, but it wasn’t enough. NC State stunned the Hawkeyes with a 94-81 victory, led by Rivers and Diamond Johnson, who both contributed 22 points apiece.
Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Rivers rose to prominence at Ashley High School, where she was named a five-star recruit and honored as the 2021 Gatorade National Player of the Year. She began her college career at South Carolina before transferring to NC State, where she blossomed into a two-way powerhouse.
Her time with the Wolfpack earned her accolades like First-Team All-ACC and ACC All-Defensive Team recognition — thanks to her versatility, lockdown defense, and fast-paced offensive play. It’s those very traits that made her a top-10 pick and a player to watch heading into the new season.
With Rivers now in the pro ranks and ready to make a statement, her showdown with Caitlin Clark promises to be one of the must-watch battles of the 2025 WNBA season.
