Iowa State forward/center Stephanie Soares will enter the 2023 WNBA Draft after the NCAA denied her waiver for an additional year of eligibility, the program announced Wednesday. Here’s what you need to know:
- Soares was seeking an additional year after playing in 13 contests for Iowa State before tearing the ACL in her left knee on Jan. 8.
- She had injured the same knee while playing at The Master’s University in California. Soares won NAIA Player of the Year twice during her four years with the Mustangs.
- The 2023 WNBA Draft will be held on April 10 in New York.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
What does Soares’ absence mean for ISU?
The fact that Soares won’t be returning to Ames is a blow for the Cyclones. While key guards Emily Ryan and Lexi Donarski will both be back on campus, Soares was projected to be the team’s focal point in the frontcourt next year.
Iowa State will need to find a prolific rebounder — or develop one — as Ashley Joens averaged 9.7 rebounds per game this season and is turning pro, and Soares added 9.9 rebounds per game in her limited action. No other Cyclone averaged more than 5.5 rebounds per game. — Pickman
How does she fit in the upcoming draft?
Soares is a bit of a wild card in the upcoming draft. She is athletic and capable of…
