Eric Boggs
The Dallas Wings picked Jacy Sheldon, a former standout from Ohio State’s women’s basketball team, as the fifth overall choice in the 2024 WNBA draft on Monday. This marks a milestone as Sheldon becomes the first Buckeye selected in the first round of the draft since 2018 when Kelsey Mitchell was chosen by the Indiana Fever. Sheldon also holds the distinction of being Ohio State’s fifth top-five WNBA draft pick ever and the first Buckeye to join the Dallas Wings.
“It’s hard to believe because when I was a little kid, I watched these amazing women play, and now I have the chance to play alongside them and compete,” Sheldon said after her selection. She was one of two Buckeyes picked in this year’s draft, alongside Celeste Taylor, who was chosen by the Indiana Fever in the second round.
Sheldon’s impressive five-year career at Ohio State, where she earned All-Big Ten honors twice, propelled her into WNBA draft contention. She averaged 15.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, leading Ohio State to two Big Ten regular-season championships. In her final year, she earned second-team AP All-American honors.
“We needed strong perimeter players who can shoot threes and defend well. Jacy Sheldon was the perfect fit for us,” said Wings president Greg Bibb. “We’ve had our eye on her for a while and feel lucky to have her at the fifth pick.”
Sheldon, who could have entered the draft a year earlier, chose to return to Ohio State for one more season due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s eligibility extension. She expressed deep gratitude for her time at Ohio State, saying, “I’ll always cherish my time here. Ohio State means the world to me, and I hope I’ve made a positive impact on the university too.”
Ranked 42nd overall in her recruiting class, Sheldon’s transformation into a top WNBA prospect is a testament to her dedication, according to Ohio State coach Kevin McGuff. “She exceeded expectations every year because of her work ethic and competitive spirit,” McGuff said.
Looking ahead, Sheldon is ready for the challenge of professional basketball. “The WNBA is tough to crack, but I’m staying confident and open to learning. I’m eager to meet my new teammates and grow as a player,” she said.
Celeste Taylor, the second Buckeye selected this year, joined Sheldon in the draft, going to the Fever in the second round. Taylor, known for her defensive prowess, aims to make a lasting impact in the league.
