Through non-conference play, Makayla Timpson was a monster for the Florida State Seminoles. She kicked off the season with a career-high 22 rebounds against North Florida followed by a career-high 38 points against Samford a week later. Timpson’s name has continued to be in conversations as one of the best centers in college basketball. Based on her performances, it’s deserving as her game has gone to another level.
The Seminoles have gotten off to a hot start of the season as they sit at 11-2 (1-0) before their Christmas Break. They’re one of the top-scoring teams in the NCAA as their fast pace prevents opposing teams from slowing them down. Timpson plays a huge role in the team’s success. She not only is a defensive force but has evolved into a tremendous scorer on the other end.
Timpson’s senior year has gotten off on a positive note, which means several things. One thing is she’s continuing to stamp her name as one of the greatest to ever play in a Seminoles uniform. Another thing is that she’s increasing her Draft stock, which gives her a chance to be selected in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
The 2025 WNBA Draft is a talented one, to say the least. The consensus number one pick is Paige Bueckers at UConn as she is projected to go to the Dallas Wings. However, there are other highly talented players like Kiki Iriafen, Te-Hina Paopao, and others who are projected to deliver at the next level. There are many questions for Timpson as the Draft is underway in April. Is she a first-rounder? Could a team take a risk and draft the 6’2 center? So far, Timpson’s name has been featured on a few Mock Drafts as insiders try to predict the right organization for her.
According to Aneela Khan of Women’s Basketball News and Opinions, Timpson is projected to be selected 12th overall by the Phoenix Mercury. It’s not a lottery pick, to say the least, but she has a chance to become a first-round pick. The Mercury have a history of success as they have three championship banners and have always remained in title contention. Winning is a standard in Phoenix and it could be a great environment for Timpson to be a part of.
The Mercury are coming off a 19-21 regular season record. Although they were able to advance to the playoffs, they were swept by the Minnesota Lynx in the first round. The beauty of Phoenix is that they give new and young players opportunities to shine. Players like Natasha Mack and Monique Billings both played crucial roles last season as they were looking for a permanent roster spot.
Timpson may be labeled “small” at the power forward/center position. However, she has the heart and skillset to compete at the highest level. Heading to Phoenix would be great for Timpson as she could learn from a great post-player like Brittney Griner while learning what it takes to win from former champions Diana Taurasi, Kahleah Copper, Natasha Cloud, and several others.
As Timpson’s senior year progresses, she’ll continue to increase her Draft stock. That also means that she could potentially climb the charts as a potential top 10 pick. As I mentioned earlier, the 2025 Draft is very talented with a lot of lottery picks and potential franchise players. Even if Timpson doesn’t move up in the Draft, Phoenix could be a great destination to begin her professional career.