The WNBA has a web series called Year 1 that follows around a few rookies throughout their first pro season, and this summer that series will feature both Saniya Rivers and Aziaha James.
Of the two, Rivers has had the easier transition thus far, starting seven of 10 games for the Connecticut Sun while averaging 25.6 minutes per game. Not surprisingly, her versatility and abilities at the defensive end have earned her that court time while her offense continues to progress.
Saniya straight to the basket #BringTheHeat | #CTSun pic.twitter.com/rvCXCaIe8M
— Connecticut Sun (@ConnecticutSun) June 19, 2025
Rivers is averaging 7.1 points, 3.0 assists, 2.6 boards, and 1.3 steals. She’s shooting 45.5% inside the arc, which is right around what she shot in her final year at NC State. Not too shabby.
James has appeared in nine games for the Dallas Wings, making one start, and averages about 10 minutes a night. She’s off to a chilly start shooting—just 25% from the floor—but no doubt playing limited minutes and primarily coming off the bench are big adjustments for her. Her playing time has increased in Dallas’ last two games, and I’m sure she’ll warm up if that extra run continues.