Texas A&M guard Aicha Coulibaly was selected by the Chicago Sky in the second round of the 2025 WNBA Draft.

In an exciting moment for both Aicha Coulibaly and Texas A&M University, the talented guard was selected by the Chicago Sky in the second round of the 2025 WNBA Draft. The 2025 draft, which saw some significant shifts and exciting new talent entering the league, marked an important moment in Coulibaly’s basketball career as she took a step closer to fulfilling her professional dreams.

Coulibaly’s journey to the WNBA is a testament to her resilience, determination, and growth as a player. After transferring from Auburn University to Texas A&M in 2023, Coulibaly’s performance on the court has only gotten stronger. Her selection by the Chicago Sky solidifies her place as one of the brightest emerging stars in women’s basketball, with the promise of a successful future ahead.

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

Born and raised in Bamako, Mali, Aicha Coulibaly developed a passion for basketball at a young age. Growing up in a country where the sport is not as prominent as in the United States, Coulibaly faced unique challenges in trying to hone her skills. Nonetheless, her dedication to the game and her natural athleticism made her a standout player early on.

Her family was supportive of her athletic pursuits, recognizing her potential. Over the years, Coulibaly’s love for basketball grew, and she honed her skills while playing for local teams. Eventually, her hard work caught the attention of scouts, and she was offered the opportunity to move to the United States to pursue her basketball dreams further.

Coulibaly joined the prestigious Montverde Academy in Florida, where she competed at a high level and gained national recognition. It was here that she truly began to flourish as a player, refining her skills and learning the intricacies of the game in a way that few players her age ever get to experience. Her time at Montverde paved the way for a college career that would eventually land her in the WNBA.

College Career: Auburn University and Texas A&M

After high school, Coulibaly chose to attend Auburn University, where she joined the Auburn Tigers women’s basketball program. During her freshman year, Coulibaly showed flashes of the talent that would later make her one of the top prospects in the 2025 WNBA Draft. As a freshman, she demonstrated an ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. Her quickness, ball-handling skills, and ability to drive to the basket made her a dangerous threat on the court.

Despite her potential, Coulibaly made the decision to transfer to Texas A&M University in 2023. The decision was partly motivated by the opportunity to play under head coach Joni Taylor, who is known for her focus on player development and her ability to get the best out of her athletes. Taylor’s reputation as a coach who nurtures her players’ talents was a huge draw for Coulibaly, and it proved to be a wise decision.

At Texas A&M, Coulibaly immediately made an impact. The Aggies were excited to bring in a player with her skill set, and Coulibaly wasted no time showing what she could do. Her defensive tenacity, playmaking ability, and versatility on offense helped elevate the team to new heights. She averaged 12.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game during the 2024-25 season, earning All-SEC honors in both of her seasons at Texas A&M.

Coulibaly’s style of play was a perfect fit for the Aggies’ system, and her presence on the court made a significant difference. Her ability to guard multiple positions and score in various ways was something that had not gone unnoticed by WNBA scouts. Her strong work ethic, combined with her innate basketball IQ, made her a standout player in one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.

The 2025 WNBA Draft

By the time the 2025 WNBA Draft rolled around, Aicha Coulibaly was one of the most talked-about prospects. Her combination of athleticism, skill, and defensive prowess made her a highly desirable pick for many teams. It was clear that she had the potential to make an immediate impact in the league.

As the draft approached, Coulibaly’s name was frequently mentioned in mock drafts and by analysts as one of the top prospects in the second round. While some believed she could go in the first round, others saw her as a player who would thrive as a second-round pick. Ultimately, it was the Chicago Sky who saw her potential and selected her with the 22nd overall pick in the second round.

For Coulibaly, being drafted by the Chicago Sky was a dream come true. The Sky, a team known for their dynamic and high-powered offense, was a great fit for her style of play. The team had a strong track record of developing young talent, and Coulibaly’s selection showed their belief in her potential to become a key contributor for the franchise.

The Chicago Sky have had significant success in recent years, including their 2021 WNBA Championship victory. The team has a talented roster, and the addition of a player like Coulibaly could be just what the team needs to bolster their chances for future titles. With her ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, Coulibaly’s versatility gives the Sky another weapon in their arsenal.

Playing Style and Strengths

Aicha Coulibaly is known for her all-around game. Standing at 6 feet tall, she has the size and athleticism to guard multiple positions, making her a valuable asset on defense. Her agility and quickness allow her to keep up with opposing guards and forwards, and her ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers makes her a defensive threat.

Offensively, Coulibaly is a dynamic scorer. She has the ability to attack the basket with both strength and finesse, using her quick first step and agility to get past defenders. Her mid-range shooting and growing three-point range make her a constant threat on the offensive end. She is also an excellent passer, able to find her teammates in transition or in half-court sets.

Perhaps one of Coulibaly’s most notable strengths is her work ethic. She has consistently improved her game throughout her career, and her time at Texas A&M showed how much dedication she has to her craft. Her mental toughness and ability to handle pressure are also key attributes that set her apart from other players in the draft.

Challenges and Setbacks

Despite her success, Coulibaly’s journey has not been without challenges. One of the biggest setbacks she faced came in January 2025, when she suffered a season-ending knee injury. The injury was a significant blow to her, as she had been enjoying a strong season with Texas A&M. However, her recovery and ability to stay focused on her goals demonstrated her resilience and commitment to her career.

While the injury was unfortunate, it did not diminish Coulibaly’s stock in the WNBA Draft. Scouts and coaches alike were still impressed with her potential, and many felt that she had the talent and drive to overcome the injury and succeed at the next level. Her determination to bounce back from adversity will undoubtedly serve her well as she embarks on her professional career.

Looking Ahead: The Chicago Sky

Now that Coulibaly has been drafted by the Chicago Sky, she enters a new chapter in her career. The Sky have a strong roster that includes established stars like Kahleah Copper and Elizabeth Williams, and Coulibaly will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best players in the league.

Coulibaly’s arrival in Chicago is part of the Sky’s broader strategy to build a team capable of competing for championships in the coming years. With her unique skill set, she could quickly become an important part of their rotation, providing defensive stability and offensive spark off the bench or as a starter.

While her immediate impact on the Sky will depend on how she recovers from her knee injury and adapts to the professional level, there is little doubt that Coulibaly has the potential to be a star in the WNBA. With her work ethic, basketball IQ, and versatility, she is well-positioned to succeed in the league.