Ajša Sivka, the 20-year-old, 6-foot-4 guard, has made a surprising decision to postpone her professional career once again, this time to play college basketball at the University of Kentucky. This move comes after she was drafted 10th overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2025 WNBA Draft, only to sit out the season. Sivka's journey from Slovenia to the WNBA and now to Kentucky is a fascinating one, and it raises important questions about the development of international players in the league.
A Star on the Rise
Sivka's basketball journey began in Slovenia, where she quickly established herself as a talent. At just 18 years old, she was named the MVP of the 2023 FIBA Women's U18 European Championships, leading Slovenia to the gold medal. Her performance caught the eye of the international basketball community, and she soon found herself playing in top leagues across Europe, including Italy, France, and Spain.
In Spain, Sivka played for Joventut Badalona in the Liga Femenina Endesa, the country's top women's professional league. While her performance was solid, with an average of 8.4 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, it was not her most impressive showing. Her true potential, however, was on full display in Slovenia, where she showcased her playmaking abilities and shooting prowess.
A Fit for Kentucky
The University of Kentucky, under the guidance of coach Kenny Brooks, is a perfect fit for Sivka. The Wildcats are looking to rebuild after a disappointing offseason, losing several key players and their lead playmaker. Sivka's size, skill, and experience make her an ideal addition to the team. Her ability to shoot from the wing position and playmake for a forward will be a welcome addition to the Wildcats' roster.
Brooks, known for his recruiting prowess, has already brought in a strong class of freshmen, including Maddyn Greenway, Savvy Swords, and Emily McDonald, all of whom are McDonald's All-Americans. Sivka's addition to the portal, along with Diana Collins and Me'Arah O'Neal, further strengthens the team. Her ability to space the floor and her playmaking skills will be a boost to the Wildcats' offense.
The Sky's Chaotic Offseason
The Chicago Sky, on the other hand, have had a chaotic offseason. They drafted Sivka with the expectation that she might be a 'draft-and-stash' player, but she ended up sitting out the 2025 season. Now, with Sivka playing for Kentucky, the Sky's plans for her are unclear. The team will retain her draft rights, but it is uncertain when or if she will join the league.
The Sky's offseason has been marked by a series of surprising moves, including the waiver of Hailey Van Lith, who was drafted just one pick after Sivka. The team's general manager, Pagliocca, has been open about his belief in Sivka's potential, but the uncertainty surrounding her future with the Sky is a concern.
International Players in the WNBA
Sivka's decision to play college basketball raises important questions about the development of international players in the WNBA. The league has a history of drafting and stashing international prospects, but the success of these players varies greatly. Sivka's case is unique, as she has already been drafted and has the potential to be a valuable asset to any team.
The WNBA's eligibility rules for international players are complex, and Sivka's situation is a gray area. The league's lack of clarity on her eligibility adds to the uncertainty surrounding her future with the Sky. It is possible that she will have to wait until she is 22 to play in the WNBA, but this is not a definitive statement.
Conclusion
Ajša Sivka's decision to play college basketball at Kentucky is a fascinating development in the WNBA. It raises important questions about the development of international players in the league and the success of 'draft-and-stash' strategies. As Sivka continues her basketball journey, the WNBA and the Chicago Sky will be watching closely, hoping that she will eventually join the league and contribute to the team's success.
Personally, I think Sivka's decision to play college basketball is a smart move. It allows her to develop her skills further and gain valuable experience against her peers. However, the uncertainty surrounding her future with the Sky is a concern. I hope that the league will provide clarity on her eligibility and that she will eventually join the WNBA and contribute to the team's success.
