It was supposed to be a celebration. Instead, it became a stunning silence.
Diamond Johnson, the Norfolk State star who lit up the MEAC with her scoring, defense, and leadership, watched the 2025 WNBA Draft come and go without hearing her name. For many HBCU fans and supporters of women’s college basketball, the omission is as baffling as it is disappointing.
Advertisement
Johnson ended her college career with eye-popping numbers: 19.2 points, 4.3 assists, and a MEAC-best 3.6 steals per game. She earned MEAC Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-Defensive Team. The Spartans went undefeated in conference play under her leadership, and she delivered marquee wins in non-conference action. In April, she capped her season by winning MVP of the Libby’s All-Star Game with 21 points—including the game-winner—right in front of WNBA scouts.
Many analysts projected Johnson as a third-round pick. Yet as teams selected players from power conferences and overseas programs, Johnson remained unclaimed. Guards with less production and less proven leadership were taken instead. The glaring absence raises questions about how mid-major and HBCU stars are evaluated at the next level.
Regardless of draft night, Johnson’s legacy is untouchable. She stands alone as the only active Division I player with over 2,000 points, 600 rebounds, 390 assists, and 300 steals. She’s already left her mark in college hoops history—and she’s just getting started.
Related: HBCU star earns Baltimore Ravens Pro Day invite
Johnson has options: training camps, international leagues, and potentially a call-up as WNBA rosters shift mid-season. But the bigger message here is one HBCU fans know all too well—talent doesn’t always get its due. It’s time for the WNBA to broaden its lens.
Advertisement
Related: Morgan Price makes history as a repeat champion
Because players like Diamond Johnson shouldn’t have to fight this hard just to be seen.
Related: Charlie Ward emerges as top candidate for FAMU basketball head coach opening
Related: Stephen A. Smith: ‘I have no choice’ but to consider presidential bid
