Talia Walton, a former Federal Way High School and University of Washington basketball standout, was drafted Thursday by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2016 WNBA Draft.
“Talia is a very good fit with our team,” said Sparks head coach Brian Agler. “She is extremely versatile and a great three-point shooter. She handles and passes the ball well, is a great defender and has great size for a perimeter player.”
Walton was selected 29th overall by the Sparks with the fifth pick of the third round. The WNBA draft has three rounds with 12 picks in each round.
Walton, a 6-2 forward, is the third player in the history of University of Washington’s women’s basketball program to be selected in the draft. She is the school’s all-time leader in blocked shots (177) and games played (134).
In her final year with the Huskies, Walton was Washington’s second-leading rebounder (238) and scorer, averaging a career-high 16.5 points per game. She finished the year ranked second nationally in total minutes played with 1,367 and led the Pac-12 with 86 made 3-pointers.
The Huskies advanced to their first-ever Final Four in Walton’s senior season. She set the record for most made 3-pointers (8) in a Final Four game against Syracuse.
Her high school career included leading the Eagles to a 26-3 record and a perfect 16-0 record in league play in her senior year, averaging 17 points and close to 13 rebounds per game and helping Federal Way make the state championships (which they ultimately lost to Lewis & Clark High School).
Walton’s new team, the Sparks, won consecutive WNBA championships in 2001 and 2002 and returned to the Western Conference Finals in 2003. They’ve made the playoffs every year except two (2007, 2011) since 1999.
“Talia is another talented player who can stretch the defense with her three-point shooting,” said Sparks general manager Penny Toler after selecting Walton. “Her length and athleticism will be a great addition to our team.”
The Sparks’ 20th season tips off May 15 at home. For more information, visit lasparks.com or follow the team on all social media outlets at @la_sparks.
