Two former Arizona Wildcats are making the leap to the WNBA this season, marking significant milestones in their basketball careers. These players, whose hard work and determination on the court have earned them spots on professional rosters, represent not only their individual talents but also the strength of Arizona’s women’s basketball program.
The first of the two is Esmery Martinez, a powerful forward who has made a name for herself as one of the most dominant rebounders in the NCAA. During her time at Arizona, Martinez was known for her ability to control the paint, grabbing boards and playing tough, physical defense. Her size and strength allowed her to be a force on both ends of the floor, and her ability to contribute offensively with her scoring and screening only made her more valuable. Martinez’s time with the Wildcats showcased her hustle and determination, traits that will serve her well as she takes her talents to the professional level with the New York Liberty.
In the WNBA, Martinez will face a higher level of competition, but her rebounding and defensive capabilities should translate well. The Liberty, one of the league’s most dynamic teams, will likely look to her to provide energy off the bench and offer support in the paint, an area where they need depth. While Martinez’s offensive game is still a work in progress, her defensive prowess and ability to control the glass will make her an asset for the Liberty, who have a strong roster and are a title contender.
The second Arizona player joining the WNBA this season is Helena Pueyo, a guard known for her scoring ability and offensive skill set. Pueyo’s time at Arizona saw her develop into one of the Wildcats’ go-to players, capable of scoring in various ways, whether it was driving to the basket, shooting from deep, or pulling up for mid-range shots. Her versatility made her a key player for Arizona, and her ability to score efficiently and create opportunities for her teammates is something that will help her stand out in the WNBA.
Selected by the Connecticut Sun, Pueyo’s skills as a guard and her scoring abilities are exactly what the Sun need as they continue to build around their core. Connecticut has long been known for its tough defense and team-oriented offense, and Pueyo will add a new dimension to their backcourt. Her scoring threat will stretch defenses, and her playmaking ability will allow her to create opportunities both for herself and for her teammates. The Sun are a team on the rise, and Pueyo’s addition could prove to be a key piece in their pursuit of a championship.
Both Martinez and Pueyo’s success is a testament to the Arizona Wildcats’ strong program, which continues to produce high-level talent. Arizona’s coaching staff, led by head coach Adia Barnes, has done an incredible job of developing players who are ready to contribute at the next level. Martinez and Pueyo are two prime examples of this, with each player showing growth and improvement over their time in college. Their work ethic, combined with the guidance they received at Arizona, has prepared them for the challenge of playing in the WNBA.
In addition to their basketball skills, both Martinez and Pueyo bring leadership and a winning mentality to their new teams. Both players were integral parts of Arizona’s success during their collegiate careers, and their experience in big games will serve them well as they adjust to the professional game. The WNBA is a different environment, but both players have the mental toughness needed to thrive.
Beyond their individual talents, Martinez and Pueyo also represent the global nature of basketball. Pueyo, who hails from Spain, is an example of how the game has grown internationally, and her success in the WNBA will inspire players around the world to pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level. Martinez, who is from the Dominican Republic, similarly showcases how basketball talent can emerge from all corners of the world. The WNBA has long been a league that embraces international players, and both Martinez and Pueyo are poised to make an impact.
Their journey from Arizona to the WNBA is also a reminder of the importance of women’s sports in creating opportunities for young athletes. Both Martinez and Pueyo are role models for aspiring players, showing that with hard work and dedication, dreams can be realized. For fans of the Wildcats, it’s a proud moment to see their former stars reach the pinnacle of women’s basketball, and for fans of the WNBA, it’s exciting to see the league continue to grow in talent and global representation.
The 2025 WNBA season will be an exciting one, with both Martinez and Pueyo now part of the professional landscape. Their success will not only impact their teams but will also add to the narrative of how college basketball continues to prepare players for the next level. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these two Wildcats to see how they transition into their new roles and how they help shape the future of women’s basketball. It’s clear that both players have the potential to make a significant impact, and their journeys are far from over.