Uncasville, CT — Saniya Rivers, drafted 8^th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Sun out of NC State, wrapped up her rookie season in the WNBA with a standout performance that etched her name into the Connecticut Sun record books and placed her among elite company across the league. Averaging 8.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, Rivers proved to be one of the most well-rounded rookies in the 2025 class.

Among all WNBA rookies, Rivers ranked sixth in scoring, ninth in rebounding, fourth in assists, third in steals and led the class in blocks per game. Her defensive impact was particularly notable, as she became the only rookie in the league to reach the 100-stock mark (combined steals and blocks), joining just six other players league-wide to hit that milestone — including A’ja Wilson, Gabby Williams, Azurá Stevens, Napheesa Collier, Alanna Smith and Ezi Magbegor.

On August 17, Rivers recorded a career-high five blocks against the Indiana Fever, becoming just the third rookie in franchise history — alongside Tina Charles and Elizabeth Williams — to record five or more blocks in a regular season game.

The Wilmington, North Carolina native concluded her rookie campaign with at least 370 points, 115 rebounds, 110 assists and 60 steals — a statistical feat matched only once before in WNBA history by Tamika Catchings in 2002.

Rivers’ dynamic contributions on both ends of the court have solidified her as a cornerstone for the Sun’s future and one of the most promising young talents in the league.