The 2027 WNBA Draft concluded with a special moment for Utah women's basketball, as guard Lani White heard her name called with the final pick. Selected 45th overall by the Minnesota Lynx, White becomes the latest Ute to make the professional leap.

For White, the journey to this moment was a testament to perseverance and development. After beginning her career at Utah, she transferred to Virginia Tech for a standout junior season before returning to the Utes for her senior year. That final campaign was her best yet, earning All-Big 12 second-team honors by averaging a career-high 15.9 points per game while shooting an impressive 40.4% from beyond the arc.

Her sharpshooting ability is precisely what could earn her a role in Minnesota. With Lynx superstar Napheesa Collier expected to miss the start of the season, the team has a clear need for offensive firepower. ESPN analyst Charlie Creme noted that White's efficient scoring and versatility make her a logical fit. She could find minutes behind established guards like Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, especially if she brings her proven catch-and-shoot threat to training camp.

White wasn't the only player with Utah ties to celebrate draft night. Gianna Kneepkens, who starred for the Utes for four years before transferring to UCLA, was selected 15th overall by the Connecticut Sun. Kneepkens capped her collegiate career by winning a national championship with the Bruins, and her selection helped UCLA set a WNBA draft record with five first-round picks.

For the Lynx, picking White continues a recent pipeline from Utah, following their selection of Alissa Pili with the 8th overall pick just three years ago. As a final-round selection, White will have to fight for a roster spot, but her proven scoring punch and high-level shooting provide a compelling case for her to stick in the league.