GIPPSLAND, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 14: Shanice Swain of the Capitals drives at the basket during the round 10 WNBL match between Melbourne Boomers and UC Capitals at Gippsland Regional Indoor Stadium, on January 14, 2023, in Gippsland, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

UC Capitals star drafted to Los Angeles Sparks

Shaneice Swain is headed to California, drafted with pick number 14 in the 2023 WNBA Draft.

Another Australian is heading to the WNBA. With the 14th pick (2nd round) in the 2023 WNBA Draft, the Los Angeles Sparks selected UC Capitals star Shaneice Swain - the only Australian chosen on the night.

The Sparks are in desperate need of a shooter who can play at a high level. The 176cm (5'7) guard is a pure scorer who helped steer the young Capitals core during the 2022/23 WNBL season.

In her 18 games with the Capitals in 2022/23, the 19-year-old averaged 14.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Her scoring numbers are impressive, but her shooting statistics are what is most enticing. She shot 40.9 per cent from the field and 36.2 per cent from beyond-the-arc.

Swain's defense is stellar as well. She totaled 35 steals for an average of 1.9 per game. Swain is a fearless guard who will end up as a huge asset for the Sparks.

The 2023 WNBA season begins on Friday, May 19. The Los Angeles Sparks' first game of the regular season from 10pm PDT (Saturday, May 20 at 3pm AEST).