2023 WNBA Draft: Eldest Gamecock selected in third round

Victaria Saxton was the fifth Gamecock selected in the 2023 WNBA Draft when she went with the first pick of the third round, 25th overall to the Indiana Fever (where Aliyah Boston was drafted an hour and a half earlier). Her South Carolina basketball teammates Aliyah Boston, Laeticia Amihere, Zia Cooke, and Brea Beal were taken ahead of her, Beal just one pick earlier.

Saxton was the quintessential role player while at South Carolina. Often used as the starting power forward for the Gamecocks, Saxton played her role very well. She was never going to be a big-time scorer or a player that would lead the defense, but she did what she was coached to do. At 6’2″, Saxton was a good shot blocker and rebounder who played with a high motor, no matter the situation. It was not an uncommon thing to see Saxton diving on the floor or into the stands as she would do anything to help her team succeed.

Called the “SEC’s hardest-working player” by NBA Hall of Famer Alex English, Saxton is the all-time leader in Gamecock history in games played, and she finished her career 5th in career blocks and 6th in career offensive rebounds. She is the only four-year captain in program history, despite only being a starter for two of those seasons.

A year older than “the Freshies,” Saxton utilized her “Covid redshirt” to return to South Carolina and was a key member of the most talented team in the country. Saxton’s willingness to sacrifice and to play whatever role is needed for her team’s success will be critical to her lasting on a WNBA roster.

Saxton will be reunited with Aliyah Boston in the Indiana frontcourt and former Gamecock teammate Destanni Henderson. The three Gamecocks won a national championship together in 2022 and will bring their winning culture to Indianapolis.