Dalayah Daniels became the first player drafted from Washington since 2017 and the 14th draft pick that Tina Langley has coached. The Minnesota Lynx selected her as the No. 24 pick in the 2025 WNBA.
Athleticism runs in her family, and her father played at Central Washington University.
Dalayah graduated from Garfield High School as one of Washington’s most decorated basketball players.
She dominated the court from her freshman to senior year, earning national recognition for her standout performances.
Her excellence was secured when she was named a 2020 McDonald’s All-American, and ESPN100 ranked her as the nation’s No. 2 post player.
Moreover, her leadership helped Garfield win a WIAA 3A State Championship, the program’s first in over five years, while securing her back-to-back Metro League MVP and First-Team All-State honors.
The previous year, she had carried the Bulldogs to a Metro League Championship, averaging over 22 points per game in a dominant campaign.
Dalayah brought her elite talent to the University of California, where she made an immediate impact. Her standout performances earned her a spot on the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team.
However, after two seasons, she announced her transfer to the University of Washington, bringing her relentless work ethic and versatility back to her home state.
Tonight, we celebrate Dalayah Daniels. From the day she came home to Washington, she brought a relentless work ethic and commitment to growing as a person, athlete, teammate, and leader. The Minnesota Lynx are getting an exceptional basketball player and an even more remarkable young woman. Dalayah means so much to this program, to the University of Washington, and especially to the Seattle community that raised her. We couldn’t be more proud of her and all she’s becoming. Congratulations to Dalayah and the entire Daniels family. We love you, and we are celebrating with you!
Tina Langley
Dalayah Daniels’s Parents, Deborah Nagle And Dale Daniels, Are Proud Of Her Athletic Journey
Every successful athlete has a strong family, and Dalayah owes her success to her parents, Deborah Nagle and Dale Daniels.
Her parents have been instrumental in fostering her basketball career, and Dale, a former collegiate basketball player, contributed his expertise.
Dalayah’s father knows the game well. He played college basketball at Central Washington University, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the sport.
He was part of Garfield’s 1974 state title win. His experience as a player gave him valuable insights that he later passed on to his daughter.
Dale guided her on the fundamentals of the game, work ethic, and mental toughness. His background allowed him to offer technical advice while helping her navigate the challenges of competitive basketball.
My dad always tells me basketball is the perfect sport to take your anger out on people. When you block a shot, literally think of your enemy or think of something that’s been like bothering you that day and just channel it into that block.
Dalayah Daniels
While Dale contributed his basketball knowledge, Deborah Nagle, Dalayah’s mother, provided unwavering emotional support. She ensured that Dalayah had the stability and encouragement needed to thrive.
Balancing academics and athletics is not easy, but with her mother’s support, the rising athlete learned the importance of discipline and perseverance.
Deborah’s role extended beyond basketball and helped instill values that shaped Dalayah into a well-rounded individual.
Furthermore, Dalayah’s parents created an environment where Dalayah could flourish. Their combined support helped her develop into a standout player.
She chose the University of California because of its education, people, and family atmosphere. After playing professionally, she wants to pursue a business career.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Dalayah Daniels stands 6 feet and 4 inches tall and plays forward.
- She ranked third in career blocked shots at the University of Washington with 109 blocks.
- She recorded her 25th career double-double in a winning match at Nebraska with 21 points and 11 rebounds.
