In the director’s chair: Ashley Ward directs her first WNBA Draft for ESPN
As ESPN gears up for the 2025 WNBA Draft on Monday, April 14 (7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN), Ashley Ward, Director, is preparing to lead her first draft from the director’s chair — bringing the team’s vision to one of the league’s most exciting nights.
Ward shares what makes the WNBA Draft so distinctive, what she hopes resonates most with viewers and more.
How does directing a live draft differ from other events you’ve worked on? Are there any unique challenges or exciting moments?
A show like the WNBA Draft is a unique hybrid between event and studio production. You’re reacting in real time to the draft picks while also working within a somewhat scripted environment. That balance creates an exciting creative tension—you have a rundown with planned elements like features, graphics, and interviews, but you also need to stay flexible depending on who gets picked. One of the most thrilling parts, similar to directing live games, is capturing raw reactions in big moments. You only get one shot, so timing, camera placement, and communication with the crew need to be seamless.
What are some key elements or moments you’re focused on capturing during the show?
WNBA Draft night is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication for the draftees. One focus of mine, alongside our entire team, is capturing the emotion and anticipation of that achievement in a truly cinematic way. From the walk to the stage, to the reactions of family and friends, to the first interview, it’s about making sure those milestone moments feel personal and memorable for both the players and the audience watching at home.
What’s your collaboration like with talent, production and technical teams during a live event like this?
This event, like any we produce, is a massive collaboration across several groups—each person bringing an essential contribution to the show. As the director, a key part of my role is facilitating that collaboration and ensuring the creative vision and technical execution align seamlessly. We work closely together, making sure every detail is considered and every challenge addressed. From months of preparation leading up to the draft to the final countdown off-air, the production’s success is a direct reflection of the commitment and collective effort of every crew member.
What’s one thing you hope viewers take away from watching the WNBA Draft?
The emotion and energy in a draft room is palpable, and my goal is for viewers to experience that same feeling vicariously through our production. It’s such a significant moment for the draftees, and I hope our audience can truly connect with their journey and feel the weight of this life-changing experience. I would love for viewers to walk away with a deep sense of appreciation for the passion, sacrifice, and resilience it takes to get to that stage.
