The 2026 WNBA Draft is set to take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, with all attention focused on the Dallas Wings, who hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick. The Wings secured this position by winning the draft lottery, making their choice pivotal amid ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) talks and upcoming free agency decisions. Unlike last year, when Paige Bueckers was a clear No. 1 pick, the 2026 draft has no definitive frontrunner, adding to the intrigue.
Speculation surrounds several top prospects including Spain’s Ourfam, UConn Huskies guard Azzi Fudd, TCU Horned Frogs guard Olivia Miles, UCLA Bruins center Lauren Betts, or possibly a surprising pick that could shake up the basketball world.
Here is USA TODAY’s 2026 WNBA Mock Draft*:
*The draft order for the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire remains undecided due to ongoing CBA negotiations and will be finalized by a coin toss.
1. Dallas Wings: Azzi Fudd, G, UConn
Fudd is an electrifying shooter with a smooth release and a 3-point shooting accuracy exceeding 50% this season. Her ability to space the floor and attack from the perimeter complements the Wings’ need for improved three-point shooting. She also offers solid third-level scoring, creativity, and strong defense.
2. Minnesota Lynx: Ourfam, C, Spain
Ourfam brings mobility and diverse scoring skills, including an impressive face-up game. Her footwork and court vision make her a valuable addition, especially if the Lynx keep key players like Napheesa Collier.
3. Seattle Storm: Olivia Miles, G, Notre Dame
Miles is a promising successor for Skylar Diggins, ranking top 10 nationally in assists (7.5 per game) with exceptional court vision and passing, comparable to Las Vegas’ Chelsea Gray. She excels in fast-paced play and shooting when required.
4. Washington Mystics: Lauren Betts, C, UCLA
At 6-foot-7, Betts adds strength and length, which enhances the Mystics’ defensive presence and scoring potential. She is a strong rim protector and skillful player despite some mobility mismatches.
5. Chicago Sky: Latson, G
With Courtney Vandersloot sidelined, the Sky need a dependable guard. Latson, last season’s top scorer in Florida State with 25 PPG, is a multi-level scorer with growth potential in defense.
6. Toronto Tempo/Portland Fire: Frauge Johnson, G, LSU
Johnson energizes on both ends, excelling in steals and fast breaks. She is a versatile shooter and driver, fitting the style of teams valuing speed and perimeter shooting.
7. Portland Fire/Toronto Tempo: Coty McMahon, F, Ole Miss
McMahon disrupts defenses with power and footwork. Refinement in pro-level fluidity and defense could make her a valuable mid-round pick.
8. Gianna Kniepkens, G, UCLA
Kniepkens excels in shot-making and mid-range skills, fitting well into a system that values three-point shooting and two-man plays.
9. Washington Mystics: Yarden Garzon, G, Maryland
Garzon, a 40% 3-point shooter, complements Sonia Citron well and can score inside or facilitate pick-and-roll plays.
10. Indiana Fever: Madina Okot, South Carolina
Okot combines size and speed, with elite rebounding (11 per game) and defensive disruption, including two blocks per game.
11. Washington Mystics: Gabriela Jaquez, G, UCLA
Jaquez, a versatile guard, impacts the game beyond stats with rebounding, steals, deflections, and hustle plays.
12. Connecticut Sun: Iyana Martin Carrion, G, Spain
Martin Carrion fits the physical Sun style with strong body control and the ability to score through contact and through good vision.
13. Atlanta Dream: Serra Williams, F, UConn
Williams’ footwork and defensive prowess stand out, offering paint scoring and an active presence.
14. Seattle Storm: Kiki Rice, G, UCLA
Rice provides scoring, excellent court vision, defense, and rebounding, complementing Olivia Miles for Seattle.
15. Connecticut Sun: Jania Barker, F, Tennessee
Barker’s athleticism, size, and skill, along with her rebounding, make her a strong candidate for immediate contribution.
Fan Take: This mock draft highlights the influx of exceptional young talent poised to elevate the WNBA’s competitiveness and entertainment value. Fans can look forward to a season filled with exciting new faces who could shape the future of women’s basketball.
