As the calendar nears New Year’s Eve, college basketball intensifies with March Madness on the horizon, bringing unprecedented attention to women’s basketball and the anticipated WNBA Draft. Yet, the 2026 draft landscape is filled with uncertainty due to potential season cuts and ongoing negotiations between the WNBA and the players’ association, leaving the draft date, venue, and even the timely start of the 2026 season unconfirmed.
Typically held in April just after the NCAA Final Four, the WNBA draft traditionally gives elite college players a brief window before training camp. However, this year feels different, with prospects left in suspense about their professional futures. Despite these unknowns, Daily News has released an early WNBA Mock Draft 1.0, projecting where the top college and international talents might be picked if the draft proceeds as usual.
The Dallas Wings, holding the first selection, are projected to pick Spanish center Awa Fam. Following their 2025 gold-winning season with Paige Bueckers, Dallas aims to build a formidable franchise core, as Fam’s size, versatility, and compatibility with Bueckers could create one of the league’s most dynamic young duos.
At No. 2, the Minnesota Lynx may select college guard Aji Fuad, whose shooting prowess, despite earlier injuries, will be a key asset for a strong Minnesota squad aiming for a championship.
The Seattle Storm, picking third, could secure Olivia Miles from TCU, a highly versatile point guard known for her all-around game, potentially spearheading Seattle’s backcourt under new management.
UCLA’s Lauren Betts is projected as the fourth pick by the Washington Mystics, valued for her size and defensive skills, which remain vital even as the league evolves into a faster, smaller style.
Rounding out the top five is LSU guard Frauge Johnson, likely headed to the Chicago Sky, where her speed, defense, and scoring will reunite her with former college teammate Angel Reese to form a potent duo.
Expansion teams also influence these projections. The Toronto Tempo may choose South Carolina guard Tanya Latson, prized for her scoring, while Portland Fire could pick sharpshooter Gianna Neepkens from UCLA, emphasizing perimeter shooting to shape their new identity.
The Golden State Valkyries are expected to add Ole Miss forward Coty McMahon late in the first round, enhancing their roster depth with her scoring and physical presence.
Washington Mystics might select Maryland guard Yarden Garzon to improve their three-point shooting, followed by Indiana Fever’s pick of South Carolina center Madina Okot, whose rebounding and defense suit Indiana’s pace.
Additional picks suggest Washington may add UCLA’s Gabriela Jaquez for improved floor spacing, Connecticut Sun could opt for Spain’s Iyana Martin Carrion for her international experience, while Atlanta Dream may draft South Carolina guard Raven Johnson, known for defense and basketball IQ.
Seattle could bring in UW forward Serra Williams for frontcourt depth, and the Connecticut Sun may finalize the first round with Tennessee’s athletic and improving scorer Jania Barker.
Though this mock draft reflects speculation given the current uncertainties, it highlights how teams are already envisioning building for the future. Regardless of the 2026 draft’s fate, the emerging talent signals a promising horizon for the WNBA.
Fan Take: This early projection underscores the depth and diversity of talent entering the WNBA, ensuring the league’s growth despite current uncertainties. For fans, it signals exciting new rivalries and standout stars that will shape the future of women’s basketball.
