The top pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft will be revealed on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 6:30 p.m. ET during the WNBA Draft Lottery. Bethany Donafin, the league’s operations director, will announce whether the Dallas Wings, Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, Washington Mystics, or Chicago Sky will earn the coveted No. 1 pick during a 30-minute live broadcast on ESPN.
Here’s a breakdown of the lottery teams, their representatives, and what the No. 1 pick could mean for each:
Dallas Wings
Representative: Maddie Siegrist
The Wings, hoping to continue their winning ways, have last year’s champion Maddie Siegrist back on the bench. Analyst Edwin Garcia says their clear goal is to choose a player who complements Paige Bueckers, with the potential to accelerate their team growth much like the Indiana Fever did after consecutive No. 1 picks in 2023 and 2024.
Minnesota Lynx
Representatives: Courtney Williams and Natisha Heidemann (Stud Buzz)
If the Lynx win the lottery, it could bolster their championship ambitions. However, despite UCLA center Lauren Betts’ college success, she likely won’t fit Minnesota’s style, which favors smaller, versatile, and speedy players over traditional bigs. Luckily, there are other strong prospects to consider.
Seattle Storm
Representative: Gabby Williams
The Storm might receive lottery odds via a trade and could use the top pick to support new head coach Sonia Raman’s vision. Building a highly athletic team around their 2025 No. 2 pick Dominic Malonga seems promising, with LSU guard Fraujai Johnson being a standout candidate for the No. 1 selection.
Washington Mystics
Representative: Kiki Iliafen
The Mystics had a strong 2025 draft and could lead the 2026 draft if they land the top spot. Analyst Beckett Harrison suggests local talent Ajii Fuad, a sharpshooting senior guard, fits perfectly with the Mystics’ system and needs.
Chicago Sky
Representative: Nadia Rawlinson (Co-Owner and Managing Director)
Through a trade with the Connecticut Sun, the Sky have a slim chance at the No. 1 pick. While it may not solve all their problems, analyst Edwin Garcia notes it’s a step in the right direction. Prospects like Betts, Johnson, or TCU’s Olivia Miles could provide much-needed help for the team’s rebuilding phase.
Fan Take:
The 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery is a pivotal moment that could reshape the future of several teams and dramatically impact competitive balance within the league. For fans, it’s an exciting opportunity to witness the rise of new stars who could define the next era of women’s basketball.
