The order for the 2026 WNBA Draft has been set, with five teams positioned to enhance their rosters through this more varied talent pool, unlike last year’s draft which had obvious top prospects. Each lottery team has promising options tailored to their specific needs.
1. Dallas Wings: With the No. 1 pick again, Dallas faces a more complex choice after last year’s easy selection of Paige Bueckers. Our Fam (Valencia Pham) offers versatility as a big who can excel in screen-and-roll plays, finish at the rim, and make sharp passing decisions, potentially elevating Dallas’ offense. Her length and agility mark her as the draft’s highest ceiling prospect, and though her defensive role may be limited, she’s a defensive upgrade over past Wings frontcourt rotations. Together with Bueckers, she provides Dallas a strong foundation for the next decade.
2. Minnesota Lynx: The Lynx want more guard dynamism to break offensive stagnation, especially from static sets. Olivia Miles brings excellent passing and decision-making that could create new offensive threats alongside Napheesa Collier. Alternatively, Lauren Betts would improve Minnesota’s defensive rebounding, possibly freeing Collier to transition to small forward and stretch the floor. Flau’Jae Johnson offers a dynamic scoring guard option that adds unpredictability and late-game creation, which could diversify Minnesota’s attack.
3. Seattle Storm: The Storm clearly need shooting, and Azzi Fudd stands out with her career 42% three-point shooting. Fudd can start as a catch-and-shoot specialist while developing her on-ball skills within Seattle’s growing young roster, adding valuable floor spacing without defensive liabilities.
4. Washington Mystics: Depending on draft flow, the Mystics could select Fudd to fill shooting needs if she falls to No. 4, though this is unlikely. They might alternatively choose dynamic guards Fraujae Johnson or Kiki Rice to inject scoring and playmaking. Johnson offers aggressive offensive creation; Rice is a well-rounded guard with good finishing ability who complements the current core’s style.
5. Chicago Sky: With limited draft assets, Chicago needs guards who can create space and complement stars Angel Reese and Camila Cardoso. Ta’Niya Latson brings athleticism and downhill attacking ability ideal for a physical, rebound-focused game, while Flau’Jae Johnson adds versatility and elite defense. Both fit a style where winning possession battles and attacking the rim are vital, potentially shaping Chicago’s identity around their young frontcourt.
Fan Take: This draft’s depth and diversity in talent present a crucial opportunity for these franchises to address specific roster needs and improve competitiveness. For WNBA fans, it promises an exciting new wave of players who could shape the league’s future dynamics and elevate the sport’s overall quality.
