Last year at the Sweet 16 in Birmingham, Alabama, I was in the media zone discussing with another writer the relentless nature of the women’s basketball calendar—highlighted by a great podcast from The Athletic. Consider this: the WNBA season runs from May to October, NCAA women’s basketball fills the period from October to April, and special events occur between January and March. This nonstop schedule is just for U.S. domestic basketball and poses significant challenges, especially for players entering the WNBA Draft shortly after their college season ends. Tehina Paopao, drafted by the Atlanta Dream just nine days post-NCAA Championship, described it as a rapid transition.
Improvements are expected for the 2026 WNBA Draft players, but until then, athletes will continue to enhance their profiles throughout the 2026-2027 college season. Every other week on Winsidr, we analyze draft prospects’ progress and evolving value.
Olivia Miles (Guard – TCU)
While Paige Bueckers was a guaranteed top pick last year, Olivia Miles was anticipated to be a close second until Dominick Malonga rose in consideration. Interestingly, Miles planned no higher than third in the draft and surprised many by returning for another season, transferring from Notre Dame to TCU. With a history of successful transfers under Coach Mark Campbell, TCU’s program aims to help Miles regain top-tier prospect status. Early in the season, Miles delivers with an 18.4 PPG average and solid shooting percentages. Her assist rate soared as well, making her a vital part of the Horned Frogs. After eight games, she clearly remains a top-three draft hope.
Azzi Fudd (Point Guard – UConn)
Fudd is the sole player returning to school, a choice understandable due to her recovery from an ACL injury and her ongoing development. Early hesitation shifted as March Madness significantly boosted her draft stock—from a possible early second-round pick to potential top-six prospect if she declared. She returned to UConn to demonstrate her readiness and leadership capabilities with Bueckers gone. Fudd shines this season with career highs in usage, points, shooting accuracy, assists, and an impressive PER placing her in the national elite. Her progress underscores her complete recovery and consistent talent.
Coty McMahon (Forward – Ole Miss)
After three strong years at Ohio State, McMahon took a gamble transferring to Ole Miss to join Coach Yoh. This move into the SEC, known for physical play, suits McMahon perfectly. She complements teammates Latasha Lattimore, Shira Tienou, and Christine Iuala, leading the Rebels with career-high stats in usage, points, and shooting accuracy. McMahon also ranks third in defensive rebounding nationally. Her physical style is thriving, boosting her draft appeal in this competitive conference.
Fan Take: For WNBA enthusiasts, monitoring these players’ growth signals the arrival of a dynamic new generation ready to elevate the league’s talent and competition level. Their evolving skills and strategic choices reflect a vibrant future for women’s basketball, promising more excitement and higher stakes in seasons to come.
