UCLA Sets WNBA Draft Records with Five First-Round Picks

Bruins become first team to have five players selected in the first round and six total in a single draft

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting overlapping, fragmented shapes and planes in vibrant colors, representing the energy and excitement of the 2026 WNBA draft and UCLA's record-setting performance.UCLA's historic WNBA draft night showcases the program's depth of talent and its continued dominance in women's college basketball.Los Angeles Today

Just over a week after winning the 2026 women's college basketball national championship, UCLA made WNBA draft history by having a record five players selected in the first round and six players taken overall in a single night. The Bruins' standout selections included Lauren Betts, Gabriela Jaquez, and Kiki Rice, who were chosen with picks Nos. 4-6, while UConn's Azzi Fudd went No. 1 overall.

Why it matters

UCLA's unprecedented WNBA draft success highlights the program's continued dominance in women's college basketball and its ability to develop elite talent. The Bruins' record-setting night also reflects the growing popularity and competitiveness of the WNBA, as top programs like UCLA continue to produce a steady pipeline of professional-caliber players.

The details

UCLA became the first team to have five players selected in the first round of the WNBA draft, and the first with six players chosen overall in a single night. The Bruins' top picks included Lauren Betts (No. 4), Gabriela Jaquez (No. 5), and Kiki Rice (No. 6), while UConn's Azzi Fudd went No. 1 overall to the Dallas Wings. The Bruins' other first-round selections were Angela Dugalić (No. 9) and Gianna Kneepkens (No. 15).

  • On April 14, 2026, the 2026 WNBA draft took place.
  • Just over a week prior, on April 6, 2026, UCLA won the women's college basketball national championship.

The players

Lauren Betts

A UCLA standout selected with the 4th overall pick by the Washington Mystics.

Gabriela Jaquez

A UCLA player chosen 5th overall by the Chicago Sky.

Kiki Rice

The UCLA guard selected 6th overall by the Toronto Tempo.

Azzi Fudd

The UConn star who was the No. 1 overall pick, selected by the Dallas Wings.

Angela Dugalić

The UCLA player chosen 9th overall by the Washington Mystics.

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What they’re saying

“This is an incredible accomplishment for our program and a testament to the hard work and talent of our players.”

— Cori Close, UCLA Women's Basketball Head Coach

What’s next

The WNBA season will begin in May 2026, with the newly drafted players joining their respective teams and preparing for the upcoming campaign.

The takeaway

UCLA's record-setting WNBA draft night underscores the program's status as a premier destination for elite women's basketball talent. The Bruins' ability to consistently produce professional-caliber players highlights their commitment to player development and their position as one of the top programs in the country.