Fever Predicted to Draft 'Relentless' Guard Who Is a Natural Fit Next to Caitlin Clark

UCLA's Gabriela Jaquez could be a smart pick for the Indiana Fever in the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 11:15pm

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The Indiana Fever, with a top-10 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, are expected to select UCLA guard/forward Gabriela Jaquez, who would be a natural complement to the team's star players Aliyah Boston, Kelsey Mitchell, and Caitlin Clark. Jaquez has improved as a shooter in her senior season and profiles as a 'relentless' two-way player who could contribute immediately.

Why it matters

The Fever are in a championship contention window and adding a versatile, high-motor player like Jaquez could solidify their rotation and provide valuable depth next to their trio of All-Stars.

The details

Bleacher Report's mock draft has the Fever selecting Jaquez, whose brother Jaime plays for the Miami Heat, with the 10th overall pick. While Jaquez's 3-point shooting has been impressive at 42% overall, her accuracy has dipped to 27% in Big Ten play. However, she is still considered an 'instinctive cutter' and 'smart defender' who could be a steal if her shot remains consistent at the next level.

  • The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on April 13, 2026.

The players

Gabriela Jaquez

A 22-year-old guard/forward from UCLA who is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Aliyah Boston

One of the Indiana Fever's star players and a key part of the team's championship contention window.

Kelsey Mitchell

Another star player for the Indiana Fever who, along with Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark, forms a formidable trio.

Caitlin Clark

The third member of the Indiana Fever's star trio, who Gabriela Jaquez would be a natural fit alongside.

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What they’re saying

“Jaquez profiles as a day one WNBA contributor with a 'relentless motor.' And if the shot remains consistent, then the Fever would be getting a steal at 10th overall.”

— Hunter Cruse, Bleacher Report Analyst (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Indiana Fever will make their selection in the 2026 WNBA Draft on April 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The Indiana Fever have a chance to add a versatile, high-energy player in Gabriela Jaquez who could be a perfect complement to their star trio of Aliyah Boston, Kelsey Mitchell, and Caitlin Clark as the team looks to take the next step towards a WNBA championship.