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

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

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.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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

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.