UCLA Poised for Historic WNBA Draft Performance

Five Bruins expected to be selected in first round, potentially matching NCAA record

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:09pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract WNBA draft scene, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant blue, gold, and crimson, capturing the energy and excitement of the moment.The UCLA Bruins' historic WNBA draft class showcases the program's ability to develop elite talent and cement its status as a premier destination for top women's basketball prospects.NYC Today

The UCLA women's basketball team is primed for a historic showing in the 2026 WNBA Draft, with five players - Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, Gianna Kneepkens, and Angela Dugalic - receiving official invitations to attend the draft in New York. While most mock drafts project four Bruins being taken in the first round, which would match the NCAA record set by UConn in 2002, Dugalic and Charlisse Leger-Walker are also fringe first-round selections that could help UCLA surpass that mark.

Why it matters

This potential record-breaking WNBA Draft performance by UCLA would cement the program's status as one of the premier women's basketball powerhouses in the country. It would also showcase the immense talent and depth of the Bruins' roster, as well as the coaching staff's ability to develop players for the professional level.

The details

Five Bruins - Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, Gianna Kneepkens, and Angela Dugalic - received official invitations to attend the 2026 WNBA Draft in New York. Most mock drafts project four Bruins being selected in the first round, which would match the NCAA record set by UConn in 2002. However, Dugalic and Charlisse Leger-Walker are also fringe first-round picks, meaning UCLA could potentially surpass that mark and have six players drafted.

  • The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on Monday.

The players

Lauren Betts

A 6-foot-7 center who is projected to be an early first-round pick after a dominant college career, including being named the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player.

Kiki Rice

A 5-foot-11 guard who is expected to be selected in the early first round due to her well-rounded game, including an exceptional pull-up jumper and ability to finish at the rim.

Gabriela Jaquez

A 6-foot guard who is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick, known for her versatile scoring, 3-point shooting, and all-around game.

Gianna Kneepkens

A 6-foot guard who is also expected to be a mid-to-late first-round selection, featuring elite 3-point shooting and veteran savvy that could earn her early minutes in the WNBA.

Angela Dugalic

A 6-foot-4 forward who is projected to be a late first-round or early second-round pick, with the potential to contribute immediately due to her experience with the Serbian national team and willingness to embrace a selfless role.

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What they’re saying

“I think Char is predicted to go anywhere between 13 and 17, probably, which is late first round to early second, but she might be one of the most pro-ready players on our team — basketball IQ-wise, how she processes, how she connects the team, what she understands.”

— Cori Close, UCLA Head Coach

“Like, her ability to take what I'm asking for and then translate it to the team in a way that really brings them together, she's one of the top-five locker room players I've ever coached, so whatever WNBA team gets her, they're very, very smart. I think she's going to be the steal of the draft.”

— Cori Close, UCLA Head Coach

What’s next

The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on Monday, where UCLA is poised to make history with a potential record-breaking number of players selected in the first round.

The takeaway

UCLA's women's basketball program has established itself as one of the premier destinations for top talent, and this year's WNBA Draft could cement that status with a historic performance that showcases the depth and quality of the Bruins' roster.