WNBA Draft 2026: Top Picks and Rising Stars

A look at the next generation of talent set to join the WNBA

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:34pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette, conceptually representing the diverse and dynamic talent of the upcoming WNBA draft class.The 2026 WNBA Draft class promises to inject new energy and global talent into the league, reshaping the future of women's professional basketball.Seattle Today

The 2026 WNBA Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with a diverse array of international and domestic prospects poised to make their mark on the league. From the projected first overall pick Awa Fam, a young Spanish forward/center, to standout guards like Olivia Miles and Azzi Fudd, this draft class showcases the global reach and promising future of women's basketball.

Why it matters

The influx of international talent and top college stars entering the WNBA signals a bright future for the league as it celebrates its 30th season. These new players have the potential to elevate the level of competition, bring fresh perspectives, and continue growing the popularity and visibility of the women's game worldwide.

The details

Headlining the draft is Awa Fam, a 19-year-old forward/center from Valencia, Spain, who is projected to be the first overall pick by the Dallas Wings. Fam's size, versatility, and passing abilities make her an intriguing prospect, especially when paired with the Wings' existing star, Paige Bueckers. Other notable picks include Olivia Miles, a senior at TCU, heading to the Minnesota Lynx, and Azzi Fudd, a senior from UConn, joining the Seattle Storm. On the defensive end, the Washington Mystics and Toronto Tempo are set to select Lauren Betts (UCLA) and Flau'jae Johnson (LSU), respectively, to anchor their teams. The draft also features sharp-shooting wings like Gianna Kneepkens (Utah) to the Mystics and Gabriela Jaquez (UCLA) to the Indiana Fever, as well as wildcards Nell Angloma, a 19-year-old forward from France, to the Golden State Valkyries, and Ta'Niya Latson, a guard from South Carolina, to the Connecticut Sun.

  • The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on April 11, 2026.

The players

Awa Fam

A 19-year-old forward/center from Valencia, Spain, projected to be the first overall pick by the Dallas Wings. Fam's size, versatility, and passing abilities make her an intriguing prospect.

Olivia Miles

A senior guard at TCU, projected to be selected by the Minnesota Lynx. Miles is known for her passing skills and shooting ability.

Azzi Fudd

A senior guard from UConn, projected to be selected by the Seattle Storm. Fudd is considered the best shooter in this draft class.

Lauren Betts

A senior center at UCLA, projected to be selected by the Washington Mystics. Betts is known for her defensive prowess and passing skills.

Flau'jae Johnson

A senior forward at LSU, projected to be selected by the Toronto Tempo. Johnson is a dogged defender and the best slasher in her draft class.

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What they’re saying

“Awa Fam is a truly special talent. Her size, skill, and vision make her a perfect fit for the WNBA, and I can't wait to see how she develops alongside Paige Bueckers in Dallas.”

— Candace Parker, WNBA Legend and Analyst

“Olivia Miles is a true floor general. Her passing ability and shooting touch will be a huge asset for the Lynx as they look to build a contender.”

— Sue Bird, WNBA All-Star and Analyst

What’s next

The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on April 11, 2026, where these top prospects will officially join the league and begin their professional careers.

The takeaway

The 2026 WNBA Draft class showcases the global growth and bright future of women's basketball. With a mix of international talent and top college stars, the league is poised to welcome a new generation of players who will elevate the level of competition and continue to expand the popularity of the women's game worldwide.