35 WNBA Draft prospects to watch in the 2026 NCAA Tournament
The 2026 WNBA Draft is set for April 13, and fans should get familiar with these names
www.cbssports.comHere are the latest updates on the 2026 WNBA Draft and key outcomes.
Initial pick and notable trends
- Azzi Fudd was selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Wings, continuing a run of UConn players going high in recent drafts. This marks a repeat of a top pick from UConn in consecutive drafts, underscoring the program’s depth and impact at the pro level.[1][2]
- UCLA had a historic night with a large contingent of players drafted in the first round; reports indicate six Bruins heard their names called in the first round, setting a new program record. This illustrates UCLA’s standout 2025–26 season translating to immediate pro opportunities for multiple players.[4]
Round1 highlights (selected examples)
- No. 1: Azzi Fudd, guard, UConn, selected by Dallas Wings.[1]
- No. 2 (via Chicago): Olivia Miles, guard, TCU, drafted by Minnesota Lynx; this pick reflects strong late-season and tournament visibility for Miles.[1]
- No. 4: Lauren Betts, center, UCLA, drafted by Washington Mystics; Betts’ size and skill set have kept her among top prospect conversations.[1]
- No. 15: Gianna Kneepkens, guard, UCLA, drafted by Connecticut Sun; Kneepkens’ pick contributed to UCLA setting a first-round UCLA record.[2][4]
Team-by-team snapshots
- Dallas Wings: Secured the No. 1 pick with Azzi Fudd, reinforcing a backcourt/wing-oriented core with a high-scoring guard from UConn.[1]
- Connecticut Sun: That organization drafted multiple UCLA players in the first round, continuing a trend of prioritizing versatile, skilled wings and guards from top programs.[2][4]
- UCLA representation: The Bruins’ heavy presence in the first round (and the draft’s historical context for the program) indicates a strong college-to-pro pipeline for the 2026 class.[4]
What this means for 2026 season and beyond
- The draft results underscore the ongoing impact of the 2025-26 NCAA season on pro rosters, with several top picks expected to contribute immediately at a high level given their college track records and performance in the draft process.[4]
- With the Wings holding the top pick and several other franchises adding high-upside guards and forwards, expect competitive balance to be affected in the immediate 2026 season as rookie contributions vary by team role and fit.[3][1]
Want deeper specifics?
- I can provide a complete round-by-round list of picks, trades, and immediate rookie expectations tailored to a team you follow, or pull up scouting notes on selected players like Azzi Fudd, Olivia Miles, and Lauren Betts with quick summaries. If you’d like, tell me which teams or players you’re most interested in.
Citations
- Azzi Fudd No. 1 pick and first-round results coverage.[2][1]
- UCLA’s six first-round picks milestone.[4]
- Live draft updates and recaps including notable selections.[3][4]