New Delhi, April 14: The 2026 WNBA Draft has concluded, shaping a talent-rich rookie class ready to make their mark in the professional league. The Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd as the first overall pick, marking the seventh UConn Husky to achieve this honor. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Lynx secured TCU’s standout guard Olivia Miles with the second pick, while UCLA’s championship-winning seniors made history in New York.
Here’s a look at the key winners and losers from the 2026 draft.
WNBA Draft Winners & Losers 2026
Winner: Seattle Storm
The Storm made a strategic move by selecting the best player available at third overall. This decision positions Seattle to build a formidable frontcourt. Awa Fam Thiam joins Dominique Malonga, last year’s second overall pick, creating a promising future. Fam’s exceptional passing, playmaking, and shooting skills made her a standout throughout the draft process. Malonga, already a defensive powerhouse, averaged 16.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per 100 possessions last year. Fam, Malonga, and Ezi Magbegor form a strong core for coach Sonia Raman in her inaugural season.
Winner: Azzi Fudd
Recent speculation suggested the Wings were preparing to select Fudd first. Dallas enhanced its frontcourt during free agency by signing Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith and Jessica Shepard. Re-signing Arike Ogunbowale did not hinder their decision to draft Fudd, who stands at 5’11” and can defend larger guards or forwards as needed. While the synergy between Fudd, Ogunbowale, and Paige Bueckers may take time to develop, Fudd’s exceptional shooting ability made her an irresistible choice for Dallas.
Loser: Washington Mystics
Drafting Lauren Betts fourth overall appeared to be a solid choice for the revamped Mystics front office. However, their decision to match the Toronto Tempo’s offer for Shakira Austin on draft day, coupled with selecting Angela Dugalic at ninth overall, raises questions about their strategy. Betts, a two-time Lisa Leslie Center of the Year at UCLA, is an excellent rim protector but the Mystics already have All-Star Kiki Iriafen. They missed an opportunity to address their pressing need for backcourt depth early in the draft.
Loser: Chicago Sky
The Sky opted for Gabriela Jaquez at fifth overall, a versatile player whose inconsistent jump shot has raised concerns about her potential. Jaquez brings energy and can defend multiple positions, but the Sky’s need for a lead guard lessened after signing Skylar Diggins. The team is undergoing another retooling phase, and passing on talents like Kiki Rice and Flau’jae Johnson could be seen as a misstep.
Winner: UCLA Bruins
Cori Close’s national champions made history during the draft. The Bruins sent five players to the WNBA within just 12 picks, the highest number in draft history. Charlisse Leger-Walker was selected 18th overall, joining her UCLA teammate Gianna Kneepkens with the Connecticut Sun. After a remarkable 37-1 season, culminating in a victory over South Carolina in the national title game, UCLA’s top six scorers are now in the WNBA, solidifying their legacy in NCAA history.
Loser: Golden State Valkyries
The Valkyries’ choice of Flau’jae Johnson at eighth overall was promising. However, their decision to trade Johnson to the Storm for Marta Suarez and a future draft pick may be viewed as a significant error. The Valkyries might have hesitated to commit to a first-round rookie-scale deal, but after investing heavily in guards Veronica Burton and Gabby Williams, this rationale seems flawed.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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