The 2026 WNBA Draft is generating major attention as teams prepare to add new talent to their rosters. At the center of the conversation is the Dallas Wings, who hold the No.1 overall pick and are widely expected to select UConn star Azzi Fudd.
A potential reunion between Fudd and Paige Bueckers has become one of the biggest storylines ahead of the draft. The two former UConn teammates could form one of the most exciting backcourts in the league if Dallas chooses Fudd with the first pick.
While the spotlight is on Dallas, several other teams such as the Connecticut Sun and Washington Mystics also hold important first-round selections that could shape the future of their franchises.
WNBA Mock Draft 2026 – First Round Projection
The projected first round includes several standout college players and international prospects who could make an immediate impact in the WNBA.
| Pick | Team | Player | Position | College / Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dallas Wings | Azzi Fudd | SG | UConn |
| 2 | Minnesota Lynx | Awa Fam | C | Spain |
| 3 | Seattle Storm | Olivia Miles | PG | TCU |
| 4 | Washington Mystics | Lauren Betts | C | UCLA |
| 5 | Chicago Sky | Flau’jae Johnson | SG | LSU |
| 6 | Toronto Tempo | Kiki Rice | PG | UCLA |
| 7 | Portland Fire | Gianna Kneepkens | SG | UCLA |
| 8 | Golden State Valkyries | Ta’Niya Latson | SG | South Carolina |
| 9 | Washington Mystics | Raven Johnson | PG | South Carolina |
| 10 | Indiana Fever | Nell Angloma | SF | France |
| 11 | Washington Mystics | Cotie McMahon | SF | Ole Miss |
| 12 | Connecticut Sun | Iyana Martin | PG | Spain |
| 13 | Atlanta Dream | Madina Okot | C | South Carolina |
| 14 | Seattle Storm | Gabriela Jaquez | SG | UCLA |
| 15 | Connecticut Sun | Serah Williams | F | UConn |
Dallas Wings Target Azzi Fudd at No.1
Dallas is expected to use the first overall pick on Azzi Fudd, one of the most talented scorers in college basketball. Adding Fudd would give the Wings a dynamic backcourt alongside Paige Bueckers.
Fudd’s ability to stretch defenses with her perimeter shooting and quick scoring ability could solve spacing issues Dallas faced last season. Her chemistry with Bueckers from their UConn days also makes the pairing even more attractive.
In her final game at Gampel Pavilion, Fudd showed her scoring ability with an impressive performance.
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | 3PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Azzi Fudd | 34 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 8-11 |
Minnesota Lynx Eye Versatile Center Awa Fam
With the second pick, the Minnesota Lynx are projected to select Spanish center Awa Fam. She is considered one of the most versatile interior prospects available in the draft.
Fam combines strong defensive presence with mobility in pick-and-roll situations. Her experience playing in Spain has helped her develop a high basketball IQ and physical style of play.
Pairing Fam with All-Star forward Napheesa Collier could give Minnesota a powerful frontcourt combination.
Also see: Kayleigh Heckel Wins NCAA Elite Scholar-Athlete Award, Becomes Second UConn Player After Maya Moore
Seattle Storm Expected to Add Olivia Miles
Seattle could strengthen its backcourt by selecting Olivia Miles with the third pick. The TCU point guard had an outstanding season, leading her team deep into the NCAA tournament.
Miles is known for her court vision, rebounding ability and playmaking skills that allow her to push the pace and create scoring opportunities for teammates.
Washington Mystics Build Around Frontcourt Strength
The Washington Mystics are projected to make multiple selections in the first round. With the fourth pick, they could select UCLA center Lauren Betts, a dominant interior player who brings scoring and rim protection.
Later in the round, Washington may add South Carolina guard Raven Johnson, a defensive specialist who has earned recognition for her ability to disrupt opposing ball handlers.
This combination could give the Mystics both interior strength and perimeter defense.
Chicago Sky and LSU Connection
The Chicago Sky may turn to LSU star Flau’jae Johnson with the fifth pick. Johnson is known for her defensive intensity and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Her previous experience playing with Angel Reese at LSU could help create immediate chemistry within the team.
Connecticut Sun Hold Two First-Round Picks
The Connecticut Sun are another team to watch during the draft as they hold two selections in the first round.
The mock projection places Spanish point guard Iyana Martin at No.12. Martin is known for her passing ability and strong understanding of offensive spacing.
Later in the round, the Sun could add UConn forward Serah Williams, a player who has proven she can contribute in a team-oriented system.
| Team | Picks | Projected Players |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Mystics | 3 picks | Betts, Johnson, McMahon |
| Seattle Storm | 2 picks | Miles, Jaquez |
| Connecticut Sun | 2 picks | Martin, Williams |
Draft Could Shape WNBA’s Future
The 2026 WNBA Draft class features a mix of elite college stars and international prospects. Teams across the league are looking to build around young players who can contribute immediately.
The potential reunion of Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers remains the headline story, but several other picks could also reshape teams across the league.
With multiple franchises holding key selections, the draft could play a major role in defining the next generation of WNBA stars.




