The 2026 WNBA Mock Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, and it all starts with a bold question: Can the Dallas Wings strike gold twice in a row? After securing Paige Bueckers with the first pick last year, they’re back at the top, this time debating between two powerhouse prospects: Lauren Betts and Awa Fam. But here’s where it gets controversial—while Betts is a proven talent, Fam’s versatility and untapped potential might just make her the smarter long-term choice. And this is the part most people miss: the WNBA is evolving, and modern post players like Fam could redefine the game.
This offseason has been nothing short of chaotic, with most of the league entering free agency and a new CBA still pending. Yet, if the draft proceeds as planned, here’s how it might unfold:
1. Dallas Wings: Awa Fam, Center, 6-foot-6, Spain
With a solid backcourt led by Bueckers and Aziaha James, the Wings need a dominant big to anchor their frontcourt. Fam, a 19-year-old phenom, offers versatility, size, and limitless potential. While Betts is a strong contender, Fam’s ability to adapt to the modern game makes her a cornerstone for Dallas’s future.
2. Minnesota Lynx: Lauren Betts, Center, 6-foot-7, UCLA
Despite the shift away from traditional bigs, Betts’s footwork, rim protection, and surprising mobility make her a valuable asset. Under Cheryl Reeve’s coaching, she could reach new heights and prove that old-school post players still have a place in today’s WNBA.
3. Seattle Storm: Azzi Fudd, Guard, 5-foot-11, UConn
The Storm’s roster is stacked with bigs and an elite point guard in Skylar Diggins, but they’re missing a sharpshooter. Enter Azzi Fudd, a career 42% three-point shooter who’s hitting 55.1% this season. Her improved defense adds another layer to her game, making her a perfect fit for Seattle.
4. Washington Mystics: Olivia Miles, Guard, 5-foot-10, TCU
The Mystics are building around Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron, and Miles’s playmaking prowess is exactly what they need. Her ability to control pace and create for herself and others is a game-changer, especially given her chemistry with former teammate Citron.
5. Chicago Sky: Ta’Niya Latson, Guard, 5-foot-8, South Carolina
After leading the nation in scoring at Florida State, Latson is now refining her efficiency and defense at South Carolina. Her ability to create shots and improve her percentages makes her a must-have for the Sky, who desperately need scoring threats.
6. Toronto Tempo: Flau’jae Johnson, Guard, 5-foot-10, LSU
As one of the expansion teams, Toronto needs a franchise player, and Johnson fits the bill perfectly. A three-level scorer with skills on both ends, she also brings a personal brand that can help build a fanbase from scratch.
7. Portland Fire: Marta Suarez, Guard/Forward, 6-foot-3, TCU
Suarez has flown under the radar, but her versatility and talent are undeniable. Averaging 19.6 points per game at TCU, she can score in the paint, shoot from range, and break down defenders—a perfect foundation for Portland’s new roster.
8. Golden State Valkyries: Serah Williams, Forward, 6-foot-4, UConn
The Valkyries need size, and Williams delivers with her post presence, rebounding, and rim protection. Her experience at Wisconsin and UConn has prepared her to thrive in the WNBA’s structured systems.
9. Washington Mystics: Gianna Kneepkens, Guard, 6-foot, UCLA
Kneepkens is a polished all-around player, excelling in three-point shooting (52.2%) and free-throw shooting (90%). She’s the kind of versatile talent that fits seamlessly into the Mystics’ young core.
10. Indiana Fever: Cotie McMahon, Guard/Forward, 6-foot, Ole Miss
McMahon’s strength and ability to create contact make her a standout in this draft. The Fever need a gritty guard who can get to the rim and make tough shots, and McMahon fits that role perfectly.
11. Washington Mystics: Gabriela Jaquez, Guard, 6-foot, UCLA
Jaquez has been the heart of UCLA’s squad, and her all-around game—averaging career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals—makes her a valuable addition to the Mystics’ rebuilding efforts.
12. Connecticut Sun: Rori Harmon, Guard, 5-foot-6, Texas
Despite her size, Harmon’s scoring, defending, and playmaking abilities make her a steal for the Sun. Her performance in the Players Era Championship proved she can compete with the best, even against bigger guards.
13. Atlanta Dream: Yarden Garzon, Guard, 6-foot-3, Maryland
Garzon’s shooting ability (42% from three) and underrated passing skills make her a great fit for the Dream. Her size and strength add another dimension to her game, making her a promising WNBA prospect.
14. Seattle Storm: Nell Angloma, Guard, 6-foot-1, France
French talent is making waves in the WNBA, and Angloma is next in line. Her versatility, length, and ability to score and rebound make her a potential star for the Storm.
15. Connecticut Sun: Madina Okot, Center, 6-foot-6, South Carolina
Okot is raw but has immense potential. With only five years of basketball experience, her size, strength, and upside make her a smart investment for the rebuilding Sun.
Controversial Question for You: With the WNBA evolving, do traditional bigs like Betts still have a place in the league, or is the future all about versatile, modern post players like Fam? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
