The WNBA draft is upon us, with the league’s newest rookies set to discover their destinations. The draft begins Monday night in New York.
Fudd Back on Top
UConn shooting guard Azzi Fudd has returned as the projected No. 1 pick, with the Dallas Wings expected to select her. The Wings have been active during free agency. Veteran guard Arike Ogunbowale is returning. 2025 Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers is also returning. Alanna Smith and Jessica Shepard, formerly of the Minnesota Lynx, have been added as veteran free agents.
Fudd’s 3-point shooting and defensive growth are seen as a good fit for the Wings. Olivia Miles of TCU, previously projected as the No. 1 pick, is still expected to be selected early.
Fudd was the Most Outstanding Player at the 2025 Final Four. She shot 42.2% from 3-point range in her college career. Her quick release and footwork are expected to be important assets at the next level.
UCLA’s Potential Record
UCLA could become the first team to have six players drafted. They are the current national champions.
Other Prospects to Watch
Olivia Miles averaged 19.6 points this season. TCU went 32-6 and won the Big 12 regular-season title. Miles had six triple-doubles this season, including one in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Her court vision is excellent. She made 73 3-pointers this season at TCU and also last season at Notre Dame. Miles needs to improve her defence, but she’s already offensively dynamic.
Fam is averaging 9.2 points and 5.0 rebounds for Valencia in Spain. She is 19. The Storm lost veteran forward Nneka Ogwumike to Los Angeles in free agency. They probably could benefit from picking up another young post player. UCLA’s Lauren Betts might be considered for the Storm.
Betts helped her draft stock during the NCAA tournament, a nice side benefit to winning the national championship. She shot at least 60.
Looking Ahead
The league’s newest rookies are about to find out where they are selected.