Full Breakdown
UCLA Sets Record with Five First-Round Picks in 2026 WNBA Draft
4/14/2026, 6:49:37 AM
Historic Draft Night for UCLA
The 2026 WNBA Draft marked a historic moment for the UCLA women's basketball program, as five players from the championship-winning team were selected in the first round, setting a new record for the most first-round picks from a single school. This achievement comes just over a week after UCLA claimed its first NCAA championship, defeating South Carolina in the title game. The Bruins' standout players included Lauren Betts, Gabriela Jaquez, Kiki Rice, Angela Dugalic, and Gianna Kneepkens, who were all celebrated during the draft held in New York City.
Key Selections and Performance
Lauren Betts was the first Bruin selected, going fourth overall to the Washington Mystics. She averaged 17.1 points and 8.8 rebounds during her senior season, earning accolades such as the Final Four Most Outstanding Player. Gabriela Jaquez followed closely, being picked fifth by the Chicago Sky, while Kiki Rice was selected sixth by the expansion team Toronto Tempo. Angela Dugalic was taken ninth by the Mystics, reuniting her with Betts, and Gianna Kneepkens rounded out the first-round selections at 15th overall by the Connecticut Sun.
UCLA's five first-round picks surpassed the previous record of four, held by UConn since 2002. This achievement is significant not only for the program's legacy but also for its recruiting potential, as noted by UCLA head coach Cori Close, who expressed pride in her players' development and teamwork throughout the season.
Impact on the WNBA
The draft also featured notable selections beyond UCLA. Azzi Fudd was chosen first overall by the Dallas Wings, followed by Olivia Miles at second to the Minnesota Lynx, and Awa Fam at third to the Seattle Storm. The expansion teams, Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, made their inaugural picks, with the Tempo selecting Rice and the Fire choosing Iyana Martin at seventh overall.
The 2026 draft was particularly noteworthy due to the newly ratified collective bargaining agreement, which significantly increased rookie salaries. The top pick, Fudd, will earn $500,000 in her first year, a substantial increase compared to previous seasons.
Criticism and Future Outlook
While the draft was a celebration for many, some analysts questioned the strategic choices made by teams, particularly regarding their needs in the roster. The Minnesota Lynx's selection of Miles, despite having a strong guard lineup, raised eyebrows, as did the Washington Mystics' focus on forwards when guard depth was a pressing concern.
As the WNBA prepares for its 30th season, the influx of talent from this draft, especially from UCLA, is expected to elevate the league's competitive landscape. The success of these players in the professional arena will be closely monitored, as they transition from college champions to professional athletes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's really hard to sum up because there's so much,” said Gabriela Jaquez, reflecting on the team's achievements. “I think that we’re just on a high right now.”
- “These are like my sisters, and getting to watch your family do something like that is amazing,” stated Betts about her teammates' success.
The 2026 WNBA Draft not only showcased the talent emerging from UCLA but also set a new standard for future drafts, highlighting the growing prominence of women's basketball.
