Full Breakdown
Las Vegas Aces Enhance Roster with New Draft Picks
4/14/2026, 1:53:36 PM
Aces' Strategic Draft Choices
The Las Vegas Aces, despite lacking a first-round pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, made significant moves to strengthen their roster by selecting two versatile players in the second and third rounds. General Manager Nikki Fargas emphasized the team's focus on adapting to the evolving landscape of the WNBA and the positionless style favored by Head Coach Becky Hammon.
With the 29th overall pick, the Aces selected 6-foot-4 forward Janiah Barker from Tennessee. Barker, who previously played at UCLA and was named the 2025 Big Ten Sixth Player of the Year, averaged 11.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game during her collegiate career, shooting 46.8 percent from the field. Fargas highlighted Barker's versatility, noting her ability to score from the perimeter and contribute defensively. “Janiah Barker is a pro’s pro... she can play inside, very versatile,” Fargas stated, indicating that Barker would complement the team's interior game while enhancing their outside shooting.
The Aces also drafted Kentucky forward Jordan Obi with the 44th pick. Obi, who transferred to Kentucky after three years at Penn, averaged 12.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, shooting 44.5 percent from the field. Fargas praised Obi's work ethic, describing her as a “high-motor player” who brings energy and hustle to the team.
Competitive Training Camp Ahead
As the Aces prepare for training camp, which opens on April 19, Fargas noted that the competition for roster spots will be intense. “We’re bringing in some toughness to add to the toughness that we already have,” she remarked, indicating that the new rookies will need to prove themselves to secure a place on the team.
The recent changes in the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement provide rookies with a better opportunity to make the roster. Teams are now required to carry 12 players, and two additional spots for development players have been added, which do not count against the salary cap. Fargas expressed optimism about these developments, stating, “I think this is an opportunity to look at some of the young talent and give them a chance.”
Financial Implications for Rookies
If Barker and Obi secure a spot on the Aces' roster, they will benefit from the highest salaries in the league's history. The average first-year salary for first-round picks rose from approximately $75,000 last year to $386,000 this year, reflecting the league's commitment to supporting emerging talent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Janiah Barker is a pro’s pro. She’s a player that can do multiple things. When you look at her ability to score from the three, she’s a physical player. She can play inside, very versatile. I like that,” — Nikki Fargas, General Manager
- “We’re bringing in some toughness to add to the toughness that we already have,” — Nikki Fargas, General Manager
- “I think this is an opportunity to look at some of the young talent and give them a chance,” — Nikki Fargas, General Manager
The Aces' strategic draft choices and the upcoming competitive training camp signal a promising season ahead as they aim to build on their successes in the WNBA.
