Full Breakdown
UCLA Women’s Basketball Makes History at the 2026 WNBA Draft
4/17/2026, 7:41:27 AM
Historic Draft Achievements
The 2026 WNBA Draft marked a historic moment for UCLA women’s basketball, as the Bruins became the first team to have six players selected, including five in the first round. This unprecedented achievement follows their recent victory in the NCAA championship, where they finished the season with a remarkable 37-1 record, defeating South Carolina in the title game. The drafted players include Lauren Betts (No. 4, Washington Mystics), Gabriela Jaquez (No. 5, Chicago Sky), Kiki Rice (No. 6, Toronto Tempo), Angela Dugalic (No. 9, Washington Mystics), Gianna Kneepkens (No. 15, Connecticut Sun), and Charlisse Leger-Walker (No. 18, Connecticut Sun).
Key Players and Their Draft Positions
- Lauren Betts: Selected fourth overall by the Washington Mystics, Betts expressed pride in her teammates, noting their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
- Gabriela Jaquez: Picked fifth by the Chicago Sky, Jaquez highlighted the importance of teamwork over individual accolades during their championship run.
- Kiki Rice: The Toronto Tempo's first-ever draft pick at sixth overall, Rice emphasized the balance between personal goals and team success.
- Angela Dugalic: Joined Betts at the Mystics as the ninth overall pick, contributing to the team's strong representation in the draft.
- Gianna Kneepkens: Selected 15th by the Connecticut Sun, Kneepkens reflected on the significance of sharing this moment with her teammates.
- Charlisse Leger-Walker: The first New Zealand woman drafted into the WNBA, Leger-Walker was picked 18th overall, aiming to inspire others from her home country.
Official Statements & Responses
UCLA head coach Cori Close acknowledged the significance of the draft results, stating, “It helps us in recruiting... to see it come to fruition the way it has is obviously really gratifying.” She emphasized the importance of teamwork and selflessness, which contributed to their success both as a team and individually. Close also noted that this achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of her players.
Criticism & Opposition
While the draft was largely celebrated, some critiques emerged regarding the selection process. Fans expressed that Lauren Betts, despite being a top pick, should have been selected first overall, indicating a belief that her talent warranted higher recognition.
What's Next for the Bruins
As the 2026 WNBA season approaches, the newly drafted Bruins will join their respective teams for training camps. Notably, they will face each other in early June, with Jaquez's Chicago Sky playing against Betts and Dugalic's Mystics, and Kneepkens and Leger-Walker’s Sun facing Rice's Tempo. This will provide an early opportunity for the former teammates to compete against one another in the professional arena.
The 2026 WNBA Draft not only showcased the talent of UCLA's women's basketball program but also set a new benchmark in the league's history, highlighting the program's growth and the potential for future success.
