The future of the WNBA is about to be written. With the 2026 college season in the books, the league's next generation of superstars is preparing for their professional leap at the 2026 WNBA Draft. This year's event promises heightened drama, as there is no consensus top pick, setting the stage for a thrilling night at The Shed at Hudson Yards in New York City.

Mark your calendars: The main draft broadcast begins at 7 p.m. Eastern on Monday, April 13, 2026, live on ESPN. For fans who want the full experience, the "WNBA Draft Orange Carpet Special" kicks off the festivities on ESPN2 at 5:30 p.m., featuring the arrivals of the 15 invited prospects.

The spotlight shines on a talented group vying for the top spot. UCLA's dominant national championship center, Lauren Betts, is a leading contender. She's joined by elite guards like UConn's Azzi Fudd and TCU's Olivia Miles, as well as international standout Awa Fam. The Dallas Wings hold the coveted first overall selection for the second consecutive year, following their 2025 pick of UConn's Paige Bueckers.

According to the latest projections, Azzi Fudd, who averaged 17.3 points per game for a Final Four UConn squad, is a popular mock draft choice to go No. 1. This would make her the second straight Husky guard to lead the draft class. The full first-round order is set, with teams like the Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, and Washington Mystics all holding early picks to reshape their rosters.

As these phenomenal athletes step onto the professional stage, they carry the momentum of a rapidly growing league. Their journeys, beginning on draft night, will inspire the next wave of players and fans, showcasing the power, skill, and determination that define the modern game.