The 2026 WNBA Draft delivered a major moment for Notre Dame basketball, as guard Cassandre Prosper heard her name called by the Washington Mystics with the 19th overall pick. This selection cements her place in Fighting Irish history, making her the 24th Notre Dame player ever drafted into the WNBA.

Prosper's decision to forgo her final year of collegiate eligibility and declare for the draft raised some eyebrows after Notre Dame's Elite Eight exit. However, the Mystics' selection validates her choice, transforming a potential "what if" for the Irish into a phenomenal professional opportunity for the talented wing.

Her journey to this point is a testament to rapid development. Arriving at Notre Dame as an early enrollee in December 2022, Prosper saved her best for last. This past season, she started all 36 games and was crowned the ACC's Most Improved Player while securing a spot on the All-ACC Second Team.

Her stat line tells the story of a complete player: averaging 13.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game—all career highs. She was a model of efficiency, shooting 49.2% from the field, and her name was suddenly all over the ACC leaderboards, ranking in the top 20 for field goal percentage, total points, and blocks.

Prosper's season was marked by consistency and explosive potential. She scored in double figures 27 times, notched six double-doubles, and had six games with 20 or more points. Her standout performances earned her USBWA National Player of the Week honors twice, a feat matched only by her teammate Hannah Hidalgo in the ACC this season.

Now, the Montreal native takes her versatile, two-way game to the nation's capital. For the Washington Mystics, adding a 6'3" wing with Proven defensive instincts and a rapidly improving offensive skillset is a savvy move. For fans of hard-nosed, energetic basketball, Cassandre Prosper is a rookie to watch as she begins her pro career.