The 2026 WNBA Draft has officially concluded, marking the longest and potentially most lucrative draft in league history. With expanded rosters offering more opportunities than ever, the 45 players selected are entering a new era for the WNBA, one defined by greater financial rewards and deeper team rosters. Following a whirlwind free agency period, let's break down the clear winners and losers from a historic night.

UCLA's senior class emerged as the undisputed champions of the draft. Just over a week after cutting down the nets for a national championship, the Bruins saw a record-setting six players selected, including an unprecedented five in the first round alone. This monumental haul is a testament to the powerhouse program built by coach Cori Close. Notably, transfers like Gianna Kneepkens and Charlisse Leger-Walker, who spent just one season in Westwood, were also drafted, proving UCLA is a premier destination for elite talent looking to reach the next level.

However, the celebration was slightly marred by the notable absence of Leger-Walker from the draft's green room. Given that she was selected just three picks after her invited teammate Kneepkens, the snub felt like a missed opportunity to fully honor the collective spirit that defined UCLA's magical season. The WNBA had a chance to celebrate the very teamwork that made the Bruins champions but fell short.

At the top of the draft, all eyes were on Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and the Indiana Fever, who held the coveted first overall pick. The selection came down to a fierce debate between two generational talents: UConn's sharpshooting guard Azzi Fudd and USC's dominant forward JuJu Watkins. For Engelbert and the league, having multiple players worthy of the top spot is the best kind of problem, generating immense buzz and highlighting the incredible depth of talent entering the professional ranks.