College basketball is creating havoc for the WNBA franchises with the huge talent available for the WNBA draft. Early favorite for the top pick, Lauren Betts, dropped to fourth position, as many other young stars are also pushing for the top pick positions. Among those names, one player who could be moving upwards in the draft pick is Gianna Kneepkens.
With many top prospects shining for their respective teams, the race for the top pick is intensifying. Kneepkens’ chances of making the cut seem a bit difficult; she could still land in the first round, even among the top 10 picks.
Gianna Kneepkens Could Be Fit For Expansion Teams
The UCLA Bruins lost just one game in the season as the team showed its capability and talent on the floor. With one of the deepest rosters in the season, UCLA is poised to shatter the WNBA draft record with six Bruins projected in the 2026 class.
As for the guard’s position, Gianna Kneepkens is one of the top names, along with Kiki Rice, making waves in the league. According to projections, the youngster could be at number seven in the draft. This will allow either of the expansion teams to select her. The selection in the expansion team could be an excellent opportunity for the star to have a great learning curve in the league, alongside experienced players selected via the expansion draft.
This was a fun game to go back and watch. One thing that’s impressed me about UCLA this season is the other players leading the charge. Gianna Kneepkens perimeter scoring has been huge for them this season and it showed against Ohio State pic.twitter.com/VXqQjhnG3O
— Nick Andre (@NickAndreATR) December 31, 2025
A well-rounded player has great efficiency, as evidenced by her shooting over 40% from three-point range in her fourth season. In addition to it, she can rebound, defend well, and be a playmaker for her teammates. Moreover, she would be able to contribute right away.
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The UCLA is currently banking on her talent and gameplay to push for the title in the finale season of their multiple superstars.
Gianna Kneepkens Among Top UCLA Stars For WNBA Draft Pick
Led by Betts, the side reached the finals in the 2024-25 season. However, UConn proved to be a more formidable opponent in the championship game. Looking at a similar challenge, the Bruins’ side made multiple changes on the roster, adding some talent to challenge the top side.
Balance 💆♀️#GoBruins pic.twitter.com/bMympx0U5L
— UCLA Women's Basketball (@UCLAWBB) December 30, 2025
This allowed the side to navigate through Betts’ offensive struggles in the season. Also, with players like Charlisse Leger-Walker, Gabriela Jaquez, and Angela Dugalić contributing heavily, UCLA could be the favorites to make a deeper run in the NCAA tournament again.