WNBA free agency transactions are on hold at the moment, as the CBA discussion has hit a roadblock. But the WNBA draft might take place on schedule with the lottery draft winners, Dallas Wings keeping a close eye on various top pick prospects like Lauren Betts, Azzi Fudd, and Awa Fam.
Interestingly, Paige Bueckers’ dominant Unrivaled performances highlight the critical need for her scoring on the Dallas Wings. She thrives when she gets a solid forward support and currently, a player proving capable of fitting that bill is Betts.
Lauren Betts Heating Up For WNBA
From the very start, the reigning defensive player of the year, Betts, was the top projected pick. But her numbers at the start of the season were disappointing, putting her in fourth place mid-way into the season. Even Betts’ offensive game is under scrutiny. But now she regained top spot in the 2026 WNBA Mock draft.
But right now, the player is more impactful than the numbers in the box score. The player attracting a double team is opening up spaces for the wing players on the side. The team also uses the big center as a ‘decoy’ who is constantly under pressure from the opposing team.
Lauren Betts tonight 🔥
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) January 12, 2026
• 18 points
• 10 rebounds
• 5 steals
• 4 blocks
• 8/14 FGpic.twitter.com/1jggj3Glm3
Kiki Rice, Lege-Walker, Gianna Kneepkens, and Gabriela Jaquez benefit from the presence of Betts around the rim, who is also a great rebounder, providing a number of second-chance opportunities to the team. With her overall influence on the floor, the senior star is leading the side in scoring, rebounding, and blocks.
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As for Wings, their 2025 season roster lacked the big player to complement PB’s playmaking and offence. While Buecker herself is a strong defender, adding a shot blocker would immensely improve the Wings’ chances of killing off games early.
While the improvement in her offensive game is evident, there is reason for a sudden change of attitude and style of play, and it lies in her participation in the USA training camp.
Lauren Betts With Special Guidance From Fever Forward
The youngster was one of only two college prospects attending the USA training camp, where she met her idol, Aliyah Boston. The Fever forward also graciously gave her advice on the improvement of one particular aspect of her game that helped the UCLA star.
In a recent interview, Betts said, “She’s telling me ― she’s like, ‘Lauren, I don’t care what happens in the game. If you miss 10 layups, if you’re open to run that midrange, shoot the ball …Trust yourself. So I think to hear it from her, that was really, really cool because she’s obviously an amazing post [player]. She’s had such a great college career.”
UCLA's Lauren Betts reveals 'cool' advice she received from Fever star https://t.co/KldQr2XX6w
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) January 2, 2026
While Boston is looking to win her first championship in the WNBA, Betts will also look to conclude her college season as a national champion.