The WNBPA just rejected the $1.1 million max-salary proposal from the WNBA. With the deadline approaching soon, it looks like the threat of a possible lockout is darker than ever.
However, despite all the dark clouds of uncertainty, the preparations for the next season are ongoing at the moment. And the biggest attraction at the moment will be the November 23, 2026, Draft Lottery.
With the likes of UCLA landing three players in the top eight, the draft is buzzing with talent this time. However, as the teams get ready to latch onto the best names, here’s a preview of the ideal No. 1 pick for all the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery Teams.
Lauren Betts (Dallas Wings)
The Dallas Wings will surely look to put behind them their horrible runs in the past seasons. And as they look forward to some better days ahead, the Wings will be trying to address their lack of rim protection and consistency in the defensive backline.
And who better than Betts to address all their woes at once? If the Wings are lucky enough to land themselves yet another no.1 pick, the 6ft 7in NCAA star will be the perfect fit. Her shot-blocking abilities and traditional style of playing will give the likes of Paige Bueckers more flexibility to attack upfront.
Azzi Fudd (Seattle Storm)
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The Seattle Storm has opted for an aggressive rebuilding this year. Appointing Sonia Raman as their coach, the Storm will be looking to come hard next season. And one of their biggest strengths has been some elite shooting up front, coupled with a dynamic scorer on the wings. And looking at the combination, the name of Azzi Fudd is the first to cross one’s mind.
Coached by Geno Auriemma, Fudd has been one of the best shooters in the NCAA realm at the moment. Fudd has a unique knack for scoring three-pointers while off the movement as well as off the dribble. And while her injury-prone nature will certainly pop up as a factor, it looks like Fudd will be the best choice for the Storm.
Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx)
The Minnesota Lynx, under the leadership of Napheesa Collier, has looked like an almost perfect team. Unfortunately, they lacked a quality point guard that might have been responsible for their shocking downfall in the playoffs this year.
Now, it is here where Olivia Miles comes in as a perfect fit. Miles’ ability makes her the perfect point guard, who is capable of running a modern-day WNBA offense. Playing at the NCAA level, Miles is being hailed as one of the most gifted passers in modern times. And thus, if she can continue with her merry run, the Lynx will become one of the sides to beat.
Ta’Niya Latson (Washington Mystics)
The Washington Mystics are finding it a bit tough to adjust after the retirement of Elena Delie Donne. However, despite the setback, the team is looking to make a quick turnaround and knock on the doors of the championship. And in their quest, what the Mystics lack significantly is the presence of a dynamic three-level scorer.
And this is exactly why Ta’Niya Latson fits the bill perfectly. Playing for the South Carolina Gamecocks, Latson is one of the mainstays of Dawn Staley’s team. Latson has a unique ability to attack from anywhere on the floor. And despite not having a huge build, Latson can pull off some creative finishes at the rim. Thus, as the Mystics look to bolster their offense, the Gamecocks’ star will definitely be a stellar upgrade.
Flau’Jae Johnson (Chicago Sky)
The Chicago Sky had one of the worst back-to-back seasons. Despite the towering presence of Angel Reese, the Sky has looked lacklustre. Thus, with no other options left, the front office has decided to make some radical changes to the side.
And in order to do that, the Sky would need someone with great athleticism, some perimeter defense, and a knack for additional scoring. Luckily for the Sky, Johnson is someone who has all these abilities. The LSU star is comfortable playing at multiple positions. While she can play at the wings, Johnson can also transition into a guard with her stellar physical play. This, in turn, will surely help the likes of Angel Reese and co. play their natural game freely.
Thus, with all things said and done, it now remains to be seen which team these top prospects land on.