The Dallas Wings are suddenly the most powerful franchise in the WNBA’s immediate future. After much anticipation, the Wings finally secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery for the second consecutive year.
What many couldn’t immediately see has given them unprecedented leverage as they build around their superstar, Paige Bueckers.
Furthermore, the entire setup has led the franchise general manager, Curt Miller, to liken the situation to Caitlin Clark’s draft year.
Dallas Wings GM Curt Miller Compares 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery Situation With Caitlin Clark Remarks
Winning the lottery twice in a row, first for Bueckers, now for the 2026 class, is historic, but Miller was quick to point out the crucial difference between his prizes.
However, Miller did not mince words while putting out his honest plan, given the draft lotter advantage. According to him, while Clark and Pueckers’ draft was different, this draft might see a trade.
“The Cailtin Clark draft, there was not going to be a trade, Paige was not going to be traded, but it will be interesting and it makes our job fun to listen to those phone calls that come in for the #1 pick. And we’ll do what’s best for our franchise,” he said.
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"The Cailtin Clark draft, there was not going to be a trade, Paige was not going to be traded, but it will be interesting and it makes our job fun to listen to those phone calls that come in for the #1 pick. And we'll do what's best for our franchise." https://t.co/ST6FMg0cjQ
The 2026 pick, however, would be an entirely different prospect. Miller confirmed he has already received more calls about potential trades for this upcoming No. 1 pick than he did in the entire lead-up to the 2025 Draft.
Additionally, this optionality gives the Wings maximum power as they navigate the future. They can select either Azzi Fudd or Lauren Betts, or leverage the pick in a major trade for an established veteran. It would be a thing to watch for.
Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Projected To Land Madina Okot In 2026 WNBA Draft
While the Wings look for maximum trade value, the Indiana Fever could focus on building complementary pieces around their superstar duo of Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston.
Holding the No. 10 pick, ESPN insider Michael Voepel released a mock draft that projected the Fever to select South Carolina center Madina Okot.
Okot, a 6-foot-6 traditional center from Kenya, is a proven defensive talent. She played for South Carolina under Dawn Staley, where she significantly improved her rebounding and rim protection.