After a record-breaking 2025 season, the WNBA is now looking to settle on terms with the players’ association. With ongoing discussions heading towards a standoff, the WNBA proposes a 30-day CBA deadline extension to avoid a work stoppage, according to reports. Though there are chances that both parties will agree on the idea, reaching an agreement on demands is of utmost importance.
Amidst this, the WNBA expansion draft and lottery draft may also receive new dates. Still, with the hope of getting to the new season, franchises will be ready with their draft boards, drawn from the rich talent pool. Here are the top five prospects of the current lot.
Top 5 WNBA Prospects Ahead Of The 2026 Draft
The WNBA drafts proved to be a significant paradigm shift for many franchises. A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, and Breanna Stewart are a few examples who elevated the franchises’ games and brought in new fans. The 2026 draft class also has players with similar gravity, and possible top-five picks would be as follows.
5. Flau’jae Johnson
A member of the former NCAA champion LSU team, the young guard is an explosive scorer, a skilled rebounder, and an elite playmaker. With expansion teams and a few WNBA sides looking for a young guard to build around, Johnson provides a perfect solution. Her consistency is remarkable, with a double-digit scoring average in her college career.
4. Ta’Niya Latson
Joining a top college program in South Carolina, in search of a championship, would be the perfect choice for the 5-foot-8 guard. She could not only win the title but also showcase her skills and capabilities at a high level. Another guard who can be a good selection to develop into an All-Star and potential franchise player.
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#Gamecocks defeat #TarHeels, 91-82
— World Exposure Report Women’s Basketball (@WorldExposureWB) October 31, 2025
Newcomer Ta’Niya Latson tied for a team high 19 points, finishing 7-for-12 from the floor and going a perfect 4-for-4 at the free throw line, in addition to a block and a steal.
Joyce Edwards had 12 points and nine rebounds. pic.twitter.com/tpxeoVOVPx
3 Olivia Miles
Even though she opted out of the 2025 WNBA draft, she still holds a high place in the prospects list because of her three years at Notre Dame. The star transferred to TCU, which suits her style of play and allows her to elevate her game and numbers. A top guard from the lot would be an understatement to her abilities.
2 Azzi Fudd
The reigning NCAA champion and key player of the UConn side for the 2025-26 season is one of the top prospects for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her performance in the ongoing season might vary her ranking, but she won’t go out of the top-5 list. Many franchises are already eyeing the top forward, especially the Dallas Wings.
1 Lauren Betts
The UCLA star has been in top form ever since she entered the college program, and now she is the ‘focus player’ for the side to win the championship. Averaging over 20 points with 64% shooting, she proved her offensive abilities. Defensively, she is also an elite star with nearly 10 rebounds and three blocks per game. With her all-around abilities, Betts holds the top spot and will undoubtedly be a ROY candidate too.
While the above-mentioned stars could be top picks depending on the lottery draft, some foreign players like Awa Fam prove 2026 WNBA Draft No. 1 pick potential in EuroLeague action. Sarah Williams and Ashlon Jackson are other top candidates for the possible lottery pick, depending on their performance in the 2025-26 season.