The college basketball season starts off with some expected results as all eyes turn on top WNBA draft prospects. On the opening night, many college stars were on the floor with UCLA’s Lauren Betts, Oklahoma’s Aliyah Chavez and South Carolina’s Ta’Niya Latson making the headlines.
While all top teams recorded wins in their respective games, the UCLA center led the stars in scoring and had a usual impactful game.
Lauren Betts Shines In Season Opener
The college basketball season restarts with a bang. Following the transfer portal and warm-up games, it’s time to get serious, as everyone will be looking to dethrone the UConn Huskies as NCAA champions. One of the contenders, UCLA, was up against San Diego State, giving the 6-foot-7 star a chance to set the bar for the season.
But instead of putting a high-volume stat line, Betts matched her last season’s scoring average with 21 points in 26 minutes. Notably, she increased her shooting percentage from 64% to 75% despite facing double teams on most occasions. Her movements were better as she showed powerful game around the rim.
Lauren Betts tonight 🔥
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) November 4, 2025
• 21 points
• 4 rebounds
• 9/12 FG
• 26 minutes playedpic.twitter.com/Kyj81iS5Yl
Even though a win in the opening game was much expected, considering their record (25-6) against the opposition, fans will not have to wait longer as UCLA hosts UC Santa Barbara next in the Bruins’ home opener on Thursday.
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Though it’s just the start of the season, every player showed their capability, allowing the teams to start ‘drawing’ their draft boards. It might not be surprising to see the UCL star on many teams’ lists.
WNBA Teams Keeping Tabs On Lauren Betts
The UCLA star isn’t only the top prospect in the 2026 WNBA draft, but nearly every team is looking to select her for the versatility she brings to the hardwood. While the opening night performance was good, this player is capable of even bigger numbers, particularly on the defensive end.
Even though she played for just 26 minutes, she had only four rebounds and no blocks, which is surprising for the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. She averaged nearly 10 rebounds and three blocks per game in the 2024-25 season and could easily eclipse those numbers.
As for her possible destination in the WNBA, ESPN’s Michael Voepel has paired Paige Bueckers with her long-time rival, Lauren Betts, at the Wings. The other lottery draft hopefuls are the Connecticut Sun and the Chicago Sky.