It’s never too early to talk draft — especially when the WNBA is hotter than ever. With the 2024 class already making waves and 2025 shaping up to be a stacked draft, eyes are now shifting to the 2026 WNBA Draft, where a new generation of elite talent is quietly preparing to take over.

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Whether you’re a GM in the making, a die-hard fan, or just curious about the future stars of women’s basketball, this early Big Board breaks down the names you need to know heading into the 2025–26 college season.

 JuJu Watkins – G/F, USC

Why she’s No. 1: JuJu Watkins is that girl. A pure scorer with a killer first step, deep range, and the mentality of a superstar. She had one of the best freshman seasons in recent memory and is only getting better. She’s drawing comparisons to legends like Maya Moore and even a young Diana Taurasi.

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Projection: Franchise cornerstone. If she stays healthy and keeps developing her playmaking, she’s the clear-cut No. 1 pick.

 Hannah Hidalgo – PG, Notre Dame

Why she’s rising: Fast, feisty, and fearless. Hidalgo is a defensive menace and lightning in transition. She led the NCAA in steals as a freshman and runs the floor like a veteran. Her energy is infectious and her leadership is next-level.

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Projection: A floor general who can change the tempo of a game — think Natasha Cloud with more offense.

Mikaylah Williams – G, LSU

Why she’s elite: Big guard energy. Smooth handle, reliable jumper, and a strong frame that allows her to bully smaller defenders. She’s also a willing passer and a clutch shot-maker.

Projection: A two-way weapon who could easily sneak into the top 2 with a strong junior campaign.

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 Jadyn Donovan – F, Duke

Why she’s intriguing: Athleticism off the charts. Donovan is a slashing wing with serious defensive upside. If her shot improves, she could be a steal at the top of the draft.

Projection: Think Kahleah Copper vibes — a dynamic, tough-nosed competitor who gets it done on both ends.

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Kiki Rice – PG, UCLA

Why she’s a sleeper: Once a top-ranked recruit, Rice has quietly grown into a mature and balanced floor leader. Great vision, excellent footwork, and a high basketball IQ make her an underrated gem in this class.

Projection: WNBA-ready in terms of game control and decision-making.

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Honorable Mentions:

Cotie McMahon (Ohio State) – Physical, aggressive wing with serious upside.

Chance Gray (Oregon) – A dynamic combo guard with offensive versatility.

Ayanna Patterson (UConn) – Powerful post presence still refining her game.

Londynn Jones (UCLA) – Undersized but electric; spark plug scorer off the bench.

Alyssa Latham (Syracuse) – Do-it-all forward flying under the radar.

 

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What to Watch This Season

Will JuJu Watkins elevate her teammates and solidify her spot as the #1 pick?

Can Hidalgo continue to dominate on both ends and lead Notre Dame to a deep tournament run?

Who will break out unexpectedly and rise up the board à la Caitlin Clark?

 

 

Final Thoughts

The 2026 WNBA Draft may be two seasons away, but the foundation is already being laid. With a mix of superstar scorers, elite defenders, and high-IQ playmakers, this class could reshape multiple franchises — especially those rebuilding now for the future.

One thing’s for sure: the WNBA’s next era of greatness is already on its way.