2026 WNBA Draft: A New Era Begins for Women's Basketball

The 2026 WNBA Draft: A Crucial Milestone

For fans of women's hoops, the 2026 WNBA Draft is not just an event—it's a moment that signifies the changing landscape of women's basketball. As players from across the country prepare to showcase their skills, we are reminded of the passion and dedication that fuel this remarkable league.

This draft, taking place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET in The Shed at Hudson Yards, New York, is set to be pivotal for teams as they look to secure their futures. The Dallas Wings, with the coveted No. 1 draft pick, find themselves at the center of the conversation, much like they were last year with Paige Bueckers. However, this year, the choice isn't straightforward. With standout talents on the board, excitement mounts.

The Talent on Display

The buzz surrounding this draft is palpable. Players like Lauren Betts, fresh off leading UCLA to an astonishing NCAA championship, and heavy hitters such as Olivia Miles, Azzi Fudd, Awa Fam, Kiki Rice, and Flau'Jae Johnson are among those generating intrigue as potential top picks.

It's a defining moment for each of these athletes, as they will soon find out where they will ply their trade at the professional level. More than just statistics and accolades, these young women bring stories and dreams that resonate deeply with fans and future generations.

Broadcast Details

Fans won't want to miss a minute of this thrilling evening. The 2026 WNBA Draft will be broadcast live on ESPN. The event promises to not only feature the draft picks but also an exclusive "Orange Carpet" ceremony. Leading up to the draft, the insiders will provide analysis during a special edition of WNBA Countdown on ESPN.

Cord-cutters can stream the action through the ESPN app—making it easier than ever to get involved with the excitement of this event!

2026 WNBA Draft Order

First Round

• 1. Dallas Wings
• 2. Minnesota Lynx
• 3. Seattle Storm
• 4. Washington Mystics
• 5. Chicago Sky
• 6. Toronto Tempo
• 7. Portland Fire
• 8. Golden State Valkyries
• 9. Washington Mystics
• 10. Indiana Fever
• 11. Washington Mystics
• 12. Connecticut Sun
• 13. Atlanta Dream
• 14. Seattle Storm
• 15. Connecticut Sun

Second Round

• 1. Seattle Storm
• 2. Portland Fire
• 3. Connecticut Sun
• 4. Washington Mystics
• 5. Los Angeles Sparks
• 6. Chicago Sky
• 7. Toronto Tempo
• 8. Golden State Valkyries
• 9. Los Angeles Sparks
• 10. Indiana Fever
• 11. Toronto Tempo
• 12. Phoenix Mercury
• 13. Atlanta Dream
• 14. Las Vegas Aces
• 15. Washington Mystics

Third Round

• 1. Dallas Wings
• 2. Chicago Sky
• 3. Connecticut Sun
• 4. Washington Mystics
• 5. Los Angeles Sparks
• 6. Toronto Tempo
• 7. Portland Fire
• 8. Golden State Valkyries
• 9. Seattle Storm
• 10. Indiana Fever
• 11. New York Liberty
• 12. Phoenix Mercury
• 13. Atlanta Dream
• 14. Las Vegas Aces
• 15. Minnesota Lynx

Conclusion

This draft marks the beginning of a new chapter in WNBA history. As franchises embrace fresh talent, the competition promises to be even fiercer in the upcoming season. With the addition of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, the league is poised to expand its reach and impact.

For every fan tuning in, this isn't just a night of selection—it's a celebration of talent, hard work, and the continuation of a legacy that champions women's sports!