Anne Hathaway's Stylish Message Lights Up the 2026 WNBA Draft

Hollywood Meets the Court

The 2026 WNBA Draft was not just a pivotal night for basketball talent; it became a vibrant celebration bringing together the glittering world of Hollywood and the fierce realm of women's basketball. Anne Hathaway graced the occasion with a touching video message that resonated both with the players and the fashion world, echoing the spirit of her iconic role in The Devil Wears Prada.

Anne Hathaway's Empowering Message

As the excitement unfolded, ESPN aired an enticing video where Hathaway, star of the impending sequel, The Devil Wears Prada 2, showered praise on the draftees. "On behalf of the entire cast of 'The Devil Wears Prada 2,' we'd like to say congratulations on all you have accomplished! We will continue to watch you shine from the sidelines as you enter the next phase of your careers," she expressed.

"And we're loving the fabulous fashion looks you are serving. So, keep going, keep inspiring, both on and off the court, and as Miranda Priestly would say, 'That's all.'"

Hathaway's words were a poignant reminder of the remarkable gains women athletes have made in recent years, both on and off the court. Her heartfelt endorsement highlighted how crucial it is for female athletes to receive recognition, not just for their physical skills but also for their contributions to culture and society.

Draftees React: A Moment of Joy

The reaction from draftees was heartwarming, particularly among UCLA stars and reigning national champions Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice. Betts' emotional response, an adorable "Aw," spoke volumes about the impact Hathaway's message had in bridging the gap between entertainment and sports, showing that such moments are not merely promotional— they inspire directly.

A Night of Firsts and Record-Breaking Picks

The draft night emerged as a historical moment for UCLA, which became only the second university in WNBA history to have three players drafted in succession. It was a testament to their dominance, with the Washington Mystics selecting Lauren Betts with the fourth pick, followed closely by Gabriela Jaquez to the Chicago Sky and Olivia Miles to the expansion team Toronto Tempo.

• 1st Pick: Azzi Fudd, UConn - Dallas Wings
• 2nd Pick: Olivia Miles, Notre Dame - Minnesota Lynx
• 3rd Pick: Awa Fam Thiam, Spain - Seattle Storm
• 4th Pick: Lauren Betts, UCLA - Washington Mystics
• 5th Pick: Gabriela Jaquez, UCLA - Chicago Sky
• 6th Pick: Kiki Rice, UCLA - Toronto Tempo

Looking Ahead: The Devil Wears Prada 2

Hathaway's moving message wasn't just a moment of connection; it was a savvy marketing move for the upcoming film slated to hit theaters on May 1, 2026. Almost two decades after the original film captivated audiences worldwide, fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Hathaway as Andrea Sachs, alongside Meryl Streep reprising her iconic role as Miranda Priestly. It's not just about fashion; it's about celebrating ambition and the hard work that fuels dreams.

Final Thoughts on the Intersection of Sports and Culture

The 2026 WNBA Draft was a reflection of how intertwined sports and culture have become. Hathaway's engagement reaffirms the importance of visibility for women athletes and the need for continued support—both financially and socially—for women in all arenas. As we move forward, let's keep amplifying voices that inspire and empower, whether they're on the court or the silver screen.

Check out the latest 2026 WNBA Draft action for updates and highlights, and brace yourself for the anticipated The Devil Wears Prada 2, which promises to blend charm, tenacity, and inspiration.