Azzi Fudd Picked No. 1 by Dallas Wings in Historic WNBA Draft
In a historic night for women’s basketball, the 2026 WNBA Draft showcased transformative changes within the league. The event unfolded at The Shed in Hudson Yards, New York, marking a significant moment for the sport following a landmark labor agreement established just weeks prior.
Azzi Fudd Selected No. 1 by the Dallas Wings
The Dallas Wings wielded their power once again, choosing Azzi Fudd, a standout guard from UConn, with the first overall pick. This selection comes with substantial financial implications; Fudd’s contract is set at $500,000 for the upcoming season. This figure is a remarkable increase compared to last year’s top draft pick, Paige Bueckers, whose rookie salary was $78,831.
Record-setting Salaries in the WNBA
The WNBA is currently experiencing a salary boom, with all drafted players guaranteed earnings exceeding last season’s highest-paid players. The financial landscape is shifting, symbolizing a commitment to advancing women’s sports.
- No. 1 Pick: Azzi Fudd, Guard, UConn – $500,000
- No. 2 Pick: Olivia Miles, Guard, TCU – $466,913
- No. 3 Pick: Awa Fam Thiam, Center, Spain – $436,016
Historic Contributions from UCLA
The UCLA Bruins made headlines by contributing five players in the first round of the draft, a WNBA record. This unprecedented achievement showcases the strength of the program, which recently secured its first national title in women’s basketball.
- No. 4: Lauren Betts, Center, Washington Mystics
- No. 5: Gabriela Jaquez, Guard, Chicago Sky
- No. 6: Kiki Rice, Guard, Toronto Tempo (franchise’s first-ever pick)
- No. 9: Angela Dugalić, Forward, Washington Mystics
- No. 15: Gianna Kneepkens, Guard, Connecticut Sun
Additionally, UCLA guard Charliesse Leger-Walker was drafted in the second round, marking the Bruins as the first program in WNBA history to have six players selected in a single draft.
New Franchise Developments
The Portand Fire, the WNBA’s latest franchise, made a notable entry by selecting Iyana Martín Carrión from Spain as their inaugural pick at No. 7. She is among three international players drafted in the first round.
Future of the WNBA
During the event, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the league’s vision for the next 30 years. She stated efforts are underway to globalize the league, potentially involving international preseason games and regular-season matches abroad.
The 30th WNBA season is set to commence on May 8, promising an exciting era for women’s basketball as the league continues to scale new heights.
