UCLA Women’s Basketball Has Five Seniors Poised for the 2026 WNBA Draft
UCLA Women’s Basketball recently won its first-ever NCAA National Championship. Their season was a basketball masterclass; incredible coaching, highlight-reel worthy plays, and great people working hard together to accomplish a shared goal. This year, the Bruins were led by the five seniors in their starting lineup. These seniors single-handedly led the team through their most successful season in history. Now, they are all headed to the WNBA Draft, where they will discover which team desires their talents.
B1G Time Forward to Be a Top-Three Draftee
UCLA star Lauren Betts really made a case for herself as a player this year. She’s always been an impressive athlete, but her growth is what sets her apart. In the championship game, Betts posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. She will be an amazing asset for teams looking to increase their points in the paint. Betts shared the space under the net with Angela Dugalic, a graduate student forward who averaged nine points per game. Dugalic had a career-high scoring season and averaged just over 20 minutes a game. Even with Betts in such a prominent forward role, she was still able to showcase what she can do. Expect to see great things from this duo in the WNBA.
UCLA Senior Guards Taking Their Star Power to the Pro League
Kiki Rice and Gianna Kneepkens carried the team on their backs this season with their crafty offense and shooting abilities. Whenever the team needed a spark, these players delivered. The WNBA definitely has its eyes on Rice and Kneepkens, as they averaged 15 and 12 points per game, respectively. Kiki’s pull-up three-pointer sets her apart as a guard and makes her comparable to greats like Caitlin Clark. Gianna’s field goal percentage makes her a very efficient athlete. Watch where these players end up in the professional league!
An NCAA Cinderella Story
UCLA guard Gabriela Jaquez had a career season this year as a senior. Her efforts truly made a difference for the Bruins during their incredible tournament run. In the championship game, Jaquez racked up 21 points and led all scorers. Her energetic personality really captured the hearts of viewers during the tournament. Gabriela’s brother, Jaime Jaquez, plays for the Miami Heat in the NBA. She comes from a basketball family that knows how to support each other. Jaquez has the potential to be a first-round pick in the WNBA Draft, her recent performances boosting her odds. What a year for Gabriela Jaquez, and it keeps getting better for her.
