** Key WNBA Draft Prospects to Follow in 2026 NCAA Tournament

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The 2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament has officially begun, showcasing a host of talent that will soon make its mark in the professional realm. With the championship set to be decided in Phoenix on April 5, fans and scouts alike are eagerly tuning in to see which players will shine on the national stage.

As the tournament unfolds, the spotlight turns to the top teams, particularly the reigning champions, UConn. The Huskies, who have dominated all season, are not only seeking to defend their title but also aiming for an impeccable season record. However, they face formidable competition from other top seeds including UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina, all of whom are determined to disrupt UConn’s quest for back-to-back championships.

Looking ahead, the 2026 WNBA Draft will take place shortly after the tournament, on April 13 in New York City. Unlike previous years, this draft class lacks a clear consensus for the top pick. According to CBS Sports, Spanish center Awa Fam and UConn’s standout guard Azzi Fudd are leading the conversation for the number one selection, although UCLA’s Lauren Betts is also in the mix and cannot be overlooked.

While the NCAA Tournament is not the sole determinant of draft decisions, it provides a crucial opportunity for prospects to elevate their stock. Players who excel during this high-pressure competition can significantly influence their draft positions. Scouts will be closely monitoring performances, as the intensity of tournament play often brings out the best in athletes.

Here are 35 WNBA draft prospects worth keeping an eye on throughout the 2026 Women’s NCAA Tournament, categorized by region:

**East Region Prospects:**
1. Azzi Fudd (UConn) – A dynamic guard with scoring prowess and leadership.
2. Awa Fam (Spain) – A versatile center known for her defensive skills and rebounding.

**West Region Prospects:**
3. Lauren Betts (UCLA) – A formidable presence in the paint, Betts is an efficient scorer and rebounder.
4. Kiki Rice (UCLA) – This guard is recognized for her playmaking abilities and scoring touch.

**South Region Prospects:**
5. Aliyah Boston (South Carolina) – A tenacious forward with a well-rounded game and experience in high-stakes situations.
6. Rhyne Howard (Kentucky) – A sharpshooter who can change the game with her scoring ability.

**Midwest Region Prospects:**
7. Caitlin Clark (Iowa) – Perhaps the most electrifying player in college basketball, Clark’s ability to score and assist makes her a must-watch.
8. Haley Jones (Stanford) – A versatile player known for her high basketball IQ and ability to impact the game in various ways.

These athletes represent just a fraction of the talent poised to enter the professional ranks. As reported by CBS Sports, the coming weeks will be critical as players battle not only for victory but also for their futures in the WNBA. With so much at stake, fans should prepare for an exciting tournament filled with potential future stars.

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