Ideal 2026 WNBA Draft Pairing for Paige Bueckers: Who Should Wings Choose?
The Dallas Wings have triumphed in the WNBA Draft Lottery for the second consecutive year. Following a challenging 2022 season, where they recorded only 10 wins and 34 losses, the Wings entered the draft lottery with a significant 42% chance of securing the top pick. This victory presents an opportunity to enhance their roster alongside last year’s first overall selection, Paige Bueckers.
2026 WNBA Draft Prospects: Who Should the Wings Choose?
Unlike the previous two drafts, which featured clear top picks in Bueckers and Caitlin Clark, this year lacks an obvious consensus player. As the Wings prepare for the 2026 draft, they find themselves at a crossroads, needing to make a crucial decision that could impact their future. Below are some of the consensus top five prospects and their current evaluations.
Awa Fam — Center, Valencia (Spain)
- Height: 6’4”
- Age: 19
- Strengths: Impressive footwork, playmaking ability, and excellent screening techniques.
- Concerns: Consistency on defense and motor issues.
Awa Fam stands out as a significant prospect, showcasing an offensive maturity rare for her age. Her ability to create and assist projects well within the pick-and-roll scenarios, making her a potential great fit with Bueckers. Currently, her value is on the rise, with projections placing her at the top of mock drafts.
Olivia Miles — Point Guard, TCU
- Height: 5’10”
- Strengths: Dynamic playmaking, strong driving ability, and improved shooting performance.
- Concerns: Defensive consistency and effort levels.
After recovering from an injury, Miles has shown her capabilities as a creative scorer and passer. Despite the Wings already having Bueckers, pairing her with Miles could result in a formidable backcourt duo, enhancing their offensive versatility.
Lauren Betts — Center, UCLA
- Height: 6’7”
- Strengths: Rim protection and post scoring.
- Concerns: Lack of versatility and limited ability away from the basket.
Betts has earned acclaim as an extraordinary post scorer and rim protector. However, her limitations in role adaptability and offensive creativity may hinder her fit within a modern, dynamic team structure, particularly for the Wings.
Flau’jae Johnson — Wing, Louisiana State
- Height: 5’10” (claims closer to 6’0”)
- Strengths: Athleticism, defensive prowess, and scoring capability.
- Concerns: Playmaking and decision-making under pressure.
Johnson combines her scoring talent with the ability to guard multiple positions effectively. Her skills could not only complement Bueckers but also infuse the team with the energy and tenacity needed for competitive matchups.
Azzi Fudd — Shooting Guard, Connecticut
- Height: 5’11”
- Strengths: Elite shooting and floor awareness.
- Concerns: Limitations in creating her own shot and overall athleticism.
Fudd is revered for her shooting abilities but faces scrutiny due to her limited versatility. While she could be a valuable asset on a team, her fit alongside Bueckers might not be optimal, considering her offensive restrictions.
Conclusion: A Critical Decision for the Wings
The Dallas Wings hold the first pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, facing a pivotal choice. With the opportunity to pair another elite talent with Paige Bueckers, they must weigh the potential and risks associated with each prospect. Each player’s strengths and weaknesses could significantly influence the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons.
