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The three players most likely to make strong WNBA Rookie of the Year cases
TL;DR
The 2026 WNBA draft class features several strong Rookie of the Year candidates, including players with significant potential. Their success will depend on the opportunities they receive on their respective teams.
Key points
- 2026 WNBA draft class has many top prospects
- Several players have potential for Rookie of the Year
- Opportunities on teams will affect player success
- Expansion teams may provide better chances for rookies
Toronto TempoPortland FireDallasAzzi Fudd
Olivia Miles. | Getty Images
The 2026 WNBA draft class is an exciting one with plenty of top prospects with tremendous upside.
While other seasons have clear Rookie of the Year frontrunners, this year features several young stars with the skill and potential to have a ROY-winning season.
Who actually reaches that potential the fastest will likely come down to the players who get those kinds of opportunities. For example, a player on an expansion team like the Toronto Tempo or Portland Fire might put up better numbers than No. 1 pick Azzi Fudd, since they have less of a hierarchy to deal with on a first-year team than Fudd has on a Dallas roster with a jam-packed backcourt.
With that context in mind, here are three players to keep an eye on for Rookie of the Year consideration.
Flauājae Johnson (Seattle Storm)
At LSU, Flauājae Johnson was one of the most electrifying players in college basketball. Her handle is unmatched, that offensive burst she has on her first step is tough to neutralize and when she is knocking down her 3s, itās hard to slow her down.
As the Seattle Storm not only traded for Johnson on draft night, but also are building around other young players like rookie Awa Fam and sophomore Dominque Malonga, itās clear there is a youth movement happening in the Pacific Northwest. In that environment, Johnson should thrive.
The early returns indicate that will be the case. In her first WNBA game, she played 30 minutes and scored 16 points. Those kinds of numbers will be hard for most rookies to reach.
Q&A
Who are the top candidates for WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2026?
The article highlights several young stars, including Olivia Miles and Azzi Fudd, as top candidates for the WNBA Rookie of the Year.
How does team hierarchy affect Rookie of the Year chances in the WNBA?
Players on expansion teams like the Toronto Tempo or Portland Fire may have better chances to win Rookie of the Year due to fewer established players competing for minutes.
What factors contribute to a player's success in the WNBA Rookie of the Year race?
Key factors include individual skill, potential, and the opportunities provided by their teams, especially in terms of playing time and team dynamics.
What impact does the 2026 WNBA draft class have on the league?
The 2026 WNBA draft class is expected to bring exciting new talent to the league, potentially reshaping team dynamics and competition.
