Top 12 athletes who slayed 2026 WNBA Draft orange carpet looks

Following the 2026 Draft, it’s safe to declare the WNBA orange carpet deserves its special place in the fashion calendar. With the Met Gala less than a month away, the WNBA Draft boasted an equally spectacular fashion carpet that boldly proclaimed the young basketball players’ entry into the professional league.

The draft has been a professional moment for a while, where years of hard work, college dominance, and big dreams finally meet the professional stage. But in recent years, the orange carpet has become just as exciting as the picks themselves. Before the commissioner calls their names, these athletes step into the spotlight not just as players, but as personalities, trendsetters, and stars in their own right.

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What makes the orange carpet so compelling is how personal it feels. Unlike more traditional red carpet events, there’s a refreshing mix of bold experimentation and authentic self-expression. Some athletes lean into high-glam drama with sequins and statement silhouettes, while others opt for sharp tailoring or understated elegance that speaks volumes.

This year’s draft class fully embraced that spotlight. From eye-catching gowns with thigh-high slits to modern power suits to high-street fashion, the looks were diverse, intentional, and impossible to ignore. It’s clear that for many of these budding stars, fashion is more than just a pre-game ritual; it’s part of how they show up in the world.

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and cultural influence, moments like these highlight just how dynamic the league truly is. Check out some of the most jaw-dropping fashion moments from the 2026 WNBA Draft.

MORE: 2026 WNBA Draft results, full list of picks & selections

1. Azzi Fudd

Azzi Fudd poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Azzi Fudd knew she was there to shine, and shine she did. The UConn star and eventual No. 1 pick’s silver gown is everything fashion pundits could hope for. The look balanced elegance with a touch of edge, making her one of the night’s standout style stars. It felt like a fitting introduction to the league for someone stepping into the spotlight in a big way.

2. Flau’jae Johnson

Flau'jae Johnson poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Flau’jae Johnson’s black gown screamed drama, and she embraced it wholeheartedly. Her outfit leaned toward a “Met Gala meets draft night” aesthetic, and she delivered it perfectly. Johnson’s outfit featured a striking silhouette paired with bold accessories, showing off her personality beyond basketball. It was confident, expressive, and exactly the kind of look that sticks in your memory.

3. Raven Johnson

Raven Johnson poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Raven Johnson opted for a polished, tailored look that felt both modern and sophisticated. The structured jacket-style dress gave her a powerful presence while still keeping things stylish. Pairing her look with a fresh bob hairstyle, the South Carolina basketball star proclaimed she knows a thing or two about fashion, too.

4. Awa Fam

Awa Fam Thiam poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Honestly, Awa Fam’s look is a bohemian dream. Her bold red gown with eye-catching cutouts highlighted her fearless style. While it was the kind of outfit that instantly made her stand out in a crowded field, my only complaint is that it clashed with the bright background. Otherwise, the look is just perfect.

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5. Marta Suárez

Marta Suárez brought personality to the carpet with a fiery red pantsuit that radiated confidence. The structured fit, paired with unique accessories like her custom-painted bag, made the look deeply personal. It was her making a statement, and we are here to cheer for her.

6. Ta’Niya Latson

Ta'Niya Latson poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Nothing screams old Hollywood charm like Ta’Niya Latson’s sequined black body-hugging gown. Her vintage-inspired styling with sheer elbow-length gloves just completed the dramatic look. Bottom line? The result was timeless, elegant, and undeniably eye-catching.

7. Lauren Betts

Lauren Betts poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Okay, I am in love with Lauren Betts’ look. The UCLA star kept things chic and refined, representing her school’s strong draft presence in style. Her look leaned into classic elegance, showing that simplicity can still make a major impact. It was understated but undeniably polished.

8. Kiki Rice

Kiki Rice poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Kiki Rice was another star who delivered in black. Her two-piece outfit, paired with dramatic gloves, gave a sleek, fashion-forward moment that felt both youthful and bold. Her outfit reflected confidence and star power, perfectly matching the anticipation around her draft night. It’s the kind of look that hints at a future style icon in the making.

9. Gabriela Jaquez

Gabriela Jaquez poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Gabriela Jaquez let her outfit do the talking to announce that she is aiming for the stars. And she’d not stop short of achieving them. Jaquez stepped onto the carpet with a refined and graceful look that stood out for its simplicity. Her black gown featured a neat silhouette with the aforementioned stars taking the center stage.

10. Olivia Miles

Olivia Miles was a trend-setter, and she knew it. Shifting away from the haute couture, Miles opted for comfort. And what screams more comfortable than a pair of faded jeans and a zip-up jacket? Also, did I mention the high knot on the top of her head?

11. Nell Angloma

Nell Angloma poses for a photo on the orange carpet before the 2026 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.

Nell Angloma, on the other hand, embraced a bold, fashion-forward look that reflected her personality. The styling choices felt fresh and a little unexpected, which helped her stand out among a strong class of dressers. It was clear she wasn’t afraid to take risks and have fun with the moment in her white structured suit set.

12. Madina Okot

Madina Okot’s striped suit set was perfection. She delivered a standout moment with a look that blended elegance and individuality. The details in her outfit added depth without overwhelming the overall aesthetic. She carried it all with poise, making her one of the more memorable appearances on the carpet.

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Special mention – Erica Wheeler

I could not help but mention Erica Wheeler’s outfit. She is the VIBE and she knows it. Period.

Conclusion

Looking at the athletes’ vibrant yet spectacular sartorial choices, one thing is clear: it’d be fun to watch the girls walk through the tunnel flaunting their pre-game fits. I am sure I’ll not be the only one who will be seated.