The countdown to the 2025–26 college basketball season is on, and the spotlight is shining brightly on UCLA’s dominant center, Lauren Betts. The 6-foot-7 senior has emerged as one of the most unstoppable forces in women’s college basketball — and now, she’s projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in ESPN’s early 2026 WNBA Mock Draft.
After leading the Bruins to a Final Four appearance last season, Betts looks poised to take her game — and her leadership — to the next level. ESPN’s Michael Voepel projects Betts to join the Dallas Wings, where she could team up with reigning Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers, forming a powerhouse duo in the frontcourt.
> “Betts was a first-team All-American last season, averaging 20.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game while shooting an incredible 64.8% from the field,” Voepel noted. “She’s a traditional center who dominates the paint, and teams will have to decide if her lack of a three-point shot is a drawback or simply untapped potential.”
UCLA’s roster could see multiple players in next year’s draft. Gianna Kneepkens is projected at No. 11 to the Washington Mystics, bringing her elite three-point shooting to the pros after averaging 19.3 points last season at Utah. Meanwhile, Kiki Rice, UCLA’s versatile point guard, is projected to go No. 14 to the Seattle Storm, praised for her court vision and playmaking.
With Betts leading the charge, the Bruins look ready to chase a national title — and send a wave of talent to 
the WNBA.
