The future of the WNBA takes another big step on November 23, when the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery airs live on ESPN at 6:30 p.m. ET. For Golden State Valkyries fans, it’s not just another date on the league calendar — it’s the first peek at how the next wave of stars could shape the league that’s quickly becoming the talk of the Bay.
This year’s lottery includes the Dallas Wings, Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, Washington Mystics, and Chicago Sky. The odds are based on each team’s combined record from the past two seasons, meaning every ping-pong ball could shift the balance of power.
And there’s a twist: both Minnesota and Seattle made trades that pulled them into the lottery. It’s proof of how dynamic this league has become — teams aren’t just rebuilding, they’re repositioning.
The Valkyries’ Future — and a Growing League
While Golden State isn’t in the lottery this time (had No. 5 pick in 2025), the expansion momentum continues with two new teams entering the mix: the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. The league hasn’t yet revealed where those newcomers will fall in the draft order, but it’s clear that the WNBA’s growth is picking up Warriors-level energy.
An expansion draft for Portland and Toronto won’t happen until after a new collective bargaining agreement is reached — but when it does, expect front offices to make some bold moves.
The Big Prize: Lauren Betts
At the top of every scout’s board is UCLA’s Lauren Betts, projected as the No. 1 overall pick. The 6’7″ center was already on everyone’s radar last season but chose to return to Westwood for one more year. Betts has all the tools to become a franchise cornerstone — the kind of player who could redefine a team’s future overnight.
For Valkyries fans, it’s hard not to imagine what a talent like that could do alongside Golden State’s dynamic core. Even if she doesn’t land in the Bay, her presence will reshape the West.
🏆 Looking Ahead
The 2026 WNBA Draft will officially take place on April 13, just a few months before the Valkyries hit the court for another electric season. Between expansion, rising stars, and the Bay Area’s newest fan base growing faster than ever, the future feels golden — literally.