The latest 2026 WNBA Mock Draft from ESPN’s Michael Voepel reshaped expectations across the league and immediately sparked fan reactions online. The new projections placed international center Awa Fam at the top of the draft board, pushing established college stars like Azzi Fudd and Olivia Miles out of the No. 1 conversation.
The shift surprised many, especially because both players have long been regarded as franchise-level talents. The mock also highlighted how balanced and competitive the upcoming class has become.
Flau’jae Johnson landing inside the top five brought an extra layer of buzz, with fans eyeing potential fits and future combinations. Her projected destination created plenty of discussion online, especially among teams seeking young perimeter scorers.
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Here are some of the fan reactions from ESPNW’s Instagram post about the mock draft.
“I do not want to see Flau’jae in Chicago,” a fan wrote.
“I would rather Seattle get Johnson. I think she’s a scraper player than Miles,” a fan wrote.
“as much as i hate the order i love the matches for these teams,” a fan wrote.
“Please I like Flau she can’t go to the Sky,” a fan wrote.
“If Storm pick Olivia over Azzi I’m boycotting. Nothing against Olivia but Azzi a better overall player!” a fan wrote.
“Only reason I’m going to accept this is because Mystics gets Azzi,” a fan wrote.
Understandably, fans have mixed reactions to the mock draft rankings. While some are happy to see their favorite players potentially landing with their favorite teams, others are disappointed with how things are shaping up.
The Shocking or Unexpected Rankings
Several rankings in Voepel’s mock stood out as surprising and fueled much of the conversation. The biggest shock was the rise of Awa Fam to the top spot. She was previously projected lower in early boards, but her jump to No. 1 signals how quickly her stock has climbed.
Lauren Betts dropping from a former projected No. 1 to the second spot also caught attention. She remains one of the most polished and dominant frontcourt players in the class, but Fam’s ascent shifted the dynamic.
Flau’jae Johnson being placed inside the top five was another unexpected development. While she has always had strong potential, seeing her move into lottery territory at this level surprised many.
Ta’Niya Latson, Cotie McMahon, and Serah Williams landing in the top tier rounded out the list of surprising placements. As the college season evolves, these rankings could shift even further, and the fans’ reactions will only get better.
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