Colleges with most No. 1 overall WNBA Draft picks

The WNBA Draft has shaped women’s basketball since it began in 1997. Every year, the No. 1 overall pick carries huge expectations. These players often become stars and face the pressure to lead their teams from day one. Over time, certain colleges have stayed different. They keep producing top talent who go on to be the first name called on draft night.

Programs like the UConn Huskies and the Tennessee Lady Volunteers have built strong traditions. Their systems develop players who are ready for the next level. Coaching, culture, and winning habits all play a big role. These schools attract top recruits and help them grow into complete players.

MORE: Ranking the top 10 women’s NCAA championship games ever

The 2026 draft added another name to the list. Azzi Fudd became the latest No. 1 pick from UConn. That moment pushed her college further ahead in the record books. Looking back at history, it is clear which programs dominate this space.

Here is a list of colleges that have produced the most No. 1 overall WNBA Draft picks.

Schools tied with only 1 pick

Several programs have produced one top pick. Each of these players made a strong impact in college and earned the top selection.

Baylor Bears saw Brittney Griner go No. 1 in 2013. She was dominant in the paint and changed games on defense.

Duke Blue Devils had Lindsey Harding taken first in 2007. She was a strong guard with great control of the game.

Iowa Hawkeyes produced Caitlin Clark in 2024. Her scoring and passing made her one of the biggest stars in college basketball.

Kentucky Wildcats had Rhyne Howard go No. 1 in 2022. She was known for her all-around game.

Louisville Cardinals saw Angel McCoughtry taken first in 2009. She was a top scorer and a strong defender.

LSU Tigers had Seimone Augustus as the top pick in 2006. She was smooth and efficient on offense.

Minnesota Golden Gophers produced Janel McCarville in 2005. She was a skilled post player.

Mississippi State Bulldogs had LaToya Thomas go No. 1 in 2003. She led her team with consistency.

Oregon Ducks saw Sabrina Ionescu taken first in 2020. Her triple-double ability stood out.

Texas Longhorns had Charli Collier go No. 1 in 2021. She brought strong inside scoring.

USC Trojans produced Tina Thompson in 1997. She was part of the league’s early stars.

Washington Huskies saw Kelsey Plum go first in 2017. She was one of the best scorers in college history.

Stanford (2 No. 1 Picks)

The Stanford Cardinal has produced two No. 1 picks, both from the same family. Nneka Ogwumike was selected in 2012 and became known for her leadership and strong forward play. Two years later, her sister Chiney Ogwumike went No. 1 in 2014 and also dominated in the post. Stanford’s focus on fundamentals helped both players succeed at the next level.

South Carolina (2 No. 1 Picks)

The South Carolina Gamecocks has become one of the top programs in recent years. A’ja Wilson was the No. 1 pick in 2018 and quickly became one of the best players in the league. Aliyah Boston followed in 2023, bringing strong defense and leadership. The program continues to grow through strong coaching and recruiting.

MORE: Way-too-early women’s NCAA top 25 for 2026-27

Notre Dame (2 No. 1 Picks)

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish has also produced two top picks. Jewell Loyd went No. 1 in 2015 with her scoring ability, while Jackie Young became the top pick in 2019 thanks to her versatility and guard play. Notre Dame has built a strong reputation for developing guards.

Tennessee (3 No. 1 Picks)

The Tennessee Lady Volunteers is one of the most historic programs in women’s basketball. Dena Head was selected in the 1997 elite draft, followed by Chamique Holdsclaw in 1999, who dominated as a forward. Later, Candace Parker became the top pick in 2008, bringing skill, size, and leadership. Tennessee helped set the standard for success early on.

UConn (7 No. 1 Picks)

The UConn Huskies leads all programs by a wide margin with seven No. 1 picks. It began with Sue Bird in 2002, a smart and steady point guard. Diana Taurasi followed in 2004 and went on to become the league’s all-time leading scorer. Tina Charles was selected in 2010 and dominated inside, while Maya Moore went No. 1 in 2011 and became one of the most complete players ever.

The run continued with Breanna Stewart in 2016, known for her all-around game. More recently, Paige Bueckers went No. 1 in 2025, followed by Azzi Fudd in 2026. UConn continues to set the standard by producing top-level talent year after year.

MORE: Top 15 highest paid female athletes

Conclusion

Some colleges clearly stand above the rest. UConn leads with a strong gap. Tennessee and others follow with rich history. Many schools have at least one top pick, showing wide talent across the country. The trend will likely continue as new stars rise through college basketball.

Source link