Spanish Basketball Makes History: Awa Fam Leads Record-Breaking WNBA 2026 Draft

NEW YORK — The landscape of international basketball shifted on Monday night as the WNBA 2026 Draft delivered a historic milestone for Spain. In a showcase of global talent that saw three Spanish players selected within the first 16 picks, the event signaled a new era of prominence for Spanish women’s basketball on the world stage.

Leading the charge was 19-year-old center Awa Fam, who was selected 3rd overall by the Seattle Storm. The pick marks the highest selection ever for a Spanish player in the history of either the WNBA or the NBA, equaling the legendary mark set by Pau Gasol in the 2001 NBA Draft. Fam, coming from Valencia Basket, surpasses the previous WNBA record held by Raquel Carrera, who was the 15th overall pick in 2021.

For Fam, the moment was the culmination of a journey that began in childhood. “Being here, in the WNBA, is a dream I’ve had since I was 12 years old,” Fam said following the selection. “To be able to do it representing my country is something beautiful.”

A Trio of Impact: Fam, Martín, and Suárez

Whereas Fam captured the headlines with her record-breaking position, she was not alone. Spain saw a surge of talent that mirrored the volume of the 2019 draft but significantly raised the bar regarding draft stock. Iyana Martín was selected 7th and Marta Suárez rounded out the Spanish trio as the 16th pick.

The draft revealed a growing trend of professional European talent bypassing the traditional American collegiate route. Fam and Martín were the only two players in the Top 10 who did not come from the NCAA university system. This shift suggests that WNBA franchises are increasingly looking toward established professional leagues in Europe to find “plug-and-play” talent ready for the rigors of the professional game.

Fam enters the league as one of the most touted prospects globally. Despite being a favorite for the top spot according to many experts, she landed at number three. She expressed a humble approach to her transition to the U.S., stating, “I am going to assume responsibilities, give the best of myself and, above all, learn, also from the most experienced players.”

The Dallas Wings and the New Guard

The draft’s top pick belonged to the Dallas Wings, who selected Azzi Fudd from the UConn Huskies. Fudd’s selection continues a trend of high-profile NCAA stars leading the draft, following in the footsteps of Paige Bueckers in 2025 and Caitlin Clark in 2024.

The contrast between Fudd’s collegiate pedigree and Fam’s professional background from Valencia Basket highlights the diverging paths players are taking to reach the WNBA. While the NCAA remains a primary pipeline, the success of the Spanish players suggests that the international professional circuit is becoming an equally viable—and perhaps more accelerated—route to the top of the league.

Joining a Legacy: The Seattle Storm

Awa Fam joins a franchise with a storied tradition of excellence. The Seattle Storm are among the WNBA’s most decorated teams, boasting four championships won in 2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020. However, the team is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 campaign that ended in a first-round playoff exit.

The addition of a 19-year-old center with Fam’s ceiling provides the Storm with a long-term tactical asset. Her ability to impact the game from the paint is expected to be a cornerstone of Seattle’s rebuilding effort as they seek to return to the Finals.

Key Takeaways from the 2026 Draft

• Historic High: Awa Fam (Pick 3) is the highest-drafted Spaniard in WNBA/NBA history, tying Pau Gasol.
• Spanish Depth: Three players (Fam, Martín, Suárez) were selected in the top 16, matching 2019’s volume but with higher average positioning.
• NCAA Alternative: Fam and Martín broke the NCAA dominance of the Top 10, proving the value of the European professional path.
• Top Pick: Azzi Fudd (UConn) was selected 1st overall by the Dallas Wings.

As the league enters its 30th year—a milestone also marked by an increase in player salaries—the influx of Spanish talent represents more than just individual success. It is a testament to the developmental systems in Spain that are now producing elite talent capable of competing at the highest level of the professional game immediately upon arrival.

The next official checkpoint for these athletes will be the start of the WNBA training camps, where Fam, Martín, and Suárez will begin the transition from Spanish basketball to the American professional circuit.

Do you think Awa Fam will live up to the Pau Gasol comparison in her first season? Share your thoughts in the comments below.