The 2026 WNBA Draft is shaping up to be a game-changer, and the Portland Fire are right in the thick of it. But here's the catch: with the seventh pick in hand, the Fire must navigate a complex web of talent, potential, and team needs. While the start of the WNBA season remains uncertain due to ongoing collective bargaining negotiations, fans are already buzzing about the draft prospects. And let's be honest—who wouldn't be excited about the possibility of landing a rapper, a Spanish prodigy, or one of the other standout players on the table?
The Fire, fresh off the expansion draft, face a unique challenge: their roster needs are still evolving, making it tough to predict exactly who they'll target. And this is the part most people miss—the expansion draft could significantly shift their priorities before the WNBA Draft even begins. Despite this, WNBA draft experts are already weighing in on who the Fire should consider with their No. 7 pick. Let’s dive into some of the top contenders:
Cotie McMahon, Ole Miss
This 6-foot small forward is no stranger to success. After three standout years at Ohio State, where she earned two first-team All-Big Ten selections, McMahon transferred to Ole Miss for her senior season. There, she’s been a key player in the Rebels’ 19-5 record and No. 14 national ranking, averaging 19.8 points per game—fourth-best in the SEC. ESPN has her pegged as a potential seventh pick, and it’s easy to see why.
Flau’jae Johnson, LSU
Here’s where it gets controversial: Johnson isn’t just a basketball star; she’s also a rapper with two albums under her belt. Is the dual-career path a distraction or an asset? The Fire have shown they’re open to players with off-court talents, and Johnson’s hometown appeal could make her a perfect fit. Standing at 5-foot-10, she’s a senior guard who’s proven herself as both a scorer and defender. Hoops HQ and WBasketballBlog both list her as the Fire’s top option. But with her numbers slightly down this year (13.8 points, 4.4 rebounds per game compared to 18.6 points and 5.6 rebounds in 2025), some might question if she’s still the best choice.
Gianna Kneepkens, UCLA
Kneepkens has been on a steady rise, earning All-Pac-12 honors in 2022 and 2023 before a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2025. Now at UCLA, the 6-foot guard is averaging 12.1 points and 2.6 assists per game, helping the Bruins to a 23-1 record and a No. 2 national ranking. Mock drafts from Winsidr and Tankathon both project her as a potential No. 7 pick. But is her playmaking ability enough to elevate the Fire’s backcourt?
Madina Okot, South Carolina
At 6-foot-6, Okot is a force in the paint. Originally from Kenya, she’s only played two years of college basketball but has already made a name for herself as a strong interior defender. After a standout season at Mississippi, where she averaged 11.3 points and 9.6 rebounds, she’s now at South Carolina, putting up 13.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. Michael Waterloo of Winsidr has her going No. 7, but is the Fire’s frontcourt in need of such a raw yet promising talent?
Kiki Rice, UCLA
Rice, a 5-foot-11 senior point guard, has been instrumental in UCLA’s success this season. Averaging 15.3 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, she’s also shooting an impressive 39.1% from three-point range. A first-team All-Big Ten selection last year and a 2024 All-Pac-12 honoree, Rice is a proven leader. Swish Appeal sees her as a fit for the Fire at No. 7. But with so many guards in the draft, is she the best fit for Portland’s needs?
Yarden Garzon, Maryland
Garzon, a 6-foot-3 guard from Israel, brings both size and shooting prowess to the table. Averaging 13 points and three assists per game while shooting 39.7% from three, she’s a threat from anywhere on the court. Her time at Indiana, where she set school records for three-pointers made and shooting percentage, further cements her credentials. Sabreena Merchant of The Athletic has her going to the Fire at No. 7. But in a league that values versatility, does Garzon offer enough defensively?
Iyana Martín Carrión, Perfumerías Avenida Baloncesto
At just 20 years old, Martín Carrión is already a seasoned pro. After four years of professional basketball, including a stint with Segle XXI and a move to Perfumerías Avenida in 2024, she’s averaging 12.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game this season. Named the EuroLeague Young Player of the Year at 19, her potential is undeniable. CBS Sports’ Jack Maloney has her headed to the Fire. But is the WNBA ready for a player who’s already thrived in Europe?
As the Fire prepare for their debut season, the choices they make in the 2026 WNBA Draft will shape their future. But here’s the real question: Which of these players do you think is the best fit for Portland? And is there someone on this list you’d pass on entirely? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
