Cotie McMahon Projected to Connecticut Sun in Final WNBA Mock Draft at No. 15 The 2026 WNBA Draft, set to begin in New York on Monday, April 13, has generated significant anticipation as teams finalize their strategies for the upcoming season. While the first overall pick has remained uncertain, recent developments in free agency have narrowed the focus for the Dallas Wings, who are expected to select UConn guard Azzi Fudd at No. 1. Other candidates for the top spot include Spanish forward Awa Fam, UCLA center Lauren Betts, and TCU guard Olivia Miles. However, the spotlight has shifted to Ole Miss standout Cotie McMahon, whose projected selection in USA TODAY’s final mock draft highlights her potential impact on the league. McMahon, a versatile forward with a strong offensive skill set, is anticipated to be chosen at No. 15 overall by the Connecticut Sun. The Sun’s selection of McMahon aligns with their need for a dynamic wing player capable of contributing immediately. McMahon’s ability to score from midrange, drive to the basket, and create space for teammates makes her a valuable asset for a team looking to strengthen its offensive options. Her high-energy playstyle and adaptability to different roles—whether as a wing or forward—position her as a key addition to the Sun’s roster. The mock draft, which incorporates potential trades and protections, reflects the evolving landscape of the WNBA. McMahon’s projected pick at No. 15 underscores her status as a first-round talent, despite the competition from other top prospects. Her performance at Ole Miss, where she averaged 19.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while shooting 45.1% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc, has solidified her reputation as a well-rounded player.#ole_miss #azzi_fudd #wnba_draft #connecticut_sun #cotie_mcmahon
Brittney Griner Signs Seven-Figure Deal with Connecticut Sun Ahead of Relocation Ten-time WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner has secured a seven-figure contract to join the Connecticut Sun, as confirmed by sources to ESPN on Friday. The Sun officially announced the one-year deal with Griner on Saturday, though the exact financial terms remained undisclosed. The move marks a significant step for the franchise as it prepares for its final season in Connecticut before relocating to Houston in 2027. Griner, a 35-year-old Houston native, played collegiately at Baylor and has long been associated with the city, making the relocation a natural progression for her career. Griner will join a young core being developed by the Sun, which includes Connecticut’s first-round draft picks Leila Lacan, Saniya Rivers, and Aneesah Morrow. The team has also acquired Diamond Miller and Aaliyah Edwards to bolster its roster. Free agent Kennedy Burke, who previously spent two seasons with the New York Liberty, has also agreed to a one-year deal with the Sun. Burke, a key player in the Liberty’s 2024 championship run, brings experience and leadership to the squad. Griner’s professional journey has been defined by both domestic and international success. A 6-foot-9 center, she is a six-time All-WNBA selection, seven-time All-Defensive team member, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, eight-time blocks leader, and two-time scoring champion. Her career began with the Phoenix Mercury, where she was selected first overall in 2013. The Mercury won a championship in 2014, and Griner became a cornerstone of the team. However, her tenure with Phoenix ended in 2023 when she joined the Atlanta Dream, marking a new chapter in her career. Last season with the Dream was a stark contrast to her previous dominance.#brittney_griner #connecticut_sun #leila_lacan #saniya_rivers #aneesah_morrow
