Miles Tops Early WNBA ROY Watch as 2026 Rookies Make Their Mark
SB Nation previews the eight top rookies from the 2026 WNBA draft about a month into the season. Olivia Miles (Minnesota) leads rookies in minutes, points, and efficiency, helping the Lynx to a top record; Azzi Fudd (Dallas) has climbed into double-digit scoring with several 20+ outings; Kiki Rice (Toronto) is the second-leading rookie scorer and a versatile playmaker; Pauline Astier (undrafted, New York) has been a standout starter-injury fill-in; Gabriella Jaquez (Chicago) is contributing solid scoring and rebounding before a knee issue sidelined her; Jovana Nogic (Phoenix) provides scoring punch with limited minutes; Flau’jae Johnson (Seattle) shows promise despite efficiency concerns after a draft-night trade, and Sydney Taylor (undrafted, Chicago) has emerged as a rotation piece with a notable 27-point game. It’s early, and the ROY race will evolve as the season progresses.