Before the 2026 WNBA Draft, there was no clear No. 1 pick. The likes of Azzi Fudd, Olivia Miles and Awa Fam were all considered potential top picks in various mock drafts.
Come the draft, Fudd ended up going No. 1 to the Dallas Wings. The Minnesota Lynx took Miles with the second pick, while the Seattle Storm selected Fam at No. 3.
Sure enough, there's plenty of excitement surrounding the three rookies. After all, the top three picks are viewed as WNBA-ready players who can make an immediate impact on their respective teams.
However, it looks like fans won't see much of one top rookie during the 2026 season.
Fam made it to Seattle's final roster, but the team revealed on Thursday that the 19-year-old center has been "temporarily suspended," according to the WNBA Transactions page.
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What Does the WNBA Temporary Suspension Mean?
It's worth noting that Fam's suspension didn't stem from doing anything wrong or violating a team rule. A "temporary suspension" can be called a contract suspension instead of the usual disciplinary suspension.
By temporarily suspending Fam's contract, she stays on the Storm's salary cap but doesn't occupy a roster spot. She can be activated when she returns to the team.
Players whose contracts are under temporary suspension are usually out due to overseas commitments or personal reasons. While it's not indicated why Fam had to be temporarily suspended, it's worth noting that she signed a contract with Spanish team Valencia last year. The deal lasts through 2029.
Awa Fam a Promising Rookie
Fam, who signed a reported four-year, $1.95 million deal with the Storm after being drafted, didn't play for Seattle in the preseason. But there's a reason why Seattle is so high on her.
The Spain international, who has represented her country in international competitions, averaged 7.0 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 12 games for Valencia in 2025.
Fam also played for Spain in the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament, where they faced Team USA led by Caitlin Clark. The young center recorded 10 points, five rebound and two steals in a 84-70 loss to the Americans.
