UCLA’s Betts accepts ESPY, links mental health to collegiate success
Lauren Betts received the 2026 ESPY for Best College Athlete in Women's Sports in New York, highlighting the foundation of mental well-being while leading the Bruins to their first NCAA title.
Former UCLA basketball star Lauren Betts received the 2026 ESPY Award for Best College Athlete in Women's Sports in New York on Wednesday, 15 July. Presented by Miami Heat player Bam Adebayo and rapper French Montana, the award recognised Betts for leading the UCLA women’s basketball team to its first NCAA Tournament championship.
In the title game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on 5 April 2026, Betts recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. The Bruins defeated the Gamecocks, coached by Dawn Staley, 79-51 in Phoenix. Betts also contributed two blocks to the victory, solidifying her performance in the decisive match.
During her acceptance speech, Betts addressed her past struggles with depression, emphasising that mental health is the "foundation of everything that you do." She stated that mental health is not separate from success and noted that the strongest individuals are those who have the courage to let others walk through their struggles with them.
Betts was selected fourth overall in the WNBA draft by the Washington Mystics. Her selection was part of a historic draft for the university, where five UCLA teammates were drafted in the first round, setting a new record for the institution.
Gabriela Jaquez was selected fifth overall by the Chicago Sky, followed by Kiki Rice at sixth overall to the Toronto Tempo. Angela Dugalic was chosen ninth overall by the Washington Mystics, and Gianna Kneepkens was drafted 15th overall by the Connecticut Sun.
