2026 WNBA Awards Highlight A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, and Olivia Miles

**Most Valuable Player: A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)**

A’ja Wilson’s consistency is remarkable and should not lead to complacency in recognition. When the Las Vegas Aces require a crucial score or defensive stop, they consistently turn to Wilson. She averaged a league-high 26.2 points per game and led the WNBA with 1.9 blocks and also recorded 1.4 steals per game. Wilson had the best plus-minus in the league at +368, underscoring her value both offensively and defensively. Given these statistics, Wilson has been voted WNBA MVP for the fifth time.

**Defensive Player of the Year: Angel Reese (Atlanta Dream)**

Angel Reese elevated her defensive game in 2026, becoming a significant deterrent around the rim. Offenses faced a constant challenge managing her presence, and Reese's defensive metrics reflect her impact. She led the WNBA in defensive win shares with 3.39, and her defensive rating differential was the best at -15.5, with opponents shooting 51.8% on 2-pointers when she was on the court. Reese also ranked third in steals and fourth in defensive rebounds, establishing herself as the league's top defender.

**Rookie of the Year: Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx)**

Olivia Miles exceeded expectations in her debut season, averaging 19.8 points per game, which was the highest among rookies and ninth overall in the league. Beyond her scoring, she facilitated the Lynx's offense with an average of six assists per game, contributing to the team’s best record in the league. Miles is set to be a unanimous choice for Rookie of the Year.

**Coach of the Year: Sydney Johnson (Washington Mystics)**

Sydney Johnson is recognized as Coach of the Year for transforming the Washington Mystics into a playoff contender. Despite expectations of a rebuilding year, he led the team to a No. 5 seed with an above-.600 record, marking one of their best seasons ever. His leadership saw players like Shakira Austin and Sonia Citron excel, as they made significant contributions to the team’s success.

**Most Improved Player: Jessica Shepard (Dallas Wings)**

Jessica Shepard's breakout season saw her average career highs of 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, all while maintaining a shooting percentage of 57.5%. She earned an All-Star selection for the first time this year, affirming her growth in performance.

**Sixth Player of the Year: Janelle Salaün (Golden State Valkyries)**

Janelle Salaün distinguished herself as the top reserve, averaging 12.7 points per game with a stellar plus-minus of +160. Her contributions off the bench were vital to the Valkyries, who finished with the second-best record in the league.

**All-Rookie Team**

- Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx)

- Azzi Fudd (Dallas Wings)

- Flau’jae Johnson (Seattle Storm)

- Kiki Rice (Toronto Tempo)

- Sydney Taylor (Chicago Sky)

The rookie class of 2026 showcased exceptional talent, with standout performances across the board, including Azzi Fudd and Sydney Taylor.

**All-WNBA Teams**

**First Team**: A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Mitchell, Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Olivia Miles

**Second Team**: Jackie Young, Rhyne Howard, Paige Bueckers, Aliyah Boston, Angel Reese

Determining the top players was difficult, with numerous talent deserving recognition. Players like Kahleah Copper and Shakira Austin also showcased impressive seasons.

**All-Defensive Teams**

**First Team**: Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, Gabby Williams, Rhyne Howard, Breanna Stewart

**Second Team**: Shakira Austin, Kayla McBride, Sonia Citron, Aliyah Boston, Kiah Stokes

This season emphasized the pivotal role of defensive players, showcasing their critical contributions to their teams. Feedback and discussion on these selections are welcomed.