2026 WNBA Awards: All-WNBA First Team Candidates

- Angel Reese (Atlanta Dream) - Defensive Player of the Year

- Jessica Shepard (Dallas Wings) - Most Improved Player

- Janelle Salaun (Golden State Valkyries) - Sixth Player of the Year (unanimous)

- Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx) - Rookie of the Year (unanimous)

- Cheryl Reeve (Minnesota Lynx) - Coach of the Year

The WNBA Playoffs are ongoing, and further award announcements are expected in the coming days. This article examines the contenders for the All-WNBA First Team, which celebrates the best five players from the regular season, regardless of position. Below are 12 top candidates as the league marks its 30th anniversary.

**Shakira Austin (Washington Mystics)**

Austin had a strong season with averages of 17.0 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, finishing as a runner-up for Most Improved Player and fourth in Defensive Player of the Year voting. She was a key contributor to the Mystics, averaging a near double-double while anchoring the youngest team in the league.

**Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings)**

Bueckers led the Wings to a significant improvement in their win-loss record, finishing the season with 20.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. She ranked among the top ten in points, assists, and three-point shooting percentage, showcasing her offensive talent.

**Veronica Burton (Golden State Valkyries)**

Burton excelled as a two-way player, finishing with 12.2 points, 5.7 assists, and an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio. She was a crucial player for the Valkyries, contributing significantly to their success while ranking high in win shares.

**Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever)**

Clark had a groundbreaking season, averaging 22.3 points and 8.3 assists per game. Her performance helped the Fever set a new league record for scoring, and she made history by ranking in the top three for both points and assists.

**Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream)**

Howard stood out defensively and offensively, leading the league in steals while finishing with 17.7 points per game. She made history as the first player to average at least three three-pointers and two steals in a season.

**Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx)**

Miles is not only the unanimous Rookie of the Year but also a contender for MVP, averaging 19.8 points and 6.0 assists. She helped lead the Lynx to a strong season, finishing high in various statistical categories.

**Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever)**

Mitchell broke several scoring records this season, including the most points in a season, averaging 24.7 points per game. Her performance has been consistently elite, earning her a spot among the leading scorers in the league.

**Angel Reese (Atlanta Dream)**

Reese achieved notable success in her first season with the Dream, winning Defensive Player of the Year and leading the league in rebounds. She averaged 16.4 points and set records for double-doubles, indicating her impact on the court.

**Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty)**

Stewart has been a key player for the Liberty and was named MVP of the Commissioner’s Cup. She averaged 20.8 points and 8.3 rebounds, finishing strong in multiple statistical categories.

**Gabby Williams (Golden State Valkyries)**

Williams earned her second consecutive All-Star selection and was a runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year. She led the Valkyries in scoring and showcased her defensive capabilities throughout the season.

**A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)**

Wilson, a four-time MVP, averaged 26.2 points and led the league in several statistical areas. Her consistent excellence has solidified her status as a frontrunner for another MVP award.

**Jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces)**

Young ranked in the top ten for both points and assists, leading her group in efficiency metrics. Her skills have made her a strong candidate for All-WNBA honors.