2026 WNBA awards ballot: Revealing picks for All-WNBA, All-Defensive, Most Improved and more

The 2026 WNBA postseason has begun with decisive matchups, while the league’s awards season is unfolding with notable recognitions that underscore standout performances throughout the campaign. Among the earliest honors, Cheryl Reeve of the Minnesota Lynx has been distinguished once again as Coach of the Year, marking her fifth time receiving this accolade and extending her league record. Her leadership guided the Lynx to a top playoff seed for the second year running.

Parallel to Reeve’s coaching triumph, rookie point guard Olivia Miles made an immediate impact by capturing the Rookie of the Year award unanimously. Miles posted impressive averages of nearly 20 points, six assists, and strong shooting efficiency, cementing her status as the premier newcomer in the league. Her balanced contributions on offense and defense placed her among the top players in key statistical categories, making her recognition a clear decision.

The Defensive Player of the Year race presented a more intricate evaluation. While multiple candidates showcased formidable defensive skills, Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream emerged as the frontrunner. Though her rim protection numbers were not dominant, Reese’s versatility, rebounding prowess, and role in one of the league’s stingiest defensive units were pivotal. The Dream ranked near the top in defensive rating, a feat largely attributed to Reese's ability to influence the game on multiple fronts, including steals, rebounds, and overall court impact.

Off the bench, the Golden State Valkyries’ Salaün stood out as a critical contributor, leading all reserves in scoring and providing substantial three-point shooting efficiency. Her performance helped propel the Valkyries to a significant improvement in their record and a strong second-place finish, highlighting the growing importance of bench strength in the league’s competitive landscape.

The Most Improved Player category showcased a range of emerging talents, with Portland Fire’s Carla Leite receiving particular recognition. Acquired via expansion draft, Leite elevated her offensive game dramatically, demonstrating enhanced shooting accuracy and playmaking ability. Her statistical growth, especially when adjusted for playing time, outpaced other contenders and underscored her evolving role as a primary offensive initiator.

The Coach of the Year voting reflected Reeve’s dominance, with a sizable margin over runners-up Natalie Nakase of Golden State and Sydney Johnson of Washington. Johnson’s stewardship of a youthful Mystics team, which posted the second-best defensive rating and advanced to the playoffs for the first time in several seasons, also garnered praise for fostering a competitive culture and significant team development.

Selections for the All-WNBA teams reflected a blend of consistent high performers and rising stars. The First Team aligned closely with the MVP ballot, while the Second Team featured notable players such as Paige Bueckers, Jackie Young, and Reese herself. Defensively, the All-Defensive First Team was headlined by Reese, alongside perimeter defender Veronica Burton and defensive stalwarts like Howard and Wilson. The defensive units highlighted a combination of rim protection, steals, and overall defensive efficiency, with Austin and Valkyries teammates Williams and Stokes earning honors on the Second Team.

The All-Rookie Team selection process proved particularly challenging due to injuries and late-season emergence. Beyond Miles, the roster included Azzi Fudd and Kiki Rice, both sidelined by injuries but impactful when healthy, and Sydney Taylor, who gained momentum midseason. The final spot involved a close comparison between Johnson and Awa Fam, with Johnson’s consistent production tipping the scales.

While the league has yet to confirm the full schedule for remaining awards announcements, these early recognitions illustrate the dynamic talent and evolving narratives shaping the 2026 WNBA season. The blend of veteran leadership, emerging stars, and strategic coaching underscores the league’s competitive depth as teams vie for championship success.