The WNBA All-Star Game is heading to Chicago this summer, and with the season approaching its midpoint, the race for roster spots is already taking shape. But this isn’t just a coronation of familiar faces — a wave of young talent and breakout performers is crashing into the established hierarchy, making this one of the deepest All-Star pools the league has ever seen.
The Starters Are Almost Locked In
A’ja Wilson continues to operate on a different plane. The two-time MVP is averaging near her usual blend of elite scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking, and there’s no serious argument against her as a starter. The same goes for Breanna Stewart, who has carried the Liberty through a rocky opening to the season. Her versatility — scoring, rebounding, playmaking — remains the backbone of New York’s championship ambitions.
The rookie class has also made an immediate imprint. Paige Bueckers, fresh off a standout debut season in Dallas, has only elevated her game in Year Two. Olivia Miles has been a revelation for Minnesota, running the offense with poise and defensive instincts that belie her experience. Angel Reese, now with Atlanta, has transformed her rebounding dominance into a broader offensive impact, and her popularity with fans makes her a near-lock for a starting nod.
Caitlin Clark, despite some early-season inconsistency, remains the most probable overall vote leader. Her combination of deep shooting range and elite passing continues to draw crowds, and her star power is undeniable. Aliyah Boston’s interior presence for Indiana and Kelsey Plum’s scoring bursts for Las Vegas round out a starter group that feels largely settled.
Reserves Bring Depth and Surprises
The reserve pool is where the intrigue really lives. Natasha Howard’s return to Minnesota has proven she still commands the paint. Jessica Shepard is quietly having a career year for Dallas, and she’s the only player with multiple triple-doubles this season — a stat line that screams All-Star.
Toronto’s inaugural season has produced a pair of legitimate candidates. Marina Mabrey has been one of the league’s most confident scorers, while Brittney Sykes has expanded her offensive game without sacrificing her trademark defense. Over in Golden State, Veronica Burton has emerged as a key reason the Valkyries are this season’s surprise story, averaging career highs in scoring while maintaining her defensive intensity.
Carla Leite, the young guard for the Fire, has impressed with advanced playmaking and steady shooting. Her case is a testament to how quickly the league’s new talent can force its way into the conversation.
Veterans like Alyssa Thomas, Jonquel Jones, and Chelsea Gray remain difficult to leave off any roster. Thomas, in particular, continues to stuff the stat sheet for Phoenix despite the team’s struggles. Jackie Young’s all-around efficiency for the Aces and Shakira Austin’s breakout season in Washington add further weight to an already crowded field.
Among the honorable mentions, Skylar Diggins-Smith and Kahleah Copper have the history and skill to crash the party if injuries open spots. Chennedy Carter’s scoring bursts off the Aces’ bench have reminded everyone of her talent, while Gabby Williams’ versatility for the Valkyries and Kiki Iriafen’s physical play in Washington keep them on the fringe.
What’s clear is that this year’s selection process will leave some deserving players off the final roster — a sign of just how deep the WNBA has become. As voting continues and the season progresses, the next few weeks will determine who gets the call to Chicago.
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