Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell have been selected as starters for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game. The selections were determined by a combination of votes from players, media, and fans. Fan votes accounted for 50 percent of the total, while player and media votes each contributed 25 percent.
The voting process requires selectors to choose four guards and six forwards/centers. This position-based format has drawn discussion, with some observers noting that player categorization can influence selections. For instance, Rhyne Howard, a prominent player for the Dream, is officially listed as a guard by the WNBA, despite some arguments that she plays more as a small forward. Howard was not included on one media ballot due to this positional designation.
All-Star selections and voting insights
Among the media voters, specific choices for the backcourt included Caitlin Clark, Rhyne Howard, Olivia Miles, and Kelsey Plum on one ballot. Another media ballot featured Paige Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, Olivia Miles, and Kelsey Plum for the backcourt. In the frontcourt, selections varied, with one ballot listing Natasha Howard, Jonquel Jones, Natasha Mack, Jessica Shepard, Breanna Stewart, and A’ja Wilson. Another ballot included Aliyah Boston, Natasha Howard, Jessica Shepard, Breanna Stewart, Gabby Williams, and A’ja Wilson.
One media voter noted the difficulty in choosing between Natasha Mack, Aliyah Boston, and Angel Reese for a frontcourt spot. Natasha Mack was highlighted for her defensive skills and efficiency, even though her team, the Mercury, has struggled. Aliyah Boston was also a strong contender, showing significant improvement in her three-point shooting compared to the previous year.
The selection process allows for players from struggling teams to be recognized, as the focus is on individual performance rather than team records. Gabby Williams, for example, was recognized for her strong defensive play combined with her highest-ever scoring output for the Valkyries.
The WNBA‘s 15 coaches will be responsible for selecting the 12 reserves. Each coach will choose three guards, five frontcourt players, and four additional players regardless of position. Coaches are not permitted to vote for their own players.
Player reactions and injury concerns
Despite her selection as a starter, Caitlin Clark‘s ranking among guards in the final player vote sparked discussion online. She was ranked eleventh by players, while fans placed her second, behind Paige Bueckers. This discrepancy led to online comments expressing surprise, with some fans pointing out that opponents often triple-team Clark during games, suggesting a higher level of respect for her on-court performance.
There is also uncertainty regarding Caitlin Clark‘s participation in the All-Star Game. She missed last year’s game with an injury. Kelsey Plum, another selected guard, is also likely to miss the game due to a lower-leg injury.
In other league news, Alyssa Thomas received a one-game suspension for making contact with Caitlin Clark during a recent Mercury–Fever game. The Commissioner’s Cup final is scheduled, featuring the Liberty against the Aces. The Liberty recently experienced a two-game skid, following an eight-game winning streak. Their coach, Chris DeMarco, has utilized nine different starting lineups in 20 games this season due to injuries and absences, including Sabrina Ionescu‘s left foot and back injuries, and Satou Sabally‘s current absence due to concussion protocol.
The Commissioner’s Cup final is scheduled, featuring the Liberty against the Aces. Breanna Stewart of the Liberty will be playing in her fourth Commissioner’s Cup final, holding a 2-1 record in previous appearances. The Liberty have demonstrated strong performances against the Aces over the last three seasons.
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Source: nytimes.com
