WNBA preseason awards: Analyzing the top candidates for MVP, Rookie of the Year, Sixth Woman and more
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The WNBA's 30th season begins with several leading MVP candidates, including A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, Alyssa Thomas, and Napheesa Collier, each bringing strong past performances and potential for the upcoming season.
- Rookie of the Year frontrunners include No. 1 draft pick Azzi Fudd of the Wings and Olivia Miles of the Lynx, both expected to make immediate impacts with their shooting and all-around skills.
- A’ja Wilson is also favored for Defensive Player of the Year, alongside Alanna Smith, Aliyah Boston, and Gabby Williams, with Wilson having won the award multiple times previously.
- Sixth Player of the Year candidates feature Betnijah Laney-Hamilton returning from injury to the Liberty, Cameron Brink of the Sparks, Chennedy Carter of the Aces, and Naz Hillmon of the Dream, all expected to contribute significantly off the bench.
- Coach of the Year voting may focus on leaders of top teams or coaches who exceed expectations, with contenders including Sandy Brondello (Toronto), Lynne Roberts (Los Angeles), and Jose Fernandez (Dallas), following recent trends favoring coaches who improve their teams notably.
