The Atlanta Dream, currently boasting the best record in the Eastern Conference, will not have any players among the starters for this year's WNBA All-Star Game, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from forward Angel Reese.
Reese, along with teammates Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, narrowly missed out on the initial selections. While all three are widely anticipated to be chosen as reserves for the game, Reese indicated that this is insufficient.
Reese Voices Disappointment for Teammates
Angel Reese, known for her candidness, stated she "expect[s] to be disrespected" personally, but firmly defended her teammates, noting "they won't say anything."
For those two though, I think they work so hard and they put a lot of work in, and the way that they're guarded every game and they [have to] adjust. The reason why we're where we are is because of those two. For us not to have anyone was just a slap in the face.
Reese highlighted the significant contributions of Howard and Gray, emphasizing their relentless effort and adaptability on the court as crucial factors in the Dream's strong performance.
All-Star Selection Process and Individual Standings
Starters for the WNBA All-Star Game are determined by a weighted voting system involving fans, media, and players. Six frontcourt players (three for each conference) and four guards (two for each conference) are named starters.
In the frontcourt category, Reese was ranked sixth by fans, media, and players individually. However, the weighted cumulative point system placed her seventh overall, just outside a starting spot. For guards, Howard and Gray were ranked fifth and sixth, respectively.
- Rhyne Howard was rated second among guards by her fellow players.
- Fans placed Howard ninth.
- Media members ranked Howard fourth.
Conversely, Caitlin Clark secured an All-Star starting position. While she was ranked eleventh by her peers among guards, her overall performance statistics are notable: she is fifth in the WNBA with 21.2 points per game and second with 8.2 assists per game. Fans ranked her second and media members third. Clark stands as the only player in the league currently averaging over 20 points and eight assists.
Reese herself is enjoying a standout season in her inaugural year with the Dream, consistently delivering a double-double with averages of 14.8 points and a league-leading 11.6 rebounds per game.
