The announcement of the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game starters has already sparked controversy.
Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese did not hold back after learning that no Dream player was voted into the starting lineup, calling the result “a slap in the face” while defending teammates Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray.
Reese Speaks Out
Following the release of the All-Star starters, Reese voiced frustration with the voting results.
“For us not to have anyone was just a slap in the face, but they’re not going to say anything. I am.”
Reese emphasized that her comments were directed toward the recognition of her teammates rather than herself.
She praised Howard and Gray for their consistent performances throughout the season and argued their contributions deserved greater recognition from voters.
Who Was Named a Starter?
The 2026 WNBA All-Star starters include four guards and six frontcourt players.
Guards
- Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever)
- Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings)
- Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx)
- Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever)
Frontcourt
- A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)
- Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty)
- Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever)
- Jessica Shepard (Dallas Wings)
- Natasha Howard (Minnesota Lynx)
- Gabby Williams (Golden State Valkyries)
The starters were selected through the league’s voting process, which allocates 50 percent of the vote to fans, 25 percent to current players, and 25 percent to a media panel.
Why Reese Was Upset
Reese acknowledged that being overlooked is something she expects.
Instead, she focused her criticism on the absence of any Atlanta Dream player among the starters.
According to Reese, Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray have carried significant responsibilities throughout the season and deserved greater recognition.
Her comments immediately fueled debate across social media, where many fans questioned whether Atlanta’s season had been undervalued in the voting process.
What Happens Next
Although the starters have been announced, additional All-Star reserves will still be selected before the full rosters are finalized.
That leaves opportunities for several standout players, including members of the Atlanta Dream, to earn All-Star selections even if they were not voted into the opening lineup.