The WNBA is changing the selection process for its All-WNBA first and second teams, going to a positionless format, it was announced Friday.
Previously, the league required voters to choose two shooting guards, two forwards and one center for each team.
“As we evaluated our approach to end-of-season awards and talked with our general managers, head coaches and others, it became clear that the most deserving players, regardless of position, should be recognized at the end of the season,” WNBA league operations manager Bethany Donaphin said in a statement. “Our game continues to evolve. As more emphasis has been placed on space and pace of play, players have expanded their multifaceted skill sets. This process change allows us to celebrate the best of the best well into the future.”
The league’s all-rookie team was out of positions and will remain so. However, the WNBA All-Defensive First and Second Teams will continue to be position-based.
A national media panel of 56 sportswriters and broadcasters votes on the WNBA’s end-of-season awards other than Executive of the Year, which is voted on by league executives, and Peak Performers Awards, which are presented to regular season leaders in points, rebounds and assists per game.
