There are only 144 roster spots in the WNBA, which makes it an elite club. And the All-Star Game, with 24 spots, is the elite of the elite. It’s an honor to just be considered for participation. Here are five players who could make a valid case for appearing in this year’s game in Phoenix
Marina Mabrey (Chicago Sky)
Marina Mabrey is one of the best long-distance shooters in the WNBA. Last season was the best of her career, at least statistically, but she really shined in the EuroLeague, where she took ÇBK Mersin to the Final Four as the team’s primary playmaker. She averaged 17.5 points and 5.3 assists in Europe’s top competition, and was the main reason the Turkish team played so well. This season for the Chicago Sky, she’s shooting less, but she’s averaging career highs in rebounds (5.0) and assists (4.3) per game, proving she’s willing to do whatever it takes for the Sky to win. Yes, the All-Star Game is about individual stars, but athletes who sacrifice their individualism should also be rewarded for their efforts. And Mabrey is at the top of that list.