Atlanta Dream Trio Wins WNBA All‑Star Berths
All‑Star Reserves Announced by Coaches
Coach selections on Tuesday added Angel Reese, Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray to the reserve pool. The Dream trio will line up together in Chicago at the July 25 WNBA All‑Star Game. Their selection caps a week of roster news across the league.
Reese’s Advocacy Backed by Teammates
Before the starters were revealed, Reese argued that her Dream colleagues should have started. The All‑Star starters list omitted both Howard and Gray, prompting Reese to speak up. Their joint appearance as reserves validates her stance and highlights the Dream’s depth. This marks the fourth time Atlanta has sent three All‑Stars to the game.
Dream’s All‑Star Legacy
Atlanta’s three‑All‑Star accomplishments illustrate the franchise’s rise in recent seasons. The previous occasions gave the league a reminder of the Dream’s ability to produce elite talent. With Reese, Howard and Gray now added, the trio joins a growing list of Dream legends who have shined on the national stage. Their presence will be a key storyline when the Dream meets the Chicago host.
Other Notable Picks
Washington’s Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen earned spots as reserves, both making their All‑Star debuts as rookies. Toronto’s Mabrey made her first All‑Star appearance after posting a league‑record 53‑point game. New York’s Jonquel Jones, Minnesota’s Courtney Williams, Las Vegas’s Jackie Young and Seattle’s Dominique Malonga also claimed spots, with Malonga earning a debut. Los Angeles’s Ogwumike logged his 11th All‑Star selection, tying for second‑most with Diana Taurasi. Plum was also chosen but is sidelined with a leg injury; the league will evaluate her later.
Injuries and Replacements
Kelsey Plum’s ongoing leg issue means she will not be able to play unless cleared by medical staff. The WNBA will have Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to pick a substitute if Plum cannot recover. This process mirrors other recent roster adjustments when injuries arise. The league aims to keep the All‑Star showcase competitive despite setbacks.
Special Roles for Honorary GM’s
Legends Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon will act as honorary general managers this year. They will draft the two All‑Star teams from the pool of selected players, adding a nostalgic element to the event. Their picks will be revealed in the coming days, complementing the coach selections. Fans can look forward to seeing iconic WNBA names shape the final lineups.
Impact on Chicago Game
The Dream trio will combine forces on the Chicago floor, offering a potent offensive threat. Their chemistry, built during the season, could shift momentum in the second half. Expect fans to chant for these three as they look to out‑score the opponent. The game will serve as a showcase for both individual talent and team synergy.
Teams Without Representation
Chicago, Portland, Connecticut and Phoenix did not land any All‑Star nods, leaving those franchises with no players in the showcase. This highlights the depth gap among some clubs this season. It also gives the represented teams a chance to dominate the narrative. The absence may motivate the unrepresented squads to push harder for next year’s roster.
Follow all the action on the league’s official feed and stay tuned for the honorary GM selections that will round out the All‑Star weekend lineup.
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