The 2026 WNBA season is underway, and the Sixth Player of the Year award is already heating up. This year's field is stacked with high-quality candidates, making it a highly competitive race. As an expert analyst, I'll be taking a deep dive into the contenders and providing my insights and commentary on why each player stands out.
Chennedy Carter: The Premier Bucket-Getter
Chennedy Carter's return to the WNBA is a no-brainer. Her ability to score is unparalleled, and her confidence ensures she'll get her shots, no matter the system. While her winning basketball and team culture contributions have been questioned, her scoring prowess is undeniable. Carter averaged 33.1 points per game in China's WBCA last year, and her 22 points off the bench in her second game with the Las Vegas Aces showcase her impact. With a starting lineup featuring Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and A'ja Wilson, Carter's volume production is expected to be high. Her confidence and scoring ability make her a strong contender for the award, especially with Jewell Loyd's inconsistent performance last year.
Janelle Salaün: Leading the Golden State Valkyries
Janelle Salaün and the Golden State Valkyries are making a strong case for themselves. With a 2-0 start and double-digit wins over Seattle and Phoenix, Salaün is averaging 21 points off the bench, leading the team in scoring. Her confidence and improved three-point shooting make her a formidable candidate. While she started 33 of 36 games last season, her debut as a reserve this year showcases her versatility. The Valkyries' strong start and Salaün's performance suggest they might be crossing the threshold into championship contenders. Her ability to lead the team in scoring and her potential to break back into the starting lineup make her a strong contender for the Sixth Player of the Year award.
The New York Liberty's Uncertain Starting Lineup
The New York Liberty's starting lineup is still a mystery due to temporary absences. However, it's safe to assume that one of their players will be a strong contender for the award. Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Satou Sabally, and Jonquel Jones are likely to start, leaving Leonie Fiebich, Marine Johannès, and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton as potential candidates off the bench. Fiebich, who was second in Sixth Player of the Year voting in 2024, has the inherent bias towards championship contenders. Laney-Hamilton, with her experience and pre-injury form, could also be a strong contender. The Liberty's strategy of leaning towards a secondary ball handler alongside Ionescu may further impact the bench dynamics.
In conclusion, the Sixth Player of the Year award is a highly competitive race with strong contenders in Chennedy Carter, Janelle Salaün, and the New York Liberty's players. As an expert analyst, I predict that Carter and Salaün will be strong contenders, but the Liberty's players could also make a significant impact. The award is a testament to the importance of volume production and team success, and these players are certainly delivering on both fronts.
