What happened: Jessica Shepard has been named the Associated Press Most Improved Player for the 2026 season. Paige Bueckers earned All-WNBA Second Team honors, while Azzi Fudd was selected to the All-Rookie Team.
Why it matters: The AP recognition validates the late-season push for Shepard, who recorded six triple-doubles this year. Bueckers adds another accolade after setting a league record with 1,514 points over her first two professional seasons.
By the numbers: Shepard recently tallied 20 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in a single game. Bueckers is coming off a 25-point playoff performance that included seven assists and five rebounds.
What to watch: The award winners will continue their postseason runs as the WNBA playoffs begin today.