What happened: Golden State backs second-year guard Kaitlyn Chen for Most Improved Player. The case arrives during the 2026 WNBA postseason.
Why it matters: The award hinges on a Year 1-to-Year 2 jump in role and production. An early public push puts Chen in the voter conversation ahead of balloting.
What to watch: Awards ballots and postseason minutes will show where Chen's case stands.