As the WNBA season tips off, the league's general managers have spoken—and their predictions are in. The annual GM survey, featuring 42 questions where executives couldn't vote for their own teams or players, offers a fascinating glimpse into how the league's top talent and teams are perceived. While these forecasts don't always match the final standings, they're a reliable barometer of who commands respect across the league. Here's what stood out.
It's clear that A'ja Wilson is in a league of her own. Sixty percent of GMs picked her as the 2026 MVP—a notable shift from last season, when two-thirds favored Napheesa Collier (who ultimately didn't win the award). Wilson, the reigning two-time MVP and four-time overall winner, also dominated positional voting: 47 percent named her the best forward (edging out Collier and Breanna Stewart), and 57 percent tabbed her as the best center (ahead of Jonquel Jones). Even entering her age-30 season, she tied for second in the "start a franchise" category with 20 percent of votes.
The accolades didn't stop there. Wilson was the overwhelming choice for "player who forces the most adjustments" (60 percent), "best leader" (79 percent), "best defender" (53 percent), and "best interior defender" (73 percent). With three Defensive Player of the Year awards already—including a shared honor with Alanna Smith in 2025—she's the clear frontrunner for that title again.
When it comes to teams, the Las Vegas Aces are the favorites to repeat as champions, earning 40 percent of GM votes, ahead of the New York Liberty at 33 percent. Unsurprisingly, the Aces' stars were singled out: Chelsea Gray was named the best point guard with a commanding 73 percent, while Jackie Young topped a competitive field for best shooting guard with 27 percent of votes.
Gray's reputation extends beyond her play. GMs voted her as the player most likely to become a successful head coach (50 percent), the league's best passer (93 percent), and the highest basketball IQ (93 percent). Considering GMs can't vote for their own players, those last two categories are essentially unanimous endorsements.
Among coaches, Becky Hammon continues to draw praise, though the full results underscore just how much respect the Aces' core commands. For fans and apparel enthusiasts, this survey is a reminder that the WNBA's elite are in a class of their own—and that the 2026 season is shaping up to be one for the ages.