Shakira Austin narrowly loses the 2026 WNBA Most Improved Player award
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 30: Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics looks on after being called for a foul against the Atlanta Dream during the second half of game two of the first round of the WNBA playoffs at CareFirst Arena on September 30, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Wednesday, the WNBA announced that Dallas Wings forward Jessica Shepard won the 2026 Most Improved Player award. Shepard averaged 14.5 points, 11.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game this season for Dallas and received 29 votes.

That said, Washington Mystics center Shakira Austin was the runner up with 25 votes. She averaged a career high 17 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. Austin did not make the All-Star team this season, but was the Mystics’ leading scorer in points per game.

While not seeing Austin win a league wide honor stings a little, I am still very happy with how this season has gone for the Mystics. Hopefully Austin gets an All-Star honor in 2027.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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