The WNBA is changing the selection process for its all-league first and second teams, going to a positionless format, it was announced Friday.
Previously, the league required voters to pick two guards, two forwards and one center for each team.
"As we evaluated our approach to end-of-season awards and spoke with our general managers, head coaches and others, it became clear that the most deserving players, regardless of position, should be recognized at season's end," WNBA head of league operations Bethany Donaphin said in a statement. "Our game continues to evolve. As greater emphasis is placed on spacing and pace of play, the players have expanded their multifaceted skill sets. This process change allows us to celebrate the best of the best going forward."
The league's all-rookie team was already positionless and will stay that way. However, the WNBA's all-defensive first and second teams will continue to be based on position.
A national media panel of 56 sportswriters and broadcasters vote on the WNBA's season-ending awards other than the executive of the year, which is voted on by the league's executives, and the Peak Performers awards that are presented to the regular-season leaders in points, rebounds and assists per game.
