Breanna Stewart has been named to the WNBA All-Star team for the eighth time in her career. The New York Liberty star received the news on Tuesday, learning she was selected as a starter via a phone call from Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Stewart, in her 10th year, continues to be recognized as one of the league's elite players. She recently led the Liberty to a Commissioner's Cup victory, becoming the first team to win multiple in-season tournaments. Following that performance, Stewart was named the Cup's MVP after scoring 25 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
"It’s an honor to be an All-Star," Stewart said. "Even though I’ve had a few of them, each one is really special and not taking it lightly."
Stewart is currently averaging 19.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. She ranks sixth in the league with 25 blocks and tied for 12th with 26 steals. Her career accolades include two MVP awards, three WNBA championships, and seven All-WNBA selections.
Liberty coach Chris DeMarco praised Stewart's consistent performance, stating, "You have to do it every year. You don’t just get to be an All-Star because you were in the past. And she’s been phenomenal. And really, really happy for her. And her teammates are really happy for her. She’s been incredible this season."
Despite her consistent accolades, Stewart has been ranked as the fifth-best player in the WNBA by ESPN, a ranking she suggested was "underrated." Fellow player Leonie Fiebich disagreed with the ranking, calling Stewart "an amazing player, top players in the world."
Stewart is the only Liberty player named to the All-Star team so far. Teammates Jonquel Jones and Sabrina Ionescu were also considered, but did not garner enough votes for starter consideration. The reserves, chosen by coaches, are set to be announced Tuesday.