Kelsey Mitchell Remains Out as WNBA All-Star Rosters Take Shape for Chicago Showcase

Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever did not make the cut for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game rosters announced following Wednesday's draft by honorary general managers Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon. The selection process determined two competing squads that will face off in Chicago, with the event set to run from July 24-25 at venues including Wintrust Arena and the United Center.

All-Star Draft Overview

The roster construction process began with fan voting results determining the top two selections. Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark finished first and second in fan voting respectively, with a coin flip determining their team assignments. Bueckers earned placement on Team Cooper, while Clark joined Team Weatherspoon following the flip decision.

The draft proceeded in two rounds. Weatherspoon secured the first overall pick in the starters round and selected A'ja Wilson. Cooper countered by adding Breanna Stewart. In the reserves round, Cooper made the opening selection and chose Angel Reese, a move that notably excluded Reese from Weatherspoon's pool despite their prior connection during the 2024 Chicago Sky season.

Tournament Structure and Venue

The Chicago Sky will host the All-Star Weekend for the second time in franchise history. All-Star Friday features the Skills Challenge and 3-Point Contest at Wintrust Arena on July 24, with the main All-Star Game following at the United Center on July 25. Tip-off for Saturday's game is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. Participants for the skill competitions have not yet been announced.

Background Context

The roster selections carry some significance given prior tensions within the WNBA community. Clark and head coach Cheryl Reeve have a documented history of friction, stemming from a 2024 incident in which Clark's preseason game received broadcast coverage while the Minnesota Lynx game did not. Later that year, Clark faced omission from the Team USA Olympic roster, a team coached by Reeve. While Reeve was not part of the selection committee, she influenced team decisions through her coaching position.