Michael Voepel is an American sports journalist who has written for ESPN since 1996. He covers the WNBA and women's college basketball and received the Curt Gowdy Media Award in 2022.
Case
Reese won with 46 of 74 votes. Voters defend her impact on Atlanta's defense. Others favor Williams, question the margin or argue for a shared award with Wilson.
Role at the time: ESPN basketball journalist
Response to this claim
Angel Reese deserved the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award.
“Voepel: Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream”
Voepel's published selection directly endorses Reese.
Statement dates: September 21, 2026
