Sue Bird is a retired American basketball player who won four WNBA championships with the Seattle Storm and five Olympic gold medals. She hosts the Bird's Eye View podcast and co-founded the media company TOGETHXR.
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: Retired WNBA player and podcast host
Response to this claim
Angel Reese deserved the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award.
“Um, but of course, if Angel wins, 100% deserving.”
Bird expresses approval of Reese's merit while favoring Williams, a substantive tension in her award judgment.
Statement dates: September 25, 2026
