Kahleah Copper, the Rutgers University alumna who has become one of the most consistent scorers in the WNBA, was selected Tuesday for the 2026 All-Star Game, marking the fifth time in her career she earns the honor.
A Milestone Selection
The announcement came after WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert named Copper as an injury replacement for Kelsey Plum, ensuring the game at the United Center in Chicago would feature a full roster.
Copper, who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury, is enjoying a standout season, averaging 20.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Her 42.8% field-goal shooting and 81% free-throw accuracy have helped her score 553 points in 27 games, placing her seventh in the league in scoring.
The All-Star Game will see Copper join Team Coop, a squad coached by former NBA player and analyst, and will be broadcast live from Chicago’s United Center, a venue that previously hosted her championship celebration with the Chicago Sky in 2021.
Copper’s career trajectory includes a 2021 WNBA championship and Finals MVP with the Chicago Sky, an Olympic gold medal with Team USA, and a 2016 draft pick by the Washington Mystics. At Rutgers, she amassed 1,872 points, ranking third on the school’s all-time list, and led the Scarlet Knights to the 2014 WNIT title, earning tournament MVP honors.
Beyond her playing achievements, Copper returned to her alma mater in the 2023-24 season to serve as Director of Athletic Culture and Professional Development, where she mentors current student-athletes and works to foster a positive environment for the program.